Digital Shifts: Banished Apps, Mandated Tracking, and Microsoft Refunds
Under 16s Banned from Social Media (from 10 December 2025)
Social media platforms including Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, X, YouTube, TikTok and Reddit will be banned for under 16s, with more to follow.
Kids over 16 will need to prove their age, however the Social Media Minimum Age legislation specifically prohibits platforms from compelling Australians to provide government-issued ID such as a driver’s licence or Medicare card.
For more information on what to expect, visit:
www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/industry-regulation/social-media-age-restrictions/faqs
If your family is struggling with the transition, Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) remains the gold-standard 24/7 support service in NSW for young people and parents navigating this change.
The End of 32-Bit Programs
32-bit programs are already being phased out. Windows XP was commonly 32-bit, while Windows 7 and 10 supported both. Windows 11 is 64-bit only. A 32-bit operating system can only access around 3GB of memory, making it unsuitable for modern computers with 8–32GB RAM. While some 32-bit programs can still run on 64-bit Windows, all 32-bit programs are expected to be discontinued by the end of 2025.
Location Tracking
A Windows 11 update in September 2025 made location tracking mandatory, with ongoing prompts to enable it. Even installing a printer may now require location access. Location data will also form part of age-verification systems.
Microsoft Teams is expected to introduce a feature in December 2025 that can identify your location even when using a VPN. As advanced tracking increases, VPNs may become less effective.
Office 365 Subscription Refund
After a 40% price rise, the ACCC took Microsoft to court. Users can now choose Office 365 Family ($179, with AI) or switch to Office 365 Classic (no AI) for $139 and receive a refund for the difference. Log in at office.com to change.
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