Background: The Long-Running Legal Battle

The dispute between Epic and Apple began in 2020 when Epic introduced its own in-app payment system in Fortnite, bypassing Apple’s 30% commission. Apple swiftly removed Fortnite from the App Store, leading to a high-profile antitrust lawsuit.

In 2021, the court ruled that Apple must allow app developers to direct users to other payment platforms, but stopped short of declaring Apple a monopoly.

Apple’s Position and Epic’s Objections

Apple has refused to move forward with Fortnite’s submission, claiming it is waiting for a final decision on its request to stay the injunction. Epic contends this delay is retaliatory and designed to send a message to developers who challenge Apple’s control over iOS distribution.

Epic believes Apple’s refusal to review the app goes against the court’s ruling and undermines fair competition in the app marketplace.

Fortnite Still Offline for iOS Users

Although Fortnite briefly returned in European markets in early 2024 through third-party platforms enabled by the EU’s Digital Markets Act, the game is currently offline worldwide. Apple has not yet indicated when, or if, it will allow Fortnite back on the App Store in the U.S.

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Hackers Demand Ransom; Coinbase Refuses to Pay

The attackers demanded a $20 million ransom and threatened to release the stolen information. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong confirmed that the company refused to comply, opting instead to take immediate security and legal action.

Details of the Compromised Data

The information accessed during the breach includes:

• Full names

• Postal and email addresses

• Phone numbers

• Last four digits of Social Security numbers

• Masked bank account numbers and banking identifiers

• Government-issued IDs such as driver’s licenses and passports

• Account balances and transaction histories

Some internal company documentation was also compromised.

Coinbase’s Response and Remediation Efforts

Coinbase took swift action by terminating the employees involved in the breach. The company notified affected customers and began implementing stronger safeguards. Plans are in place to open a new U.S.-based support center to reduce reliance on overseas staff and strengthen internal security protocols.

Financial Impact and What Comes Next

Coinbase estimates that the data breach will cost between $180 million and $400 million in recovery and customer protection efforts. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges of securing sensitive data in the cryptocurrency industry, particularly as companies like Coinbase continue to expand their global presence and prepare for broader institutional recognition.

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While the deal could help Apple stay competitive in one of its most important markets, critics argue that the partnership could risk user data privacy and raise national security issues.

Why Apple Turned to Alibaba in China

Generative AI is one of the most competitive tech battlegrounds today, and Apple has been working to catch up. In markets outside China, Apple is reportedly in talks with companies like OpenAI and Google to integrate their AI models into iOS features.

However, Chinese regulations around data privacy and cloud computing require international companies to use local providers when handling data or deploying certain cloud services. As a result, Apple chose to team up with Alibaba Cloud, one of China’s largest tech providers, to deliver its AI-powered features locally.

Lawmakers Concerned About Data and National Security

This strategic move hasn’t gone unnoticed in Washington. Members of Congress and senior officials have begun asking tough questions about what the deal means for American technology interests and user privacy.

Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, a senior Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, said he found the situation “extremely disturbing.” He cited concerns about Alibaba’s close alignment with the Chinese government and its role in China’s broader military-civil fusion strategy.

Apple executives reportedly struggled to give lawmakers clear answers about how the company would manage user data and comply with Chinese rules while still protecting customer privacy. This lack of transparency has fueled suspicion and triggered bipartisan calls for further scrutiny.

Apple Remains Quiet, While Alibaba Confirms Deal

Interestingly, while Alibaba confirmed the partnership back in February, Apple has remained silent publicly. This silence has only added to the unease in Washington, especially as tensions between the U.S. and China continue to grow across multiple fronts—from trade and tariffs to semiconductor restrictions and global tech leadership.

Apple has long walked a delicate line in China. The country accounts for nearly 20% of its total revenue, and the company relies heavily on Chinese manufacturing partners. But that relationship has grown more complicated as geopolitical tensions rise and domestic Chinese competitors, such as Huawei and Xiaomi, make aggressive moves in the smartphone and AI sectors.

What This Means for the Future of AI in Global Tech

The Apple-Alibaba deal highlights the challenges global tech companies face when navigating strict local regulations in countries like China. It also reveals the growing pressure on U.S. firms to clarify how they handle data, partnerships, and national security concerns abroad.

