iWorld
Bangladesh braces up to keep tabs on online media
NEW DELHI: All online media in Bangladesh will have to register with a National Broadcasting Commission to be formed under the National Broadcast Act before launching operations, under a new decision of the country’s cabinet.
The format of the Commission is yet to be drafted, but National Inline Mass Media Guideline has been approved.
Under the draft drawn up recently by the prime minister Sheikh Hasina-led Cabinet, newspapers and TV channels registered under the 1993 Press and Publications Act will not require approval from the Commission for their online outlets, but will have to notify the regulator before the launch of their services.
Action will be taken suo moto by the Broadcasting Commission against online broadcasters, if it appears that they have violated the code of conduct and discipline. The Commission is also empowered to take punitive actions against an online broadcaster if any content of broadcast poses a threat to security, territorial integrity, peace, public order and unity of the country.
The Commission is further authorized to take actions against the broadcasters for disseminating vulgar, false and malicious stuff and contents against the spirit of the War of Liberation and distorts national history and heritage.
Section 57 of the Information and Communication Technology Act, 2006 (ICT Act) already criminalises the offences which the Broadcasting Commission seeks to penalise.
iWorld
Netflix launches Playground app to bring games and interactive play for kids
Interactive games, fresh series and returning favourites aim to blend play and learning
MUMBAI: Netflix is doubling down on kids entertainment with a major expansion of its family-friendly slate, anchored by the launch of Netflix Playground, a new interactive app designed to blend play with storytelling.
Aimed at children aged eight and under, the app allows young viewers to engage with familiar characters from shows like Peppa Pig and Sesame Street through games and activities, all within a safe, ad-free environment. The app is already live in select markets and is set for a wider global rollout later this month.
The move signals Netflix’s push to turn passive viewing into a more immersive experience. Alongside the app, the platform has unveiled a mix of new titles and returning favourites, including fresh episodes of Trash Truck and The Creature Cases, as well as a new preschool series, Young MacDonald. Popular titles such as CoComelon Lane and Ms. Rachel are also set to expand with new seasons and episodes.
Speaking about the strategy, Netflix vice president of animation series and kids and family tv John Derderian said, “We’re building a world where kids can not only watch their favourite stories, they can step inside them and interact with their favourite characters. We’re creating a seamless destination for discovery, learning, and play.”
The expanded offering also leans heavily on convenience for parents, with offline access, curated content, and robust parental controls designed to ensure a safe and tailored viewing experience. Features such as profile locks, content filters, and activity tracking aim to give families greater control while allowing children to explore independently.
The timing is strategic. Kids and preschool content has emerged as one of Netflix’s most-watched categories in recent years, making it a key battleground in the streaming wars. By combining games, education, and entertainment, the platform is looking to deepen engagement and build long-term loyalty among younger audiences.
With interactive play now joining its content arsenal, Netflix is not just streaming stories but inviting kids to step inside them, turning screen time into something a little more hands-on.
