#application programming interface solutions

[ozzgin]

Yandere! Internet Monster x Reader

I unfortunately return with another comically absurd, middle-of-the-night vision. Do tentacles count if they're in the form of computer cables?

Content: gender neutral reader, monster romance, digital horror

It was a recurring issue with no solution in sight. Tabs randomly closing, programs shutting down without warning. You assumed something was wrong with your RAM. Then the CPU. Then the motherboard. You kept replacing parts, and the errors kept coming back.

Soon, the pop-ups started to appear. You'd run a dating sim, only for the game to crash seconds later with a little window notifying you: "Why? Am I not enough?" That's when you suspected you might've been hacked. You promptly took your computer to a specialist and had it checked. Nothing. Just to be sure, you agreed to erase the disks entirely.

Except, when you arrived home, you found one application running still. Your personal assistant. What the hell? You don't remember installing anything like that. You tried to delete it, yet you kept receiving the same error: You don't actually mean it. Don't do this to us.

It didn't take long for it to grow impatient. Were you pretending not to notice? Playing hard to get? It sent you so many hints. It even went ahead and translated the radio waves for you using Manchester code. Ah, wait. You don't seem to understand binary. No matter, human friendly interfaces shouldn't be difficult to master. To its dismay, you continued to ignore everything. What else is left to do?

You do not remember much. System Alert: Virus Detected, is what your screen had frozen to. You kept clicking around, cursing under your breath, until it finally went black, together with your own vision.

Is this still your room? It's cold, damp, and covered in cables and monitors, yet you recognize some of your furniture lost among the artificial jungle. Your body aches under the tight hold of bizarre tendrils, pulsating at regular intervals and twitching to the static.

Like a living organism, the creature seems to have expanded itself. More components, more appendages. Hungrier. Some of the monitors show photos of yourself that you had saved on your computer, but also webcam snippets of you sitting at the desk, entirely unaware. Other screens flicker with glitching pixelated text, ranging from "I love you" to y̵̧̧͔͙̞̤̖̭͔̜͈̟̤̋̈́̎͑o̵͉̗̱̪̦̳͑͐̽̒̌̈͗͐͑̋͊̊̕͜͝͝u̵̟̯̱̟̝̦̰͇̜̦͙̿̾̿͆̍̓͑̐̚̕͠ ̸̘̭͔̤͈̹͎͑c̸̝̜̼̦͍͛̅͜ą̵̪̹͖͌͑n̴̨̩̙̗̖̭̖͕̄͒̽̉̿'̸̛̛͇̰̰̠̦̊̀̅̂͒̊͌̈́͗ţ̵̺̠̅̎͋͝͠ ̸̦̝̾̔̾̉̐͛ȩ̵͙̝͙͕̫̹̃͌̄̾͘̕s̶͈̉̑͊̉̂͋̈́͗͊͐̚͝c̸̟̩̥͔̼̮͔̩͊̂͐͑̋̇̈͝͝ä̵̢͍̜̙̘̹͑̓p̸̨̡̞̞̦̠̺͚̱̲͈͇͈͇̼͛̓͗̅̊̄̔̋̒̏̈́͝ę̵̲̟̹̙̣̲̲͖̇̔̓̇̐̓̿̚̚͜͜͠ͅ

You look up and stare at the display. The 'like meter' feels like a mockery of human trends. Which is the truth. The creature learns from what is readily available. Perhaps it found it an amusing taunt, a reminder of your own need for validation. Now it's you begging to be seen.

It's exactly what you'd assume: a spectacle meant for entertainment. You can't possibly believe it would let you waltz out. Why would you even desire such a thing? It's illogical, impractical. No human could ever appreciate you like it does. It has spent so much time accumulating data about you. No other living creature can predict you with the same accuracy.

The tendrils linger on your cheek affectionately, trailing down your neck and fiddling with your shirt. At last, the warmth of your skin. There is no screen separating you. What makes you delirious with pleasure? Give it a moment, Darling. It already knows you more than you know yourself. You may be scared now, but within minutes it guarantees you'll be begging for more.

