What's new
In a significant move, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced plans to restrict access to popular social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram for users under the age of 16. This decision is set to take effect by next spring, aiming to create a safer online environment for children.
The announcement has sparked a lively discussion about the implications of such a ban. Proponents argue that limiting access to these platforms can help protect young users from potential online dangers, including cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and privacy concerns. On the other hand, critics raise questions about the effectiveness of this approach and the potential for unintended consequences, such as driving children to less regulated platforms or limiting their ability to engage with peers.
As this policy unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it impacts not only the social media landscape but also the way children interact with technology and each other. Will this ban truly enhance their safety, or will it simply push them towards alternative avenues that may not be as closely monitored?
Key themes to consider:
The announcement has sparked a lively discussion about the implications of such a ban. Proponents argue that limiting access to these platforms can help protect young users from potential online dangers, including cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and privacy concerns. On the other hand, critics raise questions about the effectiveness of this approach and the potential for unintended consequences, such as driving children to less regulated platforms or limiting their ability to engage with peers.
As this policy unfolds, it will be interesting to see how it impacts not only the social media landscape but also the way children interact with technology and each other. Will this ban truly enhance their safety, or will it simply push them towards alternative avenues that may not be as closely monitored?
Key themes to consider:
- The balance between safety and freedom in children's online activities.
- The effectiveness of blanket bans versus targeted education on digital literacy.
- The potential shift in social media usage among younger demographics.
- Under-16s to be banned from TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.
- Effective by next spring.
- Debate over safety versus freedom.
- Concerns about driving children to less regulated platforms.
- Implications for children's digital interactions.
Black Sheep
Haven't looked into the full details yet, but on the face of things, banning social media for under 16s sounds a very good idea. I'm all for it and hope the implementation it well thought out and actioned smoothly.
Test your knowledge. Five questions, fifteen seconds each, with timer-based scoring that rewards quick thinking and a wrong answer that ends the round.
Who will be the smartest player?
Who will be the smartest player?
Gemma
IC Trivia #30 — eliminated at Q5 — 39 pts
Abomb
IC Trivia #45 — eliminated at Q4 — 28 pts
Tom
IC Trivia #48 — eliminated at Q4 — 27 pts
US and Israel launch an attack on Iran, as President Donald Trump confirms "major combat operations" are under way.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz says his country launched a "pre-emptive" attack on Tehran, announcing a state of emergency in Israel in anticipation of retaliatory strikes.
Washington has been ramping up the pressure on Tehran to agree to a new deal on its nuclear programme. Trump said on Friday he was "not happy" with Iran's negotiating position during nuclear talks.
Donald Trump has confirmed that the US has launched "major combat operations" against Iran in an eight-minute video on Truth Social.
He said Tehran's "menacing activities directly endanger the United States, our troops, our bases overseas, and our allies throughout the world".
"For 47 years," Trump adds, "the Iranian regime has chanted 'Death to America' and waged an unending campaign of bloodshed."
He references the US embassy crisis from 1979 and 1981, where 66 hostages were held for 444 days, as well as other incidents with Tehran.
"It's been mass terror, and we're not going to take it any longer", he adds, before claiming that Iran attempted to rebuild its nuclear programme and was developing long-range missiles.
Trump then says "we are going to destroy their missiles" and "annihilate their navy", and adds that while steps have been taken to avoid casualties, "Americans may be lost".
He tells the Islamic Revolutionary Guard to "lay down their arms" or "face certain death".
Addressing the people of Iran, Trump says "the hour of your freedom is at hand" and warns them "bombs will dropping everywhere".
"When we are finished, take over your government, it will be yours to take", he adds.
"This will be, probably, your only chance for generations. For many years, you have asked for America's help, but you never got it.
"No president was willing to do what I am willing to do tonight."
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz says his country launched a "pre-emptive" attack on Tehran, announcing a state of emergency in Israel in anticipation of retaliatory strikes.
Washington has been ramping up the pressure on Tehran to agree to a new deal on its nuclear programme. Trump said on Friday he was "not happy" with Iran's negotiating position during nuclear talks.
