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News round-up: ToTok messaging app removed from the Apple App Store (and more)

Since Steve and I can’t cover everything, we’ll frequently offer a wrap-up of news items you should check out.

Apple has removed the ToTok messaging app from the App Store after an investigation by the New York Times determined that it was actually a spying tool being used by the United Arab Emirates government to mass surveil its citizens. 

As noted by AppleInsider, from now until Dec. 24 at 4 p.m. (local time), those who live in a metro where courier delivery is available can get their iPads, iPhones, or some Macs delivered to their home in two hours — for free.

A cyber-criminal who tried to blackmail Apple by claiming he had access to a huge cache of iCloud and other Apple accounts has been sentenced following an NCA investigation.

Apple TV+ has ordered a second season of Mythic Quest, even though the series doesn’t debut until Feb. 7. The show follows a team of video game developers as they navigate the challenges of running a popular video game.

Wired reports that San Francisco has “quietly” amended its municipal surveillance law to allow for Apple’s Face ID, though the ban on facial recognition still applies.

On the new episode of MacVoices, Charles Edge talks about his new project that will resonate with anyone who has ever touched a computer. The History of Computing podcast looks back at all aspects of computing…from punch cards to computer games to TOR, Charles puts his unique spin on all aspects of the industry that got us to where we are are, and the part each played.

Dennis Sellers
the authorDennis Sellers
Dennis Sellers is the editor/publisher of Apple World Today. He’s been an “Apple journalist” since 1995 (starting with the first big Apple news site, MacCentral). He loves to read, run, play sports, and watch movies.