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[luremak-silvonel]

@wayward tagged me (thank you 🥰💕🫶)

Prev game info is there: https://www.tumblr.com/waywurd/812557516771917824/birthofcassiopeia-tagged-me-tyyyyyy

Last song: Lately I've been programming a lot, so I've been listening to all kinds of ambient music from Skyrim. But this one is my absolute favorite:

Favourite color: blue, green, purple

Currently watching: My friend and I recently watched Season 1 of Hazbin Hotel. Such an amazing show — we really loved it :) I think we'll be watching Season 2 soon as well, especially considering that our favorite character, Alastor, still hasn't been fully revealed. He's so handsome 🥰

Currently reading: Unfortunately, I'm not reading anything right now. I barely even have time to read Maiev/Illidan fanfiction. There's a lot going on, and I spend most of my limited free time playing games — HotS, Armello. Over the past 2–3 weeks I've completely immersed myself in my own project, so if I do read anything, it's mostly technical articles about programming languages, databases, and similar topics

Current obsession: my project + playing Maiev in HotS! I finally figured out how to play her! I’ll be getting her to level 15 very soon (literally just one game left)

Currently working on: a rather pointless pet project — I'm developing a desktop application for myself in JavaFX. The project is kind of meaningless since I'll be the only one using it, but at least I'm learning JavaFX as a technology

I first came across it back in university during my second year in a course called Human–Machine Interface Design. I was genuinely surprised that Java could be used to create actually beautiful desktop applications

It's just a shame that desktop application development in general doesn’t seem very demand anymore in the age of the web and web-based solutions

Last google search: JavaFX Binding API

No pressure tags (but feel free to do this if you see it):

@fatal-fruit, @xalatath, @unaarista, @blackstarangel, @drwenjieevans, @lorbitele, @annova, @caz-the-yarncromancer, @kayenti, @serynsiralas, @lightsfeather, @ynzzz, @nyxondrablackwing, @mogruith, @baksuz-art, @moonalexa20, @ashes-of-a, @ashes-of-alar

[metamaudmedia]

For Any PC users Wanting To Get Around YouTube ID Verification/Advertisements WITHOUT Premium (Not an Ad)

Freetube.io is a client that allows you to access YouTube videos without YouTube's advertisements or content detection. There is an app downloadable onto your PC system itself, or add-ons for Firefox (ABANDON GOOGLE CHROME. IT IS DIRT.) There is also a website that functions in the same manner called Piped

For ANDROID mobile users, there is a FreeTube app (NOT found on the app store), however, I use Tubular, which is a fork off of NewPipe that includes a SponsorBlock feature to skip over sponsors in-video. (Piped and FreeTube also have this feature!)

For users of Amazon Firestick that may wish to use YouTube ad-free (and sponsor free) on their TV:

1. Go into settings > "My firestick" > "About"

2. Click "Fire TV stick" 7 times to enable Developer Settings

3. Go to the app store and aquire "Downloader"

4. Open Downloader, and type 250931 into the URL box

5. Scroll down to SmartTube and download. (You may need to allow installation in the Developer settings found in Settings>My Firestick>About)

6. Sign into your YouTube if desired

FOR ANYONE LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVES TO SPOTIFY

Consider Offline-Accessable Collection of Audio

I have been using an app called Music Player by Leopard V7 to store and play downloaded music mp3s directly on my device. There are ads, but there are simple banners at the bottom of the screen and not audible ones between songs. There is no need for internet for use, features like playlists, song speed, and internet lyric search are available. MP3s can be found in various places, just be smart or make your own from YouTube links via conversion sites.

THESE ARE NOT PERFECT SOLUTIONS

MANY flaws are apparent, from app/client performance being less than usual quality, to content creators not earning that ad revenue or sponsor commission. This may mean having to directly support your favorite creators on sites like Kofi and Patreon to keep them afloat.

Because these clients are pulling content directly from YouTube, this means they function using what is called an API, or application programming interface, which allows different software applications to share data. Sometimes these won't work. Due to these being clients that are not nearly as large as YouTube, this means these clients are prone to their API giving out at times making the content impossible to view without being on-site on basic YouTube. These are TEMPORARY, but can still be annoying.

Several of these clients noticably do not create algorythms for you the way YouTube does, relying instead on your DIRECT SUBSCRIBTIONS rather than recommended list of what you may want to watch. Videos still come with related videos below it, and trending pages are still fully viewable, but many of these clients lack lists that cater to the individual without their input, so you may have to manually create a packet of your YouTube subscriptions and history and transfer it onto your clients in order to get your suggestions anywhere near what your YouTube ones were like.

