Amazon faces record fine from French fraud watchdog

French President Emmanuel Macron recently helped open a new Amazon distribution center in the north of France, but now the retail giant is in the government’s doghouse. Economic Minister Bruno Le Maire has filed a complaint against Amazon for abusing its suppliers with one-sided contract clauses, reports Le Parisien. It’s seeking a record €10 million fine, “a strong and unprecedented action,” the ministry said in a statement.

“The platform imposes an unbalanced relationship on its sellers … [that may] push them into bankruptcy,” said ministry chief of staff Loïc Tanguy. Specifically, Amazon sellers take responsibility for problems like damaged packages, delivery issues and unfulfilled deadline, and can be kicked off the site if they don’t comply. Amazon can also change seller contracts overnight (by demanding shorter delivery times, for instance), and suspend a dealer at any time.

France’s consumer affairs and fraud division investigated Amazon and other online sellers over the last two years, studying clauses and getting feedback from 10,000 sellers in the country. Amazon’s French seller forums are rife with stories about delays in account verification and threats to cancel over minor issues. One user said that a single customer complaint over a delay, which was not his fault, provoked a threatening letter. “They treat us like vulgar subordinates,” he wrote.

Amazon is controversial in France — the city of Paris recently complained that Amazon Prime Now could “destabilize” its economy by hurting restaurants and grocery stores, for instance. At the same time, it’s by far the most popular e-commerce site in the nation with 3.5 million daily users.

The Macron government is promoting France’s tech industry like no other before, but the investigation and potential fine shows that there are limits to what it will allow. In a statement, Amazon France told Engadget that “we don’t comment on judicial proceedings.”

Via: Reuters

Source: Le Parisien

‘Rainbrow’ is an iPhone X game you play with your eyebrows

If you were eagerly awaiting the day you’d get to control a smartphone game with your eyebrows, the time is now. At least, if you own Apple’s thousand-dollar iPhone X. “Rainbrow” (see what they did there) is the brainchild of Washington University computer science grad Nathan Gitter. The game harnesses the flagship’s TrueDepth camera and ARKit augmented reality platform to deliver a headache-inducing arcade trip. Think Frogger, but instead of a frog dodging freeway traffic, you control a smiley across what looks like a Pride flag, dodging other emoji in order to amass points.

Oh, and did we mention you play by raising your eyebrows to move up, frowning to move down, and staying expressionless to keep stationary. We’ve seen some big names updating their apps to account for the iPhone X’s notch, and plenty of ARKit apps to boot, but nothing quite like Rainbrow. It may seem a bit gimmicky at first, but you can expect more facially-controlled games like this in the future. Meanwhile, Gitter tells MacRumors that he plans to integrate Apple’s Game Center to add multiplayer gaming soon.

Security concerns have plagued the Apple’s iPhone X, and Rainbrow reportedly makes sure to point out that it only uses TrueDepth data for gameplay purposes. Reports have previously alleged that Apple is sharing Face ID data with developers, who could then sell it to third parties. Apple’s policies forbid this type of data-sharing, and the company claims that even it can’t access your info, which is securely stored in an encrypted enclave on the iPhone X.

Source: Rainbrow

Ofcom pressured to fix lingering mobile not-spots

Last week, Ofcom published its annual assessment of UK mobile and broadband coverage. It was generally positive: so-called “superfast” internet (classified as 30Mbit/s download speeds or higher) is now available in 91 percent of homes, up from 89 percent last year. Similarly, mobile coverage has risen across the UK. But in a scathing letter, Lord Andrew Adonis, chairman of the National Infrastructure Commission, has called on the regulator to draft an action plan “for radically improving mobile coverage in the short to medium term.” In short, he believes progress is too slow and carriers should be pressured to do more.

Ofcom says it’s now possible to make a call with all four major networks in 70 percent of the UK. That’s a seven percent rise from last year, though Adonis sees it differently: “Large parts of the country remain without reliable coverage, with almost a third of the UK’s geography unable to receive a signal from all four operators.” Both statements are true. Here’s another example: indoor 4G coverage has risen from 40 percent to 58 percent this year. But in rural areas, Adonis notes that “nearly four out of every five premises [are] unable to receive an indoor 4G service.”

