Google, YouTube ban ads on climate misinformation

Google says it will stop ads running on climate change-denying YouTube videos and other content, and prohibit ads promoting these claims. The company says it is responding to concerns from advertisers. The ban will cover ads for – and the monetization of – content that contradicts the “scientific consensus around the existence and causes of […]

Samsung apologises for Russian app download error

Phone-maker Samsung has apologised for a software update sent to UK customers stating Russian government-mandated apps had been downloaded. It blamed a technical error for the incorrect wording and said no Russian apps had been installed. A new law in Russia that demands smartphones offer software from the country came into effect in April. One […]

Sky launches streaming TV with no satellite dish

British broadcaster Sky is launching a TV that streams content via the internet, removing the need for a satellite dish. The company describes Sky Glass as a “no-fuss” streaming TV. One expert said it would put the broadcaster in direct competition with TV makers such as Samsung and Sony. Another said while ditching the “outdated […]

Amazon’s algorithms taken to task in landmark bill

The methods Amazon and other employers use to monitor, reward and discipline warehouse workers are being shaken up in California. State governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill prohibiting the workers from being fired for failing to meet a quota that does not allow for rest breaks. Amazon workers have complained of having to work […]

Instagram for kids paused after backlash

Plans to make an “Instagram experience” for under-13s, dubbed Instagram Kids, have been paused. Facebook would use the time to listen to “parents, experts, policymakers and regulators”, Instagram head Adam Mosseri wrote. It follows leaked internal research the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) said showed Instagram was “toxic for teen girls”. But in a recent blog, […]

Facebook Files: 5 things leaked documents reveal

This week, Facebook has faced a series of accusations about its internal workings, based on revelations in the Wall Street Journal and elsewhere. Much of the information comes from Facebook’s own internal documents, suggesting the company now has some whistle-blowers in its ranks. The documents will provide governments and regulators with plenty to pore over […]

EU rules to force USB-C chargers for all phones

Manufacturers will be forced to create a universal charging solution for phones and small electronic devices, under a new rule proposed by the European Commission (EC). The aim is to reduce waste by encouraging consumers to re-use existing chargers when buying a new device. All smartphones sold in the EU must have USB-C chargers, the […]

China: Children given daily time limit on Douyin – its version of TikTok

Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, will limit use of the platform for children to 40 minutes a day. The rules will apply to users under 14, who have been authenticated using their real names, and who will be able to access it between 06:00 and 22:00. Parent company Bytedance announced the app’s Youth Mode in […]