Regulations 19 December 2025 - 26 January 2026

China’s ‘Hidden’ Door Handle Ban Targets Tesla-Style Designs From 2027
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China’s ‘Hidden’ Door Handle Ban Targets Tesla-Style Designs From 2027

China will require all new cars to have visible door handles and a mechanical release that works without electricity starting Jan. 1, 2027. Existing models have until Jan. 1, 2029, to comply. The rule targets flush, electronic handles used by Tesla and others after safety concerns. An analyst warned the change could force costly redesigns and influence global regulations.
February 3, 2026
EU puts WhatsApp Channels under toughest Digital Services Act rules, giving Meta until May
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EU puts WhatsApp Channels under toughest Digital Services Act rules, giving Meta until May

The European Commission has designated WhatsApp’s Channels as a “very large online platform” under the Digital Services Act, citing 51.7 million monthly EU users. Meta must comply with stricter rules targeting illegal and harmful content by mid-May. The new obligations apply only to Channels, not private messaging. Oversight will involve both the Commission and Ireland’s digital regulator.
January 26, 2026
Japan’s New Mobile Software Competition Act Forces Apple and Google Changes: iOS 26.2 Opens Alternative App Stores, New Payments, and Choice Screens
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Japan’s New Mobile Software Competition Act Forces Apple and Google Changes: iOS 26.2 Opens Alternative App Stores, New Payments, and Choice Screens

Apple has begun rolling out iOS 26.2 in Japan, enabling alternative app marketplaces and expanded payment options after the Mobile Software Competition Act took effect December 18. Google is adding search and browser choice screens and expanding billing alternatives. Apple set external payment fees up to 15%, Google up to 20%. The law prohibits blocking third-party payment services and imposes penalties for violations.
December 19, 2025