For Apple, this may be just the beginning of a deeper conversation around transparency, trust, and the trade-offs of operating in different regulatory environments. As AI becomes more embedded in our daily devices, the scrutiny surrounding how and where these features are powered will only intensify.

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Powerful Mid-Drive Motor for Natural Riding

With a budget-friendly price, the Alpha still delivers high-level performance. Its 500W mid-drive motor works in sync with a torque sensor to provide responsive pedal assist. Instead of just adding speed, the system enhances your effort—giving you an intuitive, bike-like feel with every ride.

Long-Lasting Battery and All-Terrain Capability

The 680Wh battery offers enough range for daily commutes, errands, and weekend outings. Whether you’re riding on city streets, gravel paths, or uneven terrain, the Alpha handles it well. All-terrain tires and front suspension help maintain comfort and stability on various surfaces.

Step-Through Frame for Easy Access

The step-through frame makes mounting and dismounting effortless. This design suits riders who want more comfort and accessibility without sacrificing strength or capability. The Alpha tackles hills and rough roads with ease, supported by a torque-based pedal assist that adjusts naturally to your effort.

Safety Features and Smart Ride Controls

The Alpha includes essential safety features such as turn signals, a rear brake light, and a bright front LED headlight. Its LCD display shows speed, battery level, and assist mode at a glance. The seven-speed gear system allows you to adjust your ride to match changing terrain and pace.

Throttle Design Encourages Active Riding

To engage the throttle, you first need to reach 5mph by pedaling. This safety-first feature promotes active riding and gives you more control over acceleration. Riders who prefer a clean, modern design will appreciate the internal wiring and minimal branding, even if color choices are limited.

A Well-Rounded E-Bike with Impressive Value

The Heybike Alpha step-through e-bike offers an ideal blend of performance, safety, and comfort. It’s built for everyday use and occasional adventure, delivering a reliable and rewarding experience without the premium price tag.

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Google has announced a major update to Google Meet: real-time speech translation. This new feature uses advanced AI to translate spoken words during meetings into another language instantly, while keeping the speaker’s tone and voice intact.

How It Works

Revealed at Google I/O 2025, the feature is powered by a large audio-based language model developed by Google DeepMind. When someone speaks during a call, their words are automatically translated and played in the listener’s preferred language. The original voice remains faintly in the background, giving the experience a more natural, human feel.

Real-World Applications

Real-time translation in Meet is useful in many everyday scenarios. For example, it can help family members who speak different languages communicate more easily. Businesses with global teams can also benefit by removing language barriers in meetings and improving collaboration.

Currently, the feature supports English-to-Spanish translations and is being rolled out to Google’s consumer AI premium subscribers. More languages, including Italian, German, and Portuguese, will be added soon.

What’s Next?

Google plans to make this feature available to Workspace users later this year, aiming to bring smoother multilingual communication to professional environments.

With this innovation, Google Meet is evolving into a truly global communication tool—one that makes understanding each other easier, no matter what language you speak.

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How Internet Roadtrip Works

Internet Roadtrip is a web-based project where a virtual car moves through Google Street View based on the votes of participants. Every 10 seconds, users vote on what the car should do next—turn left, right, continue straight, honk the horn, or change the radio station. As a result, the most popular action determines the next move, making the roadtrip a truly community-driven experience.

A Collective Exploration of the U.S.

The journey began in Boston, Massachusetts, and has since passed through small towns and scenic backroads, including places like Blue Hill, Maine. Meanwhile, participants often tune into local college radio stations, giving the ride an authentic, on-the-ground feel.

Unlike a traditional roadtrip, there’s no fixed destination. Instead, the real joy lies in the journey itself and the sense of camaraderie that comes from making collective decisions. It’s a slow and meandering adventure, but that’s part of its charm.

Nostalgia Meets Digital Collaboration

The creator of Internet Roadtrip, developer Neal Agarwal, was inspired by the interactive chaos of Twitch Plays Pokémon—a livestreamed game controlled by thousands of players at once. Similarly, the roadtrip offers a collaborative spirit, but with a more relaxed and nostalgic tone.

For many users, it feels like an old-school family roadtrip—complete with random detours, roadside scenery, and a shared sense of discovery. Consequently, the experience delivers a rare mix of digital nostalgia and real-time cooperation.