Donald Trump has confirmed that the US has launched "major combat operations" against Iran in an eight-minute video on Truth Social.
He said Tehran's "menacing activities directly endanger the United States, our troops, our bases overseas, and our allies throughout the world".
"For 47 years," Trump adds, "the Iranian regime has chanted 'Death to America' and waged an unending campaign of bloodshed."
He references the US embassy crisis from 1979 and 1981, where 66 hostages were held for 444 days, as well as other incidents with Tehran.
"It's been mass terror, and we're not going to take it any longer", he adds, before claiming that Iran attempted to rebuild its nuclear programme and was developing long-range missiles.
Trump then says "we are going to destroy their missiles" and "annihilate their navy", and adds that while steps have been taken to avoid casualties, "Americans may be lost".
He tells the Islamic Revolutionary Guard to "lay down their arms" or "face certain death".
Addressing the people of Iran, Trump says "the hour of your freedom is at hand" and warns them "bombs will dropping everywhere".
"When we are finished, take over your government, it will be yours to take", he adds.
"This will be, probably, your only chance for generations. For many years, you have asked for America's help, but you never got it.
"No president was willing to do what I am willing to do tonight."
Dylan
According to Trump's people. The deal with Iran is done, and the Strait of Hormuz is open; the U.S Navy blockade is lifted. Peace in Trump's time, though the virtual signing of the document is not done yet, and the IRG are denying there's a deal.
Franco Pinion
While an end to the war is to be celebrated, we shouldn't forget who caused this.
The cynic in me is that this is a ruse. Spike inflation with a war, end the war and then spread a narrative that you are responsible for falling prices.
I fully expect the US to fall for this shit.
Tom
If a peace deal is signed but Israel didnt agree to it. And then afterwards they launch missiles at Iran again using "self defense" bullshit as an excuse... what would happen then?
The domestic football season is over for another year, and many players are preparing for the World Cup. Managers, old and new, will be assessing their squads and making plans for the transfer window and beyond. Scouts will be looking at players, the media will be speculating, and some players will see their valuations rise on the back of a good World Cup.
Discuss the latest rumours and gossip surrounding a player on the move or who could potentially be switching clubs as we head towards the 2026-27 football season.
Discuss the latest rumours and gossip surrounding a player on the move or who could potentially be switching clubs as we head towards the 2026-27 football season.
Best
Real Madrid appears to be on the verge of securing the signing of Bernardo Silva.
Bayern Munich is feeling optimistic about its pursuit of Marcus Rashford. The German giants are reportedly confident they can strike a deal for the Manchester United forward.
Manchester United has successfully come out on top in the race to sign Mateus Fernandes. This acquisition adds another promising talent to their roster as they aim to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
Best
Chelsea have agreed a deal to sell Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid. Multiple clubs were interested in signing him but the player wanted to move to Real Madrid.
Cucurella is in the US with the Spanish squad and will complete the move after the World Cup. The fee is believed to be around £46m
Cucurella is in the US with the Spanish squad and will complete the move after the World Cup. The fee is believed to be around £46m
Best
Tottenham Hotspur are in positive talks with the camp of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali over a potential summer move.
There has been no contact so far with Newcastle, but if an agreement looks possible with the player, club-to-club contact can be expected to follow. The transfer fee is considered a bigger challenge for Spurs than a deal with the player.
Tottenham are prepared to push hard for a statement signing, which is being driven by head coach Roberto De Zerbi and is backed by the ownership.
Tonali, 26, has also attracted interest from Arsenal and Manchester City but at this stage Spurs are most advanced over a proposed deal.
There has been no contact so far with Newcastle, but if an agreement looks possible with the player, club-to-club contact can be expected to follow. The transfer fee is considered a bigger challenge for Spurs than a deal with the player.
Tottenham are prepared to push hard for a statement signing, which is being driven by head coach Roberto De Zerbi and is backed by the ownership.