Adonis argues that “higher mobile signal strengths” are desperately needed to fix mobile not-spots. Network operators have already promised to provide 90 percent of the UK with mobile coverage by the end of the year. These commitments should, the chairman argues, be a factor during the upcoming 700 MHz spectrum auction. If a carrier has failed to meet its prior obligations, it shouldn’t be allowed to buy extra bandwidth — that’s the idea, anyway. Ofcom says it will “assess formal compliance” in early 2018 and publish a consultation that details all of its proposals.

Adonis also wants the regulator to consider mandatory roaming; so if you’re stuck in a not-spot, but a rival network has signal, you can switch and take advantage temporarily. The idea has been discussed before, however. It was put forward by then culture secretary Sajid Javid in early 2014, and consulted by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport later that year. Network operators rejected the idea, however, opting for a £5 billion care package of mobile infrastructure improvements instead.

Ofcom agrees that more should be done. In its report, the regulator admitted: “In too many areas coverage is still poor, broadband speeds are slow, and mobile services are unreliable or not available.” Steve Unger, an executive board member at Ofcom added: “We’re playing our part by enforcing rules for better coverage, and preparing to set new rules in operators’ licences. We’re also boosting the capacity of mobile networks by releasing new airwaves, and helping to improve coverage on trains.” The two organisations, then, are on the same page. The point of contention is what, if any, legal levers should be pulled to force industry change.

Via: BBC

Source: Ofcom, NIC

2017 year in review: Good riddance!

2017 has been a long year. From incessant breaking news alerts to the collapse of net neutrality to a string of natural disasters, we are all very tired. Though it’s worth revisiting why this was a momentous twelve months in science and tech, we’d much rather look ahead to the new year. Over the next two weeks, we’ll be looking back on the year that was, and sharing our hopes and predictions for 2018. Join us as we place our bets on AI, algorithms, social media regulations, green tech, streaming services, robotics, self-driving cars and even space taxis. And, of course, since we’re Engadget, you can expect to hear about the upcoming products and games we’re most excited about.

We have more than 15 stories coming between now and December 31st. Let’s all shake off 2017 and usher in what we hope will be a better year.

Check out all of Engadget’s year-in-review coverage right here.

Twitter starts enforcing tougher anti-hate rules

Twitter is about to crack down on hate speech in a big way… probably. As it marked on its safety calendar, the social network is now enforcing its recently updated polices on abuse and hate. From today on, Twitter says it will take action against people that use hateful imagery and language in their profiles, condone (or glorify) violence or participate in groups that promote violence against civilians — including through their actions outside of Twitter. The site may only ask users to delete individual tweets if they run afoul of the rules, but repeated offensive tweets or a hateful profile will lead to a permanent ban.

The company hasn’t explicitly singled out neo-Nazis and other racists with the rules, but there’s no question that they’re they ones most likely to be affected by the enforcement. The tougher policies were ultimately prompted by rising concerns that Twitter was enabling violent hate groups, including those behind the deadly Charlottesville march. And many of the potential targets know it. As Recode noted, far-right users are bracing themselves for a “purge.”

Will this seriously disrupt hatemongers and abusers? Not necessarily. As we’ve seen before, these elements tend to retreat to “safe” alternatives like the Dark Web or an anything-goes social site like Gab. If Twitter enforces the rules consistently (which has been a problem), though, it could further isolate these groups and prevent them from harassing and threatening everyday users. It might also reduce complaints that Twitter is doing seemingly everything but removing the corrosive users that drive people away.

Via: Recode

Source: Twitter Blog

There’s a fake version of ‘Cuphead’ on the App Store

Xbox’s retro-inspired Cuphead is on the App Store. There’s just one problem: it’s a fake. While the iTunes preview page looks legit, the game isn’t actually an official project from designer Studio MDHR. A quick whois search reveals that the phoney website is hosted in Hungary and that registered owner, Sheridens LTD. has done this sort of thing before with an unofficial mobile port of melee brawler Gang Beasts. In fact, the fake Studio MDHR website was set up less than two months ago.

