The Fast Company Impact Council is a private membership community of influential leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual membership dues for access to peer learning and thought leadership opportunities, events and more.The emergence of generative AI and digital transformation has redefined customer-company relationships, empowering consumers like never before. As argued in a previous article I wrote, todays customer is no longer a mere segment or target consumer, but a brand seeking vendors to help create their unique identity. Companies must now redefine their value propositions to meet these evolving expectations.In recent years, weve seen digital platforms like NikeID and physical innovations like Coca-Cola Freestyle allow consumers to customize products within company-defined parameters. This trend towards bespoke experiences is expanding, with companies offering customers greater control in exchange for premium pricing and individualized experiences.Droz: A case study in radical co-creationDuring a recent visit to Switzerland, I witnessed a remarkable example of customer-company co-creation at Jaquet Droz, a luxury watchmaker established in 1738. Now part of the Swatch Group, this Maison has embarked on a radical journey embracing customer collaboration.Led by CEO Alain Delamuraz, Jaquet Droz launched the JD 8.0: A Disruptive Legacy strategy, focusing on creating unique pieces in partnership with customers. The company took the bold step of dismantling its retailer network to work directly with clients.Jaquet Droz built specialized collaboration studios where customers can discuss their desired pieces with artisans. These state-of-the-art facilities allow for real-time interaction and step-by-step follow-up throughout the production process, even down to selecting specific colors for the timepiece. This collaboration may last as long as a year to ensure that the customers exact vision is captured to the level of a shade of a color. While the customer is not an expert on watchmakingthis is what Jaquet Droz brings to the tablehe is the ultimate expert on his preferences and wishes. For such a storied brand to be willing to collaborate so deeply with its customers and enable their dreams requires a great deal of humility and a clarity of the customers role in their existence.High-profile collaborationsWhen Bon Jovi wanted to commemorate the bands 40th anniversary, it was the unique co-creation collaboration with Jaquet Droz team that resulted in Tourbillon Skelet Red GoldBon Jovi. When a Canadian customer and a Rolling Stones fan wanted to ensure that his love for the music is alive every day, The Rolling Stones AutomatonExile on Main Street was created especially for them. For a brand that started its journey in music by crafting special chirping bird clocks for European elite, crafting music-related timepieces was a natural continuation of its legacy. But their co-creation does not stop with music. From nature-related timepieces to top of the line Tourbillon complications, the company is fully dedicated to fulfilling its customers dreams.The courage to innovateJaquet Drozs decision to cease working with retailers and boutiques in favor of direct customer engagement was both courageous and risky. This move provided the freedom to focus entirely on individual client needs, setting a new standard in the luxury watch industry.While some may argue that this level of collaboration is a privilege reserved for the wealthy, the example set by Jaquet Droz is likely to inspire other companies to find ways to democratize the customer co-creation model.How can you start a co-creation process with your customers? Here are few steps to consider:Mindset first: Adapt to the fact that your customers are brand owners with district opinions, not just consumers of your end products.Curious listening: Redesign your discovery process to ask different questions and seek design guidance.Transform to a tool kit: Consider your expertise and skills as part of a toolbox available to craft solutions with your customers not for them.Design collaborative space: Like Jaquet Droz, create dedicated spaces that will foster collaboration and reciprocal dialogue.Joint journey management: Include your customer input throughout the creation journey. Adapt as needed based on feedback.One-of-a-kind creations: Focus on creating solutions that will reflect not just the customer needs, but their brand as well.Share credit: Ensure that your customers contribution to the creation is respected and expressed in the final product.Ongoing support: The sales are never over as you keep on updating the solution as technology evolves and the customers expectations shift.Charge accordingly: Co-creation does not mean you need to lose money. It should lead to a perfect solution at a premium price over the one-size-fits-all sold today.One-of-a-kind story: While your deep knowledge of the processes and production are evident, respect that your customers will know best what they desire and what story they want to craft for themselves. Those stories reflect their identity and therefore will always be one of a kind.Customer co-creation is here to stay. As more manufacturers explore bespoke offerings, Jaquet Drozs commitment to collaborationevidenced by their new studios and direct-to-consumer approachestablishes a path forward for the industry.The bold steps taken by this watchmaker demonstrate that sometimes, to move forward, companies must take risks and reimagine their entire business model. As this trend continues, we can expect to see more innovative approaches to customer collaboration across various industries, potentially making co-creation accessible to a broader audience.Lior Arussy is a global transformation expert and the author of Dare to Author!