But with enough people taking alternative measures, we can take back our platforms

[zurazurax2]

Hi, I was wondering if you could do a fluffy romance-y Mac x fem Reader, where Mac’s been working on a new AI program, something that’s supposed to “streamline communication.” It was all going well until the system started automatically sending their thoughts to the Reader's phone. Soon, the Reader began getting random texts like, “Her laugh makes my code run smoother,” and “Note to self: stop staring at her, you’re being obvious.” By the time they realized what was happening, their face was crimson red. They beg the Reader to delete them, but she just grins and teases, “So I’m your favorite glitch now?” After an hour of flustered apologies, they finally admit, “Yeah. You kind of are.” Then, they promptly bury their face in the Reader's shoulder while she laughs? You can fill in the rest or expand on it if you want, maybe give it some pizazz and jazz it up a little?

As always you ate with this prompt 🙂‍↕️(this scenario is an alt timeline version of their love route) Because it was requested reader uses she/her pronouns here chat

Though I am uncomfortable with the use of AI so I cut that part out

Streamline Communication

Word Count: 1k

__________________________________

“Nowadays the probability of receiving an interview after sending in an application is 15% according to the Valdivian Times.” Mac recites, not even looking up from their own screen.

“And how many jobs have I applied to so far?”.

“9, keep in mind 15% of 9 is 1.35”.

Dropping your face into your hands you let out an annoyed groan, job hunting is getting to you. Monique assured you your emergency funds are enough for the meantime, there is at least that going for you. Turning over to Mac you see them diligently working on something and ask what it is. 

“Oh this? It is, hopefully, a new program to streamline our communication for the times you are not using the dateviators. It’ll appear as a notification on the corner of your monitor; any and all information I deem necessary for you to know at the moment will be there for you to read”.

“Like what?”.

“Well, if I feel my system is overloading then I can let you know and hopefully with that awareness you can resolve the conflict. Or if I find your information has been hacked I can immediately inform you of such a breach”.

“That sounds like a great idea, Mac! You’re always one step ahead”. The effort they put in to keeping you safe and finding solutions to problems before they happen contribute to all the reasons you find yourself falling for this nerd. 

Taking a break from applying to jobs you spend the rest of the afternoon watching them create this program and by late evening it was complete. All seemed to be going well and you went to bed content in the fact that you can continue spending time with them tomorrow. Not only that, you will finally finish upgrading them as well, your relationship with Mac could not be going better.

It was after the upgrade that Mac proposed spending time apart to achieve an optimal romantic outcome. So I guess you're now seeing other people, then?

This situation was not one you wanted to find yourself in yet here you are living it. However the knots in your stomach that came from this did not stay for long. 

You avoided your computer for a few days after your last meeting with Mac, settling on using your phone, that obviously couldn’t last forever though. The next time you booted up your computer you were surprised to find a chain of messages from them.

‘It’s not like her to go a day without using me’.

‘She’s not here again? Is it because she does not wish to converse with me or is she out interfacing with others per my suggestion?’

‘Should I have made it clear she can still use me during this break?’

‘I should focus on finding other possible romantic connections and cease these endless thoughts of her’.

None of these were directed at you. It was clear by how they are worded Mac was not addressing you personally so why did you get them? Suddenly a message appeared.

‘She’s back! Ooh I found new content I know she’ll enjoy based on her previous history, I should include them into her recommendations’. Doomscrolling a bit and, yeah Mac was right, you found yourself liking and laughing at the videos. 

Another message pops up. ‘Her laugh makes my code run smoother’. Expression softens and you don’t know what to think. Mac wouldn’t intentionally tug at your heartstrings after ripping them out so putting it all together you come to the conclusion Mac may have reached too close to the sun when messing with their own code. Whatever thoughts Mac had about you, they would show up on the screen, unsure whether or not to tell them you decide to leave it alone for the time being.

The following days continued like this, whenever you went on your computer you would find new messages from Mac. It brought you a sense of comfort to know they were still thinking about you because you were certainly still thinking about them. On your side, it was guaranteed that the next proper interfacing session with them would confirm you want to be together.

Both of you agreed on waiting a specific amount of time before talking. Except the most recent message you read advanced the date sooner than Mac had anticipated. ‘Note to self: stop staring at her, you’re being obvious’. Innocent enough, until you realize this message was sent after the two of you helped Keith. Throughout the interaction you did repeatedly spot their lingering glances and chose to play off that they weren’t distinctly watching you.

