How EU rules on tech companies may impact Kenyan content creators
By Winnie OnyandoThe European Union (EU) has announced new rules for big tech companies namely Google, Amazon, Apple, Meta (formerly Facebook), Microsoft, and TikTok’s owner, ByteDance.
These rules, referred to as the Digital Markets Act (DMA), are aimed at having a fair playing ground for competitors.
The rules will enable the user to decide which Apps you want in your device.
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On the other hand, the rules will also enforce tech companies to make their messaging apps work with rival apps.
Failure to comply with the rules will lead to huge fines.
The goal is to make big tech companies follow EU rules and give smaller companies a fair chance.
This is important for how these tech giants do business in Europe.
However, there is no need to worry much because the DMA may indirectly impact content creators in Kenya and around the world.
It could lead to better platform compatibility, more app choices, increased competition, and improved content moderation.
The new rules in the European Union, known as the Digital Markets Act (DMA), may indirectly impact content creators in Kenya and around the world in several ways:
Content Moderation
There has been a great concern about content moderation in platforms such as TikTok in the country. The outcry forced President William Ruto to speak with TikTok’s management on matters of content moderation. Thanks to the new EU rules it will place a greater responsibility on tech companies for the content shared on their platforms. Content creators may benefit from improved content moderation, as platforms are likely to invest more in ensuring a safe and compliant environment for users.
Platform Interoperability
Content creators who use social media and messaging platforms to share their content may benefit from the requirement that big tech companies must make their messaging apps compatible with rival apps. This could potentially lead to more seamless sharing and engagement across different platforms, making it easier for content creators to reach a wider audience.
App Pre-Installation
Content creators may also benefit from the provision allowing users to decide which apps to pre-install on their devices. This could mean that users are more likely to install and use apps that support content creation, such as social media and creative tools, potentially increasing the reach and visibility of content.
Competition and Innovation
The DMA’s aim to level the playing field between big tech companies and smaller competitors could create opportunities for new and innovative content-sharing platforms to emerge. This increased competition may lead to more options for content creators to choose from, potentially offering better terms and opportunities for monetization.
However, it’s important to note that the DMA primarily focuses on regulating big tech companies operating in the EU market.
Its direct impact on content creators in Kenya may be limited, but it could indirectly influence the global tech landscape and potentially lead to positive changes that benefit content creators worldwide as platforms adapt to these new rules.