The Comunicano Sunday Edition for January 19th 2025

Such a Sunday

The digital and political landscapes are undergoing seismic shifts as recent events spotlight the tensions between innovation, regulation, and global security….In the U.S., TikTok has gone dark ahead of an anticipated ban, leaving millions of users scrambling. ByteDance, its Chinese parent company, faces mounting pressure to divest its U.S. operations, while Apple has removed TikTok and other apps, citing compliance with government directives. These actions underscore escalating concerns about data security, national sovereignty, and tech governance. Meanwhile, a proposed merger between Perplexity AI and TikTok’s U.S. operations hints at a possible resolution, but uncertainties remain.

Amazon, too, is navigating setbacks. Its ambitious drone delivery program has been paused following safety incidents, highlighting the challenges of scaling autonomous technology. Elsewhere, Apple defends itself in a U.K. antitrust trial over alleged App Store monopolization, countering claims of exorbitant profit margins while facing global scrutiny….In AI, OpenAI and Meta are vying for dominance in shaping the future. OpenAI’s vision of AI-powered superagents contrasts with Meta’s open-source approach, reflecting the competitive race to redefine how AI integrates into daily life. Meanwhile, Instagram's updates spark mixed reactions—its extended Reels length excites creators, but a controversial interface redesign faces backlash.

On the global stage, authoritarian regimes tighten their grip on press freedom. China, Israel, and Myanmar lead in journalist imprisonments, silencing dissent and shaping narratives. This erosion of media independence, documented by the Committee to Protect Journalists, raises urgent questions about the fragility of democratic institutions….Even the entertainment world reflects broader themes of resilience and change. No Doubt is reuniting for a FireAid concert, supporting wildfire-affected communities, while local journalism emerged as a critical lifeline during emergencies, underscoring its vital public service role.

Amid these transformations, President-elect Donald Trump introduced “TrumpCoin,” a Solana-based cryptocurrency, blending tech innovation with political branding, though analysts warn of legal pitfalls.

These stories paint a vivid picture of a world grappling with rapid technological evolution, political upheaval, and shifting social dynamics. As debates over security, freedom, and innovation rage on, the decisions made today will ripple across industries, communities, and global systems for years to come. And of course, to keep you are, there will be THE COMUNICANO!!!

Andy Abramson

TikTok Watch

TikTok Goes Dark Ahead of U.S. Ban (NBC News)—TikTok has proactively made its app unavailable to U.S. users ahead of an anticipated government ban. This move, seen as a preemptive effort to comply with impending legislation, leaves millions of users without access. TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, continues to face mounting pressure to divest its U.S. operations to avoid a full ban. Critics argue the ban represents overreach, while supporters claim it’s necessary for national security. The decision leaves influencers and businesses reliant on TikTok scrambling for alternatives.
Read more here

Apple Details Removed Apps, Including TikTok (TechCrunch)—Apple disclosed the full list of apps it removed alongside TikTok in the U.S., citing compliance with government directives. Notable removals include apps tied to alleged data security concerns and foreign influence. This transparency move aims to address public scrutiny and align with legal requirements. Apple has faced criticism for inconsistent app enforcement, prompting this rare disclosure. The list includes controversial and less-known apps, reflecting broader government concerns about data safety in a politically charged environment. The company reiterates its commitment to user privacy and security, even amidst growing regulatory pressures.
Read more here

Apple Provides Guidance on App Removal Policy (Apple Support)—Apple has published detailed guidance on its app removal policy, explaining the reasons behind recent actions, including the removal of TikTok in the U.S. The document emphasizes Apple's commitment to compliance with legal directives, user security, and privacy. It outlines the steps Apple takes to evaluate apps for removal, including those tied to regulatory or governmental requests. The resource aims to provide transparency and reassure users about Apple's dedication to maintaining a safe and trustworthy App Store environment.
Read more here

Marvel Snap Pulled Amid TikTok Ban Fallout (ComicBook)—Popular mobile game Marvel Snap has been removed from app stores, reportedly linked to the broader TikTok ban. The game’s developer has yet to clarify its future plans, leaving fans frustrated. The removal highlights the ripple effects of app store policies influenced by political and security concerns. Fans worry about losing access to in-game purchases and progress, amplifying calls for better communication from developers.
Read more here

TikTok Ban Sets Global Precedent for Digital Regulation (Washington Post)
India’s 2020 TikTok ban, which affected 200 million users, highlighted the interplay between national security and digital censorship. The move shifted India’s social media ecosystem, initially boosting local apps like MX TakaTak and Moj before global platforms like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels dominated. Similarly, TikTok restricted new posts in Russia in 2022 due to the country’s "fake news" law, limiting users to old, localized content. These actions underscore how geopolitical tensions and regulatory concerns reshape digital landscapes, raising questions about free speech and global tech governance.
Read more here

Perplexity AI Bids to Merge with TikTok US Amid Looming Ban (CNBC)—Perplexity AI, a U.S.-based search engine startup, has submitted a proposal to merge with TikTok's U.S. operations. This bid comes as TikTok faces a potential ban in the United States unless it divests from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, by January 19, 2025. The proposed merger would create a new entity, allowing ByteDance's existing investors to retain their stakes. Perplexity AI, recently valued at $9 billion, believes its merger approach may be more successful than an outright sale. President-elect Donald Trump has indicated he may grant TikTok a 90-day extension to finalize such arrangements.
Read more here

