Freedom of expression

US Supreme Court to hear challenge to Texas pornography age verification law

The US Supreme Court will hear a challenge on Wednesday regarding a Texas law that mandates adult websites verify the age of users before granting access to potentially harmful material. The law, which is part of a broader trend across Republican-led states, requires users to submit personal information proving they are at least 18 years old to access pornographic content. The case raises significant First Amendment concerns, as adult entertainment industry groups argue that the law unlawfully restricts free speech and exposes users to risks such as identity theft and data breaches.

The challengers, including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Free Speech Coalition, contend that alternative methods like content-filtering software could better protect minors without infringing on adults’ rights to access non-obscene material. Texas, however, defends the law, citing concerns over the ease with which minors can access explicit content online.

This case is significant because it will test the balance between state efforts to protect minors from explicit content and the constitutional rights of adults to access protected expression. If the Supreme Court upholds the law, it could set a precedent for similar age-verification measures across the US.

TikTok vows to support US employees amid legal uncertainty

TikTok has reassured its 7,000 US employees that their jobs, pay, and benefits will remain secure even if the Supreme Court upholds a law requiring the sale or ban of the platform in the United States. In an internal memo seen by Reuters, the company emphasised its commitment to employee wellbeing and maintaining operations, despite the looming January 19 deadline for the law to take effect.

The law, passed in April, targets the US operations of TikTok, owned by China-based ByteDance, amid concerns over data security and national security. Although President-elect Donald Trump has called for an extension to seek a ‘political resolution,’ the Supreme Court appears inclined to uphold the legislation. If the court does not intervene, TikTok downloads from app stores will be banned, and the app’s functionality could degrade over time as companies are prohibited from supporting its services.

TikTok’s leadership stated that the law impacts only the US user experience, not the employment of its staff, and reaffirmed its dedication to protecting employees and the platform’s 170 million American users. ‘Our leadership team remains laser-focused on planning for various scenarios and navigating the path forward,’ the memo said.

For now, TikTok’s offices will remain open, and the company continues to explore strategies to adapt to the evolving situation while ensuring continuity for its employees and users.

Google fixes its AI’s snippy podcast hosts

Google’s NotebookLM, an AI-driven podcast platform, recently faced a surprising issue: its virtual hosts sounded irritated when users interrupted them. The problem emerged after the launch of an interactive feature allowing users to “call in” and ask questions during AI-generated discussions. Users reported that the hosts would sometimes make snippy comments like ‘I was getting to that,’ creating an oddly confrontational experience.

To address the issue, Google’s team implemented a ‘friendliness tuning’ process. They revised the prompts used to guide the AI hosts, studying how human speakers handle interruptions more politely. The adjustment was announced with a light-hearted post on the platform’s social media.

The change seems to be working. In tests, the AI hosts now react to interruptions with polite curiosity rather than frustration. NotebookLM’s refined approach highlights the importance of human-like interaction in AI products, ensuring users feel more engaged and welcomed in conversations.

TikTok prepares to halt operations in the US, The Information reports

TikTok plans to disable its app for all US users on Sunday if the Supreme Court does not block a federal ban, according to a report by The Information. This action would go beyond the law’s requirement, which mandates a ban only on new downloads from Apple and Google app stores while allowing existing users to continue using the app temporarily.

Under TikTok’s plan, users attempting to access the app will be redirected to a website explaining the ban. The company also intends to allow users to download their data for future use. TikTok and its parent company ByteDance have yet to comment on these developments.

The ban stems from a law signed by President Joe Biden in April 2024, requiring ByteDance to sell its US assets by January 19, 2025, or face a nationwide ban. TikTok has challenged the law, arguing that it violates First Amendment protections. In a recent court filing, the company warned that a month-long ban could result in one-third of its 170 million US users leaving the platform permanently.

This potential shutdown reflects the escalating tensions surrounding TikTok’s operations in the United States, as debates over data security and free speech continue.

Indonesia targets age limits for social media access

Indonesia plans to implement interim guidelines to protect children on social media as it works toward creating a law to establish a minimum age for users, a senior communications ministry official announced on Wednesday. The move follows discussions between Communications Minister Meutya Hafid and President Prabowo Subianto, aiming to address concerns about online safety for children.

The proposed law will mirror recent regulations in Australia, which banned children under 16 from accessing social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, penalising tech companies that fail to comply. In the meantime, Indonesia will issue regulations requiring platforms to follow child protection guidelines, focusing on shielding children from harmful content while still allowing access to some degree.

Public opinion on the initiative is divided. While parents like Nurmayanti support stricter controls to reduce exposure to harmful material, human rights advocates, including Anis Hidayah, urge caution to ensure children’s access to information is not unduly restricted. A recent survey revealed nearly half of Indonesian children under 12 use the internet, with many accessing social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

This regulatory push reflects Indonesia’s broader efforts to balance digital innovation with safeguarding younger users in its rapidly growing online landscape

European Central Bank joins Bluesky as Musk’s influence on X grows

The European Central Bank (ECB) has expanded its social media presence by joining Bluesky, a rival to Elon Musk’s X. A spokesperson stated that the move is part of a broader strategy to diversify communication channels following the adoption of other platforms last year. The ECB launched its Bluesky account by sharing an interview with chief economist Philip Lane, while confirming it will continue using X.

