Image by Fanco Alva, from Unsplash
Pornhub, RedTube, YouPorn Exit France in Protest of Age-Restriction Law
- Written by Kiara Fabbri Former Tech News Writer
- Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Former Content Manager
The company behind popular adult sites Pornhub, YouPorn, and RedTube is blocking access to users in France starting Wednesday, June 5, 2025.
In a rush? Here are the quick facts:
- Aylo, the parent company, says new rules threaten user privacy.
- France’s Arcom claims 2.3 million minors visit porn sites monthly.
- Government can now block non-compliant sites without court approval.
The move is in protest of a French law that requires porn platforms to verify users are over 18 years old, as reported by Le Monde .
“I can confirm that Aylo has made the difficult decision to suspend access to its user-uploaded platforms (P-rnhub, YouP-rn, RedTube) in France. We will be using our platforms to directly address the French public tomorrow” a Pornhub spokesperson said, as reported by Reuters .
The French government wants to stop minors from easily accessing adult content. Reuters reports that France’s media watchdog, Arcom, says 2.3 million minors visit porn sites every month. Since 2020, websites have been required to go beyond just a checkbox to prove users’ age.
France’s junior digital minister, Clara Chappaz, responded firmly: “If Aylo would rather leave France than apply our laws, they are free to do so,” as reported by Reuters
Users in France who visit the sites will see a message claiming the law threatens privacy. Aylo says it should be tech companies like Apple or Google—not the websites—that handle age checks, as reported by Le Monde.
Aylo, which also owns adult studio Brazzers, says these rules hurt its business model based on free, one-click access supported by ads.
Starting June 6, France can force internet providers to block sites that don’t follow the law. Aylo made a similar exit in several U.S. states with similar regulations. Pornhub reportedly receives 7 million visits daily from France, its second-largest audience worldwide, as reported by Le Monde.
The EU is also investigating Pornhub and others over child protection issues, as noted by Le Monde. The sites have faced past scandals involving moderation failures and illegal content.
Photo courtesy of Beta Technologies
Beta Technologies Lands First Electric Airplane With Passengers at New York Airport
- Written by Andrea Miliani Former Tech News Expert
- Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Former Content Manager
Beta Technologies became the first American company to land a fully electric airplane at a New York airport on Tuesday. The 45-minute flight traveled from Long Island to John F. Kennedy International Airport, carrying four passengers and one pilot.
In a rush? Here are the quick facts:
- Beta Technologies became the first American company to land a fully electric airplane at a New York City airport.
- The ALIA CTOL plane carried four passengers and one pilot.
- The demonstration crewed flight lasted 45 minutes, taking passengers from Long Island to New York City.
According to Reuters , the company and port authorities confirmed Beta Technologies’ aircraft landing, marking a significant milestone for the company and the industry, as more transportation companies develop electric battery-powered aircraft to offer more sustainable transportation alternatives.
Beta Technologies, founded in 2017, has been developing its electric technology and going through multiple tests for years.
The Federal Aviation Administration finished its pilot training and certification, as well as the local rules for air taxis, in October last year. At that time Beta Technologies raised $318 million in a funding round to fund its certification, production, and commercialization of electric aircraft.
“After years of rigorous safety testing in all types of environments, we’re proud to stand here with the Port Authority and the city of New York to demonstrate exactly how this aircraft can serve cities by easing congestion, reducing emissions, and increasing accessibility,” said Kyle Clark, CEO and founder of Beta Technologies.
According to Electrek , Beta Technologies’ ALIA CTOL plane completed the demonstration with passengers, including Matt Koscal, Republic Airways President; and Rob Wiesenthal, Blade Air Mobility CEO—strategic partner.
“This electric aircraft flight from Long Island to New York City highlights that quiet and emission-free flight is quickly becoming a reality benefiting Blade’s fliers, local residents, and other key stakeholders,” said Wiesenthal. “I can think of no better way to demonstrate our company’s commitment to quiet, electric aircraft commercialization than my participation on this flight as a passenger myself.”
A few months ago, Virgin Atlantic announced its partnership with Joby Aviation to provide commercial services of electric air taxis in the United Kingdom. Joby said it expects to expand its services to the United States as well.
