Tag: Apple

After Apple, Google has taken down an ICE tracking app

**After Apple, Google Also Removes ICE Tracking App from Play Store**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | October 4, 2025, 6:21 PM*

Just a day after Apple removed the app ICEBlock from its iOS App Store, Google has followed suit by pulling a similar app, Red Dot, from the Play Store. Both applications were designed to allow users to report sightings of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents anonymously.

### App Functionalities

ICEBlock and Red Dot enabled users to share real-time information about the locations of ICE agents. Users could report sightings anonymously and receive alerts about ICE presence in their vicinity. These features aimed to help communities stay informed, but critics argued that such apps could potentially put law enforcement officers at risk.

### Google’s Decision and Policy Enforcement

Google’s removal of Red Dot aligns with its policies against apps that pose a high risk of abuse. The company stated that it enforces its moderation policies consistently across all apps that incorporate user-generated content. A Google representative clarified, “ICEBlock was never available on Google Play, but we removed similar apps for violations of our policies.”

This action follows a recent violent incident at an ICE facility, prompting Google to remove apps that share location data of vulnerable groups. Notably, Google mentioned that it did not receive any communication from the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding these removals.

### The Debate Over Government Influence and Civil Liberties

Apple’s initial removal of ICEBlock has sparked widespread debate over the intersection of technology, government oversight, and civil liberties. ICEBlock allowed people to anonymously report and view ICE agent locations within an 8 km radius, making it a powerful tool for community awareness.

Reports indicate that the Donald Trump administration applied pressure on Apple, reportedly threatening legal action against the app’s developers. This government involvement has raised concerns about the impact on freedom of expression and the role of tech companies in regulating sensitive content.

As this situation unfolds, it highlights the ongoing challenges tech companies face in balancing user safety, legal compliance, and civil rights in their app ecosystems.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/google-has-removed-this-controversial-app-from-play-store/story

iPhone 17 Pro Max Leaked in Video Just Days Before Launch, Big Design Change Expected

With Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone 17 series launch event just days away on September 9, excitement is rapidly building around the new lineup. A recently leaked hands-on video of the iPhone 17 Pro Max offers a tantalizing glimpse of the flagship’s redesigned look, sparking buzz among tech enthusiasts worldwide.

As anticipation grows for the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and the new iPhone 17 Air, here’s what the leaked video reveals about the Pro Max’s design and expected upgrades.

### Leaked Video Highlights New Design

The leaked video, originally posted on X and first shared on Weibo, showcases the iPhone 17 Pro Max featuring a striking design overhaul. The most noticeable change is an expanded camera island that spans the top of the rear panel. This is a departure from the traditional square camera module seen on previous models.

Additionally, the lower half of the back appears to feature a distinct texture. However, it remains unclear whether the material is aluminum or glass. This design shift aligns with earlier rumors suggesting a more modern, futuristic aesthetic for the Pro models.

While the video has generated significant buzz, its authenticity is still unconfirmed. The footage could depict a real prototype, a dummy unit, or even a fabricated model. Speculation continues about whether the iPhone 17 Pro Max will indeed feature an aluminum back, as rumored, or retain a glass back to support wireless charging compatibility. Official confirmation of these design changes will come exclusively at Apple’s launch event on September 9 at 10:30 PM IST.

### Possible Hardware Enhancements

The leaked footage also suggests the iPhone 17 Pro Max may be slightly thicker than its predecessor, potentially measuring around 8.7mm. This added thickness could house several significant hardware upgrades. These include the rumored vapor chamber cooling system for enhanced thermal performance and a larger battery, rumored to reach up to 5,000mAh.

Such improvements could position the iPhone 17 Pro Max as a true powerhouse, delivering extended battery life and superior performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.

### What to Expect at Apple’s Launch Event?

Apple’s upcoming September 9 event is expected to unveil the full iPhone 17 lineup, including:

– The standard iPhone 17
– The ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air
– The Pro models

Alongside notable design changes, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is also rumored to feature a triple 48-megapixel camera system, a 24-megapixel front camera, and the new A19 Pro chip.

Beyond the iPhone, the event is likely to introduce the Apple Watch Series 11 and possibly other new products, making it a packed showcase of Apple’s latest innovations.

Stay tuned for official updates as Apple unveils its latest flagship devices next week!
https://www.freepressjournal.in/tech/iphone-17-pro-max-leaked-in-video-just-days-before-launch-big-design-chabge-expected

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