Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

EU Slaps Apple and Meta with Huge Fines for DMA Violations

2025-04-23

The European Commission has fined Apple €500 million and Meta €200 million for breaching the Digital Markets Act (DMA), marking the first sanctions under the landmark legislation aimed at curbing Big Tech's power. Both companies criticized the decision, with Apple vowing to challenge the fine, citing concerns about user privacy and security. Meta argued the EU is unfairly targeting American businesses. The fines target Apple's restrictions on app developers and its prevention of sideloading, while Meta's binary pay-or-consent model also drew penalties. The EU's actions could escalate trade tensions with the US.

House Subpoenas Google Over Biden Admin's Alleged Content Moderation Interference

2025-03-06

The U.S. House Judiciary Committee subpoenaed Alphabet (Google's parent company) to investigate communications with the Biden administration regarding content moderation policies. Chairman Jim Jordan also requested similar communications with outside groups. The subpoena targets content restrictions on topics such as Donald Trump, Elon Musk, COVID-19, and other conservative viewpoints. While Meta previously admitted to pressure from the Biden administration, Google denies similar actions, claiming its policies are independently enforced and committed to free expression.

Boeing Starliner Program VP Departs Amidst Challenges

2025-02-03

Mark Nappi, vice president of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft program, has left his position. He's been replaced by John Mulholland, the company's International Space Station program manager. Nappi led the program since 2022, navigating significant engineering issues and testing setbacks. Last summer's crewed test flight was aborted due to propulsion system problems, leading NASA to deem Starliner too risky for astronauts and opt for SpaceX's Crew Dragon for their return. Boeing and NASA haven't yet decided on Starliner's next mission, including whether a repeat crewed flight test is necessary before certification.