theverge--2020-06-18--Apple doubles down on controversial decision to reject email app Hey

Apple is standing behind its decision to reject future updates for the iOS app of new email service Hey .
In a letter sent to Hey creator Basecamp and obtained by The Verge , Apple outlines the App Store rules it says the Hey app breaks and advises the company to adhere to developer guidelines if Basecamp wishes to continue updating the software on iOS or release it for the Mac .
It also says it declined to publish the Mac version of the app in its App Store , echoing Apple ’ s earlier admission that it should never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hey app in the first place .
The letter is signed by company ’ s App Review Board , but Apple marketing chief Phil Schiller made similar comments in an interview with TechCrunch published today .
Basecamp has publicly disputed Apple ’ s decision , saying it shouldn ’ t be forced to allow users to sign up for Hey through in-app purchase and hand 30 percent of its annual $ 99 subscription fee to Apple as a result .
As it stands right now , the current version of Hey lets you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must purchase a subscription for the company ’ s service on its website first .
Hey launches to the public next month , but is currently available in a free trial mode for invited users .
Apple says the Hey iOS app must include in-purchases “ The HEY Email app is marketed as an email app on the App Store , but when users download your app , it does not work , ” the letter reads .
Apple cites three App Store policies — Guideline 3.1.1 and Guidelines 3.1.3 ( a ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outline the company ’ s requirements for in-app purchases for most apps , with exceptions only carved out for a subset of “ Reader Apps , ” like Netflix and other streaming services .
Apple offers one other solution : Basecamp could allow the Hey app to support third-party email providers , thereby giving it a free option that would allow the app to function similar to other email clients , many of which do not have a similar business model to Hey and typically reskin the inbox for existing email providers like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a year for use of its email service and for access to an @ hey.com email address , and it does not support logging in with other providers . )
The primary issue at play , however , is not the specific rules Apple has outlined above , but its history of applying them inconsistently .
Prior to this year , Apple has allowed numerous apps with similar business models to Hey to exist in the App Store and not required those apps include in-app purchase options .
The company has also famously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amazon and Netflix , that have either disabled the ability to purchase subscriptions or content in their app or have , in some cases , directed users to a browser to do so .
The controversy , which kicked off earlier this week with the formal launch of Hey , has raised important questions about Apple ’ s stewardship of the App Store and whether the iPhone maker is exercising an anti-competitive advantage over competing services from third-party developers through its mandated 30 percent cut and inconsistent application of App Store rules .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple .
The company is about to host its annual developer conference next week in a virtual format .
It ’ s also now facing down two antitrust investigations in the European Union launched after Spotify and other firms lodged complaints against Apple over its 30 percent “ Apple tax ” and the threats Apple ’ s App Store processes may pose to competitive markets .
Following a series of outspoken tweets and interviews from Basecamp co-founder and Chief Technology Officer David Heinemeier Hansson , in which Heinemeier Hansson called Apple “ gangsters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Epic and Tinder parent company Match Group have come out in support of Hey .
Earlier today , Rep. David Cicilline ( D-RI ) , the chairman of the House antitrust subcommittee , told The Verge , “ Because of the market power that Apple has , it is charging exorbitant rents — highway robbery , basically — bullying people to pay 30 percent or denying access to their market.
” He went on to say , “ It ’ s crushing small developers who simply can ’ t survive with those kinds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ competition in this marketplace , this wouldn ’ t happen.
” The final paragraph of Apple ’ s letter acknowledges that Basecamp has offered enterprise apps in the App Store , another obvious exemption to the current App Store rules barring Hey ’ s iOS app , that do not offer in-app purchases or sign-up options .
Apple says it ’ s done so without taking any money in a way that sounds ominously like it ’ s demanding gratitude for a free ride .
But critically , it seems Apple is distinguishing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does not seem to fit the criteria for an in-app purchase exemption , despite evidence of other apps — including similar email providers like Newton — that have done the same in the past .
“ We understand that Basecamp has developed a number of apps and many subsequent versions for the App Store for many years , and that the App Store has distributed millions of these apps to iOS users .
These apps do not offer in-app purchase — and , consequently , have not contributed any revenue to the App @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” the letter reads .
“ We are happy to continue to support you in your app business and offer you the solutions to provide your services for free — so long as you follow and respect the same App Store Review Guidelines and terms that all developers must follow.
” We are writing to let you know the appeal results for your app , HEY Email .
The App Review Board evaluated your app and determined that the rejection was valid .
Your app does not comply with the App Store Review @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aware , this is the reason your Hey Email app was rejected when it was submitted to the Mac App Store on June 11 , 2020 .
The HEY Email app is marketed as an email app on the App Store , but when users download your app , it does not work .
Users can not use the app to access email or perform any useful function until after they go to the Basecamp website for Hey Email and purchase a license to use the HEY Email app .
This violates the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you want to unlock features or functionality within your app , you must use in-app purchase .
Your app requires customers to purchase content , subscriptions , or features outside of the app , but those items are not available as in-app purchases within the app as required by the App Store Review Guidelines .
Reader apps may allow users to access previously purchased content and content subscriptions .
Your mail app is not one of the content types allowed under this guideline for “ Reader ” apps ( specifically : magazines , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , video , access to professional databases , VOIP , cloud storage , or approved services such as classroom management apps ) .
Therefore , customers must be given the option to purchase access to features or functionality in your app using in-app purchase .
Apps that operate services across multiple platforms may allow users to access content , subscriptions , or features they have acquired in your app on other platforms or on your website , provided those items are also available as in-app purchases within the app .
Your HEY Email @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , subscriptions , or features as in-app purchases within the app .
In fact , the app does not function as an email app or for any purpose until the user goes to the Basecamp Hey Email website to start a free trial or purchase a separate license to use the app for its intended purpose .
To resolve this issue , please revise your app such that it does not violate any of the App Store Review Guidelines and terms .
There are a number of ways that you could revise your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ App Store Review Guidelines .
Customers who have previously purchased access to content , subscriptions , or features elsewhere may continue to access these items in your app , as long as new iOS customers are given the option to purchase access using in-app purchase as required by the App Store Review Guidelines .
If you would prefer not to offer users the option of in-app purchases , you could consider having the app function as marketed — an email client that works with standard IMAP and POP email accounts , where customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as their preferred email service provider .
This would allow the app to function as an email client without requiring an additional payment to use its features and functionality .
Under this approach , what you sell on your website is clearly an email service separate from the function of your app as distributed on the App Store .
We are here as a resource as you explore these or other ideas to bring the Hey Email app within compliance of the App Store Review Guidelines and terms .
Thank you for being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that Basecamp has developed a number of apps and many subsequent versions for the App Store for many years , and that the App Store has distributed millions of these apps to iOS users .
These apps do not offer in-app purchase — and , consequently , have not contributed any revenue to the App Store over the last eight years .
We are happy to continue to support you in your app business and offer you the solutions to provide your services for free — so long as you follow and respect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terms that all developers must follow .
We hope to assist you in offering the Hey Email app on the App Store .

Hello Jason,
We are writing to let you know the appeal results for your app, HEY Email.
The App Review Board evaluated your app and determined that the rejection was valid. Your app does not comply with the App Store Review Guidelines detailed below. As you are aware, this is the reason your Hey Email app was rejected when it was submitted to the Mac App Store on June 11, 2020.
The HEY Email app is marketed as an email app on the App Store, but when users download your app, it does not work. Users cannot use the app to access email or perform any useful function until after they go to the Basecamp website for Hey Email and purchase a license to use the HEY Email app. This violates the following App Store Review Guidelines:
Guideline 3.1.1 - Business - Payments - In-App Purchase
If you want to unlock features or functionality within your app, you must use in-app purchase. Your app requires customers to purchase content, subscriptions, or features outside of the app, but those items are not available as in-app purchases within the app as required by the App Store Review Guidelines.
Guideline 3.1.3(a) - Business - Payments - “Reader” Apps
Reader apps may allow users to access previously purchased content and content subscriptions. Your mail app is not one of the content types allowed under this guideline for “Reader” apps (specifically: magazines, newspapers, books, audio, music, video, access to professional databases, VOIP, cloud storage, or approved services such as classroom management apps). Therefore, customers must be given the option to purchase access to features or functionality in your app using in-app purchase.
Guideline 3.1.3(b) - Business - Payments - Multiplatform Services
Apps that operate services across multiple platforms may allow users to access content, subscriptions, or features they have acquired in your app on other platforms or on your website, provided those items are also available as in-app purchases within the app. Your HEY Email app does not offer access to content, subscriptions, or features as in-app purchases within the app. In fact, the app does not function as an email app or for any purpose until the user goes to the Basecamp Hey Email website to start a free trial or purchase a separate license to use the app for its intended purpose.
Next Steps
To resolve this issue, please revise your app such that it does not violate any of the App Store Review Guidelines and terms.
There are a number of ways that you could revise your app or service to adhere to the App Store Review Guidelines. Customers who have previously purchased access to content, subscriptions, or features elsewhere may continue to access these items in your app, as long as new iOS customers are given the option to purchase access using in-app purchase as required by the App Store Review Guidelines.
If you would prefer not to offer users the option of in-app purchases, you could consider having the app function as marketed — an email client that works with standard IMAP and POP email accounts, where customers can optionally configure the Hey Email service as their preferred email service provider. This would allow the app to function as an email client without requiring an additional payment to use its features and functionality. Under this approach, what you sell on your website is clearly an email service separate from the function of your app as distributed on the App Store.
We are here as a resource as you explore these or other ideas to bring the Hey Email app within compliance of the App Store Review Guidelines and terms.
Thank you for being an iOS app developer. We understand that Basecamp has developed a number of apps and many subsequent versions for the App Store for many years, and that the App Store has distributed millions of these apps to iOS users. These apps do not offer in-app purchase — and, consequently, have not contributed any revenue to the App Store over the last eight years. We are happy to continue to support you in your app business and offer you the solutions to provide your services for free — so long as you follow and respect the same App Store Review Guidelines and terms that all developers must follow.
We hope to assist you in offering the Hey Email app on the App Store.
Sincerely, App Review Board


theverge--2020-06-18--TikTok reveals some of the secrets, and blind spots, of its recommendation algorithm