No one’s stopping you from downloading Cuphead to your iPad or iPhone, of course, just know that it’s probably not going to be a great experience. This version uses on-screen controls for things like moving and shooting, which isn’t exactly ideal. We’ve reached out for more information and will update this post should it arrive. For now, be warned that despite what the store page says, this isn’t an official port of one of Xbox’s best games.

There is a Cuphead imposter app on the iOS store — this is a scam. We are working on removing the fraudulent app ASAP!

— Studio MDHR (@StudioMDHR) December 18, 2017

Source: iTunes, Whois

Best Buy Doorbuster Event Day 18: Apple Watch Series 2 Stainless Steel Models Starting at $349

Today marks the 18th day of Best Buy’s 20 Days of Doorbusters holiday shopping event, and brings with it a $200 discount on the original price of the higher-end, stainless steel models of last year’s Apple Watch Series 2. While stainless steel cases were occasionally marked down this season, aluminum models tend to get the heaviest discounts, so Best Buy’s sale prices are definitely a good opportunity for anyone who’s been looking for a non-Sport Apple Watch and who doesn’t mind owning a previous generation device.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

The models appear to be selling fast, with some requiring you to find a nearby store for stock since they are sold out online. The full list of Series 2 models on sale is below:

• 42mm Stainless Steel Case and White Sport Band – $349.00, down from $549.00
• 42mm Space Black Stainless Steel Case and Space Black Sport Band – $349.00, down from $549.00
• 38mm Stainless Steel Case and Milanese Loop Band – $399.00, down from $599.00
• 42mm Stainless Steel Case and Milanese Loop Band – $449.00, down from $649.00
• 38mm Space Black Stainless Steel Case and Space Black Milanese Loop Band – $449.00, down from $649.00
• 42mm Space Black Stainless Steel Case and Space Black Milanese Loop Band – $499.00, down from $699.00
• 38mm White Ceramic Case and White Sport Band – $949.00, down from $1,149.00

Although not part of the Doorbuster event, Best Buy also has $50 off the aluminum Series 1 models this week, knocking down 38mm to $199.00 and 42mm to $229.00. Right now, Target is beating those prices with 38mm at $179.99 and 42mm at $209.99 while supplies last. Additionally, Best Buy has savings of up to $150 on select MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and 12-inch MacBook devices.

For those interested, the headlining Doorbuster item today are the Bose QuietComfort 25 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones, priced at $149.99, down from $279.99.

Anyone looking for deals on Mac software might be interested in a 20 percent off sale on Affinity’s creative apps Affinity Photo (Mac, iPad, and Windows) and Affinity Designer (Mac and Windows). Developer Serif announced today that this discount will run through January 5 for all versions of its apps on Mac, iOS, and Windows PC.

The price brings the desktop apps to $39.99, down from $49.99, while Affinity Photo on iPad is getting an extra 25 percent discount and will run for $14.99 from the iOS App Store during the sale [Direct Link]. Here is a quick description of each app from Serif:

Affinity Photo, available on Mac, Windows and iPad, pushes the boundaries for photo editing software. Its huge toolset is specifically engineered with creative and photography professionals in mind. Whether you are editing and retouching images, or importing RAW files and creating expansive multi-layered compositions with hundreds of layers, it has all the power and performance you will ever need. The iOS version was this month named App of the Year by Apple.

Affinity Designer, on Mac and Windows, is a complete vector graphic design solution brought to life in the fastest, smoothest, most precise software around. Each feature, tool, panel and function has been developed with the needs of creative professionals at its heart. With continuous innovation and development, the result is a ground-breaking application that will revolutionise how you work.

For those keeping an eye on Best Buy’s sale as it winds down this week, tomorrow will see a discount on MacBook and on the last day the retailer will mark down a big-screen smart 4K TV. Make sure to head over to our full Deals Roundup to stay updated on these sales and more as the holiday shopping season continues.

