Beyond the Hype: Unpacking the Tech Trends of SXSW and NOEW
Every year, hundreds of tech conferences take place all over the world to host the app economy’s brightest minds in one shared space to uncover the latest trends in tech and culture, and how the two work (or clash) together. This March, I (Caitlin Irr, global membership communications manager here at ACT | The App Association) had the privilege of attending not one, but two of these amazing events to [...]
They Did WHAT?? Brazen and Skullduggerous Spyware Attacks Add to the Case Against Antitrust Bills
With all eyes on U.S. competition with China, Congress’ next session—starting the week of April 17—will be a fascinating one for tech policy. On the heels of a lackluster Senate hearing on the American Innovation and Choice Online Act (AICOA) and the Open App Markets Act (OAMA), we are watching closely to see if the sponsors will reintroduce those measures. In the meantime, tangible examples of how they would harm the app ecosystem continue to pile up. On April 3, [...]
Save the Dates: Navigating Intellectual Property Rights for App Developers
Don’t miss this three-part webinar series featuring representatives from the USPTO on what SMBs need to know to protect their intellectual propertySmall and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are the backbone of the U.S. economy’s growth and job creation. While many factors play an important role in the success of SMBs, securing and enforcing intellectual property (IP) protection is increasingly essential for companies of all sizes.Unfortunately, many SMBs seeking to compete and grow in the digital economy don’t have access to the legal [...]
Is it Getting STEAM-Y in Here, or is it Just Our Future Workforce?
Members of ACT | The App Association are innovative small businesses and enterprises transforming the way we live, work, and play through apps and connected technology. They’re leading the next generation of trailblazers who are working to solve problems and fill gaps across industries. In order for our members to continue improving the lives of their customers and clients through safe, secure products, the public and private sectors together must invest in our future workforce through science, technology, engineering, and [...]
What’s the Cost of Trading Away our Comparative Advantage in Tech?
American policymakers are grappling with substantial political pressure to “rein in” some of our most successful online marketplaces. The smartphone-driven entry of social media platforms like Facebook, curated online retail marketplaces like Amazon’s, software platforms like the major app stores, and search platforms like Google’s has brought with it a formidable expansion of choices and value for individual consumers and small businesses. Unsurprisingly, the rapid growth of these marketplaces and platforms also led to increased scrutiny of competition and consumer [...]