Ancient China had food delivery services; during Song dynasty, emperors ordered meals via eunuchs
Today, we can order food from apps and enjoy it at home, thanks to smartphones and e-payments. But long before modern vehicles and technology, ancient China had already developed a rough version of food delivery services. Historical records say that during the Han dynasty (206BC-220), an emperor once asked his officials about the living conditions of ordinary people. To conceal the fact that famine had struck the city, one official deliberately bought a bowl of meat soup from a market,... [Continue Reading]
Why Melania Trump’s UN speech is an affront to decency
I am a sucker for all kinds of humour, including tasteless jokes. But I draw the line at sick jokes being reported as serious news. As far as those jokes go, the Monday appearance of US first lady Melania Trump as chair of a United Nations Security Council meeting takes the cake. The topic of her speech? Children, technology and education in conflict. She declared that the US “stands with all of the children throughout the world”. Seriously, you can’t make this stuff up. The cynicism and... [Continue Reading]
North Korean agents using AI to trick western firms into hiring them, Microsoft says
Firm says AI tools are masking identities of false applicants, who then funnel wages from remote IT jobs to North KoreaFake IT workers deployed by North Korea are using AI technology, including voice-changing tools, to trick western companies into hiring them, Microsoft has said.The US tech firm said a signature Pyongyang money-raising ruse is being enhanced by AI, which is helping create fake names and alter stolen IDs to increase the credibility of false applicants for IT and software development jobs. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Indonesia to ban social media for children under 16
Platforms include YouTube, TikTok and Instagram as communication minister says ‘our children face real threats’Indonesia will ban social media for children under 16, its communication and digital affairs minister said on Friday.Meutya Hafid said in a statement to media said that she signed a government regulation that will mean children under the age of 16 can no longer have accounts on high-risk digital platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox and Bigo Live, a popular livestreaming site. With a population of about 285 million, the fourth-highest in the world, the south-east Asian nation represents a significant market for... [Continue Reading]
China pledges full support for tech sector with broad range of new policies
China has outlined a basket of measures to support its technology sector, from creating a more flexible and inclusive fundraising ecosystem to boosting demand for hi-tech products. During a high-profile press conference in Beijing, the country’s top economic officials laid out plans to deepen reforms to ChiNext – China’s board for start-ups – and make it easier and quicker for companies to refinance. “Technological innovation requires high investment, long cycles, and carries significant risks,”... [Continue Reading]
China integrates commercial health insurance into national policy to address challenges from ageing population and rising healthcare costs
China has recently incorporated commercial health insurance into its national policy agenda as pressures mount due to an ageing population and escalating healthcare expenses. This move seeks to alleviate the financial strain on basic public insurance systems, which have shown signs of potential sustainability issues. Current projections indicate that rising utilization of medical services, alongside increasing drug and treatment costs, could exacerbate the financial burden faced by basic coverage structures. In recent assessments, the annual surplus of China’s mandatory basic medical insurance fund has reportedly decreased for two consecutive years, falling to 470 billion yuan, suggesting a worrying trend for... [Continue Reading]
Could Iran war confirm China’s prediction on US military’s hypersonic nightmare?