A Community on the Move

Internet Roadtrip has fostered an active Discord community where users share updates, suggest destinations, and debate the best routes. In fact, some have proposed ambitious goals like reaching Las Vegas or even Alaska. However, due to the limitations of Google Street View coverage and the deliberate pace, the journey could take weeks or even months.

Nevertheless, that’s part of the appeal—there’s no rush. The project thrives on exploration and shared curiosity, not speed.

Why Internet Roadtrip Matters

In an age of fast content and short attention spans, Internet Roadtrip invites people to slow down, collaborate, and enjoy the simple act of exploring together. Ultimately, it’s a gentle reminder that even in the digital world, the journey can be just as meaningful as the destination.

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Why Is Skype Closing?

Skype’s decision to shut down comes as part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to streamline and consolidate its communication tools. While Skype was once the go-to tool for voice calls, video chats, and instant messaging, its relevance has dwindled over the years. Here are some of the key reasons behind Skype’s closure:

1. Rise of Microsoft Teams One of the major driving forces behind Skype’s closure is the growing dominance of Microsoft Teams. Originally designed for business communication and collaboration, Teams has rapidly evolved into a comprehensive platform for work and personal use. Teams includes chat, video conferencing, file sharing, and integration with Microsoft 365 applications. With its deep integration into the Microsoft ecosystem, Teams has become a natural successor to Skype, offering more advanced and unified features.

2. Shift in Consumer Preferences Over time, consumer preferences have shifted toward other platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet, and WhatsApp, which offer more intuitive interfaces, enhanced features, and better mobile experiences. Skype’s aging infrastructure and lack of major updates have made it less appealing to modern users looking for smoother, more versatile communication tools.

3. Security and Privacy Concerns Security is a growing concern for many users, and Skype’s older security framework has been criticized. Meanwhile, newer platforms like Zoom and Teams have made significant strides in enhancing security features, especially with end-to-end encryption. For Microsoft, focusing resources on Teams allows them to provide a more secure and future-proof solution for business and personal communication.

What Methods Should You Use Going Forward?

While Skype’s closure marks the end of an era, there are plenty of alternative methods and tools to consider for staying connected. Here are a few recommended solutions:

1. Microsoft Teams As Microsoft’s flagship communication platform, Teams is the most natural alternative for Skype users, especially those already within the Microsoft ecosystem. Teams offers chat, video calls, file sharing, and real-time collaboration in one place. It also integrates with Microsoft Office tools, making it an excellent choice for businesses. For personal use, Teams can replace Skype’s basic functionalities and provide a more modern, feature-rich experience.

2. Zoom Zoom became a household name during the pandemic due to its ease of use and robust video conferencing features. Its ability to host large meetings, webinars, and virtual events makes it a top choice for businesses and individuals who require a dedicated video conferencing platform. Zoom is ideal for hosting meetings and staying connected with colleagues, friends, and family.

3. Google Meet For Google users, Google Meet offers seamless integration with Google Workspace (formerly G Suite). It allows users to initiate video calls directly from Gmail or Google Calendar, making it easy to connect with colleagues or clients. Google Meet’s features are simple, but it’s a reliable and secure platform for professional and personal communication.

4. WhatsApp WhatsApp is an excellent option for users who primarily need a messaging platform for personal communication. Offering text, voice, and video calling features, WhatsApp continues to be a leader in mobile communication. It’s encrypted end-to-end, ensuring privacy and security for users. WhatsApp also supports group chats, making it a great tool for keeping in touch with family and friends.

Moving Forward after Skype’s Closure

The closure of Skype signals a shift in how we communicate, but it also provides an opportunity to embrace newer, more feature-rich platforms. Whether you choose Microsoft Teams for its seamless integration with Office, Zoom for its video capabilities, or Google Meet for its simplicity, there are plenty of tools available to continue staying connected.

As Skype fades into history, it’s important for businesses and individuals to adapt to these new technologies. The tools mentioned above offer various benefits for both personal and professional communication. So, whether you’re hosting virtual meetings, staying in touch with loved ones, or collaborating with colleagues, the future of communication is bright—just make sure to choose the right platform for your needs.

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