Like many social media platforms and apps , TikTok feeds are built using a recommendation algorithm that uses a number of tools and factors to personalize it for each person .
Now , TikTok has published a new blog post explaining how its recommendation feed works , and it includes tips for personalizing the feed to avoid being served random videos you might not be interested in .
TikTok ’ s recommendation algorithm is built around input factors in a way somewhat similar to the way YouTube measures and monitors engagement .
The way people interact with the app affects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comment or following an account .
If someone only follows cute animal accounts , and solely double taps to like or comments on videos about animals , TikTok will serve them more animals .
This also helps inform TikTok ’ s algorithm about videos people might not be interested in — if you ’ re only interested in Hype House creators , for instance , TikTok may not serve up videos from the “ bean side ” subgenre on the app .
User interactions are just one part of the equation , though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which “ might include details like captions , sounds , and hashtags , ” and device or account settings also have an effect on the feed .
Language preference , country setting , and device type will factor in to make sure “ the system is optimized for performance , ” according to the post .
The post also states , however , that device and account settings “ receive lower weight in the recommendation system relative to other data points we measure since users don ’ t actively express these as preferences.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes down to engagement .
If someone finishes a video instead of flipping to the next one halfway through , that action is registered as a stronger indication of interest .
The post also stresses that its recommendation system is based on the content , not necessarily the creator .
Anecdotally , that means unless Charli D ’ Amelio — TikTok ’ s most followed creator — suddenly starts making videos about frogs , beans , or self-deprecating jokes , she ’ s not going to appear in my feed ( and she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ re only interested in Hype House creators , for instance , TikTok may not serve up videos from the “ bean side ” subgenre on the app .
TikTok is often applauded for its recommendation system ; once it ’ s finely tuned , the app becomes one of the best scrolling experiences .
My personal theory is that ’ s why TikTok is so addicting — everything is so perfectly curated to your specific interests , it ’ s hard to put the phone down once you ’ re sucked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ algorithm still has its own flaws that the company brings up in its post .
“ One of the inherent challenges with recommendation engines is that they can inadvertently limit your experience — what is sometimes referred to as a ‘ filter bubble , ’ ” the post reads .
“ By optimizing for personalization and relevance , there is a risk of presenting an increasingly homogenous stream of videos .
This is a concern we take seriously as we maintain our recommendation system.
” Some of this can be innocuous — people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see horse videos .
Some of it can also be exclusionary .
The app might not surface videos from the Black Lives Matter protests or may not recommend disabled or queer creators , if a user doesn ’ t specifically go out of their way to tune the algorithm in that direction .
TikTok ’ s post addresses the filter bubble by explaining its goal of interrupting repetitive content .
The “ For You ” feed “ generally won ’ t show two videos in a row made with the same sound or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ post says .
The idea is that more new types of videos will surface on a feed than ones that feel like more of the same .
But that doesn ’ t always work .
I ’ ve scrolled through three or four videos , one after the other , that all used a popular song for a popular trend on the app .
How exactly TikTok chooses which videos to surface for every personalized feed is still a bit of a black box , but it ’ s an area the company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need of improvement .
Lots of viral-hungry users try to figure out how to game TikTok to get to get more views and capitalize on new trends Another issue that TikTok takes seriously is not surfacing dangerous content .
This is an issue that YouTube in particular has faced criticism over for many years .
According to TikTok , content that has graphic material like medical procedures or “ legal consumption of regulated goods , ” like alcohol , may not be eligible for recommendation because it could come across as “ shocking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a general audience ” — in other words , young kids .
That ’ s why many creators on TikTok will upload a video more than once or talk openly about feeling shadow banned over particular content .
TikTok has faced criticism from marginalized groups for not recommending content , including members of the LGBTQ+ community .
It ’ s an issue YouTube routinely faces , and the Google-owned video site is currently facing a lawsuit after several LGBTQ+ creators claimed YouTube hid their videos in restricted mode and wasn ’ t surfacing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ admitted it had suppressed content from some creators , intending it to be a short-form solution to bullying .
“ Early on , in response to an increase in bullying on the app , we implemented a blunt and temporary policy , ” a spokesperson told The Verge in December 2019 .
“ While the intention was good , the approach was wrong and we have long since changed the earlier policy in favor of more nuanced anti-bullying policies and in-app protections.
” The full blog has more in-depth instructions about how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ page , but it ’ s refreshing to see the company open up about one of its competitive advantages .
TikTok ’ s algorithm is one of the more fascinating ingredients to its worldwide success — it ’ s even part of the daily conversation within the app ’ s fast-growing culture , where TikTok users refer to different growing trends and subgenres as “ sides ” favored by the algorithm .
Lots of viral-hungry users try to figure out how to game TikTok to get more views and capitalize on new trends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the algorithmic recommendation tool different bits of data to promote videos that might not naturally surface on their own .
Now , TikTok is pulling back the curtain a bit more to give people a chance to do it themselves .

Like many social media platforms and apps, TikTok feeds are built using a recommendation algorithm that uses a number of tools and factors to personalize it for each person. Now, TikTok has published a new blog post explaining how its recommendation feed works, and it includes tips for personalizing the feed to avoid being served random videos you might not be interested in.
TikTok’s recommendation algorithm is built around input factors in a way somewhat similar to the way YouTube measures and monitors engagement. The way people interact with the app affects the recommendations served, including posting a comment or following an account. If someone only follows cute animal accounts, and solely double taps to like or comments on videos about animals, TikTok will serve them more animals. This also helps inform TikTok’s algorithm about videos people might not be interested in — if you’re only interested in Hype House creators, for instance, TikTok may not serve up videos from the “bean side” subgenre on the app.
User interactions are just one part of the equation, though. TikTok states that video information, which “might include details like captions, sounds, and hashtags,” and device or account settings also have an effect on the feed. Language preference, country setting, and device type will factor in to make sure “the system is optimized for performance,” according to the post. The post also states, however, that device and account settings “receive lower weight in the recommendation system relative to other data points we measure since users don’t actively express these as preferences.”
Again, like YouTube, everything comes down to engagement. If someone finishes a video instead of flipping to the next one halfway through, that action is registered as a stronger indication of interest. The post also stresses that its recommendation system is based on the content, not necessarily the creator. Anecdotally, that means unless Charli D’Amelio — TikTok’s most followed creator — suddenly starts making videos about frogs, beans, or self-deprecating jokes, she’s not going to appear in my feed (and she doesn’t!).
If you’re only interested in Hype House creators, for instance, TikTok may not serve up videos from the “bean side” subgenre on the app.
TikTok is often applauded for its recommendation system; once it’s finely tuned, the app becomes one of the best scrolling experiences. My personal theory is that’s why TikTok is so addicting — everything is so perfectly curated to your specific interests, it’s hard to put the phone down once you’re sucked in. But TikTok’s recommendation algorithm still has its own flaws that the company brings up in its post.
“One of the inherent challenges with recommendation engines is that they can inadvertently limit your experience — what is sometimes referred to as a ‘filter bubble,’” the post reads. “By optimizing for personalization and relevance, there is a risk of presenting an increasingly homogenous stream of videos. This is a concern we take seriously as we maintain our recommendation system.”
Some of this can be innocuous — people who only like horse videos might only see horse videos. Some of it can also be exclusionary. The app might not surface videos from the Black Lives Matter protests or may not recommend disabled or queer creators, if a user doesn’t specifically go out of their way to tune the algorithm in that direction. TikTok’s post addresses the filter bubble by explaining its goal of interrupting repetitive content. The “For You” feed “generally won’t show two videos in a row made with the same sound or by the same creator,” the post says.
The idea is that more new types of videos will surface on a feed than ones that feel like more of the same. But that doesn’t always work. I’ve scrolled through three or four videos, one after the other, that all used a popular song for a popular trend on the app. How exactly TikTok chooses which videos to surface for every personalized feed is still a bit of a black box, but it’s an area the company is at least highlighting as one in need of improvement.
Lots of viral-hungry users try to figure out how to game TikTok to get to get more views and capitalize on new trends
Another issue that TikTok takes seriously is not surfacing dangerous content. This is an issue that YouTube in particular has faced criticism over for many years. According to TikTok, content that has graphic material like medical procedures or “legal consumption of regulated goods,” like alcohol, may not be eligible for recommendation because it could come across as “shocking if surfaced as a recommended video to a general audience” — in other words, young kids. That’s why many creators on TikTok will upload a video more than once or talk openly about feeling shadow banned over particular content.
TikTok has faced criticism from marginalized groups for not recommending content, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. It’s an issue YouTube routinely faces, and the Google-owned video site is currently facing a lawsuit after several LGBTQ+ creators claimed YouTube hid their videos in restricted mode and wasn’t surfacing their content in its recommendations. TikTok admitted it had suppressed content from some creators, intending it to be a short-form solution to bullying.
“Early on, in response to an increase in bullying on the app, we implemented a blunt and temporary policy,” a spokesperson told The Verge in December 2019. “While the intention was good, the approach was wrong and we have long since changed the earlier policy in favor of more nuanced anti-bullying policies and in-app protections.”
The full blog has more in-depth instructions about how to personalize your own “For You” page, but it’s refreshing to see the company open up about one of its competitive advantages. TikTok’s algorithm is one of the more fascinating ingredients to its worldwide success — it’s even part of the daily conversation within the app’s fast-growing culture, where TikTok users refer to different growing trends and subgenres as “sides” favored by the algorithm.


