Australia Tech News Archives

Discovering the Vast Wilderness: The Performance of the Segway Max G3 in Off-Road Excursions

Nicholas Webb on November 23, 2025

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Brief Overview

The Segway Max G3 excels not only in cityscapes but also showcases impressive off-road abilities.
Put through its paces on the diverse landscapes of the 81km High Country Rail Trail.
Attributes such as dual braking systems, traction management, and oversized wheels boost off-road efficiency.
Electric scooters provide a distinct method of discovering the great outdoors.

Overview

The Segway Max G3 is changing perceptions of electric scooters, demonstrating their capacity beyond metropolitan areas. We recently evaluated the Max G3 on a demanding 20km off-road trek along the High Country Rail Trail, revealing the scooter’s outstanding performance over various surfaces, including asphalt, gravel, and dirt tracks.

Commencing the Journey

The High Country Rail Trail extends for 81km, offering a picturesque stretch that’s ideal for testing the Max G3. With a blend of terrains including dirt, gravel, and raised bridge sections, this trail provides an excellent venue to push the scooter to its limits. Kicking off beneath the power lines, the trek quickly tested the Max G3’s off-road capabilities.

Navigating Elevated Bridges

Initial Elevated Bridge

The elevated bridges encountered during the ride presented unique challenges and fun opportunities. These structures keep the trail traversable during floods, an issue not faced during our outing. The Max G3’s suspension and generous wheel size facilitated confident navigation of these areas.

Subsequent Elevated Bridge

The next bridge was longer and produced more noise due to its grate-style design, yet the scooter’s configuration allowed us to sustain high speed effortlessly.

The Challenge of Low Bridges

An additional low bridge introduced an element of thrill and challenge to the expedition. Its height necessitated careful maneuvering, making it essential to navigate with precision. The Max G3’s wide handlebars and ample grips enhanced the excitement of this portion of the ride.

Contemplations at Bonegilla

The route led us past the historic Bonegilla Station, now characterized by rusty luggage. This flat tarmac section provided an opportunity to test the cruise control feature while steering clear of obstacles on the path.

Successful Conclusion at Hume Weir

Arriving at the Hume Weir signified the successful end to our expedition. The breathtaking vistas and the scooter’s performance validated the Max G3’s aptitude for off-road adventures. Its range of features, including traction management and dual braking systems, were vital.

The Return Trip

The return journey allowed for more chances to enjoy the trail’s beauty and the scooter’s functionality. Despite encountering steep elevation changes, the Max G3 smoothly navigated every obstacle without the need to step off, courtesy of its dependable braking and traction systems.

Conclusion

The Segway Max G3 showcased its adaptability and power in an off-road context, affirming that electric scooters can provide an exhilarating way to explore nature. Its features render it well-suited for a variety of terrains, serving as an exciting alternative to conventional outdoor pastimes.

Q: Is the Segway Max G3 equipped to manage off-road conditions?

A: Absolutely, it is built to handle various terrains, including dirt, gravel, and bridge crossings.

Q: Which features enable the Max G3 to excel off-road?

A: Notable features include large wheels, dual braking systems, traction management, and a sturdy suspension setup.

Q: Is it safe to ride the Max G3 on these types of trails?

A: Yes, with appropriate respect for the terrain and employing safety measures like brakes and traction control, it is secure.

Q: How does the Max G3 stack up against other scooters for off-road use?

A: Its design and features grant it superior capability compared to many other scooters in off-road scenarios.

Westpac CEO Unveils Program to Reduce Excessive Technology Spending

David Leane on November 23, 2025

Westpac Reduces Inefficient Tech Spending During System Revamp

Quick Read

Westpac is targeting reductions in inefficient technology expenditures as part of its Unite system rationalization initiative.
The bank intends to invest roughly $2 billion each year from FY2025 to FY2028.
CEO Anthony Miller is implementing tighter oversight of technology costs.
15,000 staff members are currently utilizing Microsoft’s Copilot AI tool.
APRA’s enforceable undertakings against Westpac were recently removed.

