Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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Soundcore P30i by Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Strong and Smart Noise Cancelling, Powerful Bass, 45H Playtime, 2-in-1 Case and Phone Stand, IP54, Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth 5.4 (Green)
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The recent prohibition of social media in Australia has led to 4.7 million accounts being deactivated for users under 16 years old. This measure follows a significant law that was enforced on December 10, aiming at reducing social media usage among minors.
The eSafety commissioner revealed that platforms such as Meta, Google, and others had deactivated these accounts to abide by the new regulation. The law does not impose fines on minors or their guardians but could result in penalties as high as $49.5 million for non-compliant platforms.
<p Leading platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and Elon Musk's X (previously Twitter), have complied with the new rules. Nonetheless, Reddit, while in compliance, has initiated a lawsuit against the government aiming to reverse the prohibition.
Julie Inman Grant, the eSafety commissioner, stated that platforms have shown considerable adherence, though some underage accounts still exist. Effective age verification measures are anticipated to require time for complete implementation.
Responses suggest that the introduction has been seamless, supported by public education programs prior to the ban. Age-assurance providers, usually external vendors contracted by platforms, have been instrumental in this process.
Prior to the enforcement of the law, some smaller social media applications experienced a spike in downloads, although these increases have not resulted in sustained user engagement. The eSafety commissioner will persist in monitoring these trends.
A research study involving mental health professionals will examine the enduring repercussions of the ban over the coming years to evaluate its effects on the mental health and social behaviors of young Australians.
The recent enforcement of a social media prohibition for those under 16 in Australia has caused 4.7 million accounts to be deactivated. While adherence has been substantial, challenges persist in effectively enforcing age verification. The long-term consequences of the ban are yet to be determined as studies begin to evaluate its effects.
The objective of the ban is to safeguard minors under 16 from harmful content and interactions on social media platforms.
This legislation affects major platforms like Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and X (formerly Twitter).
Platforms may face fines of up to $49.5 million if they do not comply with the legislation.
Platforms are utilizing third-party age-assurance providers to carry out age verification processes.
Indeed, Reddit is contesting the legislation in court, aiming to annul it.
A study involving mental health specialists will monitor the effects of the ban on young Australians over a period of several years.
Some smaller social media applications experienced an uptick in downloads, but this has not translated to long-term user engagement.
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Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro Bluetooth – 11 mm HiFi Triple Driver, 55 dB ANC Active Noise Cancellation and 15 m/s ENC, Lossless Qualcomm Sound and Harman AudioEFX, White
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Since 2019, RedVDS has been a well-known entity within the cybercrime realm. By utilizing a single Windows Server 2022 foundational image, this criminal organization managed to establish numerous virtual dedicated servers (VDS) that were leased to cybercriminals at a nominal fee of US$24 ($35.82) monthly. These servers provided complete administrative access and unrestricted usage, empowering cybercriminals to function almost freely.
The activities of RedVDS had a considerable effect on global cybersecurity, with Australians and Canadians especially impacted by scams involving the diversion of real estate payments. The misuse of these servers also reached extensive phishing operations, dispatching millions of messages each day, and business email compromise (BEC) tactics across a range of industries worldwide.
Microsoft, in conjunction with Europol and German authorities, has confiscated the domains linked to RedVDS, hindering access to the marketplace and user portal. This initiative forms part of a wider offensive against cybercrime, which also included the dismantling of the Raccoon0365 phishing scheme last September.
RedVDS capitalized on a single Windows Server 2022 image to offer affordable virtual servers to cybercriminals, affecting thousands across the globe, including Australians. The intervention by Microsoft, alongside law enforcement partners, has been crucial in breaking down this cybercrime network.
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The digital landscape is welcoming back a well-known name—Digg.com. Formerly a significant contender in the Web 2.0 space, Digg has reemerged, much to the joy of its initial supporters. With a new public beta launch, the platform feels like a familiar acquaintance that has evolved, featuring a sleek design while still emphasizing community-centric values.
Launched in 2004, Digg served as the prime destination for uncovering trending internet stories, propelled by user votes. Nevertheless, a succession of redesigns coupled with the emergence of rivals like Reddit contributed to its downfall. After a lengthy hiatus, Digg’s unexpected return has garnered interest, providing a renewed perspective on community-oriented content.
The revamped Digg emphasizes community involvement and oversight. The launch features an upgraded iOS app with better community capabilities, enabling users to craft their own spaces. The objective centers on sustaining a human-focused platform, avoiding AI-created spam and nurturing authentic user engagement.
Within today’s digital environment, platforms such as Reddit and X are in the lead. While Reddit is famed as the internet’s front page, X has evolved into a personality-centric model. Digg aspires to deliver a more curated experience, highlighting the narratives and individuals behind the screen.
The refreshed Digg features notable performance enhancements, ensuring a swift and smooth user experience. Accessible free of charge, the platform is currently available to Australian users, presenting an exciting avenue for discovering tech updates and various stories of interest.
The relaunch of Digg signifies a crucial development in the digital realm, merging nostalgia with contemporary functionality. By concentrating on community-based content and a personable user experience, Digg establishes itself as a novel option in a saturated market. Whether you’re returning to the site or visiting for the first time, Digg presents a distinct and immersive platform worth exploring.