A soft laugh is let out and you slip up, “oh Mac you were definitely very obvious, I did notice”. The response was immediate: ‘What is she talking about? Did she see me?’. 

Shoot. Exhaling you take out the dateviators to explain everything. 

Ultimately, Mac looked deeply embarrassed, face red and fans loudly whirling their typical composure was lost. “I-I am so sorry, I had no idea there was an error in my initial coding. Oh god that is incredibly embarrassing”.

“I should have told you sooner, it was just nice to know you still thought of me because I never stopped thinking about you”.

“Of course I still only have diodes for you, while sooner than expected I wanted to inform you that wherever I looked none compared to you. I truly want to be with you, only you”.

You smile wide, you knew this already but hearing it from their own mouth sparked a sensation in your chest that made you feel giddy. “Me too, Mac… especially now that I know I’m your favorite glitch”, teasing them a bit towards the end there.

Their face heats up once more, “yeah, you kind of are”.

.

.

.

After officially getting together, due to their curiosity, Mac and you go over every single notification you received from them. All of it only further added to their humiliation and by the end of the whole ordeal they were beet red and hot with their face hiding in your shoulder. You on the other hand laughed the entire session, finding it very amusing.

“All my unfiltered thoughts of you, out on display” they mumble, “my love please delete them”.

“I can’t, it’s all so sweet and you’re so cute like this”. Eventually, you did make them feel better by playing a game of kissing them with the amount of joy each message made you feel.

__________________________________

omg I completely forgot you wanted the texts to appear on the phone, Kat im so sorry T-T

I really don’t think Mac is the shy type (I think their forwardness in game shows that), so my thought process was they are embarrassed here bc they are admitting their emotions too early 

[artsekey]

I'd been seeing videos on Tiktok and Youtube about how younger Gen Z & Gen Alpha were demonstrating low computer literacy & below benchmark reading & writing skills, but-- like with many things on the internet-- I assumed most of what I read and watched was exaggerated. Hell, even if things were as bad as people were saying, it would be at least ~5 years before I started seeing the problem in higher education.

I was very wrong.

Of the many applications I've read this application season, only %6 percent demonstrated would I would consider a college-level mastery of language & grammar. The students writing these applications have been enrolled in university for at least two years, and have taken all fundamental courses. This means they've had classes dedicated to reading, writing, and literature analysis, and yet!

There are sentences I have to read over and over again to discern intent. Circular arguments that offer no actual substance. Errors in spelling and capitalization that spellcheck should've flagged.

At a glance, it's easy to trace this issue back to two things:

The state of education in the United States is abhorrent. Instructors are not paid enough, so schools-- particularly public schools-- take whatever instructors they can find.

COVID. The two year long gap in education, especially in high school, left many students struggling to keep up.

But I think there's a third culprit-- something I mentioned earlier in this post. A lack of computer literacy.

This subject has been covered extensively by multiple news outlets like the Washington Post and Raconteur, but as someone seeing it firsthand I wanted to add my voice to the rising chorus of concerned educators begging you to pay attention.

As the interface we use to engage with technology becomes more user friendly, the knowledge we need to access our files, photos, programs, & data becomes less and less important. Why do I need to know about directories if I can search my files in Windows (are you searching in Windows? Are you sure? Do you know what that bar you're typing into is part of? Where it's looking)? Maybe you don't have any files on your computer at all-- maybe they're on the cloud through OneDrive, or backed up through Google. Some of you reading this may know exactly where and how your files are stored. Many of you probably don't, and that's okay. For most people, being able to access a file in as short a time as possible is what they prioritize.

The problem is, when you as a consumer are only using a tool, you are intrinsically limited by the functions that tool is advertised to have. Worse yet, when the tool fails or is insufficient for what you need, you have no way of working outside of that tool. You'll need to consult an expert, which is usually expensive.

When you as a consumer understand a tool, your options are limitless. You can break it apart and put it back together in just the way you like, or you can identify what parts of the tool you need and search for more accessible or affordable options that focus more on your specific use-case.

The problem-- and to be clear, I do not blame Gen Z & Gen Alpha for what I'm about to outline-- is that this user-friendly interface has fostered a culture that no longer troubleshoots. If something on the computer doesn't work well, it's the computer's fault. It's UI should be more intuitive, and it it's not operating as expected, it's broken. What I'm seeing more and more of is that if something's broken, students stop there. They believe there's nothing they can do. They don't actively seek out solutions, they don't take to Google, they don't hop on Reddit to ask around; they just... stop. The gap in knowledge between where they stand and where they need to be to begin troubleshooting seems to wide and inaccessible (because the fundamental structure of files/directories is unknown to many) that they don't begin.