Westpac’s Strategy to Cut Inefficient Tech Spending

Westpac CEO directs effort to reduce inefficient tech expenditure

The Unite System Rationalization Initiative

Westpac Banking Group has initiated an ambitious agenda to decrease unnecessary technology expenditures as a component of its ongoing Unite system rationalization initiative. The initiative seeks to optimize operations and eliminate platform redundancies that have arisen from historical acquisitions.

Investment Plans and CEO’s Vision

Westpac intends to dedicate approximately $2 billion each year from FY2025 to FY2028 for the Unite initiative. CEO Anthony Miller, who assumed leadership last December, is spearheading efforts to ensure that expenditures on technology generate meaningful returns.

Enhancing Governance and Cost Efficiency

During a recent parliamentary session, Miller underscored the necessity of thoroughly examining technology purchases to guarantee shareholder value. He has urged employees to assess whether external technology services and consulting are actually indispensable.

Compliance and Regulatory Hurdles

Despite the emphasis on cost efficiency, Miller confirmed that compliance standards would remain secure. The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has recently lifted enforceable requirements against Westpac, enabling the bank to concentrate on its transformation initiatives.

Adopting AI Technology

As part of its digital evolution, Westpac is incorporating AI technologies to boost operational efficiency. The bank has already made Microsoft’s Copilot AI tool accessible to 15,000 employees, demonstrating its commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology solutions.

Summary

Westpac is actively minimizing inefficient technology expenditures through its Unite system rationalization initiative while upholding compliance standards and welcoming AI innovations. CEO Anthony Miller’s leadership is pivotal in these endeavors, assuring that technology investments yield the highest returns.

Q: Why is Westpac prioritizing reductions in technology costs?

A: Westpac seeks to streamline operations, eliminate redundancies, and ensure efficient use of shareholder funds through its Unite system rationalization initiative.

Q: What is Westpac’s planned annual investment for the Unite initiative?

A: Westpac plans to invest roughly $2 billion each year from FY2025 to FY2028.

Q: What measures has Westpac taken concerning AI technology?

A: Westpac has provided 15,000 employees with access to Microsoft’s Copilot AI tool to improve operational efficiency.

Q: What was the result of APRA’s enforceable undertakings directed at Westpac?

A: APRA recently rescinded the enforceable undertakings, permitting Westpac to concentrate on its transformation and efficiency initiatives while maintaining compliance standards.

Google Nano Banana Pro: An Innovative Advancement in GenAI

David Leane on November 22, 2025

Concise Overview

Google Nano Banana Pro boosts AI image creation through precise text depiction.
Support for 4K resolution broadens applications in printing and professional design.
Cutting-edge features consist of few-shot prompting and SynthID watermarking.
Accessible via Google’s Gemini platform with different access levels.
Integration with Google Ads and creative tools for developers and marketers.
Offered at roughly A$32.99 monthly for premium access in Australia.

Pioneering Advances in AI Image Creation

This week, Google unveiled a groundbreaking generative AI solution with the introduction of Google Nano Banana Pro, part of the Gemini 3 Pro Image model collection. This advancement tackles persistent challenges associated with AI image creators, specifically the difficulty of accurately displaying readable text in images.

Text Precision and Translation

Nano Banana Pro is designed to produce images featuring exact text, representing a notable improvement over earlier models that frequently generated illogical outcomes. This function is particularly advantageous for crafting signs or product labels that necessitate text accuracy and for translating text among various languages.

4K Resolution: A Transformative Innovation

With support for up to 4K resolution, Nano Banana Pro outpaces current models that peak at around 1024×1024 resolution. This progress unlocks fresh possibilities for print media and professional design, producing high-definition images ideal for expansive displays.

Creative and Professional Applications

Since its debut, users have leveraged the model’s functionalities for imaginative projects such as generating 3D house plans, incorporating engineering details in images, and producing infographics. The model enables ‘few-shot prompting’ utilizing up to 14 reference images, facilitating the creation of brand-specific assets.