When up in the rooftop tent, we crave openness and plenty of natural light. Some existing skylight options have allowed us to gaze at the twinkling night sky before drifting off to sleep, only to be woken up by the first ray of the sunlight, whether we like it or not. California-based Inspired Overland known for its lightweight rooftop tents introduces us to a smarter solution; the Stargazer rooftop tent. Featuring a full-length transparent roof panel that allows for uninterrupted stargazing and can be covered when youd rather not wake at the strike of dawn.Ultralightweight rooftop tents are not really the first choice for campers due to their safety concerns during elements. With a full transparent panel, you could be forgiven for considering the Stargazer as a flimsy fella. Stampped with the Inspired Overland name on it, the lightweight RTT is, however, a trustable camper. It features the tested construction techniques and amalgamates that with new materials for a refined car-top tenting option.Designer: Inspired OverlandBy virtue, the Stargazer is designed to open up a vast view of the night sky through the transparent roof panel stretching the entire length of the tent made from a combination of composite reinforced carbon base and aluminum. The aluminum frame on the carbon frame allows the see-through acrylic roof panel to rest upon it firmly for safe camping. Of course, the choice of acrylic is questionable, but Inspired Overland assures it has thoroughly tested acrylics strength against cracking and withstanding the elements.The reassurance catapults the sub-50kg rooftop tent into a trustable camping option that thrives on its X-hinge design capable of maximizing interior space. When closed, the sleek and compact Stargazer measures only 6 inches high, and with the X-hinge, opens up to a nice sleeping area with a full-length transparent panel over the head. When you do not want to watch the stars or allow light into your sleeping area, the tent has a rollable headliner that secures over the clear panel using Velcro. So, you can even doze off comfortably on a bright afternoon, if thats your thing.You can choose to enjoy the unparalleled view of the starry night from the Stargazer alone or with your partner. For this it is available in two-person and solo configurations with air and foam hybrid mattress. Launched at the SEMA 2024, the Inspired Overland Stargazer RTT is available for preorder starting at $1,299 for the Stargazer Solo and $1,699 for the Stargazer Duo. According to the official website deliveries are expected to start latest by summer of 2025. If you are interested, you can still visit the website and book your option.The post This ultralightweight rooftop tent features full length transparent top for stunning night sky views first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Prefab House Changeover is a compact red structure nestled on a cluster of shotcrete pillars amidst the woodlands of Barcelona. Faced with the challenge of restoring a dilapidated wooden house originally constructed on a nine-pillar foundation and left to decay in the mountains, Spanish studio TEST devised a unique approach. Instead of opting for complete demolition, the studio proposed three innovative replacement strategies to the new owners. Finally, they chose a modular, prefabricated system to be placed atop the existing foundations, emphasizing flexible living both indoors and outdoors.Designer: Studio TESTCompact yet structurally efficient, the newly designed house covers an area of 60 square meters and is composed of eight balloon-framed modules. Each of these modules measures 3x3x3 meters, ensuring a uniform and cohesive design. The modules are strategically stacked on top of reinforced shotcrete pillars, which minimizes the ecological impact on the terrain. This allows the house to rest on the natural landscape, preserving the integrity of the surrounding environment. These pillars are also equipped with mechanical fasteners, facilitating ease of assembly, while also enabling potential future modifications should the need arise.The architectural team at TEST took special care to clad the modules in textured wood. This choice of material helps the house to seamlessly integrate with its natural surroundings despite its striking red exterior. The textured wood acts as a bridge between the bold architectural statement and the serenity of the woodland setting, allowing the house to harmonize with the landscape. This thoughtful design ensures that the dwelling remains both a unique and complementary addition to its serene environment.Inside, the layout and finish of the house follow a minimalist aesthetic, infused with subtle industrial elements that add character to the space. The design prioritizes flexibility, eliminating rigid programming to offer a versatile living environment. By avoiding fixed elements, the space is adaptable to evolving spatial needs and configurations, catering to the dynamic lifestyles of its occupants over time.The architects have thoughtfully integrated an exterior wooden shell that encases the expansive glazing. This blesses the Prefab House with the unique ability to open up almost entirely to its environment, providing stunning views of the surrounding foliage and allowing nature to surround the residents from every angle. When residents want some privacy or a cozy retreat, the house can be closed up completely, offering an intimate and secluded living space. This dual capability ensures that the home can effortlessly transition between blending with the natural landscape and becoming a sanctuary for its inhabitants, enhancing the overall living experience with both openness and seclusion when needed.The post This Prefab House Is A Specimen Of Adaptive Architecture Offering a Dynamic Living Experience In A Forest first appeared on Yanko Design.

