Countries Across Europe Take Action to Ban Social Media for Minors
Social Media

Countries Across Europe Take Action to Ban Social Media for Minors

At least 15 governments in Africa are considering social media bans, drawing inspiration from Australia's recent actions. This trend highlights growing concerns over online content regulation and its implications for freedom of expression across the continent.

What is the age threshold for social media bans in Europe, and why did countries choose these specific ages?
France has passed a bill banning social media for children under 15 years old, while Spain's president announced a similar measure. These age thresholds reflect growing concerns about the developmental impact of social media on younger children's brains and cognitive development. The specific ages chosen typically align with research on child development and the ages at which children are considered more vulnerable to the psychological and behavioral effects of social media use.
Sources: [1]
How do European social media bans differ from restrictions being considered in other regions like Africa?
European countries such as France and Spain are implementing direct bans on social media access for minors below specific age thresholds as a regulatory approach. In contrast, African governments are reportedly considering social media bans while drawing inspiration from Australia's recent actions, suggesting a different policy framework focused on broader content regulation and online governance rather than age-based access restrictions. These different approaches reflect varying regulatory philosophies and concerns about online content and freedom of expression across regions.
Sources: [1]

08 February 2026

Gizmodo
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NASA Finds Earth’s Oxygen Follows a Hidden Magnetic Rhythm
Earth

NASA Finds Earth’s Oxygen Follows a Hidden Magnetic Rhythm

NASA scientists reveal a fascinating link between Earth's magnetic field and atmospheric oxygen, showing they have synchronized for over 500 million years. This discovery highlights the deep connection between the planet's interior and its life-supporting conditions.

What generates Earth's magnetic field and why does it fluctuate?
Earth's magnetic field is generated by the flow of molten material in the planet's core, acting like a giant electromagnet, and it fluctuates because this flow is not perfectly stable.[1][2][3]
Sources: [1]
Does this discovery prove that the magnetic field directly controls atmospheric oxygen levels?
No, the study shows a strong correlation between magnetic field strength and oxygen levels over 540 million years, but suggests both may respond to a common underlying process, such as continental movement, rather than direct causation.[1][3][5]
Sources: [1]

08 February 2026

SciTechDaily
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AI

Crypto.com places $70M bet on AI.com domain ahead of Super Bowl

A recent purchase has set new records in domain sales, highlighting the crypto industry's penchant for extravagant spending. This development underscores the ongoing financial dynamism within the cryptocurrency sector, capturing attention and sparking discussions among enthusiasts and investors alike.

Why would Crypto.com spend $70 million on a domain name instead of investing in technology development?
Kris Marszalek, Crypto.com's CEO, views the AI.com domain as a strategic branding asset rather than a pure technology investment. He explained that owning a prominent domain helps avoid commoditization in a crowded market and serves as a recognizable "touchpoint" for consumers. Marszalek positioned this as a long-term investment in what he expects to be one of the most significant technological waves over the next 10 to 20 years. The domain will host an autonomous AI agent platform designed to handle consumer tasks like sending messages and organizing work across connected services. Additionally, Marszalek stated he had already turned down "an absolutely insane amount of money" in resale offers, indicating his confidence in the domain's long-term value as a brand asset.
Sources: [1], [2], [3]
What makes this domain purchase record-breaking, and how does it compare to previous domain sales?
The $70 million purchase of AI.com sets a new record for the largest publicly disclosed domain name sale to date. This eclipses the previous record of $30 million for Voice.com, which was sold in 2019. The transaction was completed entirely in cryptocurrency, brokered by domain expert Larry Fischer of GetYourDomain.com, with the seller's identity remaining undisclosed. The record-breaking nature of this deal highlights both the growing value of premium domain names in the digital economy and the increasing use of cryptocurrency for high-value transactions.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

TechCrunch
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5 forgotten Windows tools that are still better than third-party alternatives
Windows

5 forgotten Windows tools that are still better than third-party alternatives

Windows' extensive range of third-party apps enhances user experience, offering features often missing in native tools. However, some built-in Windows applications still outperform their third-party counterparts, showcasing the platform's versatility and appeal.

