Weekly Tech Update: November 12th, 2024

EU Orders 苹果 to End Geo-Blocking Practices on Media Platforms

The European Union has ordered Apple to end geo-blocking practices across its media platforms, such as the App Store, Apple Arcade, iTunes Store, and more, which restrict content based on users’ locations. European Commissioner Margrethe Vestager emphasized that such practices unfairly limit consumer access based on nationality or residence, giving Apple a one-month deadline to propose compliance solutions. Failure to meet this deadline could prompt enforcement actions from EU national regulators, signaling the Union’s commitment to fair digital content access.

亚马逊 Develops Smart Glasses to Aid Delivery Drivers

Amazon is reportedly developing smart eyeglasses, code-named Amelia, for its delivery drivers to enhance navigation and efficiency on the “last mile” of deliveries. The glasses, based on Amazon’s Echo Frames, display turn-by-turn directions, potentially saving drivers time and allowing them to manage more packages per shift. However, battery life and weight issues remain, as the glasses need to last a full workday without causing fatigue. This innovation follows Amazon’s increasing competition with 沃尔玛 and other emerging e-commerce players, pushing Amazon to continue improving delivery operations and driver experience.

Meta Introduces Less-Personalized Ads for EU Users Amid Regulatory Pressure

Meta will soon offer European Instagram and Facebook users the option to see “less personalized ads,” based on limited criteria like age and location instead of broader user activity, following pressure from EU regulators demanding ad privacy choices. This change reflects ongoing friction between Meta and the EU over data usage for targeted ads and compliance with regional laws. Executives expect this shift may impact Meta’s revenue, with Europe accounting for 23% of Meta’s recent earnings, underscoring the regulatory challenges facing tech giants in the EU.