Tobias

Goertek showcased its latest innovations in audio, video, and AI at its inaugural Innovation Conference. A key focus was acoustic solutions for AI glasses, addressing audio quality and user privacy. Goertek presented leak-proof audio technology reducing sound spill and a multi-microphone array with VPU sensor for enhanced noise reduction and speech recognition. Their edge-based audio algorithm libraries and rapid audio effect validation system further demonstrate their R&D capabilities in acoustic innovation. The conference aimed to foster internal collaboration and inspire employee creativity.

Microsoft is shutting down its “Movies & TV” store on Windows and Xbox after 12 years. Users will no longer be able to purchase new digital movies and TV shows. Launched in 2012 to compete with rivals like Apple and Amazon, the service allowed users to rent or buy content across Microsoft’s ecosystem. While new purchases are halted, users can still access previously purchased content. This closure signifies Microsoft’s exit from the direct-to-consumer streaming market, following the earlier termination of its Groove Music streaming service.

TikTok has launched its movie rating feature, allowing users to rate and review films directly on the platform. Early scores for movies like “Jiang Yuan Nong” and “Jurassic World: Rebirth” are surprisingly low. TikTok aims for broad accessibility, genuine feedback, and equitable application. The platform is committed to combating fraudulent score manipulation to ensure impartiality. This initiative seeks to provide diverse cinematic perspectives and disrupt traditional film review methods, offering moviegoers more informed viewing decisions.

In a CCTV News interview, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang lauded China’s technological innovation and vitality, emphasizing Nvidia’s 30-year commitment to the market. Huang highlighted companies like DeepSeek, utilizing the H20 chip for AI innovation, and Xiaomi’s advancements in electric vehicles. While avoiding direct answers regarding advanced chip supply under potential limitations, he noted that constraints can foster innovation, referencing Alibaba and DeepSeek’s achievements. He acknowledged China’s impressive development speed in the EV sector.

China’s Ministry of State Security warns of increasing cybersecurity threats from hidden “backdoors” in foreign-made technology. These backdoors, either intentionally embedded or unwittingly created, can grant unauthorized access for espionage, potentially turning everyday devices into tools for remote surveillance and data theft. The Ministry urges vigilance, advocating for domestically developed technology and robust security protocols to mitigate these risks and protect national security.

NVIDIA’s Jensen Huang praised China’s AI advancements, highlighting his long-standing collaboration with Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun. Their partnership spans smartphones, AI, and autonomous driving. Huang admires China’s innovative engineers and vast consumer base. During a recent meeting, Lei Jun showcased Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra electric vehicle, prompting Huang to commend its technology and design, expressing his desire to purchase one despite its unavailability in the US. Their decade-long collaboration started when NVIDIA was less established.

While Chinese brands promote homegrown screen technologies, Corning’s Gorilla Glass remains a key player, with innovations like Gorilla Glass Ceramic and continued collaboration with Apple on Ceramic Shield. Corning’s success extends far beyond smartphone screens. Their core business lies in Optical Communications (32% of sales), particularly optical fiber, fueled by the AI boom. While Specialty Materials (including Gorilla Glass) constitutes 14% of sales, Corning’s diversified operations, including Display Technologies, ensure overall growth and market leadership. The focus shift by phone manufacturers is part of a wider business picture.

On July 18th, a yacht collided with the USS Midway museum in San Diego. Surveillance footage shows the yacht hitting the aircraft carrier in daylight. The yacht fled but was intercepted, and the captain was arrested for suspected DUI. The impact was minimal, and the USS Midway sustained no significant damage. The incident has sparked disbelief and humor online, with users questioning the potential sentencing. The USS Midway, commissioned in 1945, became a museum in 2004.

On July 18, a Delta Boeing 767-400ER (DL446) experienced an engine fire shortly after taking off from LAX, prompting a safe emergency landing. All 226 passengers and 9 crew disembarked normally. The incident is under investigation. This follows a similar event on July 12, where a WestJet Boeing 737 MAX 8 at Vancouver International Airport had an engine fire after arriving from Tampa. Passengers were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported. That fire is also under investigation.

Tech entrepreneur Luo Yonghao supports airlines relaxing footwear requirements for flight attendants, stating that appearance shouldn’t be a primary hiring factor. This follows a trend of airlines like Spring Airlines, Hunan Airlines and Juneyao Airlines prioritizing comfort and safety over traditional aesthetics. These airlines now permit or mandate flat shoes either full time or during in-flight service, addressing concerns raised about the impracticality and safety hazards of high heels in the high-altitude environment of an aircraft.