Markets

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.

Patriot Battery Metals (PMET) will host a live investor webinar on July 21st/22nd to discuss the maiden Mineral Resource Estimate for caesium at its Shaakichiuwaanaan Property. CEO Ken Brinsden will elaborate on the findings at the Rigel and Vega zones and update on the Definitive Feasibility Study focused on lithium at the CV5 deposit. The webinar will include a live Q&A. A recording will be available afterwards.

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.

Barton Gold (BGDFF) plans to reinstate its Central Gawler Mill for A$26M (±30%), targeting a late 2026 production start. This refurbishment offers cost advantages over building a new mill, with processing costs estimated at A$44.50/tonne. The company aims to complete feasibility studies by end of 2025. While financing isn’t secured, existing infrastructure provides more options. A key benefit is the option to defer capital expenditure by initially reprocessing tailings.

Patriot Battery Metals has identified a major caesium discovery at its Shaakichiuwaanaan Project. The “Caesium Zone MRE” reveals the world’s largest pollucite-hosted caesium pegmatite deposit, including the Rigel and Vega zones. The project is now factored into the CV13 Pegmatite open-pit resource, with indicated resources of 108.0 Mt at 1.40% Li2O and 0.11% Cs2O. Patriot is evaluating caesium recovery, driven by increasing demand in terrestrial solar panels. A lithium feasibility study for the CV5 Pegmatite is expected in CYQ3-2025.

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.