UK has "no plans" to replicate Australia's social media ban (yet)

Google DeepMind has announced the opening of its first research lab in the UK focused on discovering new materials, particularly for applications in batteries and semiconductors. This initiative marks a significant step in the company's efforts to leverage artificial intelligence in scientific research.

Australia has implemented a groundbreaking social media ban for individuals under the age of 16, effective December 10, 2025, resulting in millions of children losing access to their accounts and the ability to create new ones. Parents have expressed mixed feelings, with some viewing the ban as a necessary measure for mental health and family time, while others worry about the loss of social connections for their children.

Bluesky has implemented age checks to comply with Australia's new law banning social media access for individuals under 16, effective December 10, 2025. This decision comes despite the company not being legally obligated to enforce such measures, reflecting a proactive approach to user safety. Additionally, Bluesky has reversed its previous restrictions in Mississippi, although it maintains that the law is flawed.

Evoke Plc shares experienced a significant increase on Wednesday following the announcement that the UK-based betting and gambling company is considering the potential sale of its entire business.

Matchbook is set to launch a prediction market platform in the UK, marking its entry into a competitive landscape as it prepares to challenge established players like Kalshi and Polymarket in the US market.

Australia has enacted a pioneering social media ban for children under 16, set to take effect on December 10, 2025. This initiative, welcomed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, aims to enhance online safety for minors by restricting access to major platforms such as Facebook and TikTok.

Starting December 10, 2025, Australia will enforce a ban on social media access for individuals under the age of 16, marking a significant shift in the digital landscape for youth content creators who must now either log off or adapt their posting strategies. This initiative aims to enhance online safety for minors amid rising concerns about the risks associated with social media usage.

Nu Quantum, a British startup focused on developing networking infrastructure for quantum computers, has successfully raised $60 million in a Series A funding round, marking one of the largest such rounds in the UK. This investment reflects growing confidence among investors in the potential of quantum technology.