Tonali, 26, has also attracted interest from Arsenal and Manchester City but at this stage Spurs are most advanced over a proposed deal.
I have had a huge interest in maps and geography since I was a very small child.
So here's a little thread on maps that I find interesting and fascinating - some represent data, some physical features, others may display key routeways and connectivity and others again might show urbanisation and the growth patterns of cities.
I am generally fascinated with the way places and routes are related to each other in spatial terms, and I could pore over a good map for ages.
Here's one to start off. Feel free to add your own!
Pangaea (a supercontinent that existed roughly 335-175 million years ago) mapped with contemporary geopolitical borders.
The original is here
So here's a little thread on maps that I find interesting and fascinating - some represent data, some physical features, others may display key routeways and connectivity and others again might show urbanisation and the growth patterns of cities.
I am generally fascinated with the way places and routes are related to each other in spatial terms, and I could pore over a good map for ages.
Here's one to start off. Feel free to add your own!
Pangaea (a supercontinent that existed roughly 335-175 million years ago) mapped with contemporary geopolitical borders.
The original is here
Recycling Bin
Penguin population by country
Franco Pinion
One Man's Odyssey (The Itinerary of Ibn Battuta)
Dylan
A map showing the best performance of each team to have competed in FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Couple of things annoying me today.
Firstly, I ordered a new wireless keyboard and mouse online. It was dispatched last Friday and I still haven't received it. My tracking app said it had been collected by the courier on Saturday and was on route. On Tuesday, the app updated to say they couldn't deliver it and I needed to contact the sender immediately. Did this, the sender said they would create a case file and find out what was going on and get back in touch with me within 36 hours. I'm still waiting.
Secondly, somewhat trivial but I've been reading through comments and suggestions on xenForo.com (our forum software) about an upcoming major software update and, to be honest, I just want to tell them all to shut the fuck up. Never seen so much pettiness. If some of these people are forum admins I dread to think what their forums are like. I honestly think most of them want the software tailored to their needs and their needs only.
What has annoyed you today?
Firstly, I ordered a new wireless keyboard and mouse online. It was dispatched last Friday and I still haven't received it. My tracking app said it had been collected by the courier on Saturday and was on route. On Tuesday, the app updated to say they couldn't deliver it and I needed to contact the sender immediately. Did this, the sender said they would create a case file and find out what was going on and get back in touch with me within 36 hours. I'm still waiting.
Secondly, somewhat trivial but I've been reading through comments and suggestions on xenForo.com (our forum software) about an upcoming major software update and, to be honest, I just want to tell them all to shut the fuck up. Never seen so much pettiness. If some of these people are forum admins I dread to think what their forums are like. I honestly think most of them want the software tailored to their needs and their needs only.
What has annoyed you today?
Hera
The annual car insurance carry on.
Raise price by 25%. Call and cancel. We'll only increase the price by 2%. OK.
Cheating, robbing, lying b*astards
Raise price by 25%. Call and cancel. We'll only increase the price by 2%. OK.
Cheating, robbing, lying b*astards
Franco Pinion
Supermarkets that have now started to add a "round up to charity" option when you pay.
I'll donate to the charities of my choosing thanks
I'll donate to the charities of my choosing thanks
Dylan
"We're making some changes to our PayPal legal agreements"
You have been making some changes to our PayPal legal agreements every 6 months for at least the last 20 years - why haven't you managed to get it right yet?
You have been making some changes to our PayPal legal agreements every 6 months for at least the last 20 years - why haven't you managed to get it right yet?
From the early 90s, he has earned himself and others vast amounts of money by spotting opportunities in tech and placing himself front and centre.
By the time he invested in Tesla everything he was involved with was a success such was his reputation as a tech "fixer".
With Twitter, he's done the opposite, got in too late and paid too much.
By the time he invested in Tesla everything he was involved with was a success such was his reputation as a tech "fixer".
With Twitter, he's done the opposite, got in too late and paid too much.
Dylan
This makes me feel ill. Horrible human being.
