Apple employs tax loopholes abroad
Apple is another company that uses tax loopholes to reduce payments outside its home market, with a US regulatory filing revealing it paid 2% corporation tax abroad. Google and Amazon are already facing pressure on the issue in the UK and France
Microsoft tests own-brand smartphone
Microsoft is developing own-brand smartphones, component suppliers in Asia Pacific claim. The firm is increasingly moving into the hardware market, after many years supplying software only.
Sharp considers government bailout
Japanese consumer electronics giant Sharp may seek a government bailout to cover bonds that mature in 2013, after its cash reserves were battered in 1H12.
Panasonic drops on profit warning
Consumer electronics maker Panasonic is forecasting its second annual loss in as many years. The prediction caused a 19% drop in its share price.
Android hits 75% smartphone market share
Android now captures 75% of the global smartphone market, with iOS second at 14.9%, according to new figures from IDC.
Indian telcos may get to keep some 900-MHz
The empowered group of ministers overseeing plans for India's upcoming spectrum allocations has recommended telcos be allowed to retain up to 2.5 MHz of 900-MHz spectrum – rather than being made to swap their entire holdings with 1,800-MHz – provided they pay a higher reserve price.
Google seeks secrecy in Microsoft trial
Google has requested a patent battle between its Motorola Mobility division and Microsoft be conducted behind closed doors, to protect trade secrets.
Facebook plans timeline changes
Facebook is trialing updates to a controversial timeline feature, which has proven unpopular with users since being launched in August.