theverge--2020-06-18--Verily rolls out Healthy at Work testing program for companies seeking to reopen safely

Verily Life Sciences has announced an app-based health screening service for businesses and schools trying to reopen amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The product , called Healthy at Work , will provide COVID-19 diagnostic testing for employees .
It will also make recommendations to employers about how often employees should be retested .
Those recommendations will be based on local health data , as well as test results .
The program will conduct daily symptom screening through an app to either route people to be tested for the virus or clear them to return to work , according to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to each participating company to decide whether to test its workforce all at once or start with small groups of employees .
The symptom screening is not just used to determine who should get a test , but it ’ s one more way to monitor and potentially slow the spread of the virus , according to the spokesperson .
People may have COVID-19 — and be able to infect others — before showing symptoms like a fever .
That means screening people for symptoms to determine whether they get a test is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from spreading in a workplace .
Healthy at Work offers several options for testing sites : mobile test sites , home test kits , Verily ’ s community test sites , or custom onsite test sites .
Verily is using nasal mid-turbinate swab real-time PCR test kits supplied by Quest .
Employers will be able to see an employee ’ s testing status .
That will let them make decisions about mitigating the spread , Verily says .
The information can ’ t be shared with insurance companies , though .
And data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Work program “ will never be joined with individual ’ s data stored in Google products without the individuals ’ explicit permission , ” the spokesperson said .
Nor do employees or companies need Google accounts to participate in the Healthy at Work program .
Back in March , Verily — a sister company to Google that ’ s part of parent company Alphabet — introduced a COVID-19 screening site that President Trump had unexpectedly announced during a White House briefing .
The president said Google was rolling out a testing program nationwide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and the program wasn ’ t yet available .
When it did launch , the testing program was limited to the Bay Area .
But the company says its COVID-19 testing program has now tested more than 220,000 people across 13 states .

Verily Life Sciences has announced an app-based health screening service for businesses and schools trying to reopen amid the coronavirus pandemic. The product, called Healthy at Work, will provide COVID-19 diagnostic testing for employees.
It will also make recommendations to employers about how often employees should be retested. Those recommendations will be based on local health data, as well as test results.
The program will conduct daily symptom screening through an app to either route people to be tested for the virus or clear them to return to work, according to a Verily spokesperson. It’s up to each participating company to decide whether to test its workforce all at once or start with small groups of employees. The symptom screening is not just used to determine who should get a test, but it’s one more way to monitor and potentially slow the spread of the virus, according to the spokesperson.
People may have COVID-19 — and be able to infect others — before showing symptoms like a fever. That means screening people for symptoms to determine whether they get a test is not a foolproof method to prevent COVID-19 from spreading in a workplace.
Healthy at Work offers several options for testing sites: mobile test sites, home test kits, Verily’s community test sites, or custom onsite test sites. Verily is using nasal mid-turbinate swab real-time PCR test kits supplied by Quest.
Employers will be able to see an employee’s testing status. That will let them make decisions about mitigating the spread, Verily says. The information can’t be shared with insurance companies, though. And data collected by Verily through the Healthy at Work program “will never be joined with individual’s data stored in Google products without the individuals’ explicit permission,” the spokesperson said. Nor do employees or companies need Google accounts to participate in the Healthy at Work program.


theverge--2020-06-19--Microsoft isn’t happy with Apple’s App Store bullying either

Microsoft believes it ’ s time for antitrust regulators to fully investigate Apple ’ s App Store .
Speaking during a Politico interview this week , Microsoft ’ s chief legal officer Brad Smith outlined Apple ’ s walled garden approach to its App Store , and how it ’ s affecting competition .
“ If you look at the industry today , I think what you ’ ll find is increasingly you ’ re seeing app stores that have created higher walls and far more formidable gates to access other applications than anything that existed in the industry 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ They impose requirements that increasingly say there ’ s only one way to get onto our platform , and that is to go through the gate that we ourselves have created .
In some cases they create a very high price for a toll , in some cases 30 percent of all your revenue has to go to the toll keeper if you will.
” While Smith doesn ’ t name Apple , Bloomberg confirmed with Microsoft that he ’ s referring to the App Store specifically .
This week may go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Apple ’ s App Store .
The iPhone maker has been caught up in an ongoing debate over its controversial decision to reject the new Hey email app .
Apple initially approved the app , but later decided it broke App Store rules .
Apple has been accused of acting like a monopolist and a bully by the chairman of the House antitrust subcommittee .
Apple ’ s decision has put a spotlight on Apple ’ s confusing App Store policies , just as the European Commission announced a formal antitrust investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It also comes just days before Apple ’ s annual WWDC developer conference , putting the company in an awkward position to host an event to entice developers to create apps for its platforms .
“ I do believe the time has come , whether we are talking about Washington DC or Brussels , for a much more focused conversation about the nature of app stores , the rules that are being put in place , the prices and tools that are being extracted , and whether there is really a justification @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been created , ” says Smith .
Microsoft obviously has some experience and history with antitrust cases , after it was found guilty of monopoly abuses related to its bundling of Internet Explorer in Windows nearly 20 years ago .
Microsoft was ultimately forced to open up Windows more to third-party developers , and it faced closer scrutiny on its practices for years .
The European Commission went even further , ordering Microsoft to create a separate version of Windows without its bundled Windows Media Player and create a browser ballot for consumers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The EU ’ s investigation into Apple ’ s App Store is still at an early stage , so it ’ s not clear what type of measures will be taken , but Microsoft is certainly sitting on the sidelines and encouraging action .
Microsoft has faced its own issues with Apple ’ s App Store .
The software maker attempted to launch its SkyDrive ( now named OneDrive ) app for iPhones back in 2012 , but got locked in a battle over a 30 percent cut of revenue from purchases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was a minor scuffle that was a testing point for Microsoft ’ s launch of Office on iOS .
More recently , Microsoft has been battling to launch its xCloud game streaming service on iOS .
The company has launched a preview version , but “ to comply with App Store policies , ” the app only includes a single game and is limited compared to the Android version .
Microsoft hasn ’ t revealed exactly why xCloud is limited by App Store policies .
Apple previously revised its App Store policies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like Valve ’ s Steam Link game streaming service , but both xCloud and Google ’ s Stadia have been unable to launch fully in the App Store .
While Microsoft has clashed with Apple over its App Store policies , it ’ s also benefited through various promotions for its apps in the App Store .
Microsoft also appeared on stage at WWDC last year to promote Minecraft Earth , and the company has previously shown up at Apple events to tout Office improvements for iPhones and iPads .
Microsoft would benefit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , both in terms of revenue and in how the company can design and launch apps .
Microsoft has increasingly been embracing Android as the mobile equivalent of Windows , because of the many restrictions with iOS and Apple ’ s App Store policies .
This Android investment has led Microsoft to partner more closely with Google and Samsung , and launch apps like Your Phone for Windows 10 that is barely functional when paired with an iPhone .
Apple is now doubling down on defending its App Store policies , but there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that are calling for change .
Spotify led the pack with an antitrust complaint last year , and now Epic Games , Rakuten , Match Group , Microsoft , and others are making their feelings known .
These calls will likely grow louder as the EU continues its investigations , but if there ’ s anything we know about Apple ’ s battles with European regulators it ’ s that it ’ s not afraid to fight back .