Blue Air is out with connected air purifiers that give you more control over the air quality in your home, which is needed now more than ever.Blue 211i Max review: The new Blue Air 211i Max air purifierWe're big fans of air purifiers, even though it can be tough to measure their efficacy. Our home is brimming with air quality monitors that we use to determine how clear our air is and how air purifiers impact it.Joining our collection is the Blue Air 211i Max, which isn't the first Blue Air we've picked up. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

The nonprofit entity ofFR-EEfounderFernando Romero has shared images ahead of its takeover of the Luis Barragn-designed Casa La Cuadra San Cristbal in Mexico City following a renovation and expansion. The Casa will reopen this October as an incubator and educational center for art and architecture with a focus on the rich design legacy left by Barragn throughout the country.Romero related to Hyperallergic recently that the property, which had first been acquired in 2017, was at one time under demolition threat. He was available at a recent sneak preview of the upcoming multifaceted project, which he hopes will "push the boundaries" of both disciples into the future.Photo: Yannik Wegner, courtesy of Fundacin Fernando RomeroPhoto: Yannik Wegner, courtesy of Fundacin Fernando RomeroNow, with its transfer to the foundation secured, he says it will become an expanded new hub for artists that will be enhanced with the introduction of new pavilion structures, a library, podcastin...

Raccoon Logic announced thatRevenge of the Savage Planetwould be out sometime in May, and the developer has now announced a specific release date. The sci-fi action-adventure title will be out on May 8. Check out the release date announcement trailer below, which also showcases fresh gameplay footage.Unlike its predecessor,Journey to the Savage Planet,Revenge of the Savage Planetis played from a third-person perspective. Players will find themselves on a new alien planet, with your ultimate goal being to escape so you can return to Earth. Exploration will once again be the backbone of the experience, while players will also spend time scanning flora and fauna, encountering alien creatures, upgrading their gear, and more.As previously confirmed, Revenge of the Savage Planet will also feature support for both local and online co-op, and cross-play will also be supported.Revenge of the Savage Planetwill be available for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, and PC upon its release on May 8. Those who purchase the Cosmic Hoarder Edition will get advanced access three days ahead of time, on May 5.

Mecha BREAK, the upcoming multiplayer mech combat title from Amazing Seasun Games, began its open beta in explosive fashion. It crossed 317,000 peak concurrent players on Steam, though this wasnt without issues. The sudden influx of players posed a challenge to the developers server capacity and resulted in issues.Amazing Seasun has since apologized for all this, offering 15 Ultimate Maintenance Boxes for free. Theyll arrive through the in-game mail in three batches of five. It also committed to listening to player feedback during the betas duration for further improvements.Mecha BREAKs open beta is available now for PC, with Xbox Series X/S to follow. Compared to the previous beta, it offers a new Hangar for players to explore on foot and a new PvEvP extraction mode called Mashmak.While server problems were doubtless a factor, the title has also received numerous negative reviews on Steam due to its progression and monetization systems. Its currently rated Mostly Negative with 4460 user reviews rating it a thumbs-down.Pilots,As our Open Beta went live earlier today, we were overwhelmed by your enthusiasm, witnessing over 300K concurrent players within hours. This posed a challenge to our server capacity and resulted in negative reviews from players. We apologize for any inconvenience and Mecha BREAK (@MechaBREAK) February 23, 2025

GeorgeI Rkczi (15931648) was a Hungarian nobleman who served as Prince of Transylvania from 1630 until his death. Before acceding to the throne, he was a leader of the Protestant faction in Hungary and a faithful supporter of Prince Gabriel Bethlen. When Bohemian nobles requested military support in their struggles against the Habsburg monarchy, Rkczi persuaded Bethlen to help and commanded Transylvanian forces in several battles. After Bethlen's death, there were short reigns by his wife and then his brother, but the Transylvanian parliament elected Rkczi as Bethlen's permanent successor. His reign was notable for his role in the Thirty Years' War, with a campaign against FerdinandIII, Holy Roman Emperor, from 1644 to 1645. After Rkczi held Upper Hungary and most of Lower Hungary at one point, the fighting was ended by the Treaty of Linz, under which seven counties of Upper Hungary were annexed by Transylvania. This etching of Rkczi was produced in 1631 by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jan Gillisz. van Vliet, after an earlier design by Rembrandt, Van Vliet's teacher. The illustration is in the collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.Illustration credit: Jan Gillisz. van Vliet, after RembrandtRecently featured: National Library of PolandWestern meadowlarkWheelwright, KentuckyArchiveMore featured pictures