Amazon Watch

Amazon Halts Drone Deliveries After Crashes (Engadget)—Amazon has temporarily suspended its drone delivery program following two recent crash incidents. The company cited safety concerns and ongoing investigations into the malfunctions. While Amazon initially hailed the program as a step toward faster, more efficient deliveries, operational challenges and regulatory scrutiny persist. The pause highlights the complexities of deploying autonomous delivery technologies at scale. Amazon remains committed to the initiative but emphasizes the need for rigorous safety protocols before resuming operations.
Read more here

Apple Watch

Apple CFO Denies App Store's 75% Profit Margin Claim (Financial Times)—Apple CFO Kevan Parekh, testifying in a UK antitrust trial, refuted claims that the company's App Store achieves a 75% profit margin. The £1.5 billion class action lawsuit accuses Apple of abusing its market dominance, forcing app developers to use the App Store and allegedly passing excessive fees to consumers. Parekh argued that accurately calculating the App Store's profitability is infeasible due to indirect cost allocations. Apple defends its integrated ecosystem as critical for user security and convenience, countering monopoly claims. This trial is part of a broader wave of antitrust challenges targeting Big Tech globally.
Read more here

AI Watch

AI Superagents: OpenAI and Meta Race to Shape the Future (Axios)—OpenAI and Meta are pushing the boundaries of AI innovation. OpenAI envisions AI-powered assistants executing complex tasks and enhancing natural communication by 2025, driven by advancements in its o1 model series and GPT-4o. Meanwhile, Meta has unveiled Llama 3.1, the largest open-source AI model, with 405 billion parameters, claiming competitive performance against proprietary models. Meta is also developing its own AI-driven search engine to rival Google and Bing, integrating it into platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram. These developments reflect a competitive landscape, with OpenAI and Meta leading the charge in redefining AI’s role in daily life.
Read more here

Social Watch

Instagram Extends Reels Length to 3 Minutes (Social Media Today)—Instagram has officially expanded the maximum length of Reels to three minutes, responding to user demand and competition from platforms like TikTok. The update offers creators more flexibility for storytelling and engaging content. While users appreciate the added functionality, critics warn the platform risks losing its signature brevity that sets it apart. This change underscores Instagram’s broader effort to compete with TikTok and maintain relevance in the evolving social media landscape.
Read more here

Instagram Users Revolt Against Update (Metro)—Instagram's latest update, dubbed the "ugliest ever," has sparked user outrage. Critics lambast the new interface for being cluttered and unintuitive, with some threatening to abandon the app. While Instagram claims the changes aim to enhance usability, early feedback suggests the opposite. The backlash underscores the challenge of balancing innovation with user expectations, especially for platforms facing intense competition in the social media space.
Read more here

Crypto Watch

President-Elect Trump Launches Meme Coin (Fox Business)—Ahead of his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump has unveiled a cryptocurrency called TrumpCoin, marketed as a "meme coin" tied to his brand. The move has sparked controversy, with critics calling it a publicity stunt and supporters hailing it as innovative. TrumpCoin is based on the Solana blockchain, highlighting his alignment with tech trends. However, analysts warn of potential legal and regulatory challenges. The launch reflects Trump's strategy to remain a dominant cultural and financial force.
Read more here

Donald Trump Introduces Solana-Based Crypto (Decrypt)—Donald Trump has announced the launch of a Solana-based meme cryptocurrency, aiming to capitalize on his political and cultural influence. The coin's introduction comes at a time when crypto markets face heightened regulation, raising questions about its long-term viability. Supporters see this as a savvy move to blend tech and branding, while critics label it a distraction. The initiative marks another unconventional step in Trump’s political career.
Read more here

Fire Watch

No Doubt Reunites for FireAid Concert (Rolling Stone)—Iconic band No Doubt is reuniting for a one-night-only performance at the FireAid Benefit Concert. The event aims to raise funds for communities affected by recent wildfires. Fans were thrilled to hear the band will be back on stage. The reunion fuels speculation about potential future projects, though the band remains tight-lipped. The concert underscores the enduring appeal of No Doubt’s music and their commitment to social causes.
Read more here

We Need A New Deal To Save Local Journalism (Defector)—During the devastating Los Angeles fires, local TV news became an indispensable lifeline, providing real-time updates, evacuation notices, and debunking misinformation. Residents relied on these broadcasts for accurate information amidst the chaos. This underscores the critical role local journalism plays during emergencies, offering context and clarity that national outlets or social media often cannot. Despite its imperfections, local news remains a trusted source for communities, especially in times of crisis. The experience highlights the urgent need to support and preserve local journalism as an essential public service.
Read more Here

Media Watch

Press Freedom Under Siege: China, Israel, and Myanmar Lead in Journalist Imprisonments (Committee to Protect Journalists)—In 2024, the global crackdown on press freedom intensified, with China, Israel, and Myanmar emerging as the top jailers of journalists. China and Myanmar have consistently suppressed independent reporting, but Israel's ascent to the second position is alarming. Following the onset of the Gaza conflict in 2023, Israel detained numerous Palestinian journalists, marking its first appearance among the leading offenders. This surge reflects a broader trend of authoritarian regimes and conflict zones targeting the press to control narratives and stifle dissent. The Committee to Protect Journalists documented over 100 new imprisonments, underscoring the escalating risks faced by media professionals worldwide.
Read more here

Health Watch

Timing Coffee for Heart Health (Verywell Health)—Research suggests that drinking coffee at specific times may benefit heart health. Experts recommend consuming coffee mid-morning, rather than immediately after waking, to align with natural cortisol rhythms and avoid undue stress on the heart. This timing optimizes caffeine's benefits while minimizing potential risks. The findings add to growing evidence supporting coffee's role in a heart-healthy lifestyle when consumed in moderation.
Read more here