The latest WhatsApp iOS beta release shows a feature that lets you migrate your chat history from Android to iOS. The company is also working on a two-step verification feature for its desktop and web clients. It's unclear when the company plans to release either feature.
Several users are reporting a random pink screen problem when using the iPhone 13. The problem makes it impossible to use the phone without restarting it. Apple said it was just a software bug, and some customers were able to get a new iPhone 13 Pro. It's not possible to find a pattern of why this happens, although it seems restricted to the iPhone13 line.
Apple has extended its deadline requiring online group and event apps to comply with the company’s in-app purchase policy. Apps in this category can now use alternate payment options until June 30th, allowing them to skirt Apple's 15 to 30 percent cut. Apple introduced changes to its in- app purchase policy in September 2020.
Amazon is reportedly working on a smart fridge that will tell us when food is about to expire. Steam cooking could gain traction in the consumer kitchen in 2022. Smart food storage could help prevent food waste from heading to the compost bin. Smart composting appliances could become a legitimate home appliance category.
The Google Pixel 6a is expected to arrive in May 2022, according to Max Jambor. That's around the time of the annual Google IO 2022 event, though Google hasn't made this year's show official yet. A separate source suggested that the long-awaited Pixel Watch would be unveiled on May 26.
The European Parliament approved the initial draft of the Digital Services Act on Thursday. The bill aims to ban platforms like Google and Facebook from using personal data for targeted advertising. It also requires companies to give users the ability to opt out of tracking and remove illegal content.
Cloud computing is expected to grow by 50% in 2022. The past two years have seen a rise in demand for cloud computing due to the pandemic and the "work-from-anywhere" culture. Gartner projects global spending on cloud services will reach over $482 billion in 2022, up from $313 billion in 2020.
TikTok is testing support for paid subscriptions for its short form video platform. The company didn't share details about when it might roll out to creators, or how many are currently testing it. If adopted, it would be the latest move by TikTok to help its creators monetize their content.
The Senate Judiciary Committee passed the American Innovation and Choice Online Act 16-6. The legislation would prohibit tech companies from favoring their own products and services. The House version of the bill is already ready for a vote and could still change from a handful of amendments.
Google is working on an AR headset that it hopes to ship in 2024. The headset is internally codenamed Project Iris. It uses outward-facing cameras to blend computer graphics with a video feed of the real world. Early prototypes resemble a pair of ski goggles and don't require a tethered connection to an external power source.