Microsoft believes it’s time for antitrust regulators to fully investigate Apple’s App Store. Speaking during a Politico interview this week, Microsoft’s chief legal officer Brad Smith outlined Apple’s walled garden approach to its App Store, and how it’s affecting competition.
“If you look at the industry today, I think what you’ll find is increasingly you’re seeing app stores that have created higher walls and far more formidable gates to access other applications than anything that existed in the industry 20 years ago,” says Smith. “They impose requirements that increasingly say there’s only one way to get onto our platform, and that is to go through the gate that we ourselves have created. In some cases they create a very high price for a toll, in some cases 30 percent of all your revenue has to go to the toll keeper if you will.”
While Smith doesn’t name Apple, Bloomberg confirmed with Microsoft that he’s referring to the App Store specifically.
Apple’s App Store
This week may go down in history as a turning point for Apple’s App Store. The iPhone maker has been caught up in an ongoing debate over its controversial decision to reject the new Hey email app. Apple initially approved the app, but later decided it broke App Store rules. Apple has been accused of acting like a monopolist and a bully by the chairman of the House antitrust subcommittee.
Apple’s decision has put a spotlight on Apple’s confusing App Store policies, just as the European Commission announced a formal antitrust investigation into the App Store and Apple Pay. It also comes just days before Apple’s annual WWDC developer conference, putting the company in an awkward position to host an event to entice developers to create apps for its platforms.
“I do believe the time has come, whether we are talking about Washington DC or Brussels, for a much more focused conversation about the nature of app stores, the rules that are being put in place, the prices and tools that are being extracted, and whether there is really a justification in antitrust law for everything that has been created,” says Smith.
Microsoft obviously has some experience and history with antitrust cases, after it was found guilty of monopoly abuses related to its bundling of Internet Explorer in Windows nearly 20 years ago. Microsoft was ultimately forced to open up Windows more to third-party developers, and it faced closer scrutiny on its practices for years. The European Commission went even further, ordering Microsoft to create a separate version of Windows without its bundled Windows Media Player and create a browser ballot for consumers to pick their web browser of choice.
Bill Gates speaks at an antitrust press conference in 1998 Photo by Porter Gifford/Liaison
The EU’s investigation into Apple’s App Store is still at an early stage, so it’s not clear what type of measures will be taken, but Microsoft is certainly sitting on the sidelines and encouraging action. Microsoft has faced its own issues with Apple’s App Store. The software maker attempted to launch its SkyDrive (now named OneDrive) app for iPhones back in 2012, but got locked in a battle over a 30 percent cut of revenue from purchases of cloud storage within the app. It was a minor scuffle that was a testing point for Microsoft’s launch of Office on iOS.
More recently, Microsoft has been battling to launch its xCloud game streaming service on iOS. The company has launched a preview version, but “to comply with App Store policies,” the app only includes a single game and is limited compared to the Android version. Microsoft hasn’t revealed exactly why xCloud is limited by App Store policies. Apple previously revised its App Store policies during WWDC 2018 to allow mobile apps like Valve’s Steam Link game streaming service, but both xCloud and Google’s Stadia have been unable to launch fully in the App Store.
Microsoft is finding it difficult to launch xCloud on iOS. Photo by Nick Statt / The Verge
While Microsoft has clashed with Apple over its App Store policies, it’s also benefited through various promotions for its apps in the App Store. Microsoft also appeared on stage at WWDC last year to promote Minecraft Earth, and the company has previously shown up at Apple events to tout Office improvements for iPhones and iPads.
Microsoft would benefit from a more open Apple App Store, both in terms of revenue and in how the company can design and launch apps. Microsoft has increasingly been embracing Android as the mobile equivalent of Windows, because of the many restrictions with iOS and Apple’s App Store policies. This Android investment has led Microsoft to partner more closely with Google and Samsung, and launch apps like Your Phone for Windows 10 that is barely functional when paired with an iPhone.


theverge--2020-06-19--Go read this detailed look at Apple’s AR and VR headset development

Apple has been working on a combination of AR and VR wearables for at least the last five years , and it ’ s this development process that ’ s been extensively detailed in a new report from Bloomberg .
The report covers some of the internal conflicts shaping product design , and provides more details about what form the final devices could take .
Consistent with previous reports , Bloomberg says that Apple ’ s AR and VR team , lead by Mike Rockwell , has two main products in development .
One , reportedly codenamed N421 , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while a second , codenamed N301 , is said to be a headset that will combine the best of both AR and VR .
It ’ s this second device that ’ s reportedly caused some internal division at Apple .
N301 was initially designed to be an ultra-powerful system , with graphics and processing speeds previously unheard of for a wearable product .
The processing capabilities were so advanced — and produced so much heat — that the technology couldn ’ t be crammed into a sleek headset .
Instead , Rockwell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stationary hub , which in prototype form resembled a small Mac , that would connect to the headset with a wireless signal .
In Rockwell ’ s early version , the headset would also be able to operate in a less-powerful independent mode .
However , Apple ’ s former design chief , Jony Ive , reportedly disliked the idea of the N301 headset that needed an external device to run , and saw a less powerful headset as the answer .
He also preferred the concept of the N421 glasses overall , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the real world as much .
Bloomberg reports that Apple CEO Tim Cook eventually sided with Ive ’ s direction for the hub-less N301 headset after a months-long standoff .
Here ’ s how Bloomberg describes the headset ’ s current design : Although the headset now in development is less technologically ambitious than originally intended , it ’ s pretty advanced .
It ’ s designed to feature ultra-high-resolution screens that will make it almost impossible for a user to differentiate the virtual world from the real one .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even more realistic , people who have used prototypes say .
Here are a few key takeaways from Bloomberg ’ s report , some of which has been reported before : • Prototype N301 headsets reportedly have a similar design to Facebook ’ s Oculus Quest , including having a “ mostly fabric body.
” • The N301 headset will reportedly have its own App Store , which will include games , video streaming software , and applications for virtual meetings .
• Apple plans to allow its Siri voice assistant to control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it ’ s also testing a physical remote for the headset .
• Rockwell ’ s team is reportedly now 1,000-strong , and has a degree of independence from the rest of Apple .
• Bloomberg reiterates that we may see the first headset announced in 2021 with a 2022 release , and that the glasses are unlikely to be ready for release until 2023 at the earliest .
Bloomberg ’ s piece is a fascinating look at how Apple ’ s AR and VR ambitions have developed over the years , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in its entirety .

Apple has been working on a combination of AR and VR wearables for at least the last five years, and it’s this development process that’s been extensively detailed in a new report from Bloomberg. The report covers some of the internal conflicts shaping product design, and provides more details about what form the final devices could take.
Consistent with previous reports, Bloomberg says that Apple’s AR and VR team, lead by Mike Rockwell, has two main products in development. One, reportedly codenamed N421, is a pair of lightweight AR glasses, while a second, codenamed N301, is said to be a headset that will combine the best of both AR and VR. It’s this second device that’s reportedly caused some internal division at Apple.
N301 was initially designed to be an ultra-powerful system, with graphics and processing speeds previously unheard of for a wearable product. The processing capabilities were so advanced — and produced so much heat — that the technology couldn’t be crammed into a sleek headset. Instead, Rockwell’s team planned to sell a stationary hub, which in prototype form resembled a small Mac, that would connect to the headset with a wireless signal. In Rockwell’s early version, the headset would also be able to operate in a less-powerful independent mode.
However, Apple’s former design chief, Jony Ive, reportedly disliked the idea of the N301 headset that needed an external device to run, and saw a less powerful headset as the answer. He also preferred the concept of the N421 glasses overall, because they wouldn’t take people out of the real world as much. Bloomberg reports that Apple CEO Tim Cook eventually sided with Ive’s direction for the hub-less N301 headset after a months-long standoff. Here’s how Bloomberg describes the headset’s current design:
Although the headset now in development is less technologically ambitious than originally intended, it’s pretty advanced. It’s designed to feature ultra-high-resolution screens that will make it almost impossible for a user to differentiate the virtual world from the real one. A cinematic speaker system will make the experience even more realistic, people who have used prototypes say.
Here are a few key takeaways from Bloomberg’s report, some of which has been reported before:
Prototype N301 headsets reportedly have a similar design to Facebook’s Oculus Quest, including having a “mostly fabric body.”
The N301 headset will reportedly have its own App Store, which will include games, video streaming software, and applications for virtual meetings.
Apple plans to allow its Siri voice assistant to control both the headset and the glasses, but it’s also testing a physical remote for the headset.
Rockwell’s team is reportedly now 1,000-strong, and has a degree of independence from the rest of Apple.
Bloomberg reiterates that we may see the first headset announced in 2021 with a 2022 release, and that the glasses are unlikely to be ready for release until 2023 at the earliest.


theverge--2020-06-19--Apple now accepts Mac trade-ins in its US stores

You can now trade-in your old Mac at Apple Stores in the US and Canada .
Bloomberg ’ s Mark Gurman notes that Apple ’ s site has been edited to remove a disclaimer that says Mac trade-ins are online-only , and a representative from the company confirmed the policy change to Gizmodo .
The change means the computers are accepted in-store along with other Apple devices like iPhones , iPads , and Apple Watches .
This follows a Bloomberg report which said the new policy was coming this week .
The change theoretically makes it much easier to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gift card or new device .
Rather than having to mail in your old machine , if it ’ s eligible for a trade-in then you should now be able to take it directly to a store and get instant credit for it .
In contrast , Apple ’ s site notes that the online trade-in process generally takes two to three weeks .
The new policy is complicated by the fact that many of Apple ’ s stores still aren ’ t open after having closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ last month , but a tracker produced by 9to5Mac says that many of its locations are still closed .

You can now trade-in your old Mac at Apple Stores in the US and Canada. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman notes that Apple’s site has been edited to remove a disclaimer that says Mac trade-ins are online-only, and a representative from the company confirmed the policy change to Gizmodo. The change means the computers are accepted in-store along with other Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. This follows a Bloomberg report which said the new policy was coming this week.
The change theoretically makes it much easier to get money for your old computer towards a gift card or new device. Rather than having to mail in your old machine, if it’s eligible for a trade-in then you should now be able to take it directly to a store and get instant credit for it. In contrast, Apple’s site notes that the online trade-in process generally takes two to three weeks.


theverge--2020-06-19--Google quietly launches an AI-powered Pinterest rival named Keen

Google ’ s Area 120 team , an internal incubator that creates experimental apps and services , has launched Keen : a would-be Pinterest rival that draws on the search giant ’ s machine learning expertise to curate topics .
Available today on the web and Android , co-founder CJ Adams says Keen aims to be an alternative to “ mindlessly ” browsing online feeds .
Google wants to know : what are you keen on ?
“ On Keen [ ... ] you say what you want to spend more time on , and then curate content from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make that happen , ” writes Adams in a blog post .
“ You make a ‘ keen , ’ which can be about any topic , whether it ’ s baking delicious bread at home , getting into birding or researching typography .
Keen lets you curate the content you love , share your collection with others and find new content based on what you have saved.
” This is obviously not a particularly revelatory pitch .
Just about every social media feed you browse is trying to personalize its content to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And Pinterest has already captured the hobby-focused side of this market with its pinboard-style visual design — two characteristics that Keen is trying to imitate .
So what does Keen have that Pinterest doesn ’ t ?
Well , for one it has Google ’ s expertise in machine learning , which Adams says will surface “ helpful content related to your interests.
” “ Even if you ’ re not an expert on a topic , you can start curating a keen and save a few interesting ‘ gems ’ or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says Adams .
“ These bits of content act like seeds and help keen discover more and more related content over time.
” But it ’ s not like Pinterest doesn ’ t invest heavily in AI as well .
And while machine learning ’ s ability to find patterns in data outstrips that of humans in many areas , when it comes to niche hobbies and interests , I ’ d wager that the collective intuitions of a big and engaged ( dare I say , keen ? )
userbase will outstrip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being .
It ’ s not clear what data Keen is collecting But there ’ s also the question of what Google itself is getting out of this project in terms of data .
The company has never been able to break into the social space , a venue of online activity that generates scads of lucrative data for targeting ads .
A Pinterest-style social network would really allow it to hone in on users ’ interests and gather this information .
And it does seem that data collected by Keen is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ users .
You log into Keen using your Google account , and clicking on the site ’ s “ privacy ” link just points you to the Google-wide privacy policy .
At any rate , it ’ s interesting to see Google push its machine learning systems into more varied applications .
Especially those that seem like they ’ re trying to foster users ’ interests in rewarding hobbies , rather than algorithms that drive people to greater engagement without caring what it is they ’ re actually engaging with .