Integration and Availability

Offered on Google’s Gemini platform, Nano Banana Pro presents various access levels, providing limited free generation options for non-Pro users. The model integrates smoothly with Google Ads for marketers and the Antigravity IDE for developers, allowing for creative and localized campaign oversight.

Safety and Clarity with SynthID

Google boosts clarity with SynthID watermarking, letting users confirm if an image was created by AI. For professional settings, the visible watermark is substituted with an invisible digital marker, ensuring professional assets maintain their integrity.

Cost and Accessibility in Australia

In Australia, the premium AI packages for Nano Banana Pro are priced around A$32.99 monthly, with enterprise rates depending on user seats. The elevated computational expenses of these sophisticated models warrant the tiered pricing approach.

Conclusion

Google Nano Banana Pro is establishing new benchmarks in AI image generation by resolving text accuracy challenges and endorsing 4K resolution. Its integration with various Google services renders it a valuable tool for developers, marketers, and creative experts. The introduction of SynthID watermarking guarantees clarity and security, while its pricing reflects the significant computational requirements of the tech.

Q: What is the key benefit of Nano Banana Pro compared to earlier AI models?

A: The main benefit is its capability to render clear and precise text in images, addressing a considerable drawback of prior AI models.

Q: In what way does 4K resolution support assist users?

A: 4K resolution provides high-quality images suitable for print media and large screens, broadening the spectrum of professional applications.

Q: What is SynthID watermarking?

A: SynthID is an embedded digital watermark that allows users to confirm the AI-generated origin of an image, enhancing clarity and security.

Q: How can developers incorporate Nano Banana Pro into their applications?

A: Developers can utilize Nano Banana Pro through the Gemini API and Google AI Studio, enabling the integration of its functionalities into their applications.

Q: Are free access options available for Nano Banana Pro?

A: Non-Pro users on the Gemini platform can utilize a limited number of free generations of Nano Banana Pro.

Q: What are the pricing options for Nano Banana Pro in Australia?

A: The premium AI tiers are available for approximately A$32.99 monthly, with enterprise pricing fluctuating based on the number of user seats.

Australian eSafety Commissioner Summoned to Appear Before US Congress

wpengine on November 22, 2025

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner and US Congress

Quick Summary

Julie Inman Grant, Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, has been called by a US congressional committee.
The discussion centers around Australia’s internet laws and their perceived risks to free speech in America.
Officials in the US and tech leaders like Elon Musk have criticized Australia’s online safety laws.
Key issues include a social media prohibition for users under 16 and past censorship incidents.
Grant’s connections with Stanford University are being closely examined.

Introduction

A congressional committee in the US has summoned Julie Inman Grant, the eSafety Commissioner of Australia, to provide testimony about the nation’s strict internet laws. These regulations have caused international debate, especially regarding their potential effects on free speech in the USA.

Background on Australia’s Internet Legislation

Role of the eSafety Commissioner

In her capacity as eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant is vital in upholding Australia’s Online Safety Act. Her duties encompass addressing online safety risks and implementing new laws, including the social media ban for minors under 16.

International Backlash

Australia’s regulations have faced backlash from international tech firms, chiefly those from the US. Prominent individuals such as Elon Musk have openly condemned these policies, describing them as instruments of censorship and oversight.

Controversies and Legal Conflicts

Social Media Restrictions for Youth

This regulation, which will come into effect on December 10, intends to safeguard young users online but has faced criticism for its perceived excess and privacy concerns.

Accusations of Censorship

Jim Jordan, Chairman of the US House Judiciary Committee, has suggested that Grant jeopardizes American free speech through her enforcement efforts that purportedly exceed Australia’s jurisdiction. He pointed to a significant incident involving the removal of violent content linked to a stabbing at a Sydney church, which was initially ordered by the eSafety Commissioner.

Academic Connections and Oversight

Involvement with Stanford University

Grant’s association with Stanford University, specifically in assessing Australia’s social media regulations, has raised concerns. Critics suggest these links could sway the institution’s perspective on issues of free speech and censorship.

Conclusion

The appearance of Australia’s eSafety Commissioner before Congress underscores the continuing global challenges surrounding internet governance and free speech. As international regulations develop, the tension between online safety and expression remains a pivotal topic.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why was the eSafety Commissioner summoned to testify before the US Congress?

A: The Commissioner was requested to address Australia’s internet laws and their potential effects on American free speech, along with her enforcement actions seen as extending beyond legal boundaries.

Q: What criticisms are leveled against Australia’s internet laws?

A: Critics claim that these laws endanger free speech, reach beyond Australia’s legal limits, and incorporate significant surveillance practices.

Q: What does the social media ban for minors entail?

A: This regulation, which is to be enforced by the eSafety Commissioner’s office, seeks to protect younger users online, yet faces backlash due to its implications for privacy.

Q: What has been Elon Musk’s response to these regulations?

A: Musk has been outspoken against these rules, describing them as mechanisms of censorship and monitoring.

Q: What role does Stanford University have in this matter?

A: The university has participated in evaluating Australia’s social media policies, prompting concerns regarding its influence on censorship-related discussions.

IBM and Cisco Unveil Bold Strategies to Link Quantum Computers

David Leane on November 22, 2025

IBM and Cisco’s Quantum Breakthrough: Linking Computers Across Distances

Overview

IBM and Cisco plan to connect quantum computers by 2030.
The initiative could pave the way for a quantum internet.
Advancements in collaboration with universities and laboratories are essential.
Quantum computers hold the potential for groundbreaking advances in numerous sectors.
IBM aims for a functional quantum computer by 2029.
Cisco has established a lab to investigate quantum connectivity.

IBM, Cisco outline plans to connect quantum computers

Quantum Computers: The New Horizon

IBM and Cisco Systems have unveiled an ambitious plan to connect quantum computers over long distances, with a target to validate this concept by the close of 2030. If realized, this initiative could form the cornerstone of a quantum internet, a groundbreaking technology with the potential to transform sectors including physics, chemistry, and cybersecurity by tackling issues that would take classical computing ages to resolve.

Challenges and Future Collaborations

Despite the lofty vision, the journey ahead is fraught with difficulties. Leaders from both companies have acknowledged the lack of essential technologies, necessitating collaboration with academic institutions and national labs for development. This venture will require the invention of new technologies, such as a microwave-optical transducer for converting microwave qubits to optical signals suitable for transmission through fibre-optic cables.

IBM’s Quantum Goals and Cisco’s Contributions

IBM aims to have a functioning quantum computer by 2029, highlighting its commitment to tackle the challenges posed by the error-prone characteristics of quantum machines. Concurrently, Cisco has launched a lab focused on understanding quantum machine connectivity, vital to achieving the overarching goal of the project.

Pathway to a Quantum Future

IBM and Cisco are viewing this undertaking as a unified system rather than as two independent projects. By releasing open-source software, they intend to ensure seamless integration of all system components. According to Vijoy Pandey, Cisco’s senior vice president of the Outshift innovation incubator, this collaborative effort enhances the chances of success and guarantees that both entities are aligned in their objectives.

Conclusion

The partnership between IBM and Cisco to connect quantum computers is an ambitious yet crucial stride toward realizing a future where quantum computing and networking are standard. By addressing the technological gaps and cultivating collaborations with academic and research organizations, this initiative holds the potential to transform the technological landscape by the decade’s end.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the primary aim of IBM and Cisco’s partnership?

A: The primary aim is to connect quantum computers across long distances, which could eventually lead to a quantum internet.

Q: What obstacles do IBM and Cisco encounter in this endeavor?

A: They face the challenge of creating new technologies that currently do not exist, such as a microwave-optical transducer, necessitating collaboration with universities and federal laboratories.

Q: When does IBM expect to have a working quantum computer?

A: IBM is aiming for 2029 to have a working quantum computer.

Q: How is Cisco participating in this project?

A: Cisco has opened a lab to study quantum machine connectivity and is collaborating with IBM to integrate these technologies.

Q: Will the software developed be proprietary?

A: No, IBM and Cisco intend to offer open-source software to integrate the project’s components.

Government Authorities to Head Federal AI Supervision Panel

Matthew Miller on November 21, 2025

AI Supervision in Australia

Snapshot

Federal AI supervision committee to be formed by mid-next year.
Members will be chosen from the Australian Public Service.
Government aspires to advocate responsible AI usage throughout public services.
Each department to designate a chief AI officer by July next year.
Committee’s focus will be on AI applications deemed high-risk.
APS reform shaped by the David Thodey review.

Formation of AI Supervision Committee

The Australian government plans to set up a federal AI supervision committee by mid-next year. The Department of Finance will choose candidates from the Australian Public Service (APS) to guarantee a skilled and informed team. The Digital Transformation Agency is in the process of formulating the committee’s terms of reference, with additional information anticipated early next year.

Government’s AI Strategy

As part of a comprehensive AI strategy, the supervision committee seeks to bolster AI implementation across the government. Under this initiative, every public servant will gain secure access to generative AI, with each department mandated to appoint a chief AI officer by July next year.

Engagement with Private Sector

Although the APS will head the committee, the government has engaged in discussions with leading companies like Commonwealth Bank, Google, and Telstra to shape its approach. These consultations have yielded crucial insights regarding AI management within the government’s extensive workforce.

AI Acquisition and Security

The Department of Home Affairs is proactively revising procurement protocols to incorporate AI technologies. Recently, they organized a town hall meeting with over 80 AI vendors, including tech leaders such as Amazon Web Services and Microsoft, to elaborate on the Protective Security Policy Framework.

Link to APS Reform

This initiative aligns with the broader APS reform agenda, now in its third year, which seeks to tackle digital competency shortfalls and enhance public service effectiveness. The reform is directed by the Thodey review, highlighting the necessity for external collaborations and varied recruitment practices.

Predicted Results

The AI supervision committee is anticipated to be fully operational by late 2026, with complete maturity expected by early 2027. This initiative represents a vital step towards ensuring the responsible and efficient application of AI within the Australian government.

Government entities to dominate federal AI supervision committee

Overview

The Australian government is preparing to create a federal AI supervision committee, drawing participants from the APS. This strategic endeavor is aimed at responsibly incorporating AI throughout public services while guaranteeing strong oversight of high-risk applications. The initiative is part of a larger APS reform to improve digital capabilities and service delivery.

Q: What is the primary aim of the AI supervision committee?

A: The committee is designed to enhance oversight across the government and ensure a consistent, responsible approach to AI technology implementation within the APS.

Q: Who will constitute the AI supervision committee?

A: Members will be chosen from among the ranks of the Australian Public Service.

Q: When will the AI supervision committee commence operations?

A: The committee is projected to be fully functional by late 2026.

Q: What role will private sector companies have in this effort?

A: While APS representatives will lead the committee, the government has sought input from private sector companies regarding AI implementation.

Q: How does this effort relate to the APS Reform Agenda?

A: The AI supervision initiative is integrated into the APS reform focused on enhancing digital skills and public service efficiency, as informed by the Thodey review.

Q: What are the anticipated results of the APS reform?

A: The reform aims to bridge digital skill gaps, improve service delivery, and develop partnerships with external organizations for enhanced outcomes.

NSW DPHI Pioneers Digital Transformation with Innovative Housing Reforms

Matthew Miller on November 21, 2025

NSW DPHI Pioneers Digital Change with Innovative Housing Initiatives

Overview

NSW DPHI is initiating a significant digital overhaul to facilitate housing reforms.
The transformation encompasses a two-year technology strategy aimed at advancing the NSW Planning Portal.
AI is being deployed to automate fundamental tasks and aid in planning-related decision-making.
Emerging technologies are designed to tackle inefficiencies in housing development procedures.
This transformation is viewed as a continuous endeavor rather than a singular occasion.

Digital Shift at NSW DPHI

The New South Wales Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) is leading a digital shift to enhance housing availability in New South Wales. As part of this effort, the department is upgrading its digital frameworks and integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations, following a comprehensive reform of planning regulations, the most extensive in the last fifty years.

The latest digital transformation of NSW DPHI powered by housing reforms

NSW DPHI’s Nerida Mooney, situated on the far right, at Pega Innovate.

Adjusting to Updated Planning Regulations

During her speech at Pega Innovate in Melbourne, Nerida Mooney, the executive director for digital and customer at DPHI, stressed the importance of aligning digital frameworks with the new planning regulations. This transformation includes a two-year feature set and technology plan designed to upgrade the NSW Planning Portal.

Utilizing AI for Enhanced Efficiency

The department is harnessing AI to automate mundane administrative responsibilities and optimize decision-making procedures. The significance of AI is especially evident in addressing the deficit of skilled planners by ensuring only applications that are fully prepared make their way to senior planners, thus maximizing resource efficiency.

Enhancing User Experience

To improve user experience, DPHI has adopted Pega Co-Browse within their customer service framework. This feature enables applicants to share their screens with agents, markedly cutting down the time required to address inquiries and boosting overall service effectiveness.

Commitment to Ongoing Change

DPHI is dedicated to approaching transformation as a perpetual process integrated into everyday functions. This mindset guarantees that innovation stays at the forefront, even while managing the limitations of public sector obligations and fiscal responsibility.

Conclusion

NSW DPHI is at the leading edge of digital transformation in the governmental realm, employing AI and advanced technologies to facilitate housing reforms. By concentrating on constant enhancement and efficiency, the department aspires to increase housing supply and enrich customer interactions in New South Wales.

Q:

What is the primary objective of DPHI’s digital transformation?

A:

The primary objective is to support housing reforms through the enhancement of digital systems and the integration of AI to streamline planning activities and boost housing supply in New South Wales.

Q:

In what ways is AI implemented in DPHI’s new framework?

A:

AI is utilized to automate repetitive tasks, aid in decision-making, and ensure that planners only receive fully-prepared submissions, thus improving efficiency and resource allocation.

Q:

What modifications have been introduced to enhance customer service?

A:

DPHI has launched Pega Co-Browse, which enables applicants to share their screens with agents, significantly shortening query resolution times and enriching customer service.

Q:

What is the significance of continuous transformation for DPHI?

A:

Continuous transformation ensures that the department stays innovative and efficient, adapting to new challenges while upholding public accountability and fiscal responsibility.

Tesla Achieves 75,000 Worldwide Superchargers, Commemorates Milestone in Tasmania

Nicholas Kinports on November 20, 2025

Quick Overview

Tesla has installed its 75,000th Supercharger in South Hobart, Tasmania.
The location is equipped with Tesla’s newest V4 Supercharger technology.
Tesla is consistently broadening its international charging infrastructure.
The South Hobart location caters to both Tesla and non-Tesla electric vehicles.
Charging fees are $0.69 per kWh for Tesla users and $0.85 per kWh for others.

Significant Site in Tasmania

The 75,000th Tesla Supercharger can be found at the South Hobart Smart Store, located at 12 Cascade Road, South Hobart, TAS 7004. This site is a crucial resource for local and visiting EV users, featuring four of Tesla’s most recent V4 Supercharger stations. These chargers provide longer cables and more convenient payment methods, enhancing accessibility for all electric vehicle users.

Expansion of Network

Tesla’s accomplishment of reaching 75,000 Supercharger stations worldwide demonstrates the company’s swift infrastructure growth. The network achieved 50,000 stations in September 2023 and progressed to 60,000 in November 2024. This rapid development emphasizes Tesla’s dedication to accommodating the increasing number of electric vehicles on the roads.

Australia’s significance in Tesla’s strategy is highlighted by this landmark Supercharger, as the electric vehicle adoption rates in Tasmania and the ACT surpass the national average.

Cost Information

The South Hobart Supercharger site is available to both Tesla and non-Tesla electric vehicles, with varying pricing structures:

Tesla Users: The charging price is around $0.69 per kWh.
Non-Tesla Users: The price is about $0.85 per kWh.

Non-Tesla drivers can access the lower Tesla user rate by signing up for a monthly Supercharging Membership through the Tesla app.

Conclusion

Tesla’s installation of its 75,000th Supercharger in South Hobart signifies a crucial achievement in the company’s mission to facilitate the EV movement. The swift growth of Tesla’s charging network reflects its commitment to improving the accessibility and convenience of electric vehicle travel, especially in markets like Australia where EV uptake is flourishing.

Q: Why is the 75,000th Supercharger significant in Tasmania?

A: Tasmania’s notable EV adoption rates make it a key market for Tesla, and hosting this milestone charger underscores the state’s involvement in the global EV landscape.

Q: What features are included in the new V4 Superchargers?

A: The V4 Superchargers come with longer cables and more convenient payment options, enhancing accessibility for all electric vehicle types.

Q: In what ways can non-Tesla drivers take advantage of Tesla Superchargers?

A: Non-Tesla drivers can utilize Tesla Superchargers but incur a higher fee unless they register for a monthly Supercharging Membership through the Tesla app.

Q: How quickly is Tesla’s Supercharger network developing?

A: Tesla’s Supercharger network is growing at an impressive pace, achieving major milestones in a brief timeframe—50,000 stalls in September 2023 and 60,000 by November 2024.

EU Identifies Amazon and Google as ‘Essential’ Tech Providers for Financial Sector

Nicholas Webb on November 19, 2025

TechBest – EU Identifies Essential Tech Providers

Quick Read

EU has designated 19 tech firms as essential for its finance sector.
Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft are included in this designation.
The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) is now in force.
It aims to safeguard the finance industry against tech failures and disruptions.
The UK is contemplating a similar regulatory framework.

Amazon, Google recognized as essential tech providers for finance sector

Understanding DORA and Its Consequences

The European Union’s Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) took effect in January 2025, focusing on strengthening the bloc’s financial sector against possible technological disruptions. According to DORA, three principal EU financial regulators will supervise tech firms categorized as critical.

Designated Key Tech Providers

Included among the 19 firms classified as critical are the European divisions of Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, Microsoft, IBM, and others. This initiative is intended to diminish risks that may emerge from a significant tech provider suffering outages.

Responses from the Tech Giants

Leaders in the industry have reacted favorably to this classification. Google Cloud and LSEG have voiced their support, while Microsoft and Amazon Web Services pledged to comply with European cybersecurity regulations.

Concerns Regarding Financial Sector Resilience

Officials in Europe have heightened worries regarding the resilience of their financial systems, citing concerns such as geopolitical tensions and tech disruptions. This has led to regulatory measures aimed at ensuring stability.

UK’s Parallel Efforts

The UK is investigating a similar regulatory system but has not yet designated any companies. UK regulators have updated the finance ministry, with designations anticipated by the following year.

Summary

The EU’s choice to label certain tech companies as critical under DORA represents a significant advancement towards protecting its financial sector. This initiative highlights rising apprehensions over technological dependencies and intends to bolster the resilience of vital financial services.

Q&A

Q: What does DORA stand for?

A: DORA refers to the Digital Operational Resilience Act, an EU regulation to guarantee resilience in the financial sector against tech disruptions.

Q: Which companies are impacted by this designation?

A: Firms such as Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, Microsoft, IBM, and others have been identified as critical providers.

Q: Why has the EU enacted these regulations?