What are some examples of forgotten Windows tools that outperform third-party alternatives?
Examples include Disk Cleanup for removing unnecessary files and Resource Monitor for detailed system resource tracking, which aid in daily OS management more effectively than popular third-party options.
Sources: [1]
Why might built-in Windows tools be preferable to third-party utilities?
Built-in tools like those in Windows are often sufficient or superior for specific tasks, avoiding the need for additional software that may introduce compatibility issues or unnecessary features.
Sources: [1]

08 February 2026

XDA
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The new Kirby Air Riders update is an absolute game-changer, and it took me right back to the Nintendo DS glory days
Gaming

The new Kirby Air Riders update is an absolute game-changer, and it took me right back to the Nintendo DS glory days

The latest update for Kirby Air Riders introduces an exciting multiplayer feature, enhancing the gaming experience. The publication highlights how this addition is set to engage players and elevate the fun in this beloved franchise.

What is GameShare in the Kirby Air Riders update?
GameShare is a new feature allowing players to share one copy of Kirby Air Riders with others via local wireless to Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch consoles or online with Nintendo Switch 2 players using GameChat, enabling multiplayer modes like Air Ride, Top Ride, and City Trial without each needing their own copy.
Sources: [1], [2]
What does the Nintendo DS reference mean in relation to Kirby Air Riders?
Kirby Air Riders is a modern reimagining of Kirby Air Ride from the Nintendo GameCube, evoking nostalgia for the Nintendo DS era's portable multiplayer gaming; the update's couch co-op online play on one Nintendo Switch 2 console mirrors the shared local multiplayer experiences popular on DS.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

TechRadar
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We Would Die for This Final ‘Project Hail Mary’ Trailer
Trailers

We Would Die for This Final ‘Project Hail Mary’ Trailer

Ryan Gosling headlines 'Project Hail Mary,' the highly anticipated film directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, set to release on March 20. This adaptation promises to captivate audiences with its thrilling narrative and stellar performances.

Who is Ryland Grace in Project Hail Mary?
Ryland Grace is a science teacher and former biologist who wakes up alone on a spaceship with amnesia, tasked with solving the crisis of the Sun dimming due to alien microbes called Astrophage, on a suicide mission to save Earth.
Sources: [1], [2]
What is the release date and directorial team for the Project Hail Mary film?
The film starring Ryan Gosling as Ryland Grace is directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller and is scheduled for theatrical release on March 20, 2026.
Sources: [1]

08 February 2026

Gizmodo
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How to watch Super Bowl 2026 halftime show — live stream Bad Bunny performance from anywhere
How To Watch American Football

How to watch Super Bowl 2026 halftime show — live stream Bad Bunny performance from anywhere

The upcoming Super Bowl 2026 halftime show features Bad Bunny performing live at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. The article outlines various ways to stream the event for free, ensuring fans can enjoy the performance from anywhere.

What time is the Super Bowl 2026 halftime show with Bad Bunny?
The Super Bowl LX kicks off at 6:30 P.M. ET on NBC, with the halftime show typically starting around 8:00 P.M. ET, approximately 90 minutes into the game, though the exact time varies based on game progress.
Sources: [1], [2]
Where and on what channels can I watch Bad Bunny's Super Bowl 2026 halftime show?
The show takes place at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, and will be broadcast nationally in the US on NBC, Peacock, Telemundo, and NFL+, with streaming options including YouTube TV, Paramount Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu + Live TV.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

TechRadar
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2 Reasons Why We Break Promises To Ourselves, By A Psychologist
Science

2 Reasons Why We Break Promises To Ourselves, By A Psychologist

Recent research uncovers why personal commitments frequently falter while promises to others remain steadfast. The findings shed light on the psychological factors influencing our ability to keep inner promises, offering valuable insights into self-discipline and accountability.

Why do we break promises to ourselves more easily than promises to others?
Promises to ourselves lack external accountability and social consequences, making them easier to break without eroding trust in relationships or facing emotional conflict from others' disappointment. Brain research indicates that breaking promises registers as emotional conflict primarily when it affects others, while self-promises often falter due to weaker self-regulation and no reputational stakes.
Sources: [1], [2]
What psychological factors make it hard to keep personal commitments?
Key factors include low self-regulation skills like conscientiousness, optimism bias leading to overpromising, and time blindness where future commitments feel manageable but become unrealistic. People motivated by positive feelings or a desire to please make bigger promises but struggle to follow through without strong planning.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

Forbes - Innovation
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Here's who actually makes your favorite power tool brand
Hobbies

Here's who actually makes your favorite power tool brand

The power tool market is dominated by three companies that manufacture most cordless tools, despite passionate brand loyalty among users. The article explores how color preferences influence perceptions of performance and value in this competitive industry.