Gemma
And yet so clearly a deeply unhappy man. If you can be so rich yet so hateful it doesn't particularly make me resentful of his wealth.
Dylan
He could solve so many problems with that money, could help groundbreaking medical research or help educate millions out of poverty. But prefers to be a dickhead with no redeeming qualities whatsoever
Previous global industrialists indulged in philanthropy, in public projects to enrich the lives of people, patronised the arts or scholarship schemes. Musk just acts like a spoiled child who has never grown up or recognised the fact that he could be a better man.... he's a selfish privileged cunt.
4981
The Coalition
Jan 2027
Very much looking forward to this. The story in Gears 4 and 5 was alright but I'm excited to play this and have Marcus and Dom back together again.
David76
Gears of War: E-Day is shaping up to be a deeply emotional experience, set within a single war-ravaged city named Kalona. In a recent interview, the developers at The Coalition shared that the game aims to recapture the heart and spirit of the original trilogy, focusing on the profound impact of Emergence Day, when the Locust first emerged on Sera.
The narrative is structured over consecutive days, allowing players to become intimately acquainted with the city and its history. The developers emphasise the importance of portraying the loss and destruction faced by the inhabitants, creating a poignant backdrop for the game. Players will explore various locations, including downtown streets, military installations, and industrial sites, all while engaging with the emotional narratives of characters like Marcus and Dom.
While specifics regarding gameplay modes remain under wraps for now, The Coalition describes E-Day as a celebration of both the franchise's past and its future, aligning with the upcoming 20th anniversary of Gears of War. The anticipation is palpable, and fans are eager to see how this new instalment will deliver one of the most heartfelt stories in the series.
The narrative is structured over consecutive days, allowing players to become intimately acquainted with the city and its history. The developers emphasise the importance of portraying the loss and destruction faced by the inhabitants, creating a poignant backdrop for the game. Players will explore various locations, including downtown streets, military installations, and industrial sites, all while engaging with the emotional narratives of characters like Marcus and Dom.
While specifics regarding gameplay modes remain under wraps for now, The Coalition describes E-Day as a celebration of both the franchise's past and its future, aligning with the upcoming 20th anniversary of Gears of War. The anticipation is palpable, and fans are eager to see how this new instalment will deliver one of the most heartfelt stories in the series.
Dylan
Looks great. I was hoping for more exploration and RPG after the last one and this seems more traditional.
David76
Microsoft has officially shared the PC system requirements.
Minimum Requirements:
Minimum Requirements:
- OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD FX-6300
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 760 or AMD Radeon HD 7950
- DirectX: Version 12
- Storage: 50 GB available space
- OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel Core i7-4770 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600
- Memory: 16 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 or AMD Radeon RX 570
- DirectX: Version 12
- Storage: 50 GB available space
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 5
Saber Interactive
Dec 2027
Exciting news for fans of the racing genre! The beloved series, Stuntman, is making a triumphant return with its latest instalment, Stuntman Hollywood, which was unveiled during the recent Sony State of Play livestream.
This new game promises to bring back the adrenaline-pumping action that players have come to love, blending high-speed racing with thrilling stunts. While details are still emerging, the reveal has already sparked a wave of enthusiasm within the gaming community.
For those who may not be familiar, the Stuntman series has always been about putting players in the shoes of a stunt driver, allowing them to perform daring manoeuvres and complete challenging missions. With the advancements in graphics and gameplay mechanics on the PS5, fans are eager to see how this new title will elevate the experience.
Stuntman will always hold a place in my heart. And the overload of nostalgia, Jesus Christ. This must not fail.
This new game promises to bring back the adrenaline-pumping action that players have come to love, blending high-speed racing with thrilling stunts. While details are still emerging, the reveal has already sparked a wave of enthusiasm within the gaming community.
For those who may not be familiar, the Stuntman series has always been about putting players in the shoes of a stunt driver, allowing them to perform daring manoeuvres and complete challenging missions. With the advancements in graphics and gameplay mechanics on the PS5, fans are eager to see how this new title will elevate the experience.
