A Pressure COOKer Disaster
Apple removed major virtual private network (VPN) apps from its China stores due to regulation violations. This decision, headed by CEO Tim Cook, could potentially prevent users from bypassing local web firewalls and accessing international websites. China uses VPN apps to control Internet access in the country, and Apple’s move has made it clear that it’s putting business in front of the population’s interests. Cook remains under pressure as he tries to maintain a balance between the restrictive authorities and growing Apple product sales in China. (Source: Bloomberg Tech & TechCrunch)
Keep it Together, Uber
The task to replace former Uber CEO, Travis Kalanick, has proven to be difficult. After hopes of Meg Whitman, the current CEO of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, replacing Kalanick dissipated, the search drags on. Liane Hornsey, Uber’s senior vice president and head of human resources, stated that the company will have another candidate selected in the next six weeks. Although the Uber board is split in two, hopefully they can set aside their differences in time to find a new chief executive. (Source: New York Times)
Float Like a Cadillac, Sting Like a Beemer
Unlike other manufacturers, one major car company is refusing to outsource to an outside tech firm: BMW. The German automotive company has prioritized customer experience above driving experience and will not support Android Auto in the near future. BMW is also looking for ways to incorporate voice assistants while still maintaining its premium brand image. As the public’s idea of car relationships begins to change with innovative technology, BMW continues to strive to keep up with up-to-date software, consistent customer service, and being the Ultimate Driving Machine. (Source: TechCrunch)
