Tobias

TSMC faces pressure from potential U.S. tariffs and demands for significant investment. The U.S. is considering a 20% tariff on Taiwanese exports, prompting negotiation for a rate closer to South Korea and Japan’s 15%. Reports suggest the U.S. seeks a $300 billion investment from TSMC for a massive Arizona fabrication plant, potentially housing future 2nm and 1.4nm processes. This investment, exceeding 30 times TSMC’s equity, follows a prior $165 billion U.S. expansion commitment. TSMC has declined to comment on the rumors.

A Chinese gaming streamer, Youchong, faced controversy after discrepancies surfaced between her avatar and real appearance revealed at an awards ceremony. Youchong clarified that the avatar was simply an aesthetic choice and that her appeal lay in her gaming skills, not her looks. This incident sparked debate regarding online personas versus reality and audience expectations in the evolving live-streaming market, highlighting the complex relationship between authenticity and streamer identity.

The U.S. is launching “Project ATOM,” a strategic initiative to regain leadership in open-source AI amid growing competition from China, particularly Alibaba’s Qwen models. This U.S.-based non-profit AI lab will develop freely accessible AI models, supported by over 10,000 GPUs. Backed by industry leaders, the project addresses concerns about the U.S.’s lagging open-source contributions, highlighted by the dominance of Chinese-developed open-source LLMs. Project initiator Lambert emphasizes the need for coordination and funding, warning of potential U.S. decline in global AI influence if the initiative fails.

Portable projectors are transforming entertainment, offering flexibility beyond traditional setups. Key buying considerations include brightness (CVIA lumens), resolution (1080P or 4K), portability (under 2kg ideal), smart features (auto-focus, keystone correction), and diverse ports. The Dangbei D6X Plus stands out with its design, 1200 CVIA lumens brightness, 1080P resolution, MT9669 chip, and intelligent features like auto-obstacle avoidance and AI voice control, making it a top choice for 2025.

Focus Media and Alipay launched “Tap and Grab Red Envelope” in over 20 Chinese cities, turning elevator wait times into reward opportunities. Users tap advertising screens to unlock digital red envelopes with cash rewards and coupons, worth a total of 100 million yuan in rewards plus 10 million in waivers. This integration of Alipay’s “Tap” functionality offers a simplified, secure user experience, connecting advertising exposure with immediate incentives across various scenarios, aiming to compress conversion pathways and drive brand growth. This new feature is becoming a link between online and offline services.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 redefines the foldable phone with its slim design, measuring just 13.7mm when folded and weighing 188g. It features a larger 4.1-inch cover screen, a 4300mAh battery, and enhanced durability with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an Armor Aluminum frame. The device incorporates nine recycled materials, reflecting Samsung’s commitment to sustainability. The Z Flip7 advances foldable technology toward a user-centric and eco-conscious future, solidifying Samsung’s leadership in the category.

Ant Group celebrated 2,733 employees, 7.5% of its workforce, who have dedicated over 10 years to the company. These “Decade of Dedication” awardees, averaging 39 years old, include key innovators behind initiatives like “Collect Five Blessings” and Yu’e Bao, with 45% in technical roles. CEO Eric Jing presented them with the “Entrusted with Fortune” gift set. In a humorous gesture, Jing offered a “conditional offer” to a 10-year-old boy, son of an honoree, for a job in ten years.

Hua Xiaoxiao, a Xinjiang stir-fried rice noodle brand, is rapidly expanding across China, projected to reach over 3,000 locations by 2025. Founder Zhao Gang, leveraging his marketing background, strategically utilized e-commerce to overcome challenges faced by traditional restaurants. By focusing on a standardized, replicable menu item and building a strong online presence, Hua Xiaoxiao achieved scalable growth and improved product development through immediate customer feedback. E-commerce accounts for a significant portion of revenue, enabling community stores and promoting Xinjiang culture. The brand aims for global expansion, using a multi-platform approach to maximize reach.

Taobao, owned by Alibaba, has launched “Taobao Grand Membership,” integrating services like Ele.me and Fliggy. The tiered program, with six levels (Bronze to Black Diamond) and five star levels within each, offers escalating benefits based on “Taobao Points.” Perks range from shopping discounts to travel benefits. Membership tiers are updated quarterly. Black Diamond, the highest tier, is invitation-only. Spending across Taobao, Ele.me, and Fliggy will contribute to point accumulation. 88VIP members receive an automatic upgrade.

A 2007 paper proposing a connection between ancient Chinese and the origins of English has sparked debate. The paper suggests similarities between the Code of Hammurabi and the Shang Dynasty, and posits that English words could be derived from ancient Chinese. Author Professor Li Rongjian welcomes scholarly discussion and acknowledges the evolution of his views. He emphasizes academic discourse and cautions against personal attacks. The paper hypothesizes that Indo-European speaking Britons originated in the Eurasian steppes and that ancient Chinese was a major language in the ancient Near East.