Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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AKG N5 Hybrid TWS Headphone, White
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In a pivotal initiative to protect the mental health of young users, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has introduced a new statute mandating social media platforms to display mental health warnings. This legislation focuses on platforms that incorporate features such as infinite scrolling, auto-play, and algorithmic feeds, which are believed to promote excessive usage and carry potential mental health consequences.
Governor Hochul drew parallels between these warnings and those present on tobacco products or plastic packaging, which convey risks like cancer or suffocation, respectively. The objective is to enhance awareness and lessen the adverse effects of social media usage, especially among younger demographics.
The law is relevant to actions taking place within New York, though it does not apply to users accessing platforms from outside the state. The state’s attorney general is authorized to pursue legal action against platforms that fail to comply, with civil fines of up to US$5000 for each infringement.
This initiative in New York is part of a wider movement of legislative attempts to address the impact of social media on youth. Australia has recently enacted a ban on social media for individuals under 16, with similar laws already in place in California and Minnesota. While major tech firms like TikTok, Snap, Meta, and Alphabet have yet to react, global apprehension regarding social media’s influence on mental health is steadily increasing.
New York’s legislation requires mental health disclosures on social media platforms featuring addictive elements to protect younger users. With the possibility of substantial penalties, this law signifies a rising awareness of the necessity to confront the mental health effects of social media on younger generations.
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JLab Epic Air Sport ANC True Wireless Bluetooth 5 Earbuds, Headphones for Working Out, IP66 Sweatproof, 15-Hour Battery Life, 55-Hour Charging Case, Music Controls, 3 EQ Sound Settings
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Goodman Group, based in Sydney, has unveiled a major project in collaboration with the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) to establish data centres throughout Europe. This $14 billion agreement signifies a crucial advancement for Goodman, enhancing its footprint in the swiftly developing AI infrastructure sector.
Interest in data centres has dramatically increased this year, fueled by major tech companies and AI hyperscalers planning significant infrastructure investments. Goodman’s alliance with CPPIB aligns with its strategic initiative to grow its data centre operations, catering to the rising need for adaptable AI infrastructure.
This collaboration signifies CPPIB’s inaugural entry into the European data centre arena, commencing with a $3.9 billion investment. The partnership emphasizes project development in central cities like Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Paris, targeting a collective capacity of 435 megawatts of primary power and 282MW of IT load.
Goodman Group intends to initiate construction by June 30, 2026. The ventures are engineered for swift market entry, with secured power connections, planning approvals, and advanced site infrastructures already established.
The $14 billion arrangement between Goodman Group and CPPIB signifies a noteworthy milestone in expanding AI infrastructure throughout Europe. With a forward-thinking strategy and significant investment, Goodman is poised to emerge as a considerable entity in the global data centre industry.
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In a development that has reverberated throughout the gaming community, several notable members of FaZe Clan, one of the most prestigious gaming organizations in the world, have declared their exit. On December 25, 2025, creators Adapt, JasonTheWeen, Lacy, Silky, and StableRonaldo confirmed their departure, signifying a major change within the organization.
The exit seems to be a collective choice rather than a spontaneous decision. Speculation about internal conflict has been prevalent, especially after Richard “Banks” Bengtson resigned as CEO earlier this year. This leadership shift may have encouraged these creators to pursue greater independence and consider opportunities outside of FaZe Clan’s established structure.
Established in 2010, FaZe Clan gained recognition for its groundbreaking content and gaming skills, particularly in Call of Duty. The FaZe House emerged as a cultural icon, merging gaming with lifestyle content that struck a chord with millions. Over time, FaZe transformed into a lifestyle brand, collaborating with major entities like the NFL and Snoop Dogg.
The exit of Adapt, JasonTheWeen, and others represents a substantial loss in viewership, as these creators significantly contributed to FaZe’s streaming metrics. JasonTheWeen, in particular, was a force, attracting tens of thousands of viewers and amassing millions of viewing hours.
The future for these creators might involve forming a new “supergroup” that could rival FaZe’s supremacy in the gaming realm. With personal brands expanding beyond the limits of traditional organizations, there’s speculation about fresh, independent initiatives akin to Plaqueboymax’s “5$TAR” movement.
This crucial moment presents FaZe Clan with the need for a strategic reorganization. The organization must either attract new talent or modify its approach to continue appealing to a Gen Z audience that favors individual creators over established brands. The gaming house model is shifting, and 2026 holds promise for new trends in the creator economy.
The recent departure of pivotal content creators from FaZe Clan marks an important turning point for the organization. As these creators pursue fresh starts, FaZe must navigate this transformation to retain its impact in the gaming and entertainment sectors. The evolution of the creator economy continues to alter the landscape, necessitating flexibility and creativity.
For additional details, visit https://fazeclan.com
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Bluetooth Headphones, Q23 PRO Wireless Earbuds BT 5.1, Waterproof Noise Cancelling Headphones and Microphone Ear Hook, Ideal for Sports Travel (Black)
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In a recent assessment, it was discovered that the NSW Housing Development Authority had utilized an unauthorized AI tool to accelerate housing project evaluations. This tool lacked official approval for such functions, leading to an investigation into its effects on decision-making integrity.
