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Social media firms criticise ‘irrational’ exemption of YouTube from Australia’s under-16s ban
Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat have criticized the Australian government for exempting YouTube from its under-16s social media ban. They argue the decision is “irrational” and unfair, demanding equal restrictions across platforms. The law, passed hastily in late 2024, requires social media sites to prevent under-16s from creating accounts. The government justified YouTube’s exemption by citing its educational value, but critics argue it offers similar features to restricted platforms. TikTok called the exemption a “sweetheart deal,” while Meta accused the government of lacking transparency. The companies argue for a level playing field, citing YouTube’s popularity among young Australians.
The strange repulsion of Instragram Reels
Instagram Reels has become an internet punchline, representing a type of content people find cringeworthy, frustrating, or just plain bad. Unlike TikTok, whose algorithm feels eerily accurate, Instagram’s recommendation system delivers bizarre, low-quality, and often irrelevant videos—leading users to question why they’re seeing them. Many millennials, once Instagram’s core demographic, now find the platform outdated and corny. The algorithm favors engagement-driven “slop” over quality content, and negativity thrives in comment sections.
Where did our attention spans go, and can we get them back?
The Oxford English Dictionary’s 2024 word of the year, “brain rot,” highlights social media’s perceived mental toll. Informatics professor Gloria Mark, after 20 years studying attention spans, tells Madeleine Finlay why focus isn’t lost and shares tips for reclaiming concentration.
Loveable rogue or mouthpiece for misinformation? Why Australian blokes love Joe Rogan
Joe Rogan, often labeled the world’s most popular podcaster, has a polarizing appeal in Australia, especially among men drawn to his unfiltered, long-form discussions on taboo topics. Fans appreciate his authenticity and diverse guests, while critics accuse him of spreading misinformation and failing to challenge controversial ideas.
The bright side of TikTok’s downfall
The potential ban on TikTok has sparked debate about its impact on the social media industry. While some fear the loss of a popular platform, others see it as an opportunity for innovation and a chance to address the negative aspects of social media, such as “enshittification” and user exploitation.
TikTok Ban: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver
John Oliver discusses the looming TikTok ban in the U.S.
Would you let AI choose your outfits?
Chloë, overwhelmed by decision fatigue and a lack of time, experiments with an AI-powered styling app to help her get dressed.
From cow vigilantes to military propaganda: Facebook\'s cuts risk violence in Asia
Meta’s decision to scale back independent fact-checking has raised concerns among civil society groups in Asia, where misinformation can have severe consequences.
‘Each year you delay giving a phone is a big win’: child screen-time solutions from around the world
Countries worldwide are grappling with the challenges of children’s screen time and mobile phone use, implementing various measures to address concerns. Australia and Spain are at the forefront, introducing stringent regulations. Australia has passed legislation banning under-16s from social media, placing responsibility on platforms for age verification. Spain plans to raise the social media age limit to 16 and encourages grassroots initiatives, such as delaying phone access for children.
Elon Musk and the new world order: the hijacking of the global conversation
Elon Musk’s influence on social media platforms raises concerns about the manipulation of public discourse and the erosion of democratic processes. While claiming to champion free speech, Musk’s actions demonstrate a disregard for truth and a willingness to exploit vulnerabilities for personal gain.
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