Webwire: Foxconn workers still under cosh; Apple beats Google in branding

A fresh report claims working conditions at Foxconn plants have not improved, with workers subjected to humiliating disciplinary measures, made to sign no-suicide deals, and forced to work up to 100 hours a week.
 
Apple has become the world’s most valuable brand, pushing Google off the top spot with a valuation of $153 billion (€106 billion).
 
South Africa's MTN has agreed to pay around €15 million to settle a license fee dispute with the Guinea government.
 
NVIDIA has acquired UK-based SDR specialist Icera Semiconductor for $367 million (€255 million) as it seeks to expand its presence in mobile processors.
 
YouTube has confirmed it will add content from major Hollywood studios to its movie rental store, with terms similar to services offered by rivals including Apple and Amazon.