Apple's decision to withdraw its top data security tool in the UK raises serious questions about user privacy and government access to data. Meanwhile, Germany's motor industry faces tough times with competition from China and rising costs. The cancellation of 'Neighbours' sparks a discussion about the fate of soap operas in a streaming-dominated world. From cybersecurity insights to the challenges of the Mittelstand, the conversation weaves through today's pressing business and technological issues.
Apple's decision to remove its highest level data encryption in the UK highlights the tension between user privacy and government demands.
German SMEs are urging for reform to address rising insolvencies and labor challenges while seeking investment in modernization and energy transition.
Deep dives
Apple's Encryption Withdrawal
Apple has decided to withdraw its highest level of encryption, known as Advanced Data Protection (ADP), from devices in the UK following government demands for access to user data. This encryption was designed to provide users with complete control over their stored media, only allowing account holders to access their own photos and documents. Apple’s move is considered unprecedented, as it reflects the company's commitment to user privacy and its resistance against government pressures that could compromise data security. The decision has raised concerns among privacy advocates, who fear that removing such protective measures could leave users more vulnerable to cyber threats.
Concerns Among German SMEs
German small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), known as the Mittelstand, are expressing significant anxiety about the future in light of the upcoming federal elections. Business leaders are calling for less bureaucracy, lower energy costs, and increased investment to modernize and strengthen their industries. Many SMEs are currently facing challenges, including rising insolvencies and difficulties in hiring talent from outside the European Union. Despite these obstacles, there is a strong desire for reform, with many firms eager to invest in areas such as energy transition and digitalization, provided they can operate in a more stable and reliable economic environment.
Decline of Soap Operas
The cancellation of the popular Australian soap opera Neighbours signifies a broader trend of declining interest in the soap opera genre globally. Factors contributing to this decline include changing viewing habits, with audiences increasingly favoring streaming services over traditional television broadcasts. Critics highlight that soap operas struggle to maintain viewership numbers as younger generations turn away from communal viewing experiences. As producers seek innovative methods to recapture audience interest, the future of soap operas may depend on distinctive storytelling and adapting to contemporary consumption patterns.
Apple is removing its highest level data security tool from customers in the UK. So does that mean for iPhone users? We hear from a cyber security expert.
Germany's once mighty motor industry is losing momentum, as high costs, low demand and competition from Chinese firms take a heavy toll on company profits.
And are soap operas dead? This is following the news that 'Neighbours' will come to an end this year.
The latest business and finance news from around the world, on the BBC.
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