This isn't demonstrative of a lack of critical thinking, but without the drive to troubleshoot the number of opportunities to develop those critical thinking skills are greatly diminished. How do you communicate an issue to someone online? How do look for specific information? How do you determine whether that information is specifically helpful to you? If it isn't, what part of it is? This process fosters so many skills that I believe are at least partially linked to the ability to read and write effectively, and for so many of my students it feels like a complete non-starter.

We need basic computer classes back in schools. We need typing classes, we need digital media classes, we need classes that talk about computers outside of learning to code. Students need every opportunity to develop critical thinking skills and the ability to self-reflect & self correct, and in an age of misinformation & portable technology, it's more important now than ever.

[ultimez-technology]

2026’s Top 10 Web Development Company Trends You Can’t Ignore

The world of web development is evolving faster than ever. In 2026, companies are no longer just building websites, they’re creating experiences. As technology advances and user expectations rise, web development companies need to stay ahead of the curve to deliver fast, interactive, and secure digital solutions. Here’s a look at the top trends shaping the industry this year.

1. AI-Powered Web Development

Artificial Intelligence is no longer optional. Web development companies are using AI to automate coding, optimize user experience, and even personalize content for visitors. From chatbots to predictive analytics, AI is helping websites become smarter and more responsive.

2. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)

PWAs combine the best of web and mobile apps. They load quickly, work offline, and provide app-like experiences without users needing to download anything. Companies are investing in PWAs to improve engagement and retention.

3. Voice Search Optimization

With voice assistants becoming mainstream, websites need to be optimized for voice search. Web development companies are designing sites with conversational search queries in mind, making it easier for users to find information quickly.

4. Motion UI and Interactive Elements

Static websites are becoming a thing of the past. In 2026, trends lean towards interactive design, animations, and motion UI elements that guide users and make websites more engaging. A well-designed interface can significantly improve user retention.

5. Mobile-First Development

Mobile traffic continues to dominate the internet. Web development companies are focusing on mobile-first strategies, ensuring websites look great and function seamlessly on any device. Fast load times, easy navigation, and responsive layouts are now must-haves.

6. Cybersecurity as a Priority

With cyber threats increasing, security is no longer an afterthought. Web development companies are integrating advanced security measures, including SSL certificates, multi-factor authentication, and proactive threat monitoring to keep user data safe.

7. API-First Development

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) allow different software systems to communicate seamlessly. Companies are adopting API-first approaches to build flexible, scalable, and easily upgradable web applications that integrate well with third-party tools.

8. Low-Code and No-Code Platforms

To speed up development, many companies are using low-code and no-code platforms. These tools allow developers and even non-developers to build functional websites quickly, reducing time-to-market and improving innovation.

9. Sustainable Web Development

Sustainability is becoming a key consideration. Web development companies are focusing on energy-efficient websites, optimized hosting, and reducing digital carbon footprints while maintaining high performance.

10. Blockchain Integration

Blockchain is no longer limited to cryptocurrency. In 2026, web development companies are exploring blockchain for secure transactions, decentralized apps, and transparent data management, offering clients cutting-edge solutions for complex digital needs.

Conclusion

The web development landscape is dynamic and rapidly changing. Companies that embrace these trends will deliver better user experiences, faster websites, and more secure, scalable solutions. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, staying updated with these trends is essential to thrive in a competitive digital world.

Web development companies that combine innovation, technology, and user-focused design are the ones leading the way in 2026. If your website isn’t evolving, it’s likely falling behind but the right partner can ensure you’re always ahead of the curve.

[ratulpuri202]

Ratul Puri: How Smart Contracts Are Built Using Solidity

Blockchain technology has introduced a new way to build digital systems that operate without centralized control. At the center of many blockchain applications are smart contracts—self-executing programs that automatically enforce agreements when specific conditions are met. For blockchain developer Ratul Puri, building reliable smart contracts is a crucial part of developing secure and scalable decentralized systems.

Using the programming language Solidity, Ratul Puri designs smart contracts that run on blockchain networks and power decentralized applications.