Google’s Area 120 team, an internal incubator that creates experimental apps and services, has launched Keen: a would-be Pinterest rival that draws on the search giant’s machine learning expertise to curate topics. Available today on the web and Android, co-founder CJ Adams says Keen aims to be an alternative to “mindlessly” browsing online feeds.
Google wants to know: what are you keen on?
“On Keen [...] you say what you want to spend more time on, and then curate content from the web and people you trust to help make that happen,” writes Adams in a blog post. “You make a ‘keen,’ which can be about any topic, whether it’s baking delicious bread at home, getting into birding or researching typography. Keen lets you curate the content you love, share your collection with others and find new content based on what you have saved.”
This is obviously not a particularly revelatory pitch. Just about every social media feed you browse is trying to personalize its content to your interests in one way or another. And Pinterest has already captured the hobby-focused side of this market with its pinboard-style visual design — two characteristics that Keen is trying to imitate.
So what does Keen have that Pinterest doesn’t? Well, for one it has Google’s expertise in machine learning, which Adams says will surface “helpful content related to your interests.”
“Even if you’re not an expert on a topic, you can start curating a keen and save a few interesting ‘gems’ or links that you find helpful,” says Adams. “These bits of content act like seeds and help keen discover more and more related content over time.”
But it’s not like Pinterest doesn’t invest heavily in AI as well. And while machine learning’s ability to find patterns in data outstrips that of humans in many areas, when it comes to niche hobbies and interests, I’d wager that the collective intuitions of a big and engaged (dare I say, keen?) userbase will outstrip those of the machines for the time being.
It’s not clear what data Keen is collecting
But there’s also the question of what Google itself is getting out of this project in terms of data. The company has never been able to break into the social space, a venue of online activity that generates scads of lucrative data for targeting ads. A Pinterest-style social network would really allow it to hone in on users’ interests and gather this information. And it does seem that data collected by Keen is being collated with everything else Google knows about users. You log into Keen using your Google account, and clicking on the site’s “privacy” link just points you to the Google-wide privacy policy.


theverge--2020-06-19--Google Doodle celebrates the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth

In celebration of the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth , Google has produced a video Doodle set to the first verse of the poem “ Lift Every Voice and Sing , ” often called “ The Black National Anthem.
” It ’ s a 90 second piece of rousing animation that honors the end of slavery in the US .
The video features art from artist Loveis Wise , music produced by Elijah Jamal , and the poem is read by LeVar Burton .
Although slavery officially ended with the Emancipation Proclamation in 1862 , it wasn ’ t until June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reached Galveston , Texas on the western edge of the Confederacy .
Juneteenth is shorthand for “ June Nineteenth.
” “ This is an American story about freedom , liberty , and the pursuit of happiness , and I hope that in these brown faces many Americans can see themselves , ” said Google ’ s Angelica McKinley , the Doodle ’ s lead art director in an accompanying video describing its creation .
The Doodle is just one of the ways Google is celebrating Juneteenth this year .
Earlier this month it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United States in Google Calendar , and the company also says it ’ s added new Google Assistant responses to questions like “ Hey Google , what ’ s Juneteenth ?
” Google Arts & Culture has a new exhibit on the historical legacy of Juneteenth made in partnership with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History , and YouTube Music has a playlist titled Juneteenth : Freedom Songs featuring artists like Beyonce and Bob Marley .
Google Earth has also been updated to include satellite imagery of the Black Lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although Juneteenth is a significant moment in US history , it is not currently designated as an official federal holiday , although most states now recognize it .
It ’ s an especially significant date this year , following weeks of protests against racism and police brutality in the country .

In celebration of the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth, Google has produced a video Doodle set to the first verse of the poem “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often called “The Black National Anthem.” It’s a 90 second piece of rousing animation that honors the end of slavery in the US. The video features art from artist Loveis Wise, music produced by Elijah Jamal, and the poem is read by LeVar Burton.
Although slavery officially ended with the Emancipation Proclamation in 1862, it wasn’t until June 19th, 1865 that the federal order reached Galveston, Texas on the western edge of the Confederacy. Juneteenth is shorthand for “June Nineteenth.”
“This is an American story about freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and I hope that in these brown faces many Americans can see themselves,” said Google’s Angelica McKinley, the Doodle’s lead art director in an accompanying video describing its creation.


theverge--2020-06-19--Japan rolls out Microsoft-developed COVID-19 contact tracing app

Japan ’ s government today released its coronavirus contact tracing app for iOS and Android .
The apps rely on Apple and Google ’ s co-developed exposure notification platform , using Bluetooth to help determine whether users have come into close contact with others who have tested positive for COVID-19 .
Though the app store listing simply reads “ COVID-19 Contact App , ” Japan refers to the app as COCOA , a somewhat convoluted backronym that stands for COVID-19 Contact-Confirming Application .
It was developed by Microsoft engineers , according to Nikkei , who were hired in May after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led the government to abandon the work done by a Tokyo-based team in favor of a bigger corporation .
COCOA doesn ’ t store personal information like location data or phone numbers , the government says , in accordance with Apple and Google ’ s tracking platform .
Instead , it records encrypted data flagging phones that have been within one meter for more than 15 minutes ; when one person reports the fact that they have tested positive for COVID-19 , those other users will be notified .
Several countries have debated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recent months , with some governments seeking more control over data than Apple and Google ’ s APIs allow .
Germany released its own app based on the same platform after originally planning to develop a different system , and the UK similarly backtracked this week on a proprietary NHS app that has been in testing .
Japan ’ s coronavirus outbreak has been relatively small considering the country ’ s size , with 17,668 cases and 935 deaths confirmed so far .
That represents a figure of 140 cases per million people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 1,060 worldwide .
Today , the government lifted its advice to avoid travel between Tokyo and its surrounding prefectures , and the delayed Nippon Professional Baseball season will begin in empty stadiums this evening .

Japan’s government today released its coronavirus contact tracing app for iOS and Android. The apps rely on Apple and Google’s co-developed exposure notification platform, using Bluetooth to help determine whether users have come into close contact with others who have tested positive for COVID-19.
Though the app store listing simply reads “COVID-19 Contact App,” Japan refers to the app as COCOA, a somewhat convoluted backronym that stands for COVID-19 Contact-Confirming Application. It was developed by Microsoft engineers, according to Nikkei, who were hired in May after Google and Apple’s conditions reportedly led the government to abandon the work done by a Tokyo-based team in favor of a bigger corporation.
COCOA doesn’t store personal information like location data or phone numbers, the government says, in accordance with Apple and Google’s tracking platform. Instead, it records encrypted data flagging phones that have been within one meter for more than 15 minutes; when one person reports the fact that they have tested positive for COVID-19, those other users will be notified.
Several countries have debated their approach to contact tracing apps in recent months, with some governments seeking more control over data than Apple and Google’s APIs allow. Germany released its own app based on the same platform after originally planning to develop a different system, and the UK similarly backtracked this week on a proprietary NHS app that has been in testing.


theverge--2020-06-18--Twitter labels Trump video as ‘manipulated media’

Twitter has labeled a video tweeted by President Trump as “ manipulated media , ” as first reported by The Washington Post .
The label is primarily cosmetic , but represents a significant escalation in the ongoing feud between the president and his preferred social media platform .
“ This tweet has been labeled per our synthetic and manipulated media policy to give people more context , ” Twitter spokeswoman Katie Rosborough told the Post .
The clip edits footage of two children playing into a bizarre warning against race-baiting by the media , presented as a false CNN broadcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sic ] runs from racist baby.
” Since the presented footage was never actually aired by CNN , the false appearance of a broadcast may have provided the basis for the manipulated media tag .
part of an ongoing feud between the president and his preferred platform The video was produced by Carpe Donktum , a prolific pro-Trump meme creator who was suspended from Twitter in October in connection with a Kingsman edit that presented Trump violently assassinating various media brands .
A mainstay of Trump ’ s Twitter account , this appears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s edits have been labeled as “ manipulated media , ” a tag intended for deepfakes and other inherently deceptive edits .
In practical terms , the label is merely an icon placed below the video , which links to Twitter ’ s manipulated media policy .
It ’ s easily missed and does not present any meaningful obstacles toward viewing the video .
Still , the label represents a significant escalation in Twitter ’ s moderation of the president , after years of exempting him from most moderation policies because of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May 26th , Twitter labeled a tweet about mail-in voting as potentially misleading , which led to significant and immediate retaliation from the president , including an executive order that sought to ward off bias in social media moderation .