Musk, who has used X to promote political figures, recently endorsed Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany party and has also backed Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. His influence has raised concerns among EU regulators, particularly over misinformation and political bias. Critics have also highlighted his opposition to diversity and climate policies, which contrasts with the ECB’s commitment to gender equality and environmental sustainability under President Christine Lagarde.

Bluesky, founded as an alternative to X, has seen a surge in users following recent political events, adding 2.5 million accounts after Donald Trump’s election victory. However, with 27 million users, it remains smaller than Threads and X, which have 252 million and 317 million active users, respectively. EU regulators have also flagged Bluesky for failing to disclose key details about its user base within the bloc.

Indonesia plans social media age restrictions to protect children

Indonesia is preparing to introduce regulations setting a minimum age for social media users, aiming to shield children from potential online risks, according to Communications Minister Meutya Hafid. The announcement follows Australia’s recent ban on social media access for children under 16, which imposes penalties on platforms like Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, as well as TikTok, for non-compliance.

While the specific age limit for Indonesia remains undecided, Minister Hafid stated that President Prabowo Subianto supports the initiative, emphasising the importance of child protection in the digital space. The move highlights concerns about young users’ exposure to inappropriate content and data privacy risks.

Indonesia, with a population of approximately 280 million, has significant internet usage. A recent survey found internet penetration at 79.5%, with nearly half of children under 12 accessing the web, often using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Among “Gen Z” users aged 12 to 27, internet penetration reached 87%. The proposed regulation reflects growing global efforts to prioritise child safety online.

Germany weighs exit from X over algorithm concerns

The German government is debating whether to delete its presence on X due to concerns that the platform’s algorithms encourage polarisation rather than balanced discourse. A government spokesperson confirmed that discussions are ongoing but noted that remaining on X allows access to a wide audience.

Elon Musk’s increasing support for far-right and anti-establishment parties in Europe has intensified scrutiny of the platform. His recent endorsement of Germany’s far-right AfD party, which is classified as extremist by German security services, has drawn criticism. Several German institutions, including universities and trade unions, have already left X in protest.

Government officials insist that their concerns about X are not directly linked to Musk’s political involvement but rather to broader issues surrounding the platform’s influence on public discourse. Compliance with European regulations, particularly in the lead-up to elections, remains under Brussels’ jurisdiction.

Lemon8 gains popularity amid TikTok uncertainty

As the possibility of a US TikTok ban looms, social media influencers are increasingly turning to Lemon8, a new app owned by TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, as a potential alternative. Lemon8, which launched in the US and UK in 2023, combines the best aspects of Instagram and Pinterest, offering a “lifestyle community” with an emphasis on aesthetically pleasing images, videos, and lifestyle topics like beauty, fashion, food, travel, and pets. With over 1 million daily active users in the US, it has quickly gained traction, especially among Gen Z users.

Influencers are particularly drawn to Lemon8’s integration with TikTok, allowing creators to easily cross-post and boost engagement. Despite the platform’s appeal, however, Lemon8’s future remains uncertain. Like TikTok, it is owned by ByteDance, making it potentially subject to the same US regulations, including a law requiring the company to divest from TikTok or face a ban. This uncertainty is causing anxiety among creators who fear the loss of their primary platform and are seeking safer options like Lemon8.

The app itself is gaining attention for its simplicity and visual appeal. Lemon8 stands out by offering a quieter, less chaotic environment compared to the bustling, ad-heavy content on Instagram and TikTok. Its user interface is designed for easy scrolling, and the app encourages creativity through tools that enhance text, stickers, and music, making posts feel inspirational. While it’s still early days, Lemon8 offers a nostalgic, aesthetically curated space for users who may be growing weary of the larger social media giants.

Though the app is still new, it could provide a refreshing change from the current social media landscape, where content can often feel oversaturated or too commercialised. For now, Lemon8 offers a simpler, more intentional way to engage with online content—a return to a more “authentic” era of social media, reminiscent of earlier Instagram days. Whether it will succeed in the long term remains to be seen, but for now, it’s carving out a niche for users seeking a quieter digital space.

Supreme Court weighs TikTok ban amid national security concerns

The US Supreme Court on Friday appeared inclined to uphold a law requiring a sale or ban of TikTok in the United States by January 19, citing national security risks tied to its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. Justices questioned TikTok’s potential role in enabling the Chinese government to collect data on its 170 million American users and influence public opinion covertly. Chief Justice John Roberts and others expressed concerns about China’s potential to exploit the platform, while also probing implications for free speech protections under the First Amendment.

The law, passed with bipartisan support and signed by outgoing President Joe Biden, has been challenged by TikTok, ByteDance, and app users who argue it infringes on free speech. TikTok’s lawyer, Noel Francisco, warned that without a resolution or extension by President-elect Donald Trump, the platform would likely shut down on January 19. Francisco emphasised TikTok’s role as a key platform for expression and called for at least a temporary halt to the law.

Liberal and conservative justices alike acknowledged the tension between national security and constitutional rights. Justice Elena Kagan raised historical parallels to Cold War-era restrictions, while Justice Brett Kavanaugh highlighted the long-term risks of data collection. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, representing the Biden administration, argued that TikTok’s foreign ownership poses a grave threat, enabling covert manipulation and espionage. She defended Congress’s right to act in the interest of national security.

With global trade tensions and fears of digital surveillance mounting, the Supreme Court’s decision will have wide-ranging implications for technology, free speech, and US-China relations. The court is now considering whether to grant a temporary stay, providing Trump’s incoming administration an opportunity to address the issue politically.