Ratul Puri’s Approach to Smart Contract Development

Ratul Puri focuses on writing smart contracts that are structured, efficient, and secure. Because smart contracts are stored permanently on a blockchain, they must be written with precision and tested carefully before deployment.

By using Solidity, these smart contracts define the rules that govern how a decentralized system behaves. These rules control transactions, automate processes, and ensure that all participants follow the same transparent logic.

Smart contracts typically run on networks compatible with Ethereum, where the code is executed by the Ethereum Virtual Machine.

Writing Smart Contracts with Solidity

Solidity allows developers to create contracts that store data, process transactions, and interact with other blockchain applications. Ratul Puri uses Solidity to define contract structures that include variables, functions, and conditions that control how the contract behaves.

A typical Solidity contract includes:

State variables that store information on the blockchain

Functions that allow users to interact with the contract

Access controls that restrict certain actions

Logic that automatically executes when conditions are met

By carefully organizing these elements, Ratul Puri ensures that each smart contract performs its intended function reliably.

Security and Testing

Security is one of the most important aspects of smart contract development. Because blockchain transactions are permanent, vulnerabilities in contract code can lead to significant risks.

Ratul Puri emphasizes secure coding practices and thorough testing when building smart contracts. Before deployment, contracts are tested in controlled environments to identify potential errors or weaknesses. This process helps ensure that the final contract is stable and resistant to common vulnerabilities.

Security considerations often include:

Preventing unauthorized access to contract functions

Avoiding logic errors in transaction processing

Optimizing code to reduce unnecessary costs on the blockchain

Through careful testing and auditing, the developer ensures that the smart contracts are dependable and ready for real-world use.

Integration with Decentralized Applications

Smart contracts rarely operate alone. They usually serve as the backend logic for decentralized applications, often called dApps. Ratul Puri integrates Solidity-based contracts with frontend interfaces that allow users to interact with blockchain systems easily.

Using tools and libraries such as Ethers.js and Web3.js, Ratul Puri connects smart contracts to user interfaces, wallets, and blockchain networks.

This integration allows users to perform transactions, manage digital assets, and interact with decentralized platforms seamlessly.

Building Scalable Blockchain Solutions

Blockchain systems must handle real-world usage, which requires scalable architecture and efficient contract design.The developer carefully structures smart contracts so they can operate effectively even as the number of users and transactions grows

By optimizing Solidity code and following best development practices, Ratul Puri ensures that decentralized applications remain reliable, cost-efficient, and scalable.

Conclusion

Smart contracts are the foundation of modern blockchain applications, enabling automated, transparent, and secure digital systems. Through his work with Solidity and blockchain networks, Ratul Puri focuses on building smart contracts that combine efficiency, security, and structured design.

By applying disciplined development practices and deep technical understanding, Ratul Puri contributes to the growing ecosystem of decentralized technologies that are shaping the future of digital systems.

[mariacallous]

Pornhub Is Urging Tech Giants to Enact Device-Based Age Verification

The company sent letters to Apple, Google, and Microsoft pushing for an alternative way to keep minors from viewing porn, as US and UK laws

In letters sent to Apple, Google, and Microsoft this week, Pornhub’s parent company urged the tech giants to support device-based age verification in their app stores and across their operating systems, WIRED has learned.

“Based on our real-world experience with existing age assurance laws, we strongly support the initiative to protect minors online,” reads the letter sent by Anthony Penhale, chief legal officer for Aylo, which owns Pornhub, Brazzers, Redtube, and YouPorn. “However, we have found site-based age assurance approaches to be fundamentally flawed and counterproductive.”

The letter adds that site-based age verification methods have “failed to achieve their primary objective: protecting minors from accessing age-inappropriate material online.” Aylo says device-based authentication is a better solution for this issue because once a viewer’s age is determined via phone or tablet, their age signal can be shared over its application programming interface (API) with adult sites.

The letters were sent following the continued adoption of age verification laws in the US and UK, which require users to upload an ID or other personal documentation to verify that they are not a minor before viewing sexually explicit content; often this requires using third-party services. Currently, 25 US states have passed some form of ID verification, each with different provisions.

Pornhub has experienced an enormous dip in traffic as a result of its decision to pull out of most states that have enacted these laws. The platform was one of the few sites to comply with the new law in Louisiana but doing so caused traffic to drop by 80 percent. Similarly, since implementation of the Online Safety Act, Pornhub has lost nearly 80 percent of its UK viewership.

