UK Under-16 Social Media Ban: Keir Starmer has announced a near-total ban on social media for children under 16, starting in Spring 2027, covering major platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, Facebook and X, plus limits on high-risk features such as livestreaming and stranger contact on gaming services; messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal are not included. Big Tech Pushback: Tech leaders including Elon Musk, Meta and YouTube warn the rules won’t be a “silver bullet,” could push teens to less safe services, and may require intrusive age checks via Apple/Google. Australia’s Ripple Effect: The UK is explicitly modelling its approach on Australia’s earlier under-16 restrictions, while Australian families and observers continue debating workarounds and real-world impact. CTV Measurement Boost: BIScience’s AdClarity expands connected TV tracking to 20 markets and $70bn in ad spend, adding Australia among others for cross-market benchmarking. Emergency Comms Upgrade: AusAlert will test nationwide via mobile cell broadcast on 27 July, aiming to speed public warnings for hazards and health emergencies. Media Intelligence for Comms Teams: Truescope launches Truescope AI to automate media monitoring and briefings for communications professionals. Local MarCom Note: Australia’s WPP Media forecasts ad growth to $31.1bn, keeping the focus on how brands plan around shifting attention and platforms.