QtrendsTSMC brushes off mainland chip rivals amid AI boom
TSMC's chairman expressed confidence that the company's technological edge will keep mainland Chinese foundries at a distance, even as they expand mature-node capacity. Huawei continues to explore alternative chip-scaling approaches under US sanctions. Meanwhile, Applied Materials plans to increase its chip-talent hiring in Southeast Asia by 25%.
Sources:
New theory promises to transform chip sector
(China Daily)
Meta has introduced a new AI-powered assistant designed to help creators with brainstorming and content generation on Facebook. The tool, described as a 'brainstorming partner,' is rolling out to select users. However, a related AI product called Muse Spark is not expected to appear in mobile apps anytime soon.
Cash App has launched a 'Magic Wand' that allows users to make payments with a simple wave gesture. The gadget is designed as a novelty alternative to phone-based tap-to-pay. Tech outlets have described the launch as a playful take on contactless payments.
The USDA has confirmed a case of New World screwworm infection in a cow in South Texas, marking the return of the flesh-eating parasite to the US. The maggots can infest living tissue in warm-blooded animals and humans. Health officials are urging livestock owners to monitor for symptoms.
China is opening its telecoms sector to foreign investment as the US tightens technology export controls. Meanwhile, DeepSeek, a Chinese AI model, has become the top trending AI tool among US companies seeking cheaper alternatives to OpenAI and Anthropic. Alibaba has also opened its Qwen AI to external applications as the domestic AI agent race heats up.