2023: The Surprising Year of Tech Regulation
2023 has been an absolute whirlwind! We’ve been facing the introduction of AI into software development but that is not yet the massive inflection point that is changing software developer’s lives.
Let us look at the pivotal events and their implications, with a comment here or there from The Secret Developer probably with a touch of cynicism and if we are lucky, insight wrapped in there too.
Apple’s Lightning Flash to USB-C
For years, Apple clung to its proprietary Lightning connector, much to the annoyance of users who juggled multiple cables for their devices. However, in 2023, in response to increasing regulatory pressure from the European Union, Apple finally introduced USB-C ports to its iPhones.
“Finally it happened. USB-C is going to be a universal charging solution for those who most need simplicity in their lives so they don’t get ‘confused’: Apple users.
Yes, these tech users with more money than sense will be able to ditch their out-of-date Lightning cables and join the rest of the human race. This win for the consumer says much about Apple’s adaptability (or lack thereof) in the face of regulatory demands as well as how much they care about their consumers (they don’t).
I guess whatever you can say about Apple and regulation they make sure they always come out on top.”
War of The Clouds
Microsoft dominates the cloud market. Now Google attacks Microsoft’s dominance by using antitrust laws to ensure fair competition in this important market segment. The Secret Developer sees the contradiction in this.
“I think life might be better without those Azure reps getting hold of your email. I guess that won’t stop, but at least we can dream.
The fact that the monopolistic behavior of big tech is being tackled by one of the monopolistic big tech players says it all. These guys will use any tool at their disposal to grow as fast and large as possible which includes using regulation. Amazing.”
The AntiTrust Wars. Google Vs Microsoft
Epic!medium.com
Adobe taken to Task
In December 2023 Adobe’s acquisition of Figma got trashed. The proposed $20 billion deal has been cancelled and now Adobe needs to pay a $1 billion termination fee after failing to secure regulatory approvals from the European Commission and the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority.
“The idea that Adobe needs to pay $1 billion as a termination fee is hilarious and ironic. At the same time as being a company that removed perpetual licenses from small developers, they decided to stand in the way of those who wanted to pay for licenses. Not only that, their subscription model is nothing short of digital slavery.
I only wish the EC and the UK’s CMA started looking at subscription fees that software developers need to pay for their tools. This isn’t just about Adobe but they’re certainly one of the worst for this abhorrent practice. Maybe that is the start of this change? ”
Developers Rejoice. Adobe and Figma’s Marriage is OFF
It Won’t Happenmedium.com
Conclusion
A conclusion for the 2023 news stories around regulation? We’ll hand it over to The Secret Developer for this.
”I know that 2023 has been rough for many. I hope regulation can go some way to making our software development journey a little bit easier in 2024.
I’m not holding out any real hope for this though. It’ll probably be another rollercoaster year. Strap in!”