Related Roundup: Apple DealsTag: Best Buy
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Huawei’s MediaPad M5 may arrive at CES 2018 to remind you tablets still exist

We don’t expect Huawei to bring the rumored Huawei P11 smartphone to CES 2018, so what will the company reveal at the show? One possible new device is the MediaPad M5, a high-spec Android tablet that may supersede the MediaPad M3 released in 2016. We were big fans of the MediaPad M3, and although tablets really aren’t as popular as they once were, we have high hopes this will be a good one. Here’s everything we think we know about the Huawei MediaPad M5.

Name, price, and release details

If the last major Huawei tablet release was the MediaPad M3, why isn’t the next going to be the MediaPad M4? It’s possible Huawei will skip the MediaPad M4 — the number 4 is often associated with bad luck in China — and go straight to the MediaPad M5. A Bluetooth filing certainly backs this up, linking the model numbers SHT-W09 and SHT-AL09 with the MediaPad M5, after the tablets passed through its qualification labs in December.

Huawei launched the MediaPad M3 at IFA 2016, and with CES 2018 the next major technology show on the horizon, it’s possible the M5 will be one of Huawei’s brand new products revealed there. The MediaPad M3 was 350 euros upon release, a price that may be matched or improved upon for the MediaPad M5.

Specification

To replace the MediaPad M3, the rumored MediaPad M5 will need to have a strong specification. When the tablet passed through the Bluetooth qualification process — where it was actually labeled as a smartphone — we were given a good idea of what to expect. The screen size is likely to be 8.4-inches, the same as the MediaPad M3, with a 2560 x 1600 pixel resolution.

Android 8.0 Oreo is expected to run on the MediaPad M5, according to a data spotted on a website log, where the SHT-AL09 version of the M5 was apparently being tested. If Android 8.0 is installed, there is a good chance Huawei’s own EMUI 8.0 or EMUI 5.1 user interface will be in place over the top. We’ve seen and enjoyed using the updated EMUI 8.0 on the Huawei Mate 10 Pro smartphone.

The Bluetooth certification also states the Kirin 960 processor will power the tablet, and therefore won’t come with the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that’s part of the Kirin 970 chip fitted to the Mate 10 Pro. Details on RAM, memory, cameras, and connectivity are unknown, along with the battery size.

We’ll keep you updated regarding the MediaPad M5 right here, as more news arrives.

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• Huawei Mate 10 vs. Mate 10 Pro: Battle to be your new best mate
• Huawei Mate 10 and Mate 10 Pro are here — with some strange differences

Nova Launcher Prime’s on sale in pretty much every region of Google Play

Christmas has come early for Nova Launcher users.

Nova Launcher is one of the best launchers on the market, and it just turned six years old. Nova Launcher has a better implementation of Android Oreo’s features than almost any other launcher, including Google’s Pixel Launcher, and its theming prowess is unmatched. Whether you’re looking for a launcher that you can set and forget or a launcher you want to tweak every day, Nova Launcher is for you, and it is on sale with its lowest price of the year.

Nova Launcher is on sale for 99 cents in the United States, and in every other region of Google Play where Nova Launcher is available, the app is on sale for “the cheapest possible price”. We’re not quite certain what that amounts to for every country and market, but you’ll probably want to give it a look.

Nova Launcher’s free features are stellar, but you gain a few more perks as a Prime member, chief among them being home screen gestures. Gestures are a wonderful bit of Android magic, allowing you to hide shortcuts to your favorite apps and actions in easy-to-use gestures, such a double-tapping your home screen to put your phone to sleep. Nova Launcher Prime gets discounts every now and then, but getting Prime for less than a dollar is rare, so if you haven’t taken the plunge yet, now is the time!

Nova Launcher Prime

Huawei P20: Rumors, specs, availability and more!

Whatever name it carries, the successor to the Huawei P10 should be a fascinating device.

Huawei, like many other big names in mobile, has a predictable cadence to its flagship smartphone launches. The new technology gets showcased first in the Mate series in the fall, usually paired with an updated version of EMUI, running the very latest Android build. That technological base is then further refined for the P series the following spring.