Twitter has labeled a video tweeted by President Trump as “manipulated media,” as first reported by The Washington Post. The label is primarily cosmetic, but represents a significant escalation in the ongoing feud between the president and his preferred social media platform.
“This tweet has been labeled per our synthetic and manipulated media policy to give people more context,” Twitter spokeswoman Katie Rosborough told the Post.
The clip edits footage of two children playing into a bizarre warning against race-baiting by the media, presented as a false CNN broadcast with the chyron “terrified todler [sic] runs from racist baby.” Since the presented footage was never actually aired by CNN, the false appearance of a broadcast may have provided the basis for the manipulated media tag.
part of an ongoing feud between the president and his preferred platform
The video was produced by Carpe Donktum, a prolific pro-Trump meme creator who was suspended from Twitter in October in connection with a Kingsman edit that presented Trump violently assassinating various media brands. A mainstay of Trump’s Twitter account, this appears to be the first time Donktum’s edits have been labeled as “manipulated media,” a tag intended for deepfakes and other inherently deceptive edits.
In practical terms, the label is merely an icon placed below the video, which links to Twitter’s manipulated media policy. It’s easily missed and does not present any meaningful obstacles toward viewing the video. Still, the label represents a significant escalation in Twitter’s moderation of the president, after years of exempting him from most moderation policies because of the inherent newsworthiness of his statements.


theverge--2020-06-19--Facebook and Twitter remove manipulated video from president’s accounts after DMCA complaint

Facebook has removed a manipulated video posted on President Trump ’ s account after receiving a copyright complaint from the rights owners .
The manipulated video shows a black toddler running away from a white toddler , with a CNN chyron reading “ terrified toddler runs from racist baby.
” The original video , which went viral last year , sees the total opposite , with the two toddlers running toward each other on the sidewalk so they can hug .
The video was created by Carpe Donktum , a prolific pro-Trump meme creator who the president has amplified in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook and Twitter .
It arrives as protests across the country fighting against systemic racism in the United States , and on the eve of Juneteenth — a day that many people celebrate as the day slavery ended .
Facebook took the video down after “ one of the children ’ s parents lodged a copyright claim , ” according to CNN .
A Facebook representative confirmed to The Verge that a complaint was received by the rights holder .
It had more than four million views by the time Facebook removed it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a third-party company that often acquires the rights from people to viral videos , told CNN that “ neither the video owner nor Jukin Media gave the President permission to post the video , and after our review , we believe that his unauthorized usage of the content is a clear example of copyright infringement without valid fair use or other defense.
” “ Separately , in no way to we support or condone the manipulate video or the message it conveys ” “ We received a copyright complaint from the rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Millennium Copyright Act and have removed the post , ” Andy Stone , a Facebook spokesperson , told The Verge .
Jukin Media has also filed a copyright claim complaint to Twitter , according to a statement posted on the company ’ s account .
While Twitter labeled the video as “ manipulated media , ” it was still active on the President ’ s account until Friday evening .
It appeared to be the first time one of Donktum ’ s edits has received the “ manipulated media ” tag , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video has been viewed nearly 20 million times at the time of this writing .
It ’ s still unclear whether Donktum or the president ’ s team will argue the meme is transformative enough that it ’ s allowed to exist under fair use .
“ We have submitted a DMCA takedown notice on behalf of the video ’ s creator , and in accordance with Twitter ’ s policy , ” Jukin ’ s statement reads .
“ Separately , in no way to we support or condone the manipulate video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hope and expect Twitter will take swift action to remove the video.
” On Friday evening , Twitter disabled the video .
The video was taken down due to a DMCA notice from the rights holder .
“ Per our copyright policy , we respond to valid copyright complaints sent to us by a copyright owner or their authorized representatives , ” a Twitter spokesperson told The Verge .
Update June 19th 5:40pm ET : Updated to include comment from Twitter and note it was removed after a copyright complaint .
The headline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ update .

Facebook has removed a manipulated video posted on President Trump’s account after receiving a copyright complaint from the rights owners.
The manipulated video shows a black toddler running away from a white toddler, with a CNN chyron reading “terrified toddler runs from racist baby.” The original video, which went viral last year, sees the total opposite, with the two toddlers running toward each other on the sidewalk so they can hug. The video was created by Carpe Donktum, a prolific pro-Trump meme creator who the president has amplified in the past, and uploaded to both Facebook and Twitter. It arrives as protests across the country fighting against systemic racism in the United States, and on the eve of Juneteenth — a day that many people celebrate as the day slavery ended.
Facebook took the video down after “one of the children’s parents lodged a copyright claim,” according to CNN. A Facebook representative confirmed to The Verge that a complaint was received by the rights holder. It had more than four million views by the time Facebook removed it, according to CNN. Jukin Media, a third-party company that often acquires the rights from people to viral videos, told CNN that “neither the video owner nor Jukin Media gave the President permission to post the video, and after our review, we believe that his unauthorized usage of the content is a clear example of copyright infringement without valid fair use or other defense.”
“Separately, in no way to we support or condone the manipulate video or the message it conveys”
“We received a copyright complaint from the rights holder of this video under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act and have removed the post,” Andy Stone, a Facebook spokesperson, told The Verge.
Jukin Media has also filed a copyright claim complaint to Twitter, according to a statement posted on the company’s account. While Twitter labeled the video as “manipulated media,” it was still active on the President’s account until Friday evening. It appeared to be the first time one of Donktum’s edits has received the “manipulated media” tag, which is usually found on deepfakes. The video has been viewed nearly 20 million times at the time of this writing. It’s still unclear whether Donktum or the president’s team will argue the meme is transformative enough that it’s allowed to exist under fair use.
“We have submitted a DMCA takedown notice on behalf of the video’s creator, and in accordance with Twitter’s policy,” Jukin’s statement reads. “Separately, in no way to we support or condone the manipulate video or the message it conveys. We hope and expect Twitter will take swift action to remove the video.”
On Friday evening, Twitter disabled the video. The video was taken down due to a DMCA notice from the rights holder.
“Per our copyright policy, we respond to valid copyright complaints sent to us by a copyright owner or their authorized representatives,” a Twitter spokesperson told The Verge.


theverge--2020-06-19--Cruises out of US ports will be suspended until September 15th

The Cruise Lines International Association ( CLIA ) has announced that its members are voluntarily suspending operations out of US ports through September 15th , 2020 .
Its members include Royal Caribbean , Carnival , and Norwegian Cruise line and as CNBC notes , the extension goes beyond the CDC ’ s July 24th “ no-sail ” order .
Carnival had previously announced it intended to resume operations in the US on August 1st .
The CLIA ’ s statement says in part that “ although we had hoped that cruise activity could resume as soon as possible after that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more time will be needed to resolve barriers to resumption in the United States.
” It ’ s reflective of the harsh reality that the US has not made as much progress as other countries in tamping down the spread of COVID-19 .
On May 1st , Congress opened a probe into Carnival over its response to the novel coronavirus .
Australia , too has opened an investigation .
The cruise industry has been hit very hard by the pandemic , with many questioning whether it has responded appropriately .
Cruise line companies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stimulus package in the US .
As Sean O ’ Kane noted back in March , the major companies that make up the cruise industry aren ’ t US-based , pay very little in US federal taxes , and have a terrible environmental record .
In a statement to USA Today , Caitlin Shockey , spokesperson for the CDC said that , “ At this point in time , we do not have enough information to say when it will be safe for cruise ships to resume sailing .
”

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced that its members are voluntarily suspending operations out of US ports through September 15th, 2020. Its members include Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise line and as CNBC notes, the extension goes beyond the CDC’s July 24th “no-sail” order. Carnival had previously announced it intended to resume operations in the US on August 1st.
The CLIA’s statement says in part that “although we had hoped that cruise activity could resume as soon as possible after that date, it is increasingly clear that more time will be needed to resolve barriers to resumption in the United States.” It’s reflective of the harsh reality that the US has not made as much progress as other countries in tamping down the spread of COVID-19.
On May 1st, Congress opened a probe into Carnival over its response to the novel coronavirus. Australia, too has opened an investigation. The cruise industry has been hit very hard by the pandemic, with many questioning whether it has responded appropriately.
Cruise line companies were not included in the March 27th stimulus package in the US. As Sean O’Kane noted back in March, the major companies that make up the cruise industry aren’t US-based, pay very little in US federal taxes, and have a terrible environmental record.


theverge--2020-06-19--Hulu will stream IMAX’s gorgeous documentaries, but not in 4K

Hulu is partnering with IMAX to exclusively carry 16 of the technology company ’ s documentaries in the United States , including A Beautiful Planet , Destiny in Space , and Into the Deep — but none of the titles will be available in 4K .
A spokesperson for IMAX tells The Verge that “ Hulu is not planning on showing the documentaries in 4K , ” but a press release notes that many of the films heading to Hulu have been remastered .
Other streaming services , like Disney Plus , have offered 4K remastered versions of films , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streaming purposes .
While not every IMAX movie has received a 4K home release option , some IMAX titles , including A Beautiful Planet , received IMAX Enhanced Blu-ray physical releases , which offers 4K viewing .
Hulu has a complicated relationship with 4K streaming .
While Netflix and Disney Plus offer a wider array of 4K streaming titles , Hulu ’ s offerings are considerably fewer .
Hulu first introduced 4K streaming in 2016 , but at some point was removed before being re-added in July 2019 .
Even then , most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4K are a small slate of Hulu originals .
Also , while Hulu supports 4K streaming , it doesn ’ t support 4K HDR , meaning that colors won ’ t appear as vividly .
Still , having on-demand access to IMAX documentaries through a streaming service like Hulu is pretty great .
Disney ’ s other streaming service , Disney Plus , offers a pretty wide slate of National Geographic documentaries , while Netflix has also invested in its own slate of nature documentaries .
The full slate of IMAX documentaries heading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service over the next few months , with some available now .
The full list of titles includes : • The Secret of Life on Earth ( 1996 )

