Author: Laura Watling
China has unveiled the world’s first commercial 10G broadband network in its high-tech city of Xiong’an, marking a significant leap in global internet infrastructure. This initiative positions China at the forefront of next-generation connectivity, promising ultra-fast internet speeds and low latency to support advanced applications. A Technological Milestone The 10G broadband network, developed collaboratively by Huawei and China Unicom, utilizes cutting-edge 50G Passive Optical Network (PON) technology. Real-world tests have demonstrated download speeds reaching up to 9,834 Mbps, upload speeds of 1,008 Mbps, and latency as low as 3 milliseconds. Such capabilities enable users to download large files in seconds…
In a significant shift within the smartphone industry, Apple has surpassed Samsung to become the world’s leading smartphone vendor in the first quarter of 2025. According to Counterpoint Research, Apple captured a 19% share of the global smartphone market, edging out Samsung, which held an 18% share during the same period. Emerging Markets Fuel Apple’s Growth Apple’s ascendancy is largely attributed to the robust performance of the iPhone 16e, a model priced from $599, which has resonated strongly in emerging markets. The iPhone 16e, replacing the previous iPhone SE, has driven double-digit growth in regions such as India, Japan,…
Amazon and Microsoft are taking a step back from their previously aggressive AI data centre expansion plans, signalling a more cautious industry-wide approach as infrastructure demands and economic pressures continue to mount. Strategic Pause in Data Center Leasing Recent analyses by Wells Fargo and TD Cowen have highlighted that AWS has paused certain co-location data center lease negotiations, particularly in international markets. This move mirrors Microsoft’s recent decision to halt or cancel data centre projects amounting to approximately 2 gigawatts of power capacity in the U.S. and Europe. These adjustments suggest a broader trend of tech giants adopting a more…
In the heart of Zhejiang province, Hangzhou—often dubbed China’s Silicon Valley—is rapidly transforming into a global tech powerhouse. Despite escalating trade tensions and tariffs, the city’s burgeoning tech scene exudes a “turbocharged confidence,” signalling China’s unwavering commitment to technological innovation. A Nexus of Innovation Hangzhou’s tech ecosystem is a vibrant amalgamation of established giants and agile startups. Home to e-commerce behemoth Alibaba, the city also fosters emerging firms like DeepSeek, an AI startup making waves by challenging Western counterparts. The city’s dynamic environment, characterised by sleek co-working spaces and a culture of relentless innovation, positions it as a formidable…
In a groundbreaking development, researchers have engineered a cement-based material that not only provides structural support but also generates and stores electricity. This innovation could revolutionise the construction industry by enabling buildings to harness their own energy. Biomimicry at Its Best The research team, led by Professor Zhou Yang at Southeast University in China, drew inspiration from the layered structures found in plant stems. They developed a cement-hydrogel composite that mimics these natural configurations, enhancing the material’s ability to convert thermal energy into electrical energy. This bio-inspired design addresses the limitations of traditional cement in conducting electricity. Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance…
Pioneering Robotics Integration The partnership focuses on developing and deploying both humanoid and quadruped robots within GWM’s production lines. By leveraging Unitree’s expertise in robotics, GWM intends to automate complex tasks, improve precision, and reduce production times. This initiative aligns with the broader industry trend of adopting intelligent manufacturing solutions to meet evolving market demands. A spokesperson from GWM stated, “Our collaboration with Unitree Robotics marks a pivotal step in embracing cutting-edge technology to enhance our manufacturing capabilities and set new standards in the automotive industry.” Unitree’s Robotic Innovations Unitree Robotics is renowned for its development of agile and versatile…
In a bold move to fortify its position in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector, Nvidia has announced plans to invest up to $500 billion in building AI infrastructure within the United States over the next four years. This initiative comes as the company seeks to mitigate risks associated with potential tariffs on semiconductors and to enhance its supply chain resilience. Strategic Expansion in the U.S. Nvidia’s investment will focus on the development of “supercomputers” and the establishment of manufacturing facilities in collaboration with partners such as Foxconn and Wistron. Production of the company’s advanced Blackwell graphics processing units has already…
In a pioneering advancement for regenerative medicine, scientists at King’s College London have successfully cultivated human teeth in a laboratory setting. This development holds the potential to transform dental care by enabling patients to regenerate lost teeth naturally, offering an alternative to traditional fillings and implants. Mimicking Natural Tooth Development The research team engineered a biomaterial that closely replicates the natural environment of tooth development. This innovation allows cells to communicate effectively, initiating the formation of a tooth. Dr Ana Angelova-Volponi, Director of Regenerative Dentistry at King’s College London, remarked that this breakthrough could “revolutionise dental care” by providing sustainable…
In a significant leap for flexible electronics, researchers at Sweden’s Linköping University have unveiled a novel battery that can be 3D printed into virtually any shape. This soft, malleable battery maintains its performance even when twisted, stretched, or compressed, opening new possibilities for wearable technology, soft robotics, and e-textiles. A Fluid Approach to Energy Storage Traditional batteries are rigid and bulky, limiting the design and functionality of modern devices. The Swedish team’s innovation lies in replacing solid electrodes with liquid ones, creating a battery with a toothpaste-like consistency. This fluid structure allows the battery to conform to various shapes without…
In the rapidly evolving world of electric bicycles, the Mercedes-AMG F1 Track Edition 750 Electric Bike emerges as a fusion of motorsport aesthetics and modern e-bike technology. Crafted by N+ Bikes in collaboration with the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, this e-bike aims to deliver a high-performance cycling experience reminiscent of the adrenaline associated with Formula 1 racing. Design and Aesthetics The Track Edition boasts a sleek, matte black aluminium frame accentuated by Petronas Green highlights, paying homage to Mercedes’ F1 livery. Its fully rigid frame is designed to ensure that all power is efficiently transferred to the ground. The…