Today, An hour agoJay PetersNew App Store details from Phil Schiller testimony.Schiller wasnt sure if Apple would be allowed to charge a fee for in-app purchases made through alternative payment methods following Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogerss Epic v. Apple ruling, according to the Associated Press. Ultimately, Apple instituted the fees.Top Apple exec concedes he had doubts about app store fees imposed on alternative payment options[apnews.com]Sep 30, 2024Sean HollisterTim Sweeney says his Epic lawsuits are all about freeing the youth:We want our kids to grow up in a world thats better than this one. I grew up in an awesome world for developers and opportunity, the early days of Apple II computers and PCs, and anybody growing up, coming of age in this industry right now, is best case going to be an Apple and Google serf. That has to change. That must change.Not surprising to hear the man behind Nineteen Eighty-Fortnite say this, but it really does encapsulate his war with the tech industry. More on the latest lawsuit here.Sep 28, 2024Wes DavisApples homework is due Monday no matter what, says judgeImage: Cath Virginia / The VergeApple, the most valuable company in the world, will have to work this weekend to meet a legal deadline on Monday. Thats after Magistrate Judge Thomas S. Hixson on Friday denied the companys request for more time to produce 1.3 million documents related to App Store changes it made in January to comply with a 2021 court order.Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, who presided over the Epic lawsuit that resulted in those changes, told Apples legal team on May 31st it would need to produce all documents related to how it decided the new App Store rules after Epic challenged them. Document discovery was then referred to Hixson, who quoted part of a transcript from the hearing when he set Mondays deadline back in August:Read Article >May 28, 2024Lauren FeinerWhy Epics lawsuit against Apple just wont quitImage: Cath Virginia / The VergeIn 2020, Epic Games sued Apple for antitrust violations. Its been years since the trial wrapped and judgment was rendered, but for the past few weeks, Apple and Epic Games have been back in front of Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers once more. Gonzalez Rogers mostly ruled in favor of Apple last time. Things might not go so well for the company this time.As a reminder, this whole case got started when Epic challenged Apples up to 30 percent fees to developers for in-app purchases through a splashy campaign where it basically ignored Apples App Store guidelines and put in its own mobile payment processing system in its popular game Fortnite. That got the Fortnite app kicked off of the App Store, setting up the perfect scenario for Epic to sue Apple over its rules. Apple filed a countersuit, accusing Epic of breaching its contract.Read Article >May 11, 2024Wes DavisOnly 38 of 65,000 developers have applied for Apples outside payment links.Epic argues that the 27 percent fee Apple charges third-party developers violates a 2021 court order to allow outside payment links. The judge, according to Bloomberg, seems skeptical of Apple, too:Youre telling me a thousand people were involved and not one of them said maybe we should consider the cost to the developers? the judge said. Not a single person raised that issue of the thousand that were involved?Apple Says No Major App Developers Accept New Outside Payments[Bloomberg]May 8, 2024Sarah JeongThe judge in Epic v. Apple thinks Apples being shady about buttons and linksImage: Cath Virginia / The VergeEpic Games and Apple are in court for evidentiary hearings for the next couple of weeks over whether Apple violated the anti-steering injunction set down by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in 2021 after their landmark trial.These hearings are going to be a lot of nitty-gritty details about App Store guidelines. Today, for example, involves a lot of questioning about buttons. (Apple restricts button styles for links that go outside of their in-app payment system.)Read Article >Apr 30, 2024Thomas RickerEpic says Fortnite is returning to EU iPads.The announcement follows the EUs ruling to treat iPadOS the same as iOS, allowing residents to download apps from outside the Apple App Store, uninstall preloaded apps, and select default services like browsers from choice screens. iPad and iPhone users outside of Europe will have to continue streaming Fortnite through a browser.Apr 24, 2024Thomas RickerApple and Epic are going back to court.If Epics Tim Sweeney is excited it can only mean bad news for Google or Apple. In this instance, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers has ordered an evidentiary hearing for May 8th to explore whether Apple is failing to abide by this Courts injunction, which requires it to implement certain practice changes relative to in- and out-of-app purchases.Apr 13, 2024Wes DavisApple files its response to Epics latest court accusations.In a 37-page filing (PDF) yesterday, Apple accused Epic of asking the court to micromanage its business operations to Epics advantage, and insisted that its new fee structure is fair and competitive in view of the substantial value Apple provides to developers.Epic accused Apple in March of violating a 2021 ruling requiring it to let app developers link to outside payments.Apple denies violating US court order in Epic Games lawsuit[Reuters]Mar 13, 2024Wes DavisEpic asks judge to enforce the Apple App Store injunctionIllustration: Alex Castro / The VergeEpic Games isnt done with Apple. A 2021 ruling forced Apple to allow developers of App Store apps to link to outside payments, and Epic has now filed a motion asking Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers to enforce her original order.Epic says Apples updated developer policy that still reserves 27 percent of outside