Noteworthy Tech Battles Of 2021: Main Lawsuits Of Fb, Instagram, Amazon

Here we have talked about some of the notable tech battles of 2021. Whether lawsuits or antitrust issues, 2021 witnessed a number of important events in the tech world. In addition, there was massive dynamic change that made people feel better without technical products, especially social media platforms. Check out some of these technology-related battles.

Facebook / meta cartel problem

Facebook / meta cartel problem

Facebook was among the top companies to face multiple struggles in 2021. The United States Federal Trade Commission filed a complaint against Facebook earlier this year. That lawsuit with the FCC related to Facebook buying or crushing rivals. This created a huge monopoly as Facebook already owns WhatsApp and Instagram.

However, Facebook moved to bias the lawsuit dismissed. At the same time, several antitrust proceedings against Facebook and its companies from the EU increased. Apart from that, whistleblowers like Frances Haugen came forward to reveal how Facebook works and the devastating effects.

Haugen, in particular, testified before Congress after handing over thousands of documents to both the Wall Street Journal and law enforcement agencies. Her testimony revealed that Facebook prioritizes its interests over what is actually good for people and society. Interestingly, the whistleblower’s testimony and the massive Facebook failure came at the same time. Can it really be a coincidence?

Instagram and mental health among teenagers

Instagram and mental health among teenagers

Not only Facebook came into the spotlight with the statements of the whistleblower. Her testimony also revealed terrifying truths about Instagram, particularly regarding teenage health. Frances Haugen announced that Facebook was aware of Instagram’s impact on the mental health of its users, especially teenagers.

Although Instagram knew the consequences, it continued to show teenagers harmful content that was damaging their mental health. This can be any type of content on the platform, including reels. The declaration and disclosure sparked a new wave of protests against the social media platform. U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar said it was time to protect people’s children from harmful content.

As a result, Instagram has developed two new features to prevent its user base from leaving the platform entirely. Instagram introduced a feature asking teenagers to take a break from the platform when it got overwhelming. In addition, Instagram introduced “nudges”, in which young people were asked to look away from content or to scroll through the platform.

FTC and Amazon

FTC and Amazon

Aside from social media platforms, there was also a major legal battle between the US FTC and Amazon in 2021. It was here that the Federal Trade Commission began investigating an Amazon conflict of interest. The investigation allegedly found that Amazon was competing with small sellers in its global marketplace. The lawsuit revealed allegations against Amazon.

FTC is likely investigating the inherent conflict of interest of Amazon competing with small sellers on its marketplace platform, including allegations that it used information from sellers on its platform to decide which products it would launch. Additionally, Amazon and FTC had another lawsuit over Amazon Flex drivers.

Ultimately, as part of the settlement, nearly $ 60 million was sent to Flex drivers through checks and PayPal payments. On the other hand, the lawsuit regarding small business and Amazon is still under investigation. A final judgment could be made early next year.

Apple vs Epic

Apple vs Epic

Apple’s lawsuit against Epic Games joins the list of notable tech battles of 2021. This was one of the most epic lawsuits of the year (pun intended)! It started in 2020 when Epic released an updated version of Fortnite that allowed users to make direct payments without offering a cut to Apple.

However, Apple removed the app for breach of contract and even blocked Epic’s developer account. Epic took the matter to court and the final judgment was made in Epic’s favor prior to the launch of the iPhone 13. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez-Rogers has passed her verdict and instructed Apple to lift restrictions on adding external payment methods in app stores and iOS apps.

The Apple Vs Epic revealed several important factors. On the one hand, the battle was aimed at fair competition between in-app payment methods and app stores, which affected billions of customers.

Indian government vs. WhatsApp

Indian government vs. WhatsApp

All of the above battles were filed in either the US or the EU. However, some of the notable tech battles of 2021 took place at home as well. The Indian government has also opposed overpowering social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, etc.

Earlier this year, the Indian government introduced new IT rules and guidelines for these platforms. Indian IT minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had urged companies to have a “soft oversight mechanism” and a “robust redress for complaints” to respond to government demands and problems.

For example, if the government legally asks for user data on one of these social media platforms, key compliance offerings must provide the data. The new rules were introduced to protect the privacy and sovereignty of India, they also raise issues of privacy and user protection.

Like everything, these remarkable tech battles of 2021 had two sides. Most antitrust proceedings were aimed at protecting the privacy and safety of users. In addition, such battles have been going on for several years. It remains to be seen what the next year will bring to the tech world and what struggles it will face.

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