On the same day the US and Israel launched air strikes against Iran, a research team led by Liao Longwen with the Northwest Institute of Nuclear Technology published a paper in the Chinese journal Tactical Missile Technology on the ability of US missile defence systems to intercept hypersonic weapons. The US systems were dangerously outmatched by these threats, the researchers concluded in the paper released on Saturday. “Existing US missile defences can theoretically intercept some hypersonic... [Continue Reading]
Australia mandates age verification for pornography websites to block users under 18 starting Monday
Australia's online regulator has announced that beginning soon, pornography websites must implement measures to block users under the age of 18. This decision is part of a broader initiative to enhance child safety online and follows a significant ban on children under 16 from accessing social media platforms. The new restrictions will officially come into effect on Monday, compelling these sites to employ age verification technology to restrict access to minors. Some websites have proactively barred non-member registrations in anticipation of these new regulations. Under the new rules, not only pornography websites but also search engines, app stores, gaming platforms,... [Continue Reading]
UK arts must not be sacrificed for speculative AI gains, peers say
Ministers urged to abandon plans to let tech firms use work of novelists, artists and writers without permissionThe UK’s creative industries must not be sacrificed in the pursuit of speculative gains in AI technology, a House of Lords committee has warned, as the government prepares to reveal the economic cost of proposals to change copyright rules.A report by peers has urged ministers to develop a licensing regime for the use of creative works in AI products and abandon proposals to let tech firms use the work of novelists, artists, writers and journalists without permission. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
‘1,000-year source’: China plans to fire up world-first accelerator-driven nuclear reactor
China will power up an ultra-efficient, nuclear waste-burning reactor with technology that it projects will safely meet humanity’s energy needs for the next 1,000 years. Accelerator-driven subcritical systems (ADS) are advanced nuclear reactors that can both generate energy and transmute long-lived radioactive waste into shorter-lived and less hazardous isotopes. Designed by researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) along with state nuclear enterprises, the China Initiative... [Continue Reading]
U.S. military faces scrutiny over use of Anthropic's AI tool Claude amid rising tensions with the company
The U.S. military's use of Anthropic's AI tool, Claude, has come under intense scrutiny as tensions rise between the U.S. government and the company. Recent developments have seen Claude being positioned as essential for operations in Iran, even as the Pentagon has classified Anthropic itself as a supply-chain risk. This designation marks a significant escalation in the U.S. government's concerns regarding the integration of artificial intelligence in military operations. Claude, developed by Anthropic, is reportedly integral to informing operational strategies in Iran. However, the Pentagon's actions have sparked a fierce dispute over how AI tools are governed and utilized within... [Continue Reading]
Chinese vice-premier stresses shared duty in Hong Kong’s executive-led governance
Chinese Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang has acknowledged it is no “easy task” to truly implement Hong Kong’s executive-led governance system, stressing that it must be a “shared responsibility” of the legislative and judicial branches and society as a whole. The state leader also urged the city to “grasp” the opportunities of China’s 15th five-year plan as he highlighted key areas such as quantum technology, aerospace and the low-altitude economy, while calling on local entrepreneurs to proactively... [Continue Reading]
China Reduces Economic Growth Forecast Amid Ongoing Trade Tensions with the U.S.
As the annual political sessions commence in Beijing, China has announced a reduction in its economic growth forecast, attributing the decision to external pressures including tariffs imposed by the United States. The Chinese Communist Party's National People's Congress is a critical meeting for determining policy directions, and this year’s gathering underscores the country's intent to bolster its military capacities amidst what is described as a “grave” international environment. The new economic growth target has been set at a modest range, reflecting the ongoing challenges posed by the trade tensions with the U.S., particularly under the Trump administration's tariffs. Officials are... [Continue Reading]
Meta Platforms Inc. executives discuss child safety challenges during legal trial in New Mexico
Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of popular social media applications including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is currently involved in a significant legal trial in New Mexico. During this trial, CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram leader Adam Mosseri addressed the challenges concerning child safety on their platforms. In depositions played earlier this week, Zuckerberg expressed that some level of criminal behavior among users is an unavoidable consequence of having a vast user base of billions. He stated, “the unfortunate reality is that some very small percent of them are going to be criminals,” emphasizing the company’s commitment to mitigating such... [Continue Reading]
Mark Zuckerberg says criminal behavior on Facebook inevitable