The NSW government published a report indicating that the employment of this AI tool presented a “low” risk of swaying planning decisions. The tool was mainly used for administrative duties like report compilation, and these documents were subjected to additional reviews, reducing the likelihood of mistakes.
Of the 72 analyzed reports, none were identified to have errors linked to the AI tool. The assessment suggested that all other reports should undergo similar evaluations to guarantee integrity.
The evaluation urged the strengthening of AI usage protocols among the authority’s employees, underscoring the importance of using approved tools. These actions aim to protect security and integrity while taking advantage of the efficiency offered by authorized tools.
Paul Scully, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, has endorsed the suggestions from the evaluation. He expressed that the integrity of the Housing Development Authority remains sound and that appropriate measures will be implemented to uphold its functions.
The use of an unauthorized AI tool by the NSW Housing Development Authority underwent examination, with findings indicating a low risk to the integrity of decision-making. The government has accepted recommendations to reinforce AI guidelines and the employment of approved tools.
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Christmas Day signifies a significant achievement for TechBest as they introduce their debut EP, Vibe Code to This. This exceptional music project is crafted to serve as an ideal companion for nighttime creators, delivering an encouraging and energizing soundtrack for those who flourish in the serene hours of the night.
Music and technology have always shared a close relationship, and Vibe Code to This delves into this connection profoundly. The EP seeks to encapsulate the essence of the “flow state,” where creativity and concentration blend effortlessly. With an assortment of cinematic soundscapes, dynamic female vocals, and heartfelt rhythms, the music offers a rich auditory experience that resonates with the digital existence.
Comprising five tracks, the EP presents a remarkable journey through the convergence of human feeling and digital creation. Each track is designed to spark creativity and sustain focus during those nighttime intervals.
This track, lasting 3:22 at 128 BPM, investigates the profound solitude of a “deep work” moment. The sound of mechanical typing acts as the track’s rhythm, representing the tangible reality of creation.
At 4:13 and 124 BPM, this track navigates the crossroads of human emotion and digital representation, emphasizing the pursuit of inspiration amid raw logic.
With a length of 3:23 and a tempo of 126 BPM, this synthpop anthem investigates the concept of digital creations as an extension of our biological selves.
Running for 3:39 at 132 BPM, this energetic track merges atmospheric glitches with synth-rock, depicting the fight for humanity within a digital emptiness.
The concluding track, at 4:01 and 120 BPM, serves as a battle cry for creators, celebrating the quiet work that often goes unnoticed yet is personally fulfilling.
Vibe Code to This is now available on all prominent streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. Spotify Premium users can access the EP as part of their subscription, which costs A$13.99 monthly for individuals.
Whether you’re an introvert seeking refuge or a creator needing motivation, Vibe Code to This is crafted to fit into your playlist. Look for “techAU” on your favored streaming platform, or follow the provided links to begin your auditory journey.
TechBest’s debut EP, Vibe Code to This, provides a remarkable musical experience for nighttime creators. Merging cinematic soundscapes with cyberpunk visuals, the EP serves as an inspiring soundtrack for those who exist in the digital realm. Available on major streaming services, it aspires to be the perfect companion for any digital venture.
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PHILIPS TAT2139WT/00 True Wireless In Ear Bluetooth Headphones – Small buds. Great value Natural sound. Dynamic bass, Pocket-sized charging case, Clear calls – White
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Telstra was given a formal reprimand after it became known that the telecommunications company utilized ConnectID, a privacy-focused identity verification service, to validate prepaid customers before it had been officially approved. This took place while meeting its know your customer (KYC) requirements, involving 18,388 prepaid SIMs activated from late 2024 to mid-February 2025.
ConnectID is an identity verification service offered by Australian Payments Plus, utilizing identity checks conducted by financial institutions. While accredited under the Digital ID Act, it was not explicitly cleared for prepaid identity checks at the time of Telstra’s usage. Currently, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has officially granted its use to telecommunications companies.
Even though Telstra’s early use of ConnectID raised concerns, ACMA affirmed that there was no resultant consumer harm. Telstra has since received the necessary authorization valid until the new regulations took effect. Following the inquiry, ACMA has proposed modifications to the regulations and conducted a public consultation that garnered widespread support.
The public consultation has initiated a wider discussion regarding ACMA’s ruling on prepaid identity verification, which encompasses not only identity verification regulations but also other facets of providing prepaid services. ACMA aims to perform a “comprehensive review and update” of this ruling, prioritizing it for 2026.
Telstra’s premature adoption of ConnectID brings to light the difficulties and intricacies of adhering to regulatory standards within the telecommunications industry. While there was no reported consumer harm, the event has prompted regulatory updates and an impending examination of prepaid service regulations. This scenario highlights the necessity of keeping up with regulatory modifications and the advantages of utilizing reliable identity services to bolster data security.
