Connect with us

News

Epic Games Locks Horns With Google And Apple In A Lawsuit Over Fortnite

Published

on

Epic Games Locks Horns With Google And Apple In A Lawsuit Over Fortnite

Google and Apple combined are responsible for providing a platform for downloading applications and are also the market leaders for app stores.  Almost every developer launches their app either on the Google Play Store and/or the Apple App Store, so that consumers and customers can see their products or services.  There are 2.8 million android applications available on the Google Play Store while the Apple App Store has close to 1.3 million apps available for its users in early 2020.

A popular game, Fortnite was removed from both Apple and Google platforms over ambiguity in the way Fortnite developer Epic Games conducted payments inside the gaming app.  This led to Epic Games filing lawsuits against both Apple and Google for banning Fortnite from their platforms.  Fortnite is one of the biggest battle royale games in the world right now and there are over 250 million Fortnite players in the world.  

Unfolding of the ban:

Fortnite’s latest game update offered all players a 20% discount on its in-game currency V-bucks,  but only if they paid Epic Games directly rather than using Apple or Google’s payment systems.  This did not sit well with Google and Apple as both platforms take a standard 30% of purchases on their app stores.  It also meant Epic Games broke the rules applying to both the stores.

Apple proceeded to remove Epic Games from their platform leaving ios users with no way to install the game.  Epic games released a video mocking Apple with a television themes advert similar to the one Apple used in their 1984 Super Bowl commercial.

A few hours later after the Apple ban, Fortnite vanished from the Google Play Store, as well.

What is the lawsuit

Documents available in the public domain through the United States court records system show Epic Games filed a complaint against Google in a California court, just as it did against Apple.  The lawsuit highlights Google’s motto which was once “Don’t be evil.”  Epic Games said “Google has relegated its motto to nearly an afterthought, and is using its size to do evil upon competitors, innovators, customers, and users in a slew of markets it has grown to monopolise (sic.)”

The lawsuit further goes on to describe a deal that Epic Games had reached with phone maker OnePlus to make its games available ‘seamlessly’ on their devices.  Epic Games said “But Google forced OnePlus to renege on the deal, citing Google’s ‘particular concern’ about Epic having the ability to install and update mobile games while ‘bypassing the Google Play Store (sic.)”

What is Epic Games looking for?

Epic Games says it wants the mobile app stores to be fairer for all developers.  Epic Games also highlights that it is not seeking a compensation payout or more favourable deal for itself.  However, they state any reduction in the 30% cut charged by both Apple and Google will help Epic Games favourably.  

 

Google said “The open Android ecosystem lets developers distribute apps through multiple app stores.  For game developers who choose to use the Play Store, we have consistent policies that are fair to developers and keep the store safe for users.  While Fortnite remains available on Android, we can no longer make it available on Play because it violates our policies (sic.)”

Apple said in a statement “Epic has had apps on the App Store for a decade, and have benefited from the App Store ecosystem – including its tools, testing, and distribution that Apple provides to all developers.  Epic agreed to the App Store terms and guidelines freely and we’re glad they’ve built such a successful business on the App Store. The fact that their business interests now lead them to push for a special arrangement does not change the fact that these guidelines create a level playing field for all developers and make the store safe for all users (sic.)”  It also said  “We will make every effort to work with Epic to resolve these violations so they can return Fortnite to the App Store (sic.)”

It will be interesting to watch the outcome of the lawsuit filed by Epic Games and if the courts will rule in the favour of a fairer market or in the favour of existing market rules.

 

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

News

Swiggy Launches “Snacc” for 10-Minute Delivery of Snacks and Beverages

Published

on

Swiggy Launches "Snacc" for 10-Minute Delivery of Snacks and Beverages

Swiggy, the leading food delivery platform in India, has launched a new standalone app called “Snacc” to cater to the growing demand for ultra-fast food delivery. This innovative service aims to provide quick access to snacks, beverages, and light meals, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Focus on Speed and Convenience

Snacc specializes in delivering snacks and beverages within 10-15 minutes. The app operates from centralized hubs stocked with ready-to-serve items, ensuring rapid order fulfillment. This new service directly competes with other players in the 10-minute delivery space, such as Zepto Cafe and Blinkit Bistro, which have also entered the market with similar offerings.

Key Features

  • Dedicated App: Snacc operates as a separate app, providing a streamlined user experience specifically designed for quick bites.
  • Focus on Speed: The core promise of the service is a 10-15 minute delivery window, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking immediate satisfaction.
  • Centralized Hubs: Utilizing centralized hubs allows for faster order fulfillment and efficient delivery logistics.

Market Impact

The launch of Snacc reflects the increasing demand for convenient and on-demand food delivery services in India. As consumer preferences shift towards quick and accessible food options, Swiggy aims to capitalize on this trend by offering a dedicated platform for snacks and beverages.

Competitive Landscape

The introduction of Snacc comes at a time when competition in the quick food delivery market is intensifying. Other players, including Zomato and Blinkit, are also expanding their services to meet consumer demand for speedier delivery options. Zomato has recently launched its own 15-minute food delivery service in select cities, further escalating competition.

Challenges

While the 10-minute delivery model presents significant opportunities, it also poses challenges such as:

  • Maintaining Food Quality: Ensuring that food remains fresh and meets quality standards during rapid delivery.
  • Timely Delivery: Managing logistics effectively to meet the promised delivery times.
  • Operational Costs: Balancing speed with cost efficiency to maintain profitability.