Meta CEO, grilled about children’s safety, says in taped deposition a user pool of billions will include bad actorsHarms to children, such as sexual exploitation and detriments to mental health, are inevitable on Meta’s platforms, the company’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Instagram leader Adam Mosseri said in taped depositions played at a trial in New Mexico on Tuesday and Wednesday.“I just think if you’re serving billions of people, the unfortunate reality is that some very small percent of them are going to be criminals, and we should work as hard as we can to stop that activity from happening,” said... [Continue Reading]
Trump says he fired Anthropic ‘like dogs’ as negotiations with Pentagon reportedly restart
Reports say talks have resumed between defense department and startup over military’s use of company’s AI, but US politics live – latest updatesTrump ousts DHS secretary Kristi NoemDonald Trump boasted about severing ties between the US military and Anthropic on Thursday, the same day multiple reports said that negotiations between the Department of Defense and the AI startup had resumed.They’re among the latest developments in the twisting rift between the US government and the AI company. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
15-year-old boy seriously injured in stabbing at Nottingham University Academy of Science and Technology
A 15-year-old boy has been seriously injured following a stabbing incident at the Nottingham University Academy of Science and Technology (NUAST) on Dunkirk Road. The attack occurred at approximately 1:30 PM on Thursday, prompting a rapid response from emergency services. The injured student was taken to a local hospital, where his condition remains undisclosed. Authorities reported that another 15-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the incident. A spokesperson for Nottinghamshire Police confirmed that the two students involved are known to each other. The police received reports of the attack shortly after it occurred, at around 1:36 PM, indicating... [Continue Reading]
China’s 5-year plan emphasises ‘orderly’ AI development amid global tech volatility
Beijing has emphasised the safe and orderly development of artificial intelligence amid growing global anxiety about the disruptive impact of the rapidly advancing technology, as the country’s leaders put the final stamp of approval on China’s next five-year plan at this year’s “two sessions”. The 15th five-year plan elevates China’s AI Plus initiative as a top national priority, according to a draft version of the document submitted for review to the National People’s Congress, China’s top... [Continue Reading]
China sets lowest economic growth target since 1991
China's annual parliamentary session kicks off with a growth downgrade as leaders target technology dominance in the manufacturing field. We take a closer look. Also in this edition: South Korean markets bounce back from a huge selloff, and a US trade court orders the Trump administration to issue tariff refunds. [Continue Reading]
China and Hong Kong should relax biotech listing rules, venture capitalist says
Mainland China and Hong Kong should ease listing rules for biotechnology companies and lower takeover thresholds for listed firms to capitalise on renewed foreign interest in the healthcare sector, venture capitalist Nisa Leung said. “Besides artificial intelligence, Premier Li Qiang also highlighted biomedicine in the ‘two sessions’ annual government work report,” said Leung, a managing partner at Aulis Capital, speaking in a sideline interview during China’s annual meetings of the National... [Continue Reading]
A Word to the Wise: Don’t Trust A.I. to File Your Taxes
The world’s smartest technology is no match for the U.S. tax code. [Continue Reading]
Alibaba sets up new task force, led by CEO Eddie Wu, to focus on AI model development
Alibaba Group Holding is forming a dedicated internal task force headed by CEO Eddie Wu Yongming in a bid to funnel greater resources into its foundational AI model development efforts. On Thursday, Wu said in a letter to members of the company’s artificial intelligence research lab Tongyi that the task force would “jointly coordinate group-wide resources to accelerate foundational model development”. “In technology, standing still means falling behind,” Wu said in the letter, which was provided... [Continue Reading]
China to step up tech, energy and decarbonisation efforts in next 5-year plan
China will set priorities for technological innovation, economic security, public well-being and carbon reduction over the next five years, vowing to lay a solid foundation for its 2035 target of doubling per capita gross domestic product from 2020 levels. The world’s second-largest economy will release 20 growth targets, including both binding and non-binding ones, in areas covering the economy, technology, healthcare and economic security, Premier Li Qiang said when outlining the broad strokes... [Continue Reading]
China announces 7 percent increase in military budget as part of five-year plan for self-sufficiency in military and industrial sectors
China has announced a significant escalation in its military budget, revealing a 7 percent increase in military spending. This announcement marks a critical strategy in response to ongoing pressures from the United States and highlights China's intention to bolster its military capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign technology. The increase comes in conjunction with a five-year plan aimed at enhancing the country's self-sufficiency in both military and industrial sectors. The reasons behind this latest military spending increase stem from a broader geopolitical context where tensions between China and the United States continue to grow. The ongoing technological rