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Techpolyp presents you with the most recent technology news on the world’s best devices, apps, software, reviews, architectures, deep dives and more. On Tech Roundup, Techpolyp covers for you the latest in the constantly unfolding technology scene, every day, from big firms like Google and Apple to small startups vying for your attention.
First, a recap of tech news this week:
- Spotify iOS Update Adds In-App Audiobook Purchases.
- Epic Games vs Apple Lawsuit Escalates Amid Judge’s Demand.
- TikTok Accessibility Features Expand with AI Alt Text and High Contrast Mode.
- Android 16 Security Features Unveiled to Tackle Scams and Theft.
- Africa Deep Tech Challenge 2025 Launches, Aiming to Support Innovation at the Grassroots.
Now the news in brief:
1. Spotify Finally Lets iPhone Users Buy Audiobooks In-App
Apple has given Spotify the green light for a new iOS update in the U.S. The new update will finally allow users to purchase audiobooks directly within the app. Before this, Spotify had to redirect users to its website due to Apple’s strict in-app purchase rules. This is a hassle that’s now gone.
With this update, listeners can check prices and buy extra listening hours beyond the basic 15-hour limit. Spotify says this move makes audiobooks more accessible while helping authors and publishers reach new audiences.
The big question: Will Apple loosen up even more in the future, or is this just a small concession?
2. Epic vs. Apple: Judge Tells Apple to Explain Fortnite’s App Store Ban
Also on Tech Roundup on Techpolyp, the never-ending legal battle between Epic Games and Apple just got another twist. A federal judge has ordered Apple to either approve Fortnite’s return to the App Store or come back to court and justify—legally—why it’s still blocking the game.
This all stems from Epic’s argument that Apple isn’t fully complying with previous court rulings about opening up payment options. Apple, of course, insists it’s playing by the rules. Meanwhile, gamers are eager to have Fortnite back on their iPhones as soon as possible.
3. TikTok Rolls Out AI Alt Text & High-Contrast Mode for Better Accessibility
TikTok is raising its accessibility with the introduction of two key features: AI-generated alt text for images and a high-contrast mode for better readability.
Creators can already add manual descriptions for photos (known as Alt text). But if a creator forgets to add an alt text to their work, TikTok’s AI will automatically generate one for screen readers. Additionally, users can now enable bold text and high-contrast images in the app settings.
This update is significant for how it promotes inclusivity on social media. The updates help make TikTok easier to use for people with visual impairments.
4. Android 16’s New Security Features Stops Scams & Phone Theft
Google’s upcoming Android 16 is packing serious security upgrades to protect users from scams, phishing, and stolen devices.
Some of the features added to this update include:
- Call & message shielding to block fraud attempts.
- Tighter screen-sharing controls to prevent remote hacks.
- Enhanced theft protection. You can remotely lock down all sensitive information on your phone once it is snatched.
With Android devices being the most widely used smart devices in the world, these security updates are a logical step in enhancing safety for Android devices. This is cheerful news for Android users who may be worried about losing their gadgets.
5. Africa Deep Tech Challenge 2025 Aims to Boost Grassroot Innovation in the Continent
Africa’s tech scene is getting a major boost with the launch of the Africa Deep Tech Challenge 2025, backed by Future Africa, CcHub, IHS, and others. The theme for this year’s event is “Resource-Constrained Computing.”
The goal of the event is to create an enabling ground for real-world African tech solutions, especially for renewable energy and computing. It has partners like Google Developer Groups (GDGs), ARM Ambassadors, and 3MTT, this initiative could uncover game-changing innovations. This event follows “The Connected Africa Summit 2025“, which held in Kenya some weeks ago.
Rather than depending entirely on Silicon Valley for tech solutions, African developers are homegrown tech that works for Africa.
From Spotify’s audiobook win to Africa’s deep-tech push, this week’s Tech Roundup shows the unfolding of events in the tech world. We have covered reports from small shifts like TikTok AI’s auto-generation of alt text, to major news like Android 16’s new security upgrades which could mean much to millions of people worldwide. Join Techpolyp next week for another Roundup of tech news in the week.
