Lots has happened this past week in the tech world! With Meta’s WhatsApp failing for thousands, Taiwan’s earthquake impacting the chipmaking industry, Governor DeSantis signing a bill about social media, and more, there’s much to catch up on. So, let’s get started!
Meta’s WhatsApp Fails for Thousands
On April 3, thousands of tech users encountered disruptions with WhatsApp, per Downdetector.com. WhatsApp acknowledged the ongoing problems, making a statement on X. Downdetector recorded approximately 2,500 incident reports from U.S. users alone. Furthermore, data from Downdetector indicated that nearly 3,500 users in India, over 10,000 in the United Kingdom, and more than 7,000 in Brazil also encountered platform difficulties.
Taiwan Earthquake Impacts Chipmaking Industry
On April 3, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit the east coast of the island, marking the strongest tremor in 25 years, resulting in nine fatalities and causing landslides and building collapses.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, commonly known as TSMC, which stands as the leading chipmaker, primarily operates on the opposite side of the island. Despite some shaking experienced at its facilities, TSMC temporarily evacuated certain manufacturing tech plants following the earthquake.
TSMC noted in a statement late on Wednesday that “A small number of tools were damaged at certain facilities, partially impacting their operations. However, there is no damage to our critical tools.”
Governor DeSantis’s Bill Bans Children From Social Media
Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican from Florida, signed a bill into law that prohibits children under the age of 14 from having their own social media accounts, as announced in a news release from the governor’s office.
Under the new law, children aged 14 and 15 will be permitted to have social media accounts only with parental consent. The legislation also imposes restrictions on pornographic websites.
Google to Begin Charging for AI, Reports State
According to sources, Alphabet’s Google is contemplating introducing paid tech features for its AI-driven search engine, as reported by the Financial Times on April 3.
The tech giant is exploring various options, including integrating AI-powered search functionalities into its premium subscription services, which already grant access to the new Gemini AI assistant in Gmail and Docs, per the report.
Spotify to Raise Price Plans
According to close sources, Spotify plans to increase the prices of its subscription plans by approximately $1 to $2 per month in five markets, including the UK, Australia, and Pakistan, by the end of April, as reported by Bloomberg News on April 3.
Shares of the Swedish music streaming service, which competes with offerings from Apple and Amazon.com, surged by more than 5% in response. Spotify is expected to implement price hikes in the United States later this year, the report indicated. Additionally, the company plans to introduce a new basic tier that will provide access to music and podcasts (excluding audiobooks), as part of its existing individual premium plan.
