August 26, 2025
Tech News
Bluesky has announced that it will block access to its platform from Mississippi IP addresses due to the state’s new age verification law requiring parental consent for underage users. This move will remain until a court ruling is made regarding the law’s constitutionality, which has prompted concern over privacy implications.
This Mississippi law, HB 1126, was allowed to take effect after the Supreme Court declined to halt it despite acknowledging potential First Amendment violations. Bluesky’s actions reflect the challenges social media companies face in navigating age-gating regulations, which could restrict access for all users unless they provide personal information.
In finance news, Dutch online bank Bunq has been fined €2.6 million for failing to adequately address money laundering risks. The Dutch central bank highlighted serious deficiencies in Bunq’s controls and previous failures to improve after past warnings, pushing the bank to object to the ruling while stressing their commitment to using innovative technologies to enhance compliance.
Waymo has received approval to test its autonomous vehicles in New York City, marking a first for the city. The company plans to begin testing immediately, further expanding the footprint of their self-driving technology amid increasing urban demand for advanced transportation solutions.
In a significant investment move, Nvidia has backed Nuro’s latest funding round, which has raised $203 million. This investment comes as part of Nuro’s plans to scale their autonomous delivery services, underlining the growing interest in robotics and smart logistics across the tech industry.
In a legal battle, Apple has filed a lawsuit against the Chinese smartphone manufacturer Oppo, accusing them of encouraging a former employee to steal trade secrets related to wearable technology. The lawsuit emphasizes Apple’s commitment to safeguarding its intellectual property against rivals seeking to capitalize on proprietary research.
Tech Explained
Age Verification – This refers to the process used by organizations to confirm the age of their users, often to restrict access to certain content based on legal age requirements. The Mississippi law mandates strict age verification that impacts user access to social media platforms like Bluesky.
Money Laundering Controls – These are measures implemented by financial institutions to prevent and detect money laundering activities. The fine imposed on Bunq highlights the importance of robust cybersecurity techniques to comply with regulatory standards.
Autonomous Vehicle – A self-driving car capable of navigating without human input. Waymo’s permit to test in New York City signifies advancements in regulations surrounding such vehicles, paving the way for increased public acceptance of their use.
Funding Round – This term refers to the process of raising capital from investors. Nuro’s Series E funding round demonstrates the growing financial interest in automated services, particularly in the delivery sector where efficiency is essential.
Intellectual Property – This represents creations of the mind, such as inventions or trade secrets, that a company protects through legal means. Apple’s lawsuit against Oppo centers around the theft of its intellectual property, which it views as crucial to maintaining competitive advantage.
