LegalPolicyTechnology

Texas Age Verification Law Faces Constitutional Challenges from Tech Giants and Student Groups

A coalition including Apple, Google, and student organizations is challenging Texas’ upcoming age verification mandate for app stores. The lawsuits argue the law creates unconstitutional restrictions on information access and raises serious data privacy risks.

Legal Challenges Mount Against Texas App Store Age Verification Mandate

A significant legal battle is unfolding in Texas as technology giants and student advocacy groups unite to challenge the state’s upcoming app store age verification law, with sources indicating the measure faces multiple constitutional complaints. The Texas App Store Accountability Act, scheduled to take effect in January 2026, requires official app stores to perform mandatory age checks on all Texas users before permitting mobile application downloads.

InnovationSoftware

Spotify Expands Live Music Discovery with Venue Following Feature

Spotify has launched a new feature allowing users to search for and follow music venues directly within the app. The update aims to streamline concert discovery and ticket purchasing while supporting local music scenes. Enhanced personalized recommendations are now available through the refreshed Live Events feed.

Enhanced Music Discovery Through Venue Integration

Spotify has reportedly expanded its live music capabilities by introducing venue search and following features for both Free and Premium users, according to recent announcements. This development represents the latest step in the streaming platform’s ongoing efforts to bridge digital listening with physical concert experiences.

Assistive TechnologyPolicy

US Lawmaker Voices Security Concerns Over Proposed TikTok Algorithm Licensing Deal

A key US lawmaker has expressed serious concerns about potential licensing of TikTok’s algorithm as part of the app’s US asset sale. Representative John Moolenaar warned that Chinese leverage over the algorithm creates significant security risks amid ongoing negotiations.

Algorithm Licensing Proposal Draws Congressional Scrutiny

The chair of the House Select Committee on China has raised alarm about potential licensing arrangements for TikTok‘s core technology, according to reports from Washington. Representative John Moolenaar stated Thursday that any deal involving continued Chinese access to the popular video app’s algorithm would create “serious concerns” about national security.