Google staff walk out over treatment of women

Google staff walk out over treatment of women

Staff at Google offices around the world are staging an unprecedented series of walkouts in protest at the company’s treatment of women. Staff in Zurich, London, Tokyo, Singapore and Berlin were amongst those to take part.

The employees are demanding several key changes in how sexual misconduct allegations are dealt with at the firm including a call to end forced arbitration – a move that would make it possible for victims to sue.

Google chief executive Sundar Pichai has told staff he supports their right to take the action.

The formal demands being made to Google’s management are –

  1. A commitment to end pay and opportunity inequality
  2. A publicly disclosed sexual harassment transparency report
  3. A clear, uniform, globally inclusive process for reporting sexual misconduct safely and anonymously
  4. The elevation of the chief diversity officer to answer directly to the CEO, and make recommendations directly to the board of directors
  5. The appointment of an employee representative to the board
  6. An end to forced arbitration in cases of harassment and discrimination for all current and future employees

www.bbc.co.uk/technews (1st Nov 18)

Apple Watch owners asked to return devices for repair

Apple Watch owners asked to return devices for repair

Apple Watch owners have been asked to return their devices for repair after some owners complained that software had caused their devices to stop working.

Those affected reported that their watches had become stuck in a state showing only the apply logo on their screens.

The problem appears to have baffled the firm’s repair staff meaning there is no way at present for owners to restore the products themselves. Apple said it intended to release a revised update soon.

Meanwhile, several people have been told to send their watches in for a fix – much to the disappointment of some customers.

Anyone experiencing problems have been told contact AppleCare.

www.bbc.co.uk/technews (31st Oct 18)