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Time:2026-06-30T07:54:00Z

South Korea and its chip giants commit over $550 billion to expand memory chip production and humanoid robotics, intensifying the global semiconductor race. Global smartphone demand weakens as Goldman Sachs forecasts shipment declines and Chinese makers cut targets. The AI employment debate grows more contentious with graduates from top US schools struggling in a shrinking entry-level market. Chip design races ahead with ByteDance planning a next-generation CPU and IBM unveiling technology to extend Moore's Law. Delivery robot regulation gains momentum in the UK as backlash and government support collide.

South Korea pours billions into memory chips and robotics

South Korea pours billions into memory chips and roboticsSouth Korea, along with Samsung and SK Hynix, has announced massive investments exceeding $550 billion to expand memory chip production and develop humanoid robots. The initiative, described as a response to the global 'RAMageddon,' aims to solidify South Korea's dominance in the memory semiconductor market. TechCrunch, Ars Technica, and Tom's Hardware all highlight the scale of capital commitment, with the total potentially reaching $1 trillion when government spending is included.

Smartphone demand slumps as Apple plans 2027 lineup

Smartphone demand slumps as Apple plans 2027 lineupGoldman Sachs warns that global smartphone shipments are set to decline, while Apple is reportedly preparing six new iPhone models for 2027 with significant upgrades. Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo have cut their 2026 shipment targets for the second time in response to weakening demand. The contrasting outlooks highlight diverging strategies among major players in a cooling smartphone market.

AI reshapes tech employment landscape

AI reshapes tech employment landscapeThe debate over AI's impact on jobs is intensifying. TechCrunch reports growing confusion around the issue, while MIT Review argues that AI agents should not be viewed as 'coworkers.' The human toll is visible: a Nikkei Tech piece features tech graduates from top US universities who have applied to thousands of positions with no success, as AI tools increasingly handle entry-level work that would have gone to new hires.

Next-gen chip race: ByteDance and IBM push forward

Next-gen chip race: ByteDance and IBM push forwardByteDance is planning a next-generation custom CPU with development targeting early next year, partnering with Qualcomm on foundry capacity. Meanwhile, IBM has unveiled new chip technology that promises to extend Moore's Law for another decade. MIT Review also highlights a $400 million machine that is shaping the future of semiconductor manufacturing. These developments signal continued momentum in processor innovation.

UK delivery robot debate heats up

UK delivery robot debate heats upPublic backlash against delivery robots is growing in the UK, with reports of residents complaining about sidewalk obstructions and safety concerns. The Guardian covers both the opposition and the novelty of receiving deliveries from robots in Milton Keynes. At the same time, UK ministers are likely to support legal changes that would allow delivery robots on public paths, signaling a policy shift toward embracing the technology.