Tech Brew Ride Home Google and Epic Settle
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Nov 5, 2025 Google and Epic Games have settled their dispute, easing rules for app sideloading and introducing alternative billing options. Ripple is making waves with a $500 million raise and aims to dominate the stablecoin market. Meanwhile, hyperscalers are poised to consume energy equivalent to 40 million homes as they expand data center capabilities. PlayStation Portal users can now enjoy cloud streaming, while Amazon's legal moves against Perplexity challenge the AI-powered shopping landscape. Plus, an intriguing analysis questions AI's impact on productivity.
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Play Store Settlement Expands Choice
- Google and Epic reached a proposed settlement that loosens Play Store rules and introduces lower capped service fees for alternative payments.
- The deal would let registered third-party app stores install easily and could apply worldwide through June 2032.
New Fee Model Separates Service From Billing
- Google would separate its service fee from Play Billing and cap service fees at 9% or 20% depending on transaction type.
- Developers can show alternative payment options side-by-side with Google Play billing and set their own prices.
Enable Cloud Streaming On PS Portal
- PlayStation Portal now supports cloud streaming for thousands of PS5 titles to Premium Plus members without a PS5 connection.
- Update devices to access 3D audio, accessibility options, in-game stores, and multiplayer invites on the Portal.