Newsweek reports that Google Calendar has stopped automatically displaying certain US cultural events like Pride Month, Black History Month, and Holocaust Remembrance Day in the main calendar view for some users. While these events are still accessible within other calendar layers, like the "Interesting Calendars" section, the change has sparked concern and frustration among users who relied on the prominent reminders. Google has not officially commented on the reason for the removal or whether it is a temporary glitch or a permanent change.
The popular mobile game Luck Be a Landlord faces potential removal from the Google Play Store due to its use of simulated gambling mechanics. Developer Trampoline Tales received a notice from Google citing a violation of their gambling policies, specifically the simulation of "casino-style games with real-world monetary value, even if there is no real-world monetary value awarded." While the game does not offer real-world prizes, its core gameplay revolves around slot machine-like mechanics and simulated betting. Trampoline Tales is appealing the decision, arguing the game is skill-based and comparable to other allowed strategy titles. The developer expressed concern over the subjective nature of the review process and the potential precedent this ban could set for other games with similar mechanics. They are currently working to comply with Google's request to remove the flagged content, though the specific changes required remain unclear.
Hacker News users discuss the potential ban of the mobile game "Luck Be a Landlord" from Google Play due to its gambling-like mechanics. Several commenters expressed sympathy for the developer, highlighting the difficulty of navigating Google's seemingly arbitrary and opaque enforcement policies. Others debated whether the game constitutes actual gambling, with some arguing that its reliance on random number generation (RNG) mirrors many other accepted games. The core issue appears to be the ability to purchase in-game currency, which, combined with the RNG elements, blurs the line between skill-based gaming and gambling in the eyes of some commenters and potentially Google. A few users suggested potential workarounds for the developer, like removing in-app purchases or implementing alternative monetization strategies. The overall sentiment leans toward frustration with Google's inconsistent application of its rules and the precarious position this puts independent developers in.
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https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43019572
HN commenters were largely skeptical of the Newsweek article, pointing out that the events still appeared on their calendars and suggesting user error or a temporary glitch as more likely explanations than intentional removal. Several suggested checking calendar settings, specifically "Browse interesting calendars" under "Other calendars," to ensure the specialized calendars are enabled. Some questioned Newsweek's journalistic integrity and the sensationalist framing of the headline. A few commenters expressed general frustration with Google's frequent, unannounced changes to their products and services. There was also discussion about the effectiveness and potential annoyance of these awareness calendars, with some finding them useful reminders while others viewing them as intrusive or performative.
The Hacker News post discussing the Newsweek article "Google removes Pride Month, Black History and Holocaust Remembrance from calendar" has generated a substantial discussion with a variety of viewpoints.
Many commenters express skepticism about Newsweek's reporting and the framing of the "removal." Several suggest that these calendar entries were likely opt-in features that users may have inadvertently disabled or that were never enabled in the first place. They point out that Google still prominently features these events through other avenues like Search and Doodles, arguing that the Newsweek article implies a level of intentional suppression that is unlikely. Some users report still seeing these events on their calendars, further bolstering the theory that this isn't a widespread removal.
A recurring theme in the comments is the perceived decline in quality of Newsweek's journalism. Commenters express disappointment with what they see as sensationalist reporting and a lack of rigorous fact-checking. Some recall Newsweek's more reputable past, contrasting it with its current state.
Several commenters discuss the broader context of corporate activism and "performative allyship." They question the genuine commitment of companies like Google to these social causes, suggesting that these calendar entries might have been superficial gestures rather than meaningful actions. Some argue that focusing on such symbolic displays distracts from more substantive efforts to address systemic inequalities.
A few commenters offer alternative explanations for the alleged removal. One suggests it could be a technical glitch or a temporary issue. Another proposes that it might be related to user personalization settings or A/B testing different calendar features.
There is also discussion about the role of algorithms and personalization in shaping the information users see online. Some express concern that algorithmic filtering can create echo chambers and limit exposure to diverse perspectives.
Finally, some commenters share personal anecdotes about their experiences with Google Calendar and its features, offering firsthand accounts that sometimes contradict the claims made in the Newsweek article. For example, one user mentions using a dedicated calendar for tracking specific events like Pride Month, suggesting that the default calendar might not be the primary way users engage with these commemorations.