Hulu is partnering with IMAX to exclusively carry 16 of the technology company’s documentaries in the United States, including A Beautiful Planet, Destiny in Space, and Into the Deep — but none of the titles will be available in 4K.
A spokesperson for IMAX tells The Verge that “Hulu is not planning on showing the documentaries in 4K,” but a press release notes that many of the films heading to Hulu have been remastered. Other streaming services, like Disney Plus, have offered 4K remastered versions of films, including the Star Wars series, for streaming purposes. While not every IMAX movie has received a 4K home release option, some IMAX titles, including A Beautiful Planet, received IMAX Enhanced Blu-ray physical releases, which offers 4K viewing.
Hulu has a complicated relationship with 4K streaming. While Netflix and Disney Plus offer a wider array of 4K streaming titles, Hulu’s offerings are considerably fewer. Hulu first introduced 4K streaming in 2016, but at some point was removed before being re-added in July 2019. Even then, most of the titles available to stream in 4K are a small slate of Hulu originals. Also, while Hulu supports 4K streaming, it doesn’t support 4K HDR, meaning that colors won’t appear as vividly.
Still, having on-demand access to IMAX documentaries through a streaming service like Hulu is pretty great. Disney’s other streaming service, Disney Plus, offers a pretty wide slate of National Geographic documentaries, while Netflix has also invested in its own slate of nature documentaries. The full slate of IMAX documentaries heading to Hulu will land on the streaming service over the next few months, with some available now. The full list of titles includes:


theverge--2020-06-19--AMC Theaters changes course and will require customers to wear face masks

In an abrupt about-face , the movie theater chain AMC said Friday it would require guests to wear face masks when its theaters reopen , after CEO Adam Aron earlier said it would not .
“ This announcement prompted an intense and immediate outcry from our customers , and it is clear from this response that we did not go far enough on the usage of masks , ” Aron said in a statement .
“ Accordingly , and with the full support of our scientific advisors , we are reversing course and are changing our guest mask policy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will require that all AMC guests nationwide wear masks as they enter and enjoy movies at our theatres.
” On Thursday , Aron told Variety the chain would not require patrons to wear face masks because it “ did not want to be drawn into a political controversy , ” saying he thought it would be “ counterproductive if we forced mask wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary.
” AMC , the largest theater chain in the world , plans to reopen in 450 of its 600 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capacity , after closing all of its theaters around the world in mid-March .
The company posted a $ 2.2 billion net loss in the first quarter and made “ virtually no revenue ” in the last two weeks of March , according to The Wall Street Journal .
AMC also said in its 8-K filing earlier this month that unless it was able to restart operations in July that “ substantial doubt exists about our ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.
” Several highly-anticipated movies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including Disney ’ s live-action Mulan and Christopher Nolan ’ s Tenet from Warner Bros. AMC competitors Regal Cinemas and Cinemark both announced plans to reopen in phases , with Cinemark beginning as early as this week .
Like AMC Theaters , Regal walked back its policy .
Regal ’ s website about reopening now notes that guests will also “ be required to wear masks , ” with disposable masks made available as needed .
Previously , chains like Regal noted that it will not require patrons to wear masks unless mandated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t changed its stance .
Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas on Friday said it will require patrons to wear face masks when it reopens .
“ When we open , the safety of our teammates and guests can not be compromised .
This is not political , ” Alamo tweeted , adding it will provide masks to customers who don ’ t have them .
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) recommends that people in the US wear masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus .
The World Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guidance June 5th , calling for people to wear masks “ on public transport , in shops , or in other confined or crowded environments.
” Some states , including California , have mandated people wear masks in public as businesses begin reopening .
But President Trump told the WSJ this week that he thought some Americans might be wearing face masks as a way to “ signal disapproval ” of him rather than as a protective measure .
Update , 1:45 ET June 19th : This story originally stated AMC would not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ AMC changed its policies in response to the backlash .
The story has been changed to reflect its new position .
Update , 3:35 ET June 19th : This story originally stated that Regal would not require masks , but rules on its website state that ’ s no longer the case .
The story has been changed to reflect its new position .

In an abrupt about-face, the movie theater chain AMC said Friday it would require guests to wear face masks when its theaters reopen, after CEO Adam Aron earlier said it would not.
“This announcement prompted an intense and immediate outcry from our customers, and it is clear from this response that we did not go far enough on the usage of masks,” Aron said in a statement. “Accordingly, and with the full support of our scientific advisors, we are reversing course and are changing our guest mask policy. As we reopen theatres, we now will require that all AMC guests nationwide wear masks as they enter and enjoy movies at our theatres.”
On Thursday, Aron told Variety the chain would not require patrons to wear face masks because it “did not want to be drawn into a political controversy,” saying he thought it would be “counterproductive if we forced mask wearing on those people who believe strongly that it is not necessary.”
AMC, the largest theater chain in the world, plans to reopen in 450 of its 600 US locations on July 15th with limited capacity, after closing all of its theaters around the world in mid-March. The company posted a $2.2 billion net loss in the first quarter and made “virtually no revenue” in the last two weeks of March, according to The Wall Street Journal. AMC also said in its 8-K filing earlier this month that unless it was able to restart operations in July that “substantial doubt exists about our ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.”
Several highly-anticipated movies are scheduled to debut in July, including Disney’s live-action Mulan and Christopher Nolan’s Tenet from Warner Bros. AMC competitors Regal Cinemas and Cinemark both announced plans to reopen in phases, with Cinemark beginning as early as this week.
Like AMC Theaters, Regal walked back its policy. Regal’s website about reopening now notes that guests will also “be required to wear masks,” with disposable masks made available as needed. Previously, chains like Regal noted that it will not require patrons to wear masks unless mandated by local governments. Cinemark still hasn’t changed its stance.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas on Friday said it will require patrons to wear face masks when it reopens. “When we open, the safety of our teammates and guests cannot be compromised. This is not political,” Alamo tweeted, adding it will provide masks to customers who don’t have them.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people in the US wear masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The World Health Organization (WHO) also updated its guidance June 5th, calling for people to wear masks “on public transport, in shops, or in other confined or crowded environments.”
Some states, including California, have mandated people wear masks in public as businesses begin reopening. But President Trump told the WSJ this week that he thought some Americans might be wearing face masks as a way to “signal disapproval” of him rather than as a protective measure.
Update, 1:45 ET June 19th: This story originally stated AMC would not require masks, however soon after publish AMC changed its policies in response to the backlash. The story has been changed to reflect its new position.


theverge--2020-06-19--Apple will re-close some stores in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Arizona due to coron

Apple will re-close some stores in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Arizona due to coronavirus spikes

Apple is closing several recently reopened retail stores in four US states after a resurgence in COVID-19 cases , Bloomberg reported .
A total of 11 stores in Florida , Arizona , North Carolina , and South Carolina will be temporarily shuttered .
The company closed all of its stores outside of mainland China in March as the coronavirus pandemic spread .
It began reopening US stores in May , with some offering only curbside or storefront service and not allowing customers inside .
Stores that did open to customers were conducting temperature checks and required customers and employees to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ current COVID-19 conditions in some of the communities we serve , we are temporarily closing stores in these areas , ” an Apple spokesperson said in an email to The Verge .
“ We take this step with an abundance of caution as we closely monitor the situation and we look forward to having our teams and customers back as soon as possible.
” Stores closing June 20th include two in Florida , at Waterside Shops and Coconut Point ; two in North Carolina , at Southpark and Northlake Mall ; one in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ six in Arizona , at Chandler Fashion Center , Scottsdale Fashion Square , Arrowhead , SanTan Village , Scottsdale Quarter , and La Encantada .
UPDATED June 19th , 1:38PM ET : Adds comment from Apple and list of stores to be temporarily closed .

