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The UK, US, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada are collaborating to develop tools to combat online child exploitation, including AI detection and financial disruption. Australia is also implementing strict social media bans for minors, raising concerns about privacy and access for vulnerable groups. The moves reflect growing global efforts against AI-generated abuse material.
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Nepal's government has ordered major social media platforms to register locally or face shutdown, citing concerns over online hate, rumors, and cybercrime. Only platforms that comply will be allowed to operate, amid ongoing debates over censorship and digital rights.
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Nepal temporarily lifted a social media ban imposed last week following violent protests over new registration rules for platforms like Facebook and YouTube. The crackdown, which led to at least 19 deaths, was triggered by public outrage and escalating clashes with security forces. The government cited safety concerns but faced international criticism for restricting free expression.
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NFL's Week 1 viewership increased by 5%, reaching over 21 million on average, driven by new measurement methods and streaming innovations. Key games, including the season opener and international broadcast, attracted large audiences, reflecting growing engagement across platforms amid changes in broadcast formats and advertising.
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YouTube announced new AI-powered features for creators, including likeness detection, auto-dubbing, Shorts enhancements, and live stream updates. These tools aim to improve content creation, engagement, and monetization, with a focus on Shorts and podcasts. The updates are rolling out globally, starting in the US, as of September 20, 2025.
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OpenAI has launched Sora, an AI-powered video app, amid rapid growth and controversy. The app enables users to create short, realistic videos of themselves and others, raising concerns over copyright, misinformation, and the impact of AI-generated content on social media. Critics warn of 'AI slop' flooding feeds, while supporters see creative potential.
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Two recent articles explore culinary topics: one details the art of making Chinese spring rolls and the debate over deep-frying, while the other highlights innovative uses of apples in savory dishes and homemade vinegar, reflecting evolving food practices and cultural exchanges.
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Australia has introduced a new law banning social media accounts for users under 16, effective December 10. Platforms face fines up to A$50 million if they fail to comply. The law aims to protect children from online risks, amid ongoing debates about enforcement and privacy concerns.
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As of October 2025, Instagram enforces PG-13 content settings by default for users under 18, restricting exposure to mature themes unless parents approve changes. The update includes stricter filters on sensitive topics, limits on interactions with inappropriate accounts, and enhanced parental controls. The rollout begins in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, expanding globally next year amid ongoing concerns about teen safety online.
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A 16-year-old app founder shares his journey from early success to building a $30 million business, while new AI tools enable creative projects like photo apps and coding experiments. Industry leaders promote AI's role in coding and scaling startups, highlighting a shift towards AI-driven innovation.
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On Monday, 20 October 2025, Amazon Web Services (AWS) experienced a significant outage in its US-EAST-1 region, causing widespread disruptions to numerous popular websites and apps including Perplexity AI, Robinhood, Snapchat, Fortnite, and Amazon's own services. AWS engineers are actively working to resolve the issue and restore normal operations.
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Netflix's latest quarterly earnings reveal a profit shortfall due to a $619 million Brazilian tax expense, breaking a six-quarter profit streak. Despite revenue growth and increased global subscribers, shares fell after the report, amid mixed analyst opinions on the company's future growth and diversification efforts.
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The EU has imposed sanctions on Belarus, with a watered-down statement removing direct accusations against Lukashenko's regime to secure Hungary's support. The move follows recent balloon incidents and highlights ongoing tensions over Belarus's role in regional security and disinformation. EU diplomats see the statement as a compromise amid diplomatic negotiations.
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Australian company Canva has introduced its own foundational AI model for design, enabling users to create and edit media with conversational prompts. The update includes new tools, integrations, and features, expanding its AI capabilities across formats like social media, presentations, and websites, following recent product launches.
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Australia will require social media platforms to block under-16 accounts from December 10, with fines up to $33 million for non-compliance. The law targets platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, aiming to protect children from harmful content and mental health risks. Exemptions include messaging and educational platforms, with ongoing assessments of impact.
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Denmark plans to restrict social media for children under 15, with some parental exemptions from age 13. The move aims to address concerns over youth mental health and online safety, following similar measures in Australia. Legislation is expected to pass after months of debate, with enforcement relying on digital ID and age verification systems.
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Recent articles highlight contrasting approaches to economic growth and governance. US debates focus on taxing the wealthy and attracting business, while UK local leaders emphasize practical solutions like public transport and affordable housing. Both stories reflect broader tensions between economic policies and community needs, with implications for future policy directions. Today's date: Sat, 15 Nov 2025 11:20:12 +0000.
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Meta has announced it will restrict access for Australian users aged 13-15 starting December 4, ahead of a new law requiring social media platforms to exclude under-16s. The law, effective December 10, aims to protect minors but raises concerns over privacy and effectiveness.
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Australia will enforce a law from December 10 that bans social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitch from allowing users under 16. The law aims to protect minors from online harm, with penalties up to A$49.5 million for non-compliance. Twitch plans to deactivate underage accounts from January 9.
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Malaysia's government is reviewing measures to restrict social media access for under-16s, inspired by Australia's upcoming ban at age 16. The move aims to protect youths from online harms like cyberbullying and scams, with plans to implement electronic age verification methods next year.
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From December 10, Australia enforces a pioneering law banning under-16s from major social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Companies face fines up to A$49.5 million for non-compliance. Platforms must block underage accounts, with Meta and TikTok already notifying users. The law aims to protect youth mental health but faces a High Court challenge over free speech rights.
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The European Parliament has approved a non-binding resolution calling for an EU-wide ban on social media access for children under 16, with stricter limits for those under 13. The move aims to address concerns over mental health and addictive design features, amid ongoing debates and Australia's upcoming social media ban for under-16s.
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Russian authorities have escalated internet restrictions, blocking Snapchat, FaceTime, and promoting a state-controlled messenger app, MAX. They justify these measures by alleging platforms are used for terrorism and crime, amid broader efforts to control online activity since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.