Most Americans have access to paid television, and consumers who subscribe to these services by cable or satellite – provided by what the FCC calls multichannel video programming distributors, or MVPDs – use a device commonly called a “set-top box” in their homes to connect to these services. Rather recently, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) proposed new rules aiming to “tear down anti-competitive barriers and pave the way for software, devices, and other innovative solutions to compete with the set-top [...]

Today, ACT | The App Association called on Senators Blunt, Murray, and Capito to make computer science education a national priority. Throughout the country, companies in the $120 billion app economy are looking to grow. In fact, there are more than a half-million unfilled software development positions across the country. Even though these positions boast six-figure salaries on average, there are not enough qualified graduates to fill them. Congress must prioritize computer science education to ensure our economy and our children’s [...]

Earlier this week, I testified before the House Small Business Committee at its hearing, “The Sharing Economy: A Taxing Experience for New Entrepreneurs.” The discussion focused on how labor laws and tax policy should evolve to better reflect the American workforce of today. As executive director of ACT | The App Association, I represent the interests of more than 5,000 app makers and connected device companies across the country. Our members leverage the connectivity of smart devices to create innovative [...]

Here at ACT | The App Association, we make a habit of watching HBO’s Silicon Valley for a weekly dose of startup hilarity. While the show is based in the Bay Area, it provides a fairly accurate portrayal of the challenges and triumphs experienced by app makers across the country. A recent episode highlighted something we know all too well: the fierce competition to attract and retain skilled software developers. For those who don’t watch the show, here’s a quick [...]

Welcome to Member Mondays! ACT | The App Association is comprised of innovative companies taking on some of the biggest challenges across all sectors of the internet economy. Here are five of our newest companies doing big things: AcesHealth Atlanta-based AcesHealth was founded in May 2015 as an all-inclusive “health concierge” platform for patients. The company’s software integrates Bluetooth medical devices like smart inhalers and heart monitors to offer care providers a complete picture of [...]

This morning I will join Senator Ron Wyden, Associate Professor Jun Li, and some of my fellow Silicon Shire tech entrepreneurs at the University of Oregon for a discussion panel on encryption and cybersecurity. My company, Wellbeyond, is dedicated to spreading health and happiness. During the past months we have developed a meditation app for children. It helps parents sit down and meditate with their children to help increase focus, reduce anxiety, and make bedtime easier. When considering the secure handling of private information [...]