Why do most power tool brands appear different if they're owned by the same parent companies?
While a handful of parent companies own the majority of power tool brands, they maintain distinct brand identities through separate design and development teams. For example, although Stanley Black & Decker owns both DEWALT and Craftsman, these brands operate independently with their own product lines, marketing strategies, and target markets—DEWALT focuses on professional users while Craftsman targets homeowners. Similarly, TTI owns Milwaukee, Ryobi, and Hart, but each brand maintains its own positioning and customer base. This strategy allows parent companies to serve different market segments and price points while leveraging shared manufacturing and distribution infrastructure.
Sources: [1], [2]
How consolidated is the power tool manufacturing industry?
The power tool industry is highly consolidated, with just a handful of parent companies controlling most major brands. The largest players include TTI (which owns Milwaukee, Ryobi, Hart, and licenses RIDGID), Stanley Black & Decker (DEWALT, Craftsman, Black+Decker), Robert Bosch GmbH (Dremel, Freud, Diablo), Chervon (Skil, EGO, Flex), and Emerson (which controls more than 50 brands). This consolidation means that despite passionate brand loyalty among consumers, most power tool purchases ultimately benefit one of these few corporate giants, regardless of which brand name appears on the tool.
Sources: [1], [2], [3]

08 February 2026

How-To Geek
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I'm rebuilding my workstation with these 5 unique improvements
Smart Home

I'm rebuilding my workstation with these 5 unique improvements

The article explores the challenges of optimizing a home-office setup with a sit-stand desk, highlighting the need for dynamic adjustments in cable management and monitor positioning to maintain ergonomic comfort and functionality.

Why is cable management especially challenging for sit-stand desks?
Sit-stand desks move vertically, requiring cables to have sufficient slack to avoid stretching, tangling, or getting caught during height adjustments, which can lead to safety hazards like tripping or equipment damage if not managed properly.
Sources: [1], [2]
What are effective cable management solutions for adjustable standing desks?
Under-desk cable trays, raceways, spines, adhesive clips, Velcro ties, and cable chains (over 50 inches long) keep cords organized, hidden, and flexible for desk movement, with power strips mounted under the desk and testing for full range adjustments.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

XDA
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We may see Apple's new iPads and MacBooks in only a matter of weeks
Technology & Electronics

We may see Apple's new iPads and MacBooks in only a matter of weeks

Apple is set to announce exciting hardware upgrades, including new iPads and MacBooks, as early as March 2. Anticipated updates feature the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, alongside a low-cost MacBook and enhancements to existing models.

What are the key differences between M5 Pro and M5 Max chips?
The M5 Pro is expected to feature 10 or 12 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, while the M5 Max will have 12 or 14 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores. GPU configurations scale up similarly, with M5 Pro offering up to 20 cores and M5 Max up to 40 cores, providing higher multi-core performance for demanding tasks.
Sources: [1], [2]
What is a 'low-cost MacBook' in the context of Apple's upcoming releases?
The low-cost MacBook likely refers to an entry-level model equipped with the base M5 chip, featuring a 10-core CPU (4 performance and 6 efficiency cores), 10-core GPU, and 153GB/s memory bandwidth, positioned as a more affordable option compared to Pro and Max variants.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

Engadget
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Hubble Telescope Spots Strange, Massive Disk 40 Times the Size of Our Solar System
Space

Hubble Telescope Spots Strange, Massive Disk 40 Times the Size of Our Solar System

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has unveiled the largest protoplanetary disk ever observed, challenging existing theories on planetary system formation. This turbulent disk surrounding a young star offers new insights into the chaotic processes of planet development.

What is a protoplanetary disk and why is its size important?
A protoplanetary disk is a rotating disk of dense gas and dust surrounding a young, newly formed star.[2] These disks are the birthplaces of planets, where tiny dust grains collide and stick together to form larger bodies through a process called accretion.[1] The size of a protoplanetary disk is significant because it determines the region available for planet formation and influences how many planets can develop. A disk 40 times larger than our solar system provides an exceptionally vast area for planetary system development, which challenges existing theories about how quickly and efficiently planets typically form.[3]
Sources: [1], [2], [3]
How do planets actually form within these disks?
Planet formation begins when microscopic dust grains—typically a few microns across—collide and stick together through random interactions.[1] The stickiness of these grains depends on their composition; icy grains are much stickier than bare rocky grains, making planet formation more efficient in cooler regions of the disk where ices can condense.[1] As particles accumulate, they grow into larger bodies called planetesimals and eventually planetary cores.[3] Once a core reaches a critical mass of a few times Earth's mass, it can rapidly acquire a massive atmosphere and form a giant planet like Jupiter or Saturn.[3] The entire process typically takes millions of years, with the disk itself lasting up to 25 million years before dispersing.[2]
Sources: [1], [2], [3]