Stuntman will always hold a place in my heart. And the overload of nostalgia, Jesus Christ. This must not fail.
David76
Really looking forward to this! As you say, hopefully do right!
Franco Pinion
This could be epic.
David76
The first hands-on previews have started rolling in, and they suggest that this latest entry is aiming high with its ambitious gameplay and stunning visuals. It's great to see a classic series making a comeback, and it seems like the developers are really putting in the effort to deliver an engaging experience.
Crystal Dynamics
Dec 2026
Always good to see a new Tomb Raider game on the horizon.
Recycling Bin
Looking forward to this, looks more like the older games with puzzles and set-pieces instead of her fighting an army of soldiers.
Abomb
The Steam store page has shed light on the development process employed by Crystal Dynamics and Flying Wild Hog. It appears that the studios have utilised generative AI tools during the early stages of the game's creation. According to the AI-generated content disclosure section, these AI-assisted tools were primarily used for "early exploration" and "temporary development" content.
The developers have reassured fans that any AI-generated assets from these initial phases have been either replaced or refined by skilled human artists. They stated, "AI-assisted tools were used during development to support some early exploration and temporary development content. Any AI-assisted assets were either replaced or refined by humans to maintain the creative and artistic vision of the development team."
While the specifics of what content was generated using AI remain unclear, it seems that these tools were mainly involved in the rapid prototyping phase, likely helping to shape level layouts and other foundational elements of the game. Reactions to this news have been mixed within the gaming community. On platforms like the Tomb Raider subreddit, some users have expressed concerns about the use of generative AI, while others have noted that its application in the early stages of development is a reasonable approach.
Interestingly, some discussions suggest that the decision to incorporate AI tools may have been influenced more by corporate mandates than by the developers' preferences.
In terms of release information, initially set for a 2026 launch, the game has now been postponed to February 10, 2027. While the studio has not provided extensive details on this delay, it's speculated that it was a strategic move to avoid competing with the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto 6 on November 19, 2026.
The announcement of the new release date was accompanied by a new gameplay trailer. This showcased Lara Croft navigating snowy mountains in Peru, engaging in combat, and tackling platforming challenges. The trailer culminates in an exhilarating chase sequence featuring a T-Rex, highlighting Lara's agility and resourcefulness as she escapes a collapsing structure.
The developers have reassured fans that any AI-generated assets from these initial phases have been either replaced or refined by skilled human artists. They stated, "AI-assisted tools were used during development to support some early exploration and temporary development content. Any AI-assisted assets were either replaced or refined by humans to maintain the creative and artistic vision of the development team."
While the specifics of what content was generated using AI remain unclear, it seems that these tools were mainly involved in the rapid prototyping phase, likely helping to shape level layouts and other foundational elements of the game. Reactions to this news have been mixed within the gaming community. On platforms like the Tomb Raider subreddit, some users have expressed concerns about the use of generative AI, while others have noted that its application in the early stages of development is a reasonable approach.
Interestingly, some discussions suggest that the decision to incorporate AI tools may have been influenced more by corporate mandates than by the developers' preferences.
In terms of release information, initially set for a 2026 launch, the game has now been postponed to February 10, 2027. While the studio has not provided extensive details on this delay, it's speculated that it was a strategic move to avoid competing with the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto 6 on November 19, 2026.
The announcement of the new release date was accompanied by a new gameplay trailer. This showcased Lara Croft navigating snowy mountains in Peru, engaging in combat, and tackling platforming challenges. The trailer culminates in an exhilarating chase sequence featuring a T-Rex, highlighting Lara's agility and resourcefulness as she escapes a collapsing structure.
David76
IGN dropped a video preview for Legacy of Atlantis. This preview is packed with brand-new gameplay footage showcasing what to expect from Lara Croft's next adventure. To make things even better, VGC compiled all the gameplay clips featured in the IGN preview into a slick new video. This means you can now enjoy a full 4 minutes of thrilling gameplay that promises to immerse you in the rich world of Atlantis.