Conclusion

Swiggy’s launch of Snacc marks a significant step in the evolution of the Indian food delivery market. By strategically positioning itself to cater to the evolving needs of consumers, Swiggy is set to capitalize on the growing demand for quick and convenient food options. As competition heats up in this space, Snacc aims to establish itself as a go-to solution for those seeking fast snacks and beverages, ultimately enhancing Swiggy’s overall service portfolio.

 

Continue Reading

News

Google Rolls Out QR Code Sharing for Quick Share on Android

Published

on

Google Rolls Out QR Code Sharing for Quick Share on Android

Google is enhancing file sharing on Android with the wide rollout of QR code functionality for its Quick Share feature. This update simplifies the process of transferring files between Android devices, eliminating the need for manual device discovery or contact setup.

How it Works

Effortless Sharing

With the latest Google Play Services update (version 24.49.33), users can access the “Use QR code” option within the Quick Share menu. This feature streamlines the sharing process, making it more intuitive and user-friendly.

QR Code Generation

When users select the “Use QR code” option, a unique QR code is generated on their device’s screen. This code serves as a digital key for initiating file transfers.

Quick Scanning

The recipient can easily scan the QR code using their Android phone’s camera app. Once scanned, a secure link is automatically generated, initiating the file transfer without additional steps.

Automatic Transfer

After scanning, a quickshare.google link opens on the recipient’s device, leading to an immediate connection and file transfer process.

Benefits

Simplicity

This new approach eliminates the need to add contacts, verify devices, or navigate complex settings. Users can share files with just a quick scan of a QR code.

Multiple Recipients

A single QR code can be scanned by multiple devices, allowing for convenient group sharing. This feature is particularly useful in collaborative environments where files need to be shared with several people simultaneously.

Reliability

The QR code method bypasses potential issues associated with device discovery in the standard Quick Share interface, ensuring a smoother and more reliable sharing experience.

Wider Availability

This update expands QR code sharing functionality beyond Samsung devices, making it a universal feature available for all Android users. Previously, similar functionality was primarily associated with Samsung’s own Quick Share offering.

A Familiar Feature

While new for Google’s Quick Share, many users may recognize this functionality from Samsung’s Quick Share feature, which includes additional capabilities like cloud sharing. This familiarity may ease the transition for users adapting to Google’s implementation.

Overall Impact

The addition of QR code sharing marks a significant improvement for Quick Share, enhancing its reliability and ease of use. This update aligns with Google’s December 2024 Feature Bundle, which focuses on improving Android’s versatility and user experience.

Future Potential

As QR codes become increasingly integrated into everyday tasks—from payments to information access—Google’s introduction of this feature reflects a broader trend in technology usage. The seamless integration of QR codes into file sharing not only enhances convenience but also aligns with how users are already interacting with technology.

Conclusion

With the rollout of QR code sharing in Quick Share, Google is making file transfers between Android devices faster and more efficient than ever before. By simplifying the sharing process and expanding accessibility across all Android devices, Google is enhancing user experience and reinforcing its commitment to innovation in mobile technology. This development promises to make sharing files not only easier but also more reliable in various settings, from personal to professional environments.

Continue Reading

News

Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt Invests in 3D-Printed Rocket Maker Relativity Space

Published

on

Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt Invests in 3D-Printed Rocket Maker Relativity Space

Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, has made a significant investment in Relativity Space, a California-based company pioneering 3D-printed rocket technology. This investment comes at a crucial time for Relativity as it navigates challenges and aims to advance its innovative approach to space travel.

Overview of Relativity Space

Founded in 2015, Relativity Space aims to revolutionize space travel through its unique 3D printing techniques, which allow for the rapid production of rocket components. The company’s flagship rocket, Terran 1, was launched in 2023, but unfortunately, it failed to achieve orbit. Despite this setback, Relativity is now focusing on its next-generation rocket, Terran R, which is scheduled for launch in 2026.

Challenges Faced

Relativity Space has encountered several challenges over the past few years, including funding difficulties in 2024. These hurdles have prompted the company to seek additional capital to support its ambitious plans and operational needs.

Schmidt’s Investment

Schmidt’s investment is particularly timely as Relativity Space works to secure funding for the development of Terran R and its ongoing operations. His backing underscores the growing interest in the private space sector and highlights the potential of innovative technologies like 3D printing to transform space exploration.

Background on Eric Schmidt

Known for his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic endeavors, Schmidt has been actively involved in various investment and advisory roles since stepping down as Google CEO in 2011. He has a history of supporting technology-driven initiatives and startups, making this investment a natural extension of his interests.

Industry Context

The investment by Schmidt comes amid an intensifying modern space race, often referred to as “Space Race 2.0.” Private companies are increasingly vying for dominance in orbit, with firms like SpaceX leading the charge. In 2024, SpaceX achieved a remarkable milestone with 134 launches, showcasing rapid advancements in the industry.

Competitive Landscape

Relativity Space is positioned as a key player within this competitive landscape, despite its initial setbacks. The company’s focus on 3D printing technology offers a unique approach that could potentially lower costs and increase efficiency in rocket manufacturing compared to traditional methods.

Conclusion

Eric Schmidt’s investment in Relativity Space highlights the growing interest and potential within the private space sector, particularly regarding innovative technologies like 3D printing. As Relativity prepares for the launch of Terran R and seeks to overcome its funding challenges, Schmidt’s support may provide crucial momentum for the company’s future endeavors. This move not only reinforces Schmidt’s commitment to advancing technology but also signifies a broader trend of increased investment in space exploration initiatives that promise to reshape our understanding and capabilities in this frontier.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Recent Posts

Advertisement