08 February 2026

SciTechDaily
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Secure Your Spot at RSAC 2026 Conference
Cybersecurity

Secure Your Spot at RSAC 2026 Conference

Summary Not Available

No insights available for this article

23 March 2026

darkreading
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Can The Human Eye Detect A Single Photon? A Biologist Explains
Science

Can The Human Eye Detect A Single Photon? A Biologist Explains

Recent research uncovers the limits of human vision in detecting the smallest unit of light, shedding light on its implications for perception. This study enhances understanding of visual capabilities and their significance in our daily experiences.

Can humans truly detect a single photon with their eyes?
Yes, research demonstrates that humans can detect a single photon incident on the cornea with a probability significantly above chance (around 60% for high-confidence responses), using quantum light sources and psychophysics protocols.
Sources: [1]
What is the 'priming effect' in single-photon detection?
The probability of detecting a single photon increases if another photon was presented within about 5 seconds earlier, suggesting a temporary enhancement of the visual system's sensitivity, as shown in experiments with over 30,000 trials.
Sources: [1]

08 February 2026

Forbes - Innovation
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New York is considering two bills to rein in the AI industry
AI

New York is considering two bills to rein in the AI industry

New York's legislature is considering two bills aimed at regulating AI-generated content, including mandatory disclaimers and a three-year moratorium on new data centers. The proposed NY FAIR News Act emphasizes human oversight in AI content creation.

What are the two bills New York is considering to regulate the AI industry?
Contrary to the title suggesting consideration, New York has enacted two key AI laws: the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Safety and Education (RAISE) Act, regulating frontier AI models with safety protocols and transparency requirements effective January 1, 2027, and S. 8420-A/A.8887-B, requiring disclosures for AI-generated synthetic performers in advertisements effective 180 days after signing.
Sources: [1], [2], [3]
What is a 'frontier model' under New York's RAISE Act?
Frontier models are extremely large-scale AI systems trained using over 10^26 computational operations with compute costs exceeding $100 million (or $5 million for distilled models), though amendments may include a $500 million annual revenue threshold for developers.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

The Verge
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Wooden Case Makes a 2026 TV Stylish
Home Entertainment Hacks

Wooden Case Makes a 2026 TV Stylish

The article highlights a modern retro TV cabinet by Cordova Woodworking, blending mid-century design with contemporary functionality. It emphasizes the use of quality materials and invites readers to explore DIY inspirations while appreciating the charm of vintage aesthetics.

What defines mid-century modern design in a TV cabinet?
Mid-century modern TV cabinets feature low horizontal profiles, exposed tapered legs, clean lines, natural wood materials like walnut or teak, and minimal hardware, blending simplicity with functionality.
Sources: [1], [2]
What storage features are typical in mid-century modern TV stands?
They commonly include a mix of open shelving for decor and closed storage like drawers or cabinets for media devices, often with cable management and ventilation for electronics.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

Hackaday
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AI Boom Could Add Nearly a Million Tons of CO₂ Annually, Researchers Warn
Technology

AI Boom Could Add Nearly a Million Tons of CO₂ Annually, Researchers Warn

A recent study in Environmental Research Letters reveals that increased AI adoption in the U.S. could raise annual carbon emissions by approximately 900,000 tons, underscoring the urgent need for energy-efficient AI technologies to mitigate environmental impact.

What does 900,000 tons of CO₂ emissions represent in the context of total U.S. emissions?
The projected 896,000 to 900,000 tonnes of additional CO₂ emissions from AI adoption across the U.S. economy equals approximately 0.02% of total national emissions, a relatively modest increase compared to other sectors.
Sources: [1], [2]
What is a petajoule and how does it relate to AI's energy use?
A petajoule (PJ) is a unit of energy equal to 10^15 joules, roughly the annual electricity consumption of 300,000 U.S. homes. The study estimates AI adoption could increase energy use in individual industries by up to 12 petajoules annually.
Sources: [1]

08 February 2026

SciTechDaily
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Why China’s Aluminum Industry May Have Reached Peak CO2
Clean Power

Why China’s Aluminum Industry May Have Reached Peak CO2

China's aluminum manufacturing CO2 emissions are projected to peak in 2024, driven by gradual structural changes in production methods rather than abrupt policy shifts. This evolution highlights the industry's long-term impact on emissions. The authors explore this significant development.