A: The EU seeks to shield its financial sector from risks linked to reliance on external tech providers.

Q: How have the companies reacted?

A: Most firms have embraced the designation and are dedicated to adhering to the newly established rules.

Q: Is the UK introducing similar regulations?

A: Yes, the UK is evaluating a similar strategy, with expectations for designations by the next year.

Q: What risks could arise if a tech provider experiences an outage?

A: An outage could disrupt crucial banking services, jeopardizing financial stability across the EU.

Australian Roblox Users Required to Complete Compulsory Facial Age Verification

wpengine on November 19, 2025

New Age Verification for Australian Roblox Users

Quick Overview

Australian Roblox users will need facial age verification for chat from December 2023.
Verification utilizes facial biometric information, and estimated age dictates chat access.
There are six age categories established for the Roblox chat function.
The verification procedure is managed by Persona, with video data erased after verification.
Users can amend age estimation inaccuracies via government ID or with parental approval.
New protective measures will be introduced for children, including default private accounts for users under 16.

Facial age checks for Australian Roblox users

Compulsory Facial Age Verification for Roblox Users

Beginning December 2023, users in Australia of the widely used platform Roblox will be required to complete facial age verification in order to use the in-game chat feature. This action is in accordance with new social media age guidelines set by the federal government.

Implementation of Age Verification System

Roblox aims to debut this system first in Australia, New Zealand, and the Netherlands, with an anticipated global expansion starting in January 2024. The age verification process will be conducted through the Roblox mobile application, utilizing facial biometric data to estimate the user’s age and assess their chat permissions according to specified age segments.

Specified Age Categories

The organization has defined six specific age categories for its chat feature: under nines, ages 10 to 12, ages 13 to 15, ages 16 to 17, ages 18 to 20, and over 21. This classification helps guarantee safe and age-appropriate communication between users.

Details of the Verification Procedure

The verification procedure is carried out by Persona, a third-party service also utilized by Reddit in the UK to comply with age restriction regulations. It requires users to record a brief video, which is subsequently deleted after the verification process. If there are inaccuracies in age estimation, users may correct it using a government-issued ID or through parental consent.

Guaranteeing Precise Age Estimation

Roblox expresses confidence in the precision of Persona’s age estimation methodology, referencing a mean absolute error of 1.4 years for individuals under 18, as determined by evaluations conducted by the Age Check Certification Scheme (ACCS) in the UK.

Future Adjustments and Safety Protocols

By early 2026, age verification requirements will also apply to Roblox Studio, the platform for creating worlds and experiences. Furthermore, creators will be prohibited from sharing social media links to minimize risky interactions, with few exceptions for verified users aged over 13.

Conforming to New Safety Regulations

These updates anticipate newly enacted laws that restrict social media access for users under 16, which will affect platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Nevertheless, Roblox is classified as a game, exempting it from a complete ban under these regulations.

Conclusion

Starting December 2023, Australian Roblox users will be mandated to complete facial age verification to access in-game chat. This initiative is designed to foster safer interactions for younger players and complies with the latest social media age restrictions. The implementation, facilitated by Persona, guarantees privacy and accuracy and allows for corrections of age estimation mistakes.

Q: What is the goal of Roblox’s facial age verification?

A: The aim of the verification is to ensure that interactions among users are safe and appropriate for their age by placing them into defined age categories based on estimated age.

Q: What is the process for age verification?

A: The procedure employs facial biometric data to estimate a user’s age. A brief video is made and deleted after verification. Users can resolve errors using government ID or parental permission.

Q: Will all Roblox users be affected by this verification?

A: Initially, it will impact Australian users looking to use the in-game chat. The system will later be extended to other locations, beginning with New Zealand and the Netherlands.

Q: What are the defined age categories for chat access?

A: The categories consist of under nines, ages 10 to 12, ages 13 to 15, ages 16 to 17, ages 18 to 20, and over 21, ensuring suitable communication among similar age groups.