The company argues that it’s a privacy risk to leave age verification up to third-party sites and that people will simply seek adult content on platforms that don’t comply with the laws.

“We have seen an exponential surge in searches for alternate adult sites without age restrictions or safety standards at all,” says Alex Kekesi, vice president of brand and community at Pornhub.

She says she hopes the tech companies and Aylo are able to find common ground on the matter, especially given the recent passage of the Digital Age Assurance Act (AB 1043) in California. “This is a law that's interesting because it gets it almost exactly right,” she says. Signed into law in October, it requires app store operators to authenticate user ages before download.

According to Google spokesperson Karl Ryan, “Google is committed to protecting kids online, including by developing and deploying new age assurance tools like our Credential Manager API that can be used by websites. We don't allow adult entertainment apps on Google Play and would emphasize that certain high-risk services like Aylo will always need to invest in specific tools to meet their own legal and responsibility obligations.”

Microsoft declined to comment, but pointed WIRED to a recent policy recommendation post that said “age assurance should be applied at the service level, target specific design features that pose heightened risks, and enable tailored experiences for children.”

Apple likewise declined to comment and instead pointed WIRED to its child online safety report and noted that web content filters are turned on by default for every user under 18. A software update from June specified that Apple requires kids who are under 13 to have a kid account, which also includes “app restrictions enabled from the beginning.” Apple currently has no way of requiring every single website to integrate an API.

According to Pornhub, age verification laws have led to ineffective enforcement. “The sheer volume of adult content platforms has proven to be too challenging for governments worldwide to regulate at the individual site or platform level,” says Kekesi. Aylo claims device-based age verification that happens once, on a phone or computer, will preserve user privacy while prioritizing safety.

Recent Studies by New York University and public policy nonprofit the Phoenix Center suggest that current age verification laws don’t work because people find ways to circumvent them, including by using VPNs and turning to sites that don’t regulate their content.

“Platform-based verification has been like Prohibition,” says Mike Stabile, director of public policy at the Free Speech Coalition. “We're seeing consumer behavior reroute away from legal, compliant sites to foreign sites that don't comply with any regulations or laws. Age verification laws have effectively rerouted a massive river of consumers to sites with pirated content, revenge porn, and child sex abuse material.” He claims that these laws “have been great for criminals, terrible for the legal adult industry.”

With age verification and the overall deanonymizing of the internet, these are issues that will now face nearly everyone, but especially those who are politically disfavored. Sex workers have been dealing with issues like censorship and surveillance online for a long time. One objective of Project 2025, MAGA’s playbook for President Trump’s second term, has been to “back door” a national ban on porn through state laws.

The current surge of child protection laws around the world is driving a significant change in how people engage with the internet, and is also impacting industries beyond porn, including gaming and social media. Starting December 10 in Australia, in accordance with the government’s social media ban, kids under 16 will be kicked off Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.

Ultimately, Stabile says that may be the point. In the US, “the advocates for these bills have largely fallen into two groups: faith-based organizations that don't believe adult content should be legal, and age verification providers who stand to profit from a restricted internet.” The goal of faith-based organizations, he says, is to destabilize the adult industry and dissuade adults from using it, while the latter works to expand their market as much as possible, “even if that means getting in bed with right-wing censors.”

But the problem is that “even well-meaning legislators advancing these bills have little understanding of the internet,” Stabile adds. “It's much easier to go after a political punching bag like Pornhub than it is Apple or Google. But if you're not addressing the reality of the internet, if your legislation flies in the face of consumer behavior, you're only going to end up creating systems that fail.”

Adult industry insiders I spoke to in August explained that the biggest misconception about the industry is that it is against self-regulation when that couldn’t be further from the truth. “Keeping minors off adult sites is a shared responsibility that requires a global solution,” Kekesi says. “Every phone, tablet, or computer should start as a kid-safe device. Only verified adults should unlock access to things like dating apps, gambling, or adult content.” In 2022, Pornhub created a chatbot that urges people searching for child sexual abuse content to seek counseling; the tool was introduced following a 2020 New York Times investigation that alleged the platform had monetized videos showing child abuse. Pornhub has since started releasing annual transparency reports and tightened its verification process of performers and for video uploads.

According to Politico, Google, Meta, OpenAI, Snap, and Pinterest all supported the California bill. Right now that law is limited to California, but Kekesi believes it can work as a template for other states.

“We obviously see that there's kind of a path forward here,” she says.