What does 'peak CO2' mean for China's aluminum industry?
Peak CO2 refers to the point at which carbon dioxide emissions from the aluminum sector reach their maximum level before beginning a sustained decline, projected to occur in 2024 due to rising renewable energy use, plateauing primary output, and increased secondary aluminum production.
Sources: [1], [2]
Why are CO2 emissions from China's aluminum production so high compared to the global average?
China's primary aluminum production emits about 12.7-14.8 tonnes of CO2 per tonne of aluminum, higher than the global average of 10.3 tonnes, primarily because over 70% of its energy comes from coal-fired electricity rather than cleaner sources.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

CleanTechnica
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‘We watched the Berlin wall fall on this TV’: Guatemelan family shocks Samsung by trading in their indestructible 39-year-old CRT TV for a new LCD, calling it ‘a real workhorse’
Televisions

‘We watched the Berlin wall fall on this TV’: Guatemelan family shocks Samsung by trading in their indestructible 39-year-old CRT TV for a new LCD, calling it ‘a real workhorse’

A Guatemalan family surprised Samsung by trading in their 39-year-old CRT TV for a new LCD, sparking a journey that led to the vintage set becoming an exhibit at the company's headquarters, showcasing the evolution of technology.

What is a CRT TV and how does it differ from an LCD TV?
CRT stands for Cathode Ray Tube, an older display technology that uses an electron beam to produce images on a phosphor-coated screen, known for durability, better motion response, and natural colors but bulkier and more power-hungry. LCD, or Liquid Crystal Display, is a modern thin technology using liquid crystals and backlighting for images, offering smaller size, lower power use, higher resolution, but sometimes inferior contrast and response time compared to CRT.
Sources: [1], [2]
Why might a 39-year-old CRT TV be called 'indestructible' or a 'real workhorse'?
CRT TVs are recognized for their rugged construction, resistance to damage, fast response times without motion blur, superior color accuracy and contrast in some scenarios, and ability to handle multiple resolutions, allowing them to last decades with reliable performance as shown by the family's long use.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

TechRadar
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How to watch Super Bowl on 7Plus (it's free)
How To Watch American Football

How to watch Super Bowl on 7Plus (it's free)

A comprehensive guide on watching the Super Bowl for free on 7Plus from anywhere globally has been provided. This resource offers essential tips for fans eager to catch the big game without geographical restrictions.

Is 7Plus free Super Bowl streaming available outside of Australia?
7Plus only offers free Super Bowl streaming to viewers physically located in Australia. International viewers can access the free stream by using a VPN service to connect to an Australian server, which assigns them an Australian IP address. This allows them to bypass regional restrictions and access 7Plus as if they were in Australia. However, users will need an Australian postcode to register for a 7Plus account.
Sources: [1], [2]
What is included in the free 7Plus Super Bowl stream?
The free 7Plus stream includes pre-game coverage, the full live game broadcast, halftime show performance, and a replay of the match. In Australia, the coverage is broadcast across Seven, 7mate, and 7plus Sport platforms, with commentary led by Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth, plus sideline reporting from Melissa Stark and Kaylee Hartung Rinaldi.
Sources: [1], [2]

08 February 2026

TechRadar
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AT&T's budget-friendly phone for kids was designed with parental controls in mind
Smart Phones

AT&T's budget-friendly phone for kids was designed with parental controls in mind

AT&T has launched the AmiGO Jr. Phone, a kid-friendly smartphone featuring Samsung hardware and integrated parental controls. Priced at $3 monthly with a 36-month contract, it offers live tracking and screentime restrictions, enhancing child safety in the digital age.

What is the exact pricing and contract details for the AT&T amiGO Jr. Phone?
The AT&T amiGO Jr. Phone costs $2.99 to $3 per month over a 36-month contract, which provides bill credits toward the device; monthly service charges as an AT&T customer are required separately.
Sources: [1], [2]
What hardware is used in the AT&T amiGO Jr. Phone and what parental control features does it offer?
The amiGO Jr. Phone uses Samsung Galaxy A16 hardware, including a 50-megapixel camera, 6.7-inch display, and reliable battery life, customized with AT&T's amiGO app for features like real-time location tracking, SafeZones alerts, screentime limits, contact approvals (up to 30), and school-time schedules.
Sources: [1], [2], [3]

08 February 2026

Engadget
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