Chinese microblogging platform from Sina, one of the country’s biggest social networks
Apple has confirmed a high-end focus for its September event, with the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max as the main attractions and a foldable iPhone Ultra expected to be unveiled. The base iPhone 18 is delayed to spring 2027, while AirPods and other components face supply and price pressures.
A Thought for the Day segment on BBC Radio 4 has fueled a clash over Christianity in China, after Catherine Pepinster’s remarks about religious freedom were challenged by broadcaster Ruth Roberts. The discussion touched on the history of Christianity, its global reach, and tensions with the Chinese state.
Alibaba has released open weights for Qwen3.8 and Qwen3.8 Max, aiming to lead open-weight AI and enable on-device models on laptops. Meta counters with Muse Glimmer, expanding open-source options for edge devices. The moves signal a race to dominate on-device AI and reduce reliance on data centers.
Z.ai has publicly confirmed that Ox Alpha is GLM-5.3-Flash, a low-cost multimodal model developed for OpenRouter and OpenCode tests. The reveal places Z.ai in the front line of China’s AI race, competing with DeepSeek, Moonshot AI, and Alibaba’s Qwen as it reports half-year results and scales chip claims amid a broader push for domestic AI capability.
Apple has unveiled its first foldable iPhone at the "Surprise and Shine" event, introducing a passport-sized device that opens to roughly a 7.6–7.8‑inch display and will start at about $1,999. The company has also introduced new iPhone 18 Pro models and showcased updates to watches, AirPods and operating systems during John Ternus's first keynote as CEO.
Joanna Wietrzyk has faced backlash after competing in Beijing while fecal matter ran down her legs. Hyrox has apologised and introduced rule changes to address bio-contamination and safety. The incident has reignited debate about extreme training culture and athlete welfare at hybrid fitness events.
Kylian Mbappé has apologised after a clip circulated in which he joked about a meme that appeared to reference Mao Zedong. Chinese state broadcaster China Media Group has suspended La Liga broadcasts and several Chinese firms — including Dongpeng, Mengniu and Milkground — have ended partnerships. Real Madrid and La Liga have also issued apologies.
Mbappé has apologized for a meme linking his image to Mao Zedong after Chinese audiences perceived the joke as insulting. Chinese brands have severed ties, state media has suspended broadcast of La Liga, and social media discussions are intense. The controversy centers on national sentiment and China’s censorship environment.
State media shows the Gongji-11 in multi-angle views, detailing internal bays, sensors, and a potential “loyal wingman” role with crewed fighters. Footage confirms service by 2025 and hints at ground-strike and reconnaissance duties, with questions about autonomy and weapon payloads.