Fortnite once again blocked on EU Apple devices

The news: Apple denied a request for Fortnite to be added to the US App Store and the Epic Games Store in the EU, according to Epic Games. “Sadly, Fortnite on iOS will be unavailable until Apple unblocks it,” Epic Games said on X.

Last year, the EU’s Digital Markets Act forced Apple to let Fortnite run on iPhones through Epic Games’ third-party app store. Now, the game is blocked from being distributed in the EU on iOS, though it’s still available for Android devices.

Our take: Despite some EU concessions, Apple appears ready to keep defending its walled App Store garden with strict platform control. Epic Games and other developers may need to prepare for more legal conflict as app store regulations evolve unevenly around the world.

Amazon layoffs hint at device uncertainty

The news: Amazon is laying off about 100 people across its Devices and Services division, which includes Project Kuiper, Alexa, Kindle, and Zoox.

The division is having mixed success: This month, Project Kuiper launched its first satellites, while hundreds of Zoox robotaxis were recalled after a few crashes.

The trend: Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Meta, and other tech companies are slashing jobs to enhance operational efficiency.

Our take: These layoffs could indicate shifting priorities in projects like Zoox, concerns about Alexa+’s success, and a stronger focus on near-term efficiency as economic uncertainty could reduce consumer device spending.

Apple makes streamer switching easier

The news: Apple Music launched a tool in Australia and New Zealand for importing libraries and playlists to help convert users from competing platforms like Spotify, Tidal, YouTube Music, and Pandora.

Users can transfer songs, albums, and personal playlists through the web or Apple Music’s iOS and Android apps.