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Apple iPhone 18 Pro expected launch in September 2026
Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 18 Pro in September 2026, following its annual release pattern. Pre-orders are anticipated to open on a Friday following the announcement, with shipping likely starting the following week.
Meta ordered to pay additional $567M in New Mexico child safety case, total $942M
A New Mexico judge ordered Meta to pay an additional $567 million into an abatement fund, bringing the total in the state's child safety case to $942 million. The ruling found Meta's platforms to be a "public nuisance" and a "significant contributing factor" to a mental health crisis among New Mexico youth. This decision follows a March jury verdict that found Meta liable for violating consumer protection laws and knowingly harming children's mental health.
Google's Final Appeal Over $4.7 Billion EU Antitrust Fine for Android Dismissed
The European Court of Justice upheld a €4.1 billion fine against Google for anti-competitive practices with Android. Multiple appeals failed, ending a lengthy legal battle that highlights strict EU regulation on major tech firms. This ruling emphasizes the need for fair competition and impacts Google's operations in Europe.
Teen drops social media addiction lawsuit against Meta after settlements with other platforms
A Florida teenager, identified as R.K.C., dropped his social media addiction lawsuit against Meta just days before a Los Angeles jury trial was set to begin. This decision followed R.K.C.'s settlements with TikTok, Snap, and YouTube, leaving Meta to avoid a trial without making a payment in this specific case. The lawsuit was part of a larger legal trend accusing social media companies of designing addictive platforms harmful to young users.
FTC and 22 States Sue Amazon Over Alleged Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and 22 U.S. states have filed a lawsuit against Amazon, alleging the company secretly overcharged over one million advertisers on its platform since 2019. The lawsuit claims Amazon manipulated its online ad auctions, potentially generating billions in additional revenue and impacting both businesses and consumers through increased costs. Amazon denies the allegations, calling the lawsuit "misguided."
Analyst Predicts John Ternus as Apple CEO Could Lead to Larger Acquisitions and New Products
Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan suggests that John Ternus, expected to become Apple's CEO on September 1, may pursue bigger acquisitions and expand into new product categories. This shift would represent a more risk-tolerant strategy compared to current CEO Tim Cook's approach, potentially impacting Apple's future market direction and product portfolio.
EU Proposes Age Restrictions on Children's Social Media Access
The EU is considering legislation to restrict children's social media access, emphasizing mental health and safety. The proposal targets users under 13 with a phased access for teenagers, contingent on platforms proving safety. This responds to concerns over excessive social media usage and potential mental health impacts.
US Diesel Prices Reach Record High of $5.85 Per Gallon, Increasing Transportation Costs
US diesel prices have reached a new record high of $5.85 per gallon, driven by the six-month war with Iran disrupting global fuel flow. This increase directly translates to higher transportation costs for a wide range of goods, impacting businesses and consumers through rising prices for everyday items.
Trump Threatens EU with Tariffs Over Fines on US Tech Giants
Donald Trump announced his administration will launch a trade probe into the European Union, threatening substantial tariffs in response to EU fines against US tech companies like Google, Apple, Meta, and Amazon. This action follows a recent $1 billion fine against Google for alleged non-compliance with the EU's Digital Markets Act, which scrutinizes Big Tech practices.
Microsoft Announces Major Layoffs and Restructuring in Xbox Division
Microsoft is laying off 4,800 employees, including 3,200 within Xbox, to enhance profitability and adapt to industry shifts. The company is spinning off four game studios as part of this restructuring, reacting to declining profits and the changing technology landscape influenced by AI.
Sony to Halt Physical PlayStation Disc Production by 2028, Embracing Digital Shift
Sony announced plans to discontinue physical game disc production for PlayStation starting January 2028. New games will be available only digitally, reflecting a consumer trend as digital game sales grow. Concerns arise over ownership, game preservation, and the impact on the resale market.
Apple Plans 'Apple Upgrade' Device Leasing Program Launch on July 28
Apple is reportedly launching 'Apple Upgrade,' a new leasing program for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches, starting July 28. Partnering with Klarna, the program offers 24- to 36-month leases with lower monthly payments but excludes certain budget-friendly models. Existing programs like the iPhone Upgrade Program will be phased out.
Google Not Forced to Sell Ad Exchange After Antitrust Loss; Behavioral Remedies Imposed
A US federal judge ruled that Google will not be required to sell its online advertising exchange (AdX), despite losing an antitrust trial in 2025 where it was found to have illegally locked publishers into its exchange. The Department of Justice (DOJ) had sought the divestiture, but the court instead accepted undisclosed "behavioral remedies" that will mandate Google open its ad tech tools to rivals. This decision limits the structural penalties Google faces following the antitrust verdict.
