September 2021 Current Events: Science and Technology News
World News | US News | Disaster News
The world is a very busy place, and it's hard to stay on top of everything. Infoplease has got you covered. Here are the science and technology news events you need to know so far for September 2021:
Apple Bans Fortnite
Photo Source: Vicki Behringer via AP
On Saturday, September 25, Apple announced that it will be banning Fortnite from its platform due a legal disagreement with Epic Games. The legal battle began when Fortnite launched its own in-app payment method against the terms of service of Apple. Apple users will no longer be able to download the game; however, those who already have it downloaded can continue to play it without updates. Epic Games has filed an appeal, but the lawsuit could take up to five years. Confidential information continues to be leaked by an Apple employee.
Source: BBC
Bitcoin Crashes in El Salvador
Photo Source: AP Photo/Salvador Melendez
On Tuesday, September 7, Bitcoin became an official currency in El Salvador. This move has made El Salvador the first country to accept bitcoin as legal tender. In a promotional move, the government offered $30 worth to anyone who downloaded the digital wallet app. People around the country have been buying $30 worth in support, as well. Many citizens are full of excitement, but some worry how the volatile currency will manipulate their earnings.[1] However, the excitement was short-lived as the currency quickly crashed the next day. Protests and technical glitches quickly scattered across the country. At one point, the price of Bitcoin even reached its lower value in months, potentially costing the country $3 million as a whole. Since Apple and Huwai refused to support the digital wallet app, servers were pulled offline as the app wasn’t able to handle all the new registrations. Luckily, major chains began accepting payments via Chivo (the digital wallet app), giving some hope to the citizens.[2]
Source: BBC [2]BBC
Learn more about Bitcoin.
Virgin Galactic Flight Grounded
Photo Source: AP Photo/Andres Leighton
On Thursday, September 2, the US Federal Aviation Administration was forced to ground Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic flights. Investigations are ongoing as to why the flight drifted off course during its skyward journey. A few weeks early, The New Yorker reported that the July 11 craft flew off course during part of the journey. While Sir Richard Branson has denied these claims, the FAA is still investigating. However, Branson has already announced details of the next mission, as he remains confident regarding the findings.
Source: BBC
Learn more about Sir Richard Branson.
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