Tue. 04/22 – FTC As Today’s Main Character

Apr 22, 2025 16m

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As the US v. Google remedy trial begins, the FTC also sues Uber and makes Airbnb disclose all fees. Looks like tech regulation is still very much a thing. Bluesky begins rolling out verification. Meta is using AI to find if kids are lying about their age on Instagram. And Microsoft is forging ahead with that Recall feature.

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Links:

Justice Dept. asks judge to ‘thaw’ Google’s search monopoly by forcing Chrome sale (Washington Post)
FTC sues Uber, says company charged for Uber One without consent (CNBC)
Airbnb to Show Fees in Price Display to Comply With FTC Rule (Bloomberg)
Bluesky Is Rolling Out Official Verification (Wired)
Google Messages Sensitive Content Warnings for nudity rolling out (9to5Google)
Meta is ramping up its AI-driven age detection (The Verge)
Microsoft Is Dedicated To Building A Dodgy New Database Of Every Windows 11 User’s Online Behaviors (TechDirt)

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

AI-Generated Summary

FTC vs. Big Tech: The USV Google Trial Begins

The episode kicks off with a focus on the US versus Google remedy trial, where the DOJ argues that Google should divest its Chrome browser to restore competition in internet search. David Dalquist, a Justice Department lawyer, highlights that Google has crippled its competitors through anti-competitive practices. The court's findings labeled Google a monopolist, with potential harsh remedies like forcing the divestment of Android if changes aren't made within five years. Google, on the defensive, calls the proposed remedies 'extreme' and argues that they unfairly benefit Google’s rivals.

The FTC Takes Action Against Uber and Airbnb

The FTC is also making headlines with its lawsuit against Uber, accusing the company of charging users for its subscription service without consent and complicating the cancellation process. Chair Andrew Ferguson emphasizes the need for the FTC to protect consumers from unwanted subscriptions. Meanwhile, Airbnb is adapting to new regulations by displaying the total cost of stays upfront, excluding taxes, to comply with an FTC rule on transparency intended to fight junk fees.

Blue Sky and Verification Updates

On the social media front, Blue Sky has begun rolling out a verification process, transitioning from a self-verification model to a more formal system. This shift aims to combat impersonation as the platform grows, with priority given to notable accounts like government officials and media organizations. CEO Jay Graber emphasizes this change to foster a trustworthy environment within the growing user base.

Privacy Enhancements from Google and Meta

In a move towards safety, Google is implementing opt-in warnings for sensitive content in messages on Android, aiming to protect younger users from unintentional exposure. Alternatively, Meta is leveraging AI to enhance age detection for teen users on Instagram, automatically changing settings for accounts it suspects of misreporting ages. These steps reflect broader efforts within the tech sector to prioritize user safety amid rising regulation.

Microsoft's Controversial Recall Feature

Lastly, Microsoft is reviving its Recall feature for Windows 11 despite previous backlash over privacy concerns. Initially critiqued for potential overreach in user data collection, the company is now rolling out the feature as opt-in. However, privacy advocates remain wary, noting that even users who opt out could still risk data exposure through their interactions with others.