Tobias
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Plane Collision Sparks Massive Fire at US Airport
On August 11th, a Socata TBM 700 turboprop crashed upon landing at Kalispell City Airport in Montana and struck a parked plane on the taxiway. The collision caused a fire that spread to nearby grassy areas and other planes. The aircraft, registered to Meter Sky LLC, carried four occupants, all of whom evacuated. Two passengers sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene. The FAA is investigating the incident.
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DeepSeek Outage Sparks Debate; Official Response: Website/API Restored
On August 11th, the Chinese AI model DeepSeek experienced a widespread service outage, impacting its API, website, and mobile app. The incident sparked widespread complaints on Weibo under the hashtag #DeepSeekDown. DeepSeek reported the issue was identified and resolved between 21:55 and 23:39. DeepSeek gained popularity in early 2025, surpassing ChatGPT in US app downloads and reaching 30 million daily active users faster than any other app.
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PhD Dropout Turns B&B into $400K/Year Business
Yang Shuncheng, a former Chinese Academy of Sciences doctoral candidate, transitioned to entrepreneurship, opening the “Muye Gongchao” guesthouse. Despite facing criticism for leaving academia, Yang defends his decision, emphasizing the value of his education in shaping his thinking. His venture has proven successful, reportedly generating ¥4 million (approximately $550,000 USD) annually. Registered in 2023 with a substantial capital, the company’s business includes comprehensive hospitality services.
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Taobao Flash Delivery Riders Sport Racing-Inspired Uniforms Covered in Alibaba Brand Logos
Taobao Flash Delivery is upgrading its riders’ uniforms with a Formula 1-inspired design for the autumn season. The orange and black uniforms feature reflective strips for safety and are branded with various Alibaba logos. This stylish update coincides with significant growth in Taobao Flash Delivery’s rider network, with monthly active riders up 181% and crowdsourced riders increasing by 236%. More riders are also earning over 10,000 yuan monthly, reflecting the rising demand for efficient delivery services.
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Hiker Found in Qinling Mountains After Two Weeks: Illegal Trek Suspected
A hiker missing for two weeks in the restricted D督门 area of the Qinling Mountains was found with a leg injury after falling into a ravine during an illegal trek. Experts cite the range’s dangers and regulations prohibiting unauthorized passage. This incident, involving thrill-seekers flouting rules, strains rescue resources and ecosystems. It emphasizes the need for responsible tourism, ethical exploration, and regulation of content promoting dangerous activities on social media, preventing risks and protecting environments.
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Wahaha Responds to Cutting Dealers with Sales Below ¥3 Million: Normal Dynamic Optimization
Wahaha, the Chinese beverage company, is undergoing strategic changes under Zong Fuli, daughter of the founder, who assumed leadership roles. Reports suggested a distributor cull, but Wahaha clarified that network shifts are normal optimization, with new distributors exceeding those not renewed. Earlier, Zong Qinghou stepped down from key positions. A legal dispute involving Zong Fuli in Hong Kong and distributors’ concerns about internal family matters and their impact on sales have added complexity to Wahaha’s situation.
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Chairman of Nanning Company Only 17: Official Response Affirms Legality
Nanning Yunguitong Technology faces a social media controversy in China over its young leadership, including a 17-year-old Chairman. The company defends its executive’s eligibility under Chinese Civil Code Article 18, which grants full civil capacity to employed minors aged 16+. Yunguitong asserts compliance with all regulations, emphasizing that registration details are accurate and its objectives align with legitimate, socially responsible business activities. The company also participates in the China International College Students’ Innovation Competition.
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World’s First Gen 8.6 AMOLED Production Line Without FMM, Backed by $7.6 Billion Investment, Reaches Milestone
Visionox and Hefei Guoxian’s Gen 8.6 AMOLED production line, the world’s first using FMM-less (ViP) technology, has completed its main building in Hefei, China. The RMB 55 billion project aims for a monthly capacity of 32,000 glass substrates and achieved this milestone in just 168 days. ViP technology offers improved resolution, power consumption, and lifespan compared to traditional FMM AMOLED, potentially disrupting the display industry and accelerating AMOLED adoption in mid-to-large size displays.
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Miniso Accused of Hiring Online Trolls to Attack Pop Mart Over Alleged Store Design Copycat
A social media controversy has erupted in China over alleged design similarities between Pop Mart’s new Bangkok flagship store and Miniso’s “MINISO LAND” concept. Online users noted resemblances in color palettes, layout, and overall ambiance. Pop Mart stated that their internal team designed the store and pledged a review. Adding fuel to the fire, some allege Miniso may have initiated the criticism using online trolls. This incident highlights the intense competition and the importance of IP protection in China’s retail market.
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京东养车: “Bone-Rattling” Prices with Massive Subsidies
JD Auto has rebranded its “$5 Billion Stimulus” campaign to “Zhen Gu Jia” (“Bone-Rattling Prices”) after a crowdsourcing initiative. The “818 Zhen Gu Jia Savings Fest,” starting August 11th, offers discounts up to 50% on tires, maintenance, accessories, and even electric bikes. Customers can save significantly with deals like RMB 250 off every RMB 500 spent on tires. JD Auto also introduces “365 Worry-Free Purchase,” extending coupon validity. This initiative aims to lower car ownership costs through transparent pricing and improved service.