payments (or 12 percent for small developers) for Apple itself is still unjustified. Epic argues these fees are essentially the same as those the company charges for using its payments system.Read Article >Mar 6, 2024Jon PorterApple kills Epics iOS game store plans over App Store criticismIllustration by Alex Castro / The VergeEpics plans to release its own third-party app store on iOS in the EU could be in trouble after Apple terminated the developer account it planned to use. In a blog post published today, the company shared a letter sent by Apples lawyers, which called Epic verifiably untrustworthy and said Apple does not believe that Epic will comply with its contractual commitments under its developer agreement.Please be advised that Apple has, effective immediately, terminated the Developer Program membership of Epic Games Sweden AB, the letter which is dated March 2nd states. It cites Apples contractual right to terminate its Developer Program License Agreement with the company at Apples sole discretion.Read Article >Jan 31, 2024Wes DavisEpic preps its challenge to Apples bad-faith outside payments changesIllustration by Nick Barclay / The VergeEpic is not pleased with how Apple has responded to court orders. It thinks Apples new 27 percent tax on developers that link to non-Apple payment methods defies a court order to let developers provide those links and yesterday notified the court that it plans to lay out exactly how.To refresh, District Court Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ordered Apple in 2021 to let developers link to outside payment methods, and it immediately appealed (despite having called it a resounding victory). Apples final appeal of the court order was denied earlier this month, and the company was forced to change its tune on in-app payments. But it barely did so the 27 percent commission isnt much less than Apples 30 percent in-app payments fee, while other requirements for allowing outside payment links are so onerous that developers may not want to do so. For instance, developers will have to create transaction reports for Apple every 15 days so the company can make sure its getting its money.Read Article >Jan 24, 2024Emma RothApple thought it dealt with Epic v. Apple has it really?Illustration by Alex Castro / The VergeAlmost three years after the Epic v. Apple trial reached its conclusion, Apple is finally following a court order to let app developers link to outside payment methods. But its solution is being met with backlash.Apple is giving developers the green light to send app users outside the built-in iOS payment system for the first time, following the instructions of a California court ruling in 2021. Under the terms of the injunction, Apple cant prevent developers from including links, buttons, and other calls to action that direct users to outside payment methods. In a filing outlining the changes, Apple says it has fully complied with the order but has it really?Read Article >Jan 17, 2024Thomas RickerApple offers Epic extremely generous discount on $81,560,362 legal bill.In a January 16th filing, Apple asked the court to award it $73,404,326 in relief to cover its out-of-pocket expenses, lawyer fees, and other costs arising from Epics lawsuit. A bargain, if you ask Apple:Although it would be reasonable for Apple to seek the total amount of its Losses in this matter, it has provided a 10% discount in recognition of Epics win on one out of ten of its claims. This 10% overall reduction is extremely generous, given the undisputed fact that the UCL claim did not constitute nearly 10% of the litigation, as this Court recognized.Meeeoooow.Attorney Fees #876 in Epic Games, Inc. v. Apple Inc.[CourtListener]Jan 16, 2024Jay PetersApples App Store policies now let US developers link to outside paymentsIllustration: The VergeApple has updated its App Store policies to spell out how developers can link to outside payment platforms, as reported by 9to5Mac. Developers will still owe Apple a cut if they use an outside payment platform. Apple will take a 27 percent cut (as opposed to the 30 percent in many cases) or 12 percent if a developer is part of the App Store Small Business Program, according to a support page about external purchase links.Section 3.1.1(a) of the App Store Review Guidelines lays down more of the new rules for developers who want to link to alternative payment methods, like how they have to apply for an entitlement to enable them. Developers also cant exclusively receive payments from outside Apples walled garden; theyll also have to offer Apples in-app purchase system in their apps.Read Article >Jan 16, 2024Adi RobertsonSupreme Court rejects Epic v. Apple antitrust caseIllustration by Alex Castro / The VergeThe Supreme Court has denied a request to hear an antitrust dispute between Apple and Fortnite publisher Epic Games. It rejected two petitions, one from each company, this morning leaving the case largely, but not entirely, a win for Apple.Epic v. Apple began in 2020 after Epic implemented its own payment system for Fortnites virtual currency, bypassing Apples commission on in-app purchases. Apple banned Epic from its iOS App Store and Epic filed a lawsuit in response, claiming the App Store and Apples overall walled-garden approach to iOS violated US antitrust laws. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers rejected most of Apples claims and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals largely affirmed the decision.Read Article >Sep 28, 2023Richard LawlerApple also wants the Supreme Court to rule on its antitrust case vs. Epic Games.Yesterday, Epic Games filed a request for the Supreme Court to review lower court rulings in their lawsuit over Apples App Store rules, hoping to get a new interpretation thats more in their favor,Now, on Thursday, Apple submitted its own request, linked below, seeking a review to throw out the judges requirement that it change App Store rules barring developers from telling users about other payment options.Epic v. Apple - Cert Petition PDFA[DocumentCloud]Sep 28, 2023Richard LawlerEpic Games asks the Supreme Court to hear its case against Apples App Store rulesIllustration: Alex Castro / The VergeAfter years of back-and-forth battling between Fortnite publisher Epic Games and Apple, the gaming company filed a writ of certiorari asking the US Supreme Court to review a lower court ruling in their antitrust case. Epic has argued that Apple unfairly monopolizes the mobile app space with iOS and its in-app purchasing system, thereby making billions on commissions.Epic is asking the Supreme Court to review its case by way of clarifying points of antitrust law that the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals relied on in making its ruling in April. On Thursday, Reuters reported Apple has filed an argument (PDF) asking the Supreme Court to throw out the order from the lower courts that requires changes to its App Store rules.Read Article >Aug 9, 2023Adi RobertsonSupreme Court says Apple can keep its App Store payment rules for nowIllustration by Alex Castro / The VergeThe Supreme Court has rejected Fortnite publisher Epics request to make Apple loosen its App Store rules as a legal battle progresses. As first reported by Bloomberg and Reuters, Justice Elena Kagan declined to vacate a stay on a lower court order about Apples anti-steering rules, which limit how iOS app developers can direct users to alternate payment methods. Kagan did not issue an explanation for the decision, but Epics petition was noted as denied on the Supreme Courts website.The district court order was one of Epics limited wins in a high-profile antitrust case over iOS App Store in-app purchase fees. A judge determined that Apple had violated Californias Unfair Competition Law by preventing developers from using links to direct users to payment methods outside the App Store.Read Article >Jul 17, 2023Richard LawlerApple can delay App Store changes to file Supreme Court pleaIllustration: The VergeOn Monday, Apple was granted a motion putting a hold on the appeals court ruling that would push the company to undo its anti-steering rules and let outside developers link to third-party payment mechanisms. The mandate is stayed for 90 days so Apple can file its request that the Supreme Court take up the case.Apples anti-steering rules limit how developers can direct users to subscription or in-app purchase payments outside Apples App Store ecosystem, where it takes a cut of revenue. A district court found that Apple had not generally violated antitrust law with its walled garden approach to iOS, but it ordered it to drop rules against letting developers include calls to action for outside payment methods.Read Article >Jul 3, 2023Jay PetersApple is going to ask the Supreme Court to hear its appeal of the ruling in Epic Games v. Apple.It plans to ask the Supreme Court on Friday, according to an article from Reuters. In that ruling, Apple was ordered to drop its App Store anti-steering rules, and an appeals court upheld that earlier this year.Apple to ask US Supreme Court to undo App Store order in Epic Games case[Reuters]Apr 24, 2023Adi RobertsonandEmma RothApples App Store can stay closed, but developers can link to outside payments, says appeals courtIllustration: The VergeAn appeals court has upheld the status quo in Epics antitrust lawsuit against Apple, affirming a decision that was largely a victory for Apple. In a ruling delivered on Monday, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals found that Apples closed App Store and security restrictions didnt violate antitrust law but that Apple couldnt maintain anti-steering rules that prevent users from learning about alternate payment options.Apple spokesperson Marni Goldberg provided The Verge with the following statement:Read Article >Jan 29, 2022Jay PetersEpic largely lost to Apple, but 35 states are now backing its fight in a higher courtIllustration by Alex Castro / The VergeEpic Games may have largely lost its major lawsuit against Apple, but its not going out without a fight and it has some major support in its corner. Soon after the Epic Games v. Apple ruling was issued, Epic appealed, and on January 27th, a large number of organizations filed amicus briefs in support of Epics battle, including a coalition of 35 state attorneys general, Microsoft, and the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF).During the fight, Epic was trying to make the case that Apple has a monopoly over iOS apps, and was asking for changes that would effectively force Apple to take a smaller percentage of all the transactions that go through that store. If Epic were successful in pushing Apple to accept alternate payment processors, for instance, it could dramatically change how Apple, the most profitable company in the world, operates its highly lucrative App Store. In the original case, the judge ultimately ruled in favor of Apple in nine of ten counts Epic brought against it, but both Epic and Apple appealed the parts that they lost.Read Article >Jan 20, 2022Russell BrandomEpic pushes to overturn App Store ruling in opening appeal briefIllustration by Alex Castro / The VergeEpic Games has filed its opening brief to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, seeking to overturn the previous ruling that Apples control over the iOS App Store does not qualify as a monopoly. The company first gave notice of it appeal in September, but Thursdays filing is the first time it has laid out its argument at length.Epic proved at trial that Apple retrains trade...by contractually requiring developers to exclusively use Apples App Store to distribute apps and Apples IAP for payments for digital content within apps, the filing reads. If not overturned, [the district court] decision would upend established principles of antitrust law and...undermine sound antitrust policy.Read Article >Dec 8, 2021Russell BrandomEpic v. Apple ruling put on hold after appeals court grants a stayIllustration by Alex Castro / The VergeAn appeals court has paused one of the most consequential parts of the Epic v. Apple ruling, placing a stay on the enforcement of the injunction issued by the lower court. As a result of the stay, Apple can maintain its IAP system as the sole source of in-app payments on iOS, despite the district courts earlier ruling that the exclusive arrangement is illegal.The stay, issued Wednesday afternoon, does not reverse the earlier ruling but puts enforcement on hold until the appeals court can fully hear the case, a process that will likely take months.Read Article >

LatestMachine LearningHow AI is Revolutionizing Education: Key Benefits and Trends 0 like February 24, 2025Share this postAuthor(s): Karen Cartar Originally published on Towards AI. How AI is Revolutionizing Education: Key Benefits and TrendsThe education sector faces a transformation through Artificial Intelligence (AI) which actively reshapes various industries across the world. The education sector undergoes transformation through AI because it implements both customized teaching approaches and automated operational tasks that modify student learning methods and instructor instruction styles.The education field undergoes significant transformation through AI-powered technologies like machine learning and natural language processing and predictive analytics which active learning spaces from standard classrooms. The following article investigates AI changes in education by examining both its significant advantages as well as upcoming trends in learning modifications.Key Benefits of AI in Education1. Personalized LearningAI applies personalized educational experiences to individual students as its main educational benefit. A conventional teaching framework applies identical instructional approaches across all students yet many students finish ahead while others face difficulties. AI powered apps created by AI App Development Company in IndiaExamples:Adaptive learning platforms: The education technology known as adaptive learning platforms makes use of AI algorithms to adapt exercise complexity according to how students respond to them. Educational content through DreamBox and Knewton automatically shifts according to how each learner progresses.Intelligent tutoring systems: Through AI tutors students get personalized support and immediate feedback which enables individualized instruction beyond formal lessons.2. Enhanced AccessibilityEducation becomes more accessible through AI because the technology develops resources which accommodate students who face disabilities along with language differences. AI applications created by Software Development Company in IndiaExamples:Speech-to-text applications: The speech-to-text applications deliver live lecture transcription that enables hearing-impaired students to track classroom discussions effortlessly.AI-powered language translation: Language translation through artificial intelligence enables students to understand their coursework through their mother language thanks to platforms such as Duolingo and Google Translate thus helping students understand better while taking part in class activities.Text-to-speech tools: The text-to-speech tools NaturalReader and Microsofts Immersive Reader turn educational materials into audio forms which benefit visually impaired students when accessing their educational content.AI-driven captioning: AI systems use automated caption generation to provide accessibility to online lectures and videos which benefits all learners especially those who have hearing difficulties.3. Efficient Administrative ProcessesSchool administrators achieve enhanced teaching efficiency through AI because it eliminates tedious paperwork processes thus enabling educators to dedicate more time to teaching activities. AI apps that operate repetitive administrative work to improve educational institutions operational efficiency along with their resource management.Examples:Automated grading systems: AI-driven grading software evaluates tests of all kinds including multiple-choice answers along with rough draft submissions to programming work to create faster and immediate student feedback.Chatbots for student support: The implementation of AI-powered chatbots at universities enables the processing of standard student inquiries about course information along with deadlines and academic regulations which shortens response periods while enhancing student contentment levels.AI-powered scheduling assistants: The AI scheduling platform assists educational institutions to run schedulers and distribute classrooms alongside faculty assignments while it maximizes resource allocation and minimizes scheduling conflicts.Attendance tracking and monitoring: An AI system with facial recognition technology together with RFID-based attendance systems performs automated roll call operations to achieve accurate student attendance