Apple is closing several recently reopened retail stores in four US states after a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, Bloomberg reported. A total of 11 stores in Florida, Arizona, North Carolina, and South Carolina will be temporarily shuttered.
The company closed all of its stores outside of mainland China in March as the coronavirus pandemic spread. It began reopening US stores in May, with some offering only curbside or storefront service and not allowing customers inside. Stores that did open to customers were conducting temperature checks and required customers and employees to wear face masks.
“Due to current COVID-19 conditions in some of the communities we serve, we are temporarily closing stores in these areas,” an Apple spokesperson said in an email to The Verge. “We take this step with an abundance of caution as we closely monitor the situation and we look forward to having our teams and customers back as soon as possible.”
Stores closing June 20th include two in Florida, at Waterside Shops and Coconut Point; two in North Carolina, at Southpark and Northlake Mall; one in South Carolina at Haywood Mall; and six in Arizona, at Chandler Fashion Center, Scottsdale Fashion Square, Arrowhead, SanTan Village, Scottsdale Quarter, and La Encantada.


theverge--2020-06-19--Snapchat apologizes for Juneteenth filter that prompted users to ‘smile’ to break chains

Snapchat is apologizing for a controversial Juneteenth filter that allowed users to “ smile and break the chains , ” saying the filter had not gone through its usual review protocols .
The filter was panned by critics on Friday morning shortly after its release for its tone deafness , and was disabled by about 11AM ET .
“ We deeply apologize to the members of the Snapchat community who found this Lens offensive , ” a Snap spokesperson said in an email to The Verge .
“ A diverse group of Snap team members were involved in developing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lens that went live for Snapchatters this morning had not been approved through our review process .
We are investigating why this mistake occurred so that we can avoid it in the future.
” Lens development is led by the team from Looksery , which Snap acquired in 2015 for $ 150 million .
A source familiar with the matter says that much of the team is based in Ukraine and may not be familiar with American cultural attitudes .
Black Snap employees were involved in the filter ’ s creation but did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an action that would break chains if the user smiled , the source said .
Atlanta-based digital strategist Mark S. Luckie demonstrated the filter on Twitter , calling it “ interesting.
” The filter showed what appeared to be an approximation of the Pan-African flag , and prompted the user to smile — a common trigger for animated Snapchat filters — causing chains to appear and then break behind the user .
Juneteenth is the anniversary of the day in 1865 when a group of enslaved people in Texas finally learned that slavery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than two years after Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation .
The Juneteenth filter arrives just over a week after report surfaced that Snap CEO Evan Spiegel was delaying the public release of the company ’ s diversity stats because he was concerned that “ all these disclosures have actually normalized the current composition of the tech workforce.
” He told CNBC in a June 11th interview that Snap was “ actually inventing a new way right now to release that information and also make it clear about the plans we have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in the industry.
” Spiegel said of the company ’ s diversity stats that “ Snapchat looks like most other technology companies in terms of representation.
” Most Silicon Valley tech firms skew heavily white and male .
Snap has been one of the few Silicon Valley companies to never release a diversity report .
The most recent tweet on the Snap Inc. Twitter account , dated June 1st , links to a statement from Spiegel and says “ We condemn racism .
We must embrace profound change .
It starts with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for living the American values of freedom , equality and justice for all.
” It isn ’ t the first time a Snapchat filter has gone badly awry .
In 2017 , it honored International Women ’ s Day by offering filters of famous women like Frida Kahlo , Rosa Parks , and Marie Curie , but added smoky eye makeup and a face “ thinning ” effect to the Curie filter .
It had two misfires with filters in 2016 : it released a Bob Marley filter in honor of 4/20 that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ users felt amounted to digital blackface , and later that year made an anime-inspired filter that created “ yellowface ” caricatures of Asians .
UPDATE June 19th 11:15AM ET : Added that Snap appears to have removed the filter .

Snapchat is apologizing for a controversial Juneteenth filter that allowed users to “smile and break the chains,” saying the filter had not gone through its usual review protocols. The filter was panned by critics on Friday morning shortly after its release for its tone deafness, and was disabled by about 11AM ET.
“We deeply apologize to the members of the Snapchat community who found this Lens offensive,” a Snap spokesperson said in an email to The Verge. “A diverse group of Snap team members were involved in developing the concept, but a version of the Lens that went live for Snapchatters this morning had not been approved through our review process. We are investigating why this mistake occurred so that we can avoid it in the future.”
Lens development is led by the team from Looksery, which Snap acquired in 2015 for $150 million. A source familiar with the matter says that much of the team is based in Ukraine and may not be familiar with American cultural attitudes.
Black Snap employees were involved in the filter’s creation but did not see that the final version included an action that would break chains if the user smiled, the source said.
Atlanta-based digital strategist Mark S. Luckie demonstrated the filter on Twitter, calling it “interesting.” The filter showed what appeared to be an approximation of the Pan-African flag, and prompted the user to smile — a common trigger for animated Snapchat filters — causing chains to appear and then break behind the user.
Juneteenth is the anniversary of the day in 1865 when a group of enslaved people in Texas finally learned that slavery in the US had ended, more than two years after Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.
The Juneteenth filter arrives just over a week after report surfaced that Snap CEO Evan Spiegel was delaying the public release of the company’s diversity stats because he was concerned that “all these disclosures have actually normalized the current composition of the tech workforce.” He told CNBC in a June 11th interview that Snap was “actually inventing a new way right now to release that information and also make it clear about the plans we have to include representation at Snap and more broadly, in the industry.”
Spiegel said of the company’s diversity stats that “Snapchat looks like most other technology companies in terms of representation.” Most Silicon Valley tech firms skew heavily white and male. Snap has been one of the few Silicon Valley companies to never release a diversity report.
The most recent tweet on the Snap Inc. Twitter account, dated June 1st, links to a statement from Spiegel and says “We condemn racism. We must embrace profound change. It starts with advocating for creating more opportunity, and for living the American values of freedom, equality and justice for all.”
It isn’t the first time a Snapchat filter has gone badly awry. In 2017, it honored International Women’s Day by offering filters of famous women like Frida Kahlo, Rosa Parks, and Marie Curie, but added smoky eye makeup and a face “thinning” effect to the Curie filter. It had two misfires with filters in 2016: it released a Bob Marley filter in honor of 4/20 that put users’ selfies in what many users felt amounted to digital blackface, and later that year made an anime-inspired filter that created “yellowface” caricatures of Asians.
UPDATE June 19th 11:15AM ET: Added that Snap appears to have removed the filter.


theverge--2020-06-19--Tesla tells workers they can take Juneteenth off without pay — on Juneteenth

Tesla has told its workers they are allowed to take Juneteenth off as an “ excused absence ” after some had already showed up for work on the holiday that recognizes the end of slavery in the United States , according to internal emails first reported by BuzzFeed and CNBC .
The company also told employees that they would not be paid if they don ’ t show up .
Just after this story published , CEO Elon Musk tweeted that Juneteenth will be “ henceforth considered a US holiday at Tesla & SpaceX , ” but that employees will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paid-time-off days , which he said was “ true of many other holidays.
” Other Silicon Valley companies like Spotify , Uber , and Twitter had previously announced ahead of time that they were making Juneteenth a paid company holiday .
Automakers like Ford and General Motors have merely asked their workers to observe a moment of silence .
Both emails came from the head of Tesla ’ s North American human resources department , Valerie Workman , on Friday morning after some shifts had already started .
In the first , she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Juneteenth for any US employee that wants to take the day off to celebrate , reflect , or participate in events that are meaningful to you.
” Shortly after , Workman followed up with another email ( with the subject line “ JUNETEENTH !
” ) , saying that workers would not be paid if they didn ’ t come in .
The emails came days after a small group of employees announced a Juneteenth rally at Tesla ’ s Fremont , California factory to protest police brutality and call to defund the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for holding the rally is that they didn ’ t believe Workman and Tesla had done enough in response to the recent protests around the country and the globe following the killing of George Floyd .
Workman previously sent an email to Tesla employees on June 9th announcing a “ Listen to Understand ” series she said will “ allow us to come together , listen to our colleagues ’ stories , share learning resources , and help us all better understand new perspectives , ” according to a copy obtained by The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than one lawsuit by former employees who allege that they dealt with racism at the company ’ s California and New York factories .
The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the email , or the protest scheduled for Friday .
Tesla reopened the Fremont factory in May in violation of the local stay-at-home order from Alameda County officials .
The company has since been trying to ramp up production of the Model Y SUV , which began shipping ahead of schedule before the shutdown .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Musk said that making more Model Ys will “ really [ make ] a difference to Tesla right now.
” Update June 19th , 1:09PM ET : Added information from Elon Musk ’ s tweet in the second paragraph .
Update June 19th , 2:00PM ET : Added information from another Elon Musk tweet in the second paragraph .

Tesla has told its workers they are allowed to take Juneteenth off as an “excused absence” after some had already showed up for work on the holiday that recognizes the end of slavery in the United States, according to internal emails first reported by BuzzFeed and CNBC. The company also told employees that they would not be paid if they don’t show up.
Just after this story published, CEO Elon Musk tweeted that Juneteenth will be “henceforth considered a US holiday at Tesla & SpaceX,” but that employees will have to use one of their allotted paid-time-off days, which he said was “true of many other holidays.”
Other Silicon Valley companies like Spotify, Uber, and Twitter had previously announced ahead of time that they were making Juneteenth a paid company holiday. Automakers like Ford and General Motors have merely asked their workers to observe a moment of silence.
Both emails came from the head of Tesla’s North American human resources department, Valerie Workman, on Friday morning after some shifts had already started. In the first, she wrote that the company “fully supports Juneteenth for any US employee that wants to take the day off to celebrate, reflect, or participate in events that are meaningful to you.” Shortly after, Workman followed up with another email (with the subject line “JUNETEENTH!”), saying that workers would not be paid if they didn’t come in.
The emails came days after a small group of employees announced a Juneteenth rally at Tesla’s Fremont, California factory to protest police brutality and call to defund the police. One reason those employees cited for holding the rally is that they didn’t believe Workman and Tesla had done enough in response to the recent protests around the country and the globe following the killing of George Floyd. Workman previously sent an email to Tesla employees on June 9th announcing a “Listen to Understand” series she said will “allow us to come together, listen to our colleagues’ stories, share learning resources, and help us all better understand new perspectives,” according to a copy obtained by The Verge.
Tesla has been hit with more than one lawsuit by former employees who allege that they dealt with racism at the company’s California and New York factories. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the email, or the protest scheduled for Friday.
Tesla reopened the Fremont factory in May in violation of the local stay-at-home order from Alameda County officials. The company has since been trying to ramp up production of the Model Y SUV, which began shipping ahead of schedule before the shutdown. In an email to staff earlier this month, Musk said that making more Model Ys will “really [make] a difference to Tesla right now.”
Update June 19th, 1:09PM ET: Added information from Elon Musk’s tweet in the second paragraph.