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Apple’s EU Purge: Why 135,000 Apps Just Vanished

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 20, 2025

Apple has wiped more than 135,000 apps from its EU App Store in what marks the largest mass removal in the platform’s history. The reason? Developers failed to comply with new transparency rules under the Digital Services Act (DSA), a sweeping European regulation aimed at increasing consumer protections online.

Key Facts

February 17 was the deadline for App Store developers to declare their commercial status to continue operating in the EU.
Data from Appfigures, reported by TechCrunch, reveals that Apple removed over 135,000 apps in just two days due to non-compliance.
These apps aren’t permanently deleted—developers can restore them by updating their merchant information via App Store Connect.

What’s Driving The Crackdown?

The DSA, which took effect in August 2023, officially became applicable to all online platforms on February 17, 2024. Among its many requirements, it mandates platforms like the App Store to disclose the commercial status of developers, ensuring greater transparency and consumer protection.

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Who Counts As A Merchant?

Any app generating revenue—whether through downloads, in-app purchases, or advertising—is classified as a merchant under EU law. Developers must now provide their contact details, including a phone number, email, and address linked to their Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) record. Independent developers face similar requirements.

The Privacy Dilemma

For small developers, this regulation poses a challenge. Many are reluctant to share personal information publicly, citing privacy concerns. As a result, thousands of apps—many likely from independent creators—have been pulled from the store.

This unprecedented purge underscores the growing regulatory pressure on tech giants and the unintended consequences for smaller players in the ecosystem. While Apple is enforcing the rules, the broader question remains: will the EU’s push for transparency come at the cost of innovation?

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Google I/O 2025: Key Highlights and Game-Changing Announcements

by News Editor

May 21, 2025

Google’s annual I/O keynote, always a spectacle of innovation, took center stage once again, unveiling advancements that could redefine our digital landscape. From AI Search enhancements to the introduction of Veo, Flow, and Gemini, this year promised a future brimming with possibilities.

Gemini’s Role in AI Evolution

Google highlighted the prowess of Gemini, its AI workhorse, demonstrating its ability to seamlessly integrate with varied platforms like Android XR. Enhanced by new models like Gemini 2.5, this technology is set to revolutionize user interactions by offering personalized and proactive solutions.

Innovative Steps in Augmented Reality

Exciting unveilings came with Project Astra and the Android XR Glasses, promising a future where augmented reality becomes mainstream. The demos hinted at potential real-world applications that could transform how we interact with digital information, with partners like Samsung stepping up collaboration in this domain.

The Power of Generative AI

Veo 3 and Imagen 4 showcased the potential of generative AI, offering groundbreaking improvements in content creation, including enhanced video and audio syncing capabilities.

Search Revolutionized

One of the most significant updates came with the introduction of AI Mode for Google Search, set to change how over 1.5 billion users access information monthly. These enhancements promise more personalized and comprehensive search results, drawing users away from platforms like ChatGPT.

A Look Ahead

As AI integration deepens, expectations grow for even greater innovations. Future applications across diverse sectors signal that Google’s commitment to leading technological development remains steadfast.