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Edifier NeoBuds Plus-48dB Active Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Balanced Armature and 10mm Dynamic Driver, Hi-Res Sound, LHDC, LDAC, AI Clear Calls with 6 Mics, Wireless Charging, Bluetooth 5.4 – Starlight
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The Shokz OpenFit Pro earbuds possess a luxurious feel, underscored by titanium incorporated into the frame. The earbuds feel heftier than earlier versions, and the case has enhanced durability. The Ultra-Soft Silicone 2.0 material guarantees comfort during prolonged usage, while the IP55 rating provides defense against sweat and mild rain.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Driver | 11 × 20 mm dynamic driver with dual diaphragms |
| Noise Reduction | Open-ear noise minimization utilizing triple microphones and an adaptive algorithm |
| EQ | Five presets alongside two customizable modes |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours per charge, 50 hours with the case (halved when noise reduction is on) |
| Fast Charging | 10 minutes for 4 hours of listening |
| Water Resistance | IP55 |
| Colours | Black, White |
| Price | $399 |
| Availability | Pre-sale starts on 6 January 2026, officially available from 22 January 2026 |
The OpenFit Pro incorporates open-ear noise minimization, a difficult achievement since traditional ANC isn’t feasible. The technology efficiently dampens mid-frequency sounds, making surroundings easier to handle without obstructing awareness. It’s suitable for workplace conversations and gym noise, yet not optimal for public transport or excessively noisy locations.
Although it’s not tailored for bass-heavy genres, the OpenFit Pro delivers the clearest mid-range sounds among Shokz’s open-ear range. Sound quality is optimal in quieter surroundings, with outside noise impacting performance in more bustling environments.
Shokz has shifted to physical buttons, which respond well and offer customization options. Wear sensors provide dependable auto-pause functionality, improving usability during conversations.
The battery can last up to 12 hours per charge, reducing when noise reduction is enabled. Quick charging allows for four hours of playback after just 10 minutes, convenient for quick recharges during breaks.
The OpenFit Pro caters to users who require situational awareness, prioritize comfort, and prefer to avoid in-ear pressure. However, it doesn’t meet the needs of those who favor ANC or complete sound isolation.
The Shokz OpenFit Pro represents advancement in open-ear audio with effective noise reduction and enhanced controls. While aesthetically premium, the $399 price may not be justified compared to traditional ANC options like the Sony WH-1000XM4.
The Shokz OpenFit Pro differentiates itself in the open-ear audio landscape with its innovative noise reduction and user-friendly design. Despite its shortcomings in noisy settings and a hefty price tag, it attracts those valuing comfort and situational awareness over full noise cancellation.
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HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro – Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, True Wireless Stereo Bluetooth Earphone with Intelligent ANC, 3-mic System & Quick Wireless Charging, FreeBuds Pro, Ceramic White (AU Version)
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Last December, Check Point Software analysts discovered a previously overlooked Linux malware, dubbed VoidLink. This malware appears to stem from a development environment tied to China, raising concerns within the cybersecurity field.
VoidLink features a highly adaptable and modular architecture. It provides comprehensive command and control functionalities and includes a suite of over 30 plugins. Additionally, the malware incorporates operational security features and can identify primary cloud ecosystems, positioning it as a significant threat.
Although it possesses advanced capabilities, the true aim of VoidLink is still enigmatic. No actual deployments have been recorded, indicating that it may still be in development. The detection of debug symbols and other development elements within the binaries supports this hypothesis.
Considering its cloud-centric design and sophisticated capabilities, VoidLink could serve multiple functions, ranging from legitimate security testing to potential malicious activities in the underground realm. Organizations are urged to enhance their defenses against such advanced threats.
VoidLink signifies a new phase in the domain of Linux malware, distinguished by its cloud-native strategy and complex architecture. Although its motivations remain uncertain, the discovery highlights the necessity for improved security protocols in both Linux and cloud infrastructures.
VoidLink is unique due to its cloud-first framework, modular design, and extensive plugin collection, making it more sophisticated than standard malware.
No, there have been no confirmed real-world applications of VoidLink to date.
Organizations ought to take preventative steps to secure their Linux, cloud, and container environments and remain alert against advanced threats.
The motives of VoidLink remain ambiguous; it might be utilized for legitimate security testing or for harmful activities.
VoidLink is programmed in Zig, a new language noted for its performance and safety attributes.
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Tesla has revealed a major update to its sales strategy concerning Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. Starting on 14 February 2026, the firm will halt direct sales of FSD and shift to a subscription-only system. This change was announced by Elon Musk, reflecting Tesla’s evolving strategy for its autonomous driving technology.
The choice to stop direct sales of FSD seems to stem from the belief that the software’s value will keep rising. Tesla’s strategy indicates that a one-time purchase might not fully capture the software’s long-term promise, particularly as it progresses. By moving to a subscription format, Tesla can secure a reliable income flow while making FSD more reachable for a broader audience.
This transition is expected to occur globally, impacting all regions, including Australia. At present, Australians pay A$10,100 for FSD, whereas in the US, the fee is US$8,000. The shift to a subscription model provokes several inquiries regarding its effects on Australian Tesla users, especially those still awaiting the newest FSD updates.
Tesla’s FSD technology is progressing towards complete autonomy, with the robotaxi service being a vital aspect of Tesla’s ambitions. The company is gearing up to launch unsupervised FSD, which could greatly enhance the software’s value. Vehicle owners may eventually have the opportunity to enroll their cars in Tesla’s robotaxi fleet, potentially earning revenue.
Despite the announcement, numerous questions linger. For example, when will the latest version of FSD become available for Australian vehicles? Will there be extra costs involved with joining the robotaxi fleet? These uncertainties are among the considerations for Tesla owners as the subscription model takes shape.
Tesla’s shift to a subscription-only model for its FSD software represents a strategic pivot aimed at aligning with its long-term aspirations. While this transition could offer financial advantages for both Tesla and its clients, it also raises questions relating to international distribution, pricing, and the integration within Tesla’s wider autonomous ecosystem.
