More on Apple and restrictions on competition, and why it is different than Google. Then, Apple’s actions around vaping cross the line, plus why TikTok does not deserve the benefit of the doubt.
The Google Squeeze Follow-up, Disney+ Launch, Instagram Influencer Follow-Up
Google’s approach to travel mirrors its approach to Shopping, which, correctly or not, was already ruled to be illegal in Europe. Then, Disney+ rolls out like a movie, and fails like a service. Plus, more on Instagram and influencers.
Tech and Liberty Follow-up, Facebook’s Earnings, Additional Notes on Facebook’s Earnings
Making principled stands should not mean absolutism: Facebook should seek to ameliorate its trade-offs. Then, Facebook’s earnings continue to show higher costs, plus where Zuckerberg is right and wrong in defending the Instagram acquisition.
Apple’s Earnings, iPhone Pricing, Additional Notes on Apple’s Earnings
Apple had another quarter where the iPhone didn’t dominate, plus more evidence that the company is thinking like a Services company.
Zuckerberg’s Speech, Facebook Versus China, The Structure of Free Expression
Digging into the specifics of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s speech, particularly the company’s role in a contest of values with China, and why free expression depends on more than good intensions.
The Internet and the Third Estate
Mark Zuckerberg suggested that social media is a “Fifth Estate”; in fact, social media is a means by which the Third Estate — commoners — can seize political power. Here history matters.
Apple Pulls Hong Kong App, Tim Cook’s Memo, Honesty and Control
It was Apple’s turn to be in the spotlight in China; what was surprising was how unprepared the company seemed to be. Then, why companies dealing with China, including Apple, should be more honest.
China Cultural Clash Follow-Up, Disney and Blizzard, Choosing Customers
More on TikTok, then Disney and Blizzard demonstrate how expensive customers can be, while Google and Facebook benefit.
The China Cultural Clash
The NBA controversy in China highlights a culture clash that both tech companies and the U.S. government need to take to heart. Plus, why Tiktok being Chinese is increasingly a problem.
Apple App Store Changes, Google to Remove French News Excerpts, Europe Bans Content Worldwide
Apple is softening App Store lock-in by the barest amount possible. Then, Google shows its power in France, but a case against Facebook shows how limited that power is.