Tech Wrap: Google, Apple block TikTok in India, Galaxy Fold screens crack, OnePlus 7 teaser and more

This week in tech saw one of the biggest events take place in India. Viral video app, TikTok was taken down by Google and Apple following a court order. The app is facing a potential ban in the country, with the matter still pending for another hearing. Globally, Apple and Qualcomm ended its two-year long legal battle. Facebook had another privacy episode with millions of unencrypted Instagram passwords stored in plain text.

In the gadget world, Samsung had an embarrassing moment as review units of Galaxy Fold's display started breaking in just a few days. We also got to see the first official teaser of OnePlus 7 which is expected to launch next month.

Here's a breakdown of all things that made headlines in tech this week.

TikTok India ban

Viral video app, TikTok has been under scrutiny for "encouraging pornography" through its platform. The Madras High Court asked the Centre to ban TikTok in India. While the Supreme Court refused to stay the ban order, Google and Apple were directed to remove TikTok from their platforms. TikTok is due to another hearing on April 22. The company, is however positive and expects a positive response from the government.

Apple-Qualcomm battle

Apple and Qualcomm finally put an end to their two-year long legal battle. Apple and Qualcomm have had a series of court visits over patent disputes, component costs, and royalties. Apple became the bigger 'company' here by putting ahead its iPhone for 5G chips. Apple however reportedly agreed to pay between $8 and $9 in patent royalties to end the legal battle.

Instagram passwords

News of user data on Facebook is probably something people are getting used to. The latest one involves Facebook-owned photo-sharing app, Instagram. Facebook announced that 'millions' of Instagram passwords were stored in unencrypted form on the company's internal servers. The affected users would be notified about this, but Facebook assured that the passwords were not misused in any way.

Galaxy Fold cracks

Samsung launched its ambitious foldable smartphone earlier this year, leaving everyone in awe. It recently started sending Galaxy Fold review units to journalists. However, in just a day or two of its use, journalists started reporting of screen cracks and breaks. The Galaxy Fold comes with a protective layer on top which is supposed to not be taken out. Some Galaxy Fold units broke even with the protective layer on.

Samsung said it will investigate the matter, but the sale is going live as scheduled on April 26.

OnePlus 7 teaser

OnePlus finally unveiled the first teaser for its flagship smartphone hinting at a curved display, and assuring it will be "fast and smooth". The Chinese company is expected to launch two smartphones - OnePlus 7 and OnePlus 7 Pro. There have been multiple leaks and rumours on both the smartphones, giving us an idea on what to expect. OnePlus will also announce the launch date for its flagship smartphone on April 23.