tracking.4. Data-Driven InsightsEducational institutions can Hire Software Developers in IndiaExamples:Predictive analytics: Through predictive analytics education institutions receive warning about students who might face risk of withdrawal from school which permits personalized support.Classroom performance analysis: The AI systems measure classroom performance through student engagement data which helps teachers develop better teaching approaches.Curriculum improvement: Through AI-driven feedback analysis educational institutions can improve curriculum content by spotting course learning gaps which enables them to enhance the educational program effectiveness.Student learning behavior analysis: AI tools evaluate student learning material engagement to find spots where supplementary learning resources and substitute educational approaches would prove beneficial.Emerging Trends in AI-Driven Education1. Intelligent Tutoring SystemsStudents using AI-based tutoring programs benefit from individualized instruction that happens through interactive educational sessions. Complex subjects require guidance from these systems that enable learners to understand concepts according to their individual learning pace.Examples:AI chatbots: AI chatbots through Squirrel AI and Carnegie Learnings MATHia system provide instant tutoring services to students and tailor lesson plans according to their acquired knowledge.Gamified learning: The educational technique of gamification produces better retention and motivation through adaptive challenges and quizzes and reward systems as well as the use of AI-driven gamification technologies such as Duolingo and Kahoot!.Real-time adaptive feedback: The AI tutors analyze student development to give immediate performance assessments that direct students to specific areas requiring support.2. AI in Assessment and EvaluationThe use of artificial intelligence enhances performance quality of student examination assessment systems which supports teachers by reducing their work while preserving academic fairness and maintaining testing objectivity.Examples:Writing tools like Grammarly and Turnitin powered by AI evaluate student work for grammar rules and document organization alongside originality while offering quick feedback that strengthens their composition abilities.Academic integrity through proper screening takes place when AI systems running plagiarism checkers like Copyscape and Unicheck discover matching student work.AI systems that evaluate student responses offer instantaneous recommendations for supplementary study content which matches specific areas where students have performed poorly.ProctorU and similar AI-based remote proctoring systems monitor online exams to detect suspicious activities thus maintaining academic honesty.3. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) IntegrationAI-powered VR and AR technologies generate educational environments that boost both student devotion and their understanding of subjects.Examples:Virtual science labs: The combination of artificial intelligence with simulations leads students to perform experiments virtually so science learning becomes more interactive while removing potential risks.Historical simulations: AI-enhanced virtual reality provides students with virtual access to explore historical events and ancient civilizations at both a historical and present time standpoint.Medical training simulations: The combination of artificial intelligence with virtual reality serves medical students to practice surgical procedures as well as clinical techniques in secure and authentic circumstances.Mathematics & engineering visualization: Artificial Intelligence through AR technology enables students to render complex mathematical equations as well as engineering prototypes so they can solve problems more effectively.4. AI for Teacher SupportAI technology supports educational needs by enhancing lesson quality together with assignment evaluation and classroom behavioral analysis which results in superior teaching conditions.Examples:Lesson planning tools: Computers available in lesson planning analyze curriculum directives along with educational data from students to match teaching approaches with ideal study materials.Student engagement tracking: The technology employs AI-powered cameras together with sensors to read student body signals and facial cues which determine their levels of engagement and detect periods when students lose focus.Automated grading and feedback systems: AI tools implement automated grading and feedback procedures which help teachers focus on advanced instructional activities because assignments receive automated evaluations followed by constructive assessments.AI-driven professional development: AI enables teachers to access customized training recommendations through its system as it helps educators learn about contemporary teaching techniques.ConclusionArtificial intelligence currently transforms education through enhanced personalized learning experiences while improving access options and simplifying administrative management processes. The deployment of AI systems requires proper ethical management while guaranteeing equal access for students under constant human supervision. Businesses Hire Mobile App Developers in IndiaJoin thousands of data leaders on the AI newsletter. Join over 80,000 subscribers and keep up to date with the latest developments in AI. From research to projects and ideas. If you are building an AI startup, an AI-related product, or a service, we invite you to consider becoming asponsor. Published via Towards AITowards AI - Medium Share this post