Source: Android Central
What you need to know
- The UK is creating a new agency called the Digital Markets Unit (DMU) to regulate large tech companies such as Google and Facebook.
- The new antitrust unit will begin scrutinizing big tech companies from April 2021.
- It will be part of the UK's Competition and Markets Authority.
The UK government has announced that it plans to create a new antitrust unit called the "Digital Markets Unit" to regulate tech giants like Google and Facebook (via Engadget). As per the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, the unit will enforce "a new code to govern the behavior of platforms that currently dominate the market." The antitrust unit will be part of the existing Competition and Markets Authority and is expected to start working in April 2021.
Online platforms bring huge benefits for businesses and society. But there is growing consensus in the UK and abroad that the concentration of power amongst a small number of tech companies is curtailing growth in the tech sector, reducing innovation, and potentially having negative impacts on the people and businesses that rely on them.
The code hasn't been finalized yet, but it is designed to give consumers greater control over their data and ensure that they are in no way disadvantaged by actions taken by large tech companies. It will also require tech companies to be more transparent about how they use consumers' data and offer a choice to consumers over whether or not they want to receive personalized ads. To rein in leading digital advertising platforms, the Digital Markets Unit may be given powers to block and even reverse decisions made by them.
Google antitrust FAQ: What the U.S. government's lawsuit means for you
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.

Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro review: The new best
Samsung's aiming squarely at the AirPods Pro with the new Galaxy Buds Pro, but it's done something better: it's made one of the best-sounding wireless earbuds you can buy.

Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro review: Sounds about right
Soundcore isn't a household brand just yet, but Anker's headphone division is making a name for itself as the producer of the best-sounding true wireless earbuds under $150.

Did you pre-order the Galaxy S21?
Pre-orders for the Galaxy S21 are open right now! Did you pre-order the phone already or plan on doing so soon?

These are the best Samsung Galaxy S21+ cases you can buy
The Samsung Galaxy S21+ is sure to hit that sweet spot of price and functionality, and it looks to be the most popular phone in the S21 lineup. Why not protect your new phone with one of the best Samsung Galaxy S21+ cases?