9to5Google launches membership program 9to5Google Pro
9to5Google has launched a membership program named 9to5Google Pro, aimed at enhancing community interaction and content offerings. Subscribers will gain access to ad-free podcasts, a dedicated Discord server for discussions, and tiered benefits that expand with membership growth.
Two Unvaccinated Individuals Die from Measles in Pennsylvania Amidst Rising Cases
Two unvaccinated individuals in Pennsylvania have died from measles, marking the first measles deaths in the state in 35 years and the first in the US in 2026. These deaths occur as national vaccination rates decline and measles cases surge, with 2,777 cases reported in the US in 2026, the highest total since 1991.
FCC seeks dismissal of Disney lawsuit over ABC license review, watchdogs fear settlement
The FCC requested a court dismiss Disney's lawsuit challenging an early license review for ABC's broadcast stations, which Disney claims is retaliation for critical speech. Watchdog groups are attempting to intervene, concerned Disney might settle with the FCC in a way that does not serve public interest.
Federal Appeals Court Rules Kalshi Sports Bets Are Gambling, Not Swaps
A federal appeals court ruled that Kalshi's sports-related event contracts are gambling and subject to state laws, not federally regulated swaps. This decision allows Nevada to enforce its gaming laws against Kalshi, conflicting with a prior 3rd Circuit ruling and increasing the likelihood of Supreme Court review.
Rising Memory Prices Hit Budget Smartphones Hard, Driving Market Contraction
Increased memory costs are causing a significant decline in budget smartphone shipments globally. Devices priced under $400 will see shipments drop by over 22% this year as manufacturing costs rise. This contraction could affect company dynamics, potentially benefiting Apple and Samsung.
New York Imposes One-Year Moratorium on New Large Data Centers
Governor Kathy Hochul has enacted a one-year moratorium on the construction of new data centers with over 50 megawatts of power in New York State. The measure, the first of its kind in the United States, aims to address environmental and energy concerns while the state develops regulatory standards. The decision has sparked political backlash, with critics arguing it may hinder economic growth.
Second Complete Map of a Male Fruit Fly Brain Completed by Researchers
Researchers from Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Janelia Research Campus and Google have completed the connectome, a map of every neuron, in a male fruit fly brain. This achievement provides a new tool for neurobiology research and refines methods for mapping more complex nervous systems, building on a previous map of a female fruit fly brain.
US space companies withdraw from French Space Summit after White House pressure
Several prominent US space companies, including SpaceX and Blue Origin, have withdrawn from a French Space Summit organized by President Emmanuel Macron, following pressure from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). The White House was concerned the summit might propose policies, particularly regarding spectrum sharing, that would not benefit US companies, leading to a diplomatic incident in international space relations.
eBay and Former Executives Settle Harassment Lawsuit for $56 Million
eBay and several former executives have agreed to pay approximately $56 million to Ina and David Steiner, publishers of EcommerceBytes, to resolve a 2021 civil lawsuit. The settlement stems from a 2019 harassment and cyberstalking campaign orchestrated by former eBay employees in retaliation for the couple's critical reporting on the company. This resolution follows criminal charges and prison terms for some of the former eBay employees involved.
Tesla Reports 25% Increase in Q2 2026 Vehicle Deliveries, Exceeding Expectations
Tesla reported a 25% year-over-year increase in vehicle deliveries for Q2 2026, totaling 480,126 units. This represents a recovery in sales after two years of decline, driven largely by strong demand for the Model 3 and Model Y. The growth exceeded Wall Street expectations but did not prevent a subsequent 7% drop in Tesla's stock price.
Stripe and Advent reportedly in renewed talks to acquire PayPal
Stripe and private equity firm Advent are reportedly in renewed negotiations to acquire PayPal, following an initial offer in July that PayPal rejected. These discussions come as PayPal's CEO, Enrique Lores, implements a turnaround strategy for the company.
Trump White House launches online arcade with games based on popular titles
The Trump White House released an online arcade featuring games that appropriate popular titles for political messaging. These games include variations of Flappy Bird, Tetris, and Snake, with themes related to border security and financial policies.
Pentagon Official's Personal Lawyer Represented DoD in Critical Minerals Deal
A top private equity lawyer, Alan Waldenberg, represented the Department of Defense in a $400 million investment and $150 million loan to MP Materials, while also managing the trust of Stephen Feinberg, the Pentagon's second-highest civilian official, and providing counsel to Feinberg's former firm, Cerberus Capital Management. This arrangement raises questions about potential conflicts of interest due to Waldenberg's multiple roles involving the DoD, Feinberg, and Cerberus.
Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 Rocket Successfully Achieves Orbit on First Launch
Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 rocket has successfully reached orbit on its inaugural launch from Sriharikota, marking India's entry into the private satellite launcher market. This represents a significant milestone in India's space capabilities, allowing it to compete in the commercial space sector.
Federal Court Halts $110 Billion Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger
A judge issued a temporary restraining order on Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery following a lawsuit from 12 state attorneys general. The lawsuit cites antitrust concerns, predicting reduced competition in film distribution and cable licensing. This delay could cost Paramount significantly, impacting the media industry landscape.
OnePlus to Cease Operations in US, Europe Amidst Oppo Restructuring
OnePlus will stop launching new products in North America and Europe, as part of a restructuring initiative by its parent company, Oppo. The company will transition existing devices to Oppo's ColorOS for updates while maintaining support agreements. This move, triggered by declining demand and operational challenges, marks a significant change for OnePlus's presence in Western markets.
Apple faces new £2 billion UK lawsuit over App Tracking Transparency rules
Apple is facing a new £2 billion ($2.7 billion) lawsuit in London from app developers regarding its App Tracking Transparency (ATT) rules. The lawsuit alleges Apple abuses its market power by unfairly imposing restrictions on third-party apps while its own apps are exempt, impacting developer revenue.
U.S. Reinitiates Strikes on Iran Amid Escalating Tensions, Impacting Oil Markets
The U.S. military has resumed air strikes on Iran, following President Trump's declaration that the ceasefire is over. This has raised regional tensions, impacted oil prices, and resulted in a renewed blockade of Iranian ports by the U.S. military. The escalation comes after an earlier memorandum aimed at reducing conflict, leading to heightened concerns over global oil supply chains.
Volkswagen Confirms 50,000 Job Cuts and Restructuring as Part of "Future Plan 2030"
Volkswagen has confirmed it will cut 50,000 jobs and reduce its model range by 50% as part of its "Future Plan 2030" to achieve a 9% operating margin. This restructuring addresses intensifying global competition, shifting demand, and technological changes in the automotive industry, impacting its workforce and brand portfolio.
Companies undertaking measures to reduce rising AI expenses
Businesses are pursuing various strategies to control escalating costs associated with AI deployment and operation. This trend reflects the growing concern over the financial sustainability of AI technologies amidst increased demand and resource requirements.
Phil Schiller Steps Down from App Store and Apple Events Leadership
Longtime Apple executive Phil Schiller has stepped down from his leadership roles for the App Store and Apple events. The App Store division will now be overseen by Eddy Cue's services team, while Nola Weinstein will lead Apple events. Schiller will retain his title as Apple Fellow and work on unspecified initiatives.
UN Report: Global Warming to Exceed 1.5°C Target, Focus Shifts to Minimizing Overshoot
A new report from the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) indicates that global temperatures will surpass the 1.5 degrees Celsius increase target set by the Paris Agreement. The report, "Limiting Overshoot," now focuses on strategies to minimize the duration the planet spends above this critical temperature, rather than preventing the exceedance. This shift reflects the current trajectory of global emissions and the difficulty in meeting previous climate goals.
SpaceX stock drops below IPO price amid Nasdaq-100 inclusion and market volatility
SpaceX shares have fallen below their IPO price of $135, despite the company's recent inclusion in the Nasdaq-100. This decline highlights volatility and challenges in investor sentiment, impacting market perceptions of the aerospace company as it prepares for another Starship test flight.
FCC to Vote on Repealing 39% TV Ownership Cap, Prompting Legal Battle
The FCC, led by Chairman Brendan Carr, plans to vote on repealing the 39% TV ownership cap, potentially leading to increased media consolidation and favoritism towards certain broadcasters. Carr argues the rule is outdated due to social media and streaming. This decision may face legal challenges over the FCC's authority to change a congressionally mandated limit.
LG to Suspend Smart TV Apps Using Residential Proxies
LG Electronics USA will ban apps on its smart TVs that use residential proxy technology after research revealed over 42% of apps on its webOS store included such features. This decision aims to enhance user security and ensure that smart TVs are not misused as proxy nodes.
Reddit shares drop 9% amid potential end of Google AI content deal
Reddit's shares fell 9% after reports indicated it may not renew its $60 million AI content deal with Google. The deal, struck in 2024, has been reconsidered due to declining traffic from Google's AI summaries, reflecting broader trends affecting various news sites.
SpaceX Starship Test Launch Aborted Due to Engine Ignition Failure
SpaceX aborted its Starship rocket launch due to engine ignition failure on Thursday. Two engines will be replaced, with a new attempt planned for next week, critical for deploying new Starlink satellites. SpaceX's stock fell following the aborted launch, continuing volatility post-IPO.