That gives us a rough idea of what to expect from the Huawei P20 (or P11, though our money’s on the former), which we’re expecting to see in early 2018. And, of course, the usual flurry of leaks that accompany any big phone launch have helped to fill in some of the gaps.

Here’s what we know so far:

The name: Huawei P20

Huawei trademarked the “P20” monicker earlier in 2017, and at least one source familiar with the company’s plans has suggested that this is indeed the name for the next Huawei flagship. P20 is a rounder number than 11, with fewer syllables (in English, anyway). And the jump from 10 to 20 would also underscore the significant tech upgrades coming in this new phone, such as the rumored triple-camera setup and bezelless display.

It’s also reasonable to expect Huawei, for the third year running, to offer the P-series flagship in two sizes, so expect a P20 and P20 Plus.

The hardware: Same core platform as the Mate 10

Expect Huawei’s Kirin 970 chip to return, complete with Neural Processing Unit, and possibly an upgrade to Android 8.1 on the software side. (Given Huawei’s newfound alignment with Android’s version numbers, this might mean we jump to EMUI 8.1.)

Android 8.1 is important for Huawei because it’ll allow third-party apps to unlock the power of the NPU through Android’s own neural networking APIs — APIs which aren’t present in the older version 8.0.

Besides that, expect the same core feature set we saw in the Mate 10’s software, only in a more compact handset. With one major exception.

Three cameras?

Huawei’s Leica-engineered cameras have finally started to hit their stride, with the latest iteration in the Mate 10 going toe-to-toe with the Google Pixel 2. The Huawei P20 series could take things even further, if one usually reliable leaker is to be believed.

Evan Blass managed to dig up images from “a digital artist at one of [Huawei’s] creative agencies,” pointing to a whopping 40-megapixel resolution from a triple-lens rear camera setup, offering 5X hybrid zoom (compared to the Mate 10’s 20MP + 2X hybrid zoom.) That’d be combined, if the images are accurate, with a 24-megapixel selfie camera.

Is the next Huawei P-series going to be an imaging powerhouse? A digital artist at one of the company’s creative agencies added these “PCE Series” ads to their portfolio — claiming 40MP, 3 lens rear (5x hybrid zoom) + 24MP selfie, all Leica-co-developed. pic.twitter.com/t8w3VlL55L

— Evan Blass (@evleaks) December 6, 2017

If true, this would point to photography being a major focus for the P20, just as battery life and performance has become the main pillar of Huawei’s Mate phones. Considering the quality of the Mate 10’s cameras, it’ll be fascinating to see what Huawei might be able to conjure up with a more exotic set of cameras in its next flagship.

An iPhone-style notch?

It had to happen sooner or later. Eventually, one of the big names in Android would emulate the iPhone X’s infamous sensor cutout. This report comes from XDA, which did some digging in pre-release firmware and discovered references to a display with rounded corners and a central iPhone-style notch, likely used to house sensors and the front-facing camera.

An overlay image included in the software gives us a clue as to what the P20’s front face might look like. As you can see, it’s somewhere between the Essential Phone and the iPhone X.

Details pulled from the same ROM suggest one device, possibly the P20 Plus, will use a 6.01-inch Samsung LCD with a Full HD+ screen resolution. That model carries the codename “Emily,” it’s reported, with model numbers carrying the prefix “EML.”

As a final note on the display, we’d caution against saying the LCD (as opposed to AMOLED) part choice is set in stone. AC understands that the Mate 10 Pro at one point was being tested with 6-inch LCDs before Huawei was able to secure supplies of AMOLED panels.

Other bits

Expect a launch at MWC 2018.

Shortly ahead of the P10’s announcement, Huawei execs exclusively told Android Central that Mobile World Congress, the show in Barcelona, Spain each February, would be the target for future P-series models.

Bruce Lee, Huawei’s Vice President of Handsets Product Line, told us to expect future flagship launches in a similar cadence to that of the P10.

“In the future, we will probably launch the devices at Mobile World Congress,” Lee told us through an interpreter back in February 2017.

That’s it for now. We’ll continue to update this page as more becomes known about the Huawei P20.