Science and Tech
TikTok to pay $400 million to US over child data protection violations
TikTok has reached a $400 million settlement with the US Department of Justice over allegations of violating child data protection laws for users under 13, moving towards the resolution of a lawsuit filed in 2024.
Bilibili steps up global push, sets sights on YouTube's vast market
Chinese video-sharing platform Bilibili is stepping up its international expansion, rolling out a revamped Android app and making it easier for overseas creators to publish content as it seeks to build a stronger foothold beyond China.
New Zealand targets social media giants with under-16 ban plan
New Zealand is preparing to put social media companies under greater pressure to keep children off their platforms, with the government planning a ban on social media access for people under 16.
Apple lays off 200-plus employees as AI, smart glasses take priority
Apple has laid off more than 200 employees from its Vision Pro headset and Siri teams as the company reshapes its workforce to focus more heavily on artificial intelligence (AI) and smart glasses, according to Apple analyst Mark Gurman.
Chinese humanoid robot breaks Usain Bolt’s world record
A Chinese humanoid robot has run 100 metres faster than Usain Bolt's world record, clocking 9.39 seconds at the qualifying round of the World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing on Saturday (August 22).
TikTok prepares to turn its inbox into a money transfer hub
TikTok is preparing to expand beyond social networking by introducing a direct money-transfer feature that would allow users to send funds to one another through the app's inbox.
AI can help, but it is no substitute for a real friend in these 5 situations
Artificial intelligence is becoming deeply embedded in everyday life, from workplace tasks to personal conversations. Many people now turn to AI not only for information but also for advice on relationships, appearance, intelligence and money. Experts, however, caution against treating AI as a substitute for human judgment, emotional support or professional advice—particularly when decisions involve sensitive personal matters.
Google offers students one year of free Gemini Pro, 400GB cloud storage
Google has launched a major education-focused offer giving university students one year of free access to its Gemini AI Pro plan along with 400GB of cloud storage under its 'Back to School' programme.
OpenAI launches ChatGPT for teens with stronger safety safeguards
OpenAI has launched ChatGPT for Teens, a dedicated experience for users aged 13 to 17, introducing stronger safeguards around sensitive content and new controls for parents.
YouTube to count views immediately upon play
YouTube is introducing a change to its video view-counting methodology. Starting August 24, any video will be counted as a view the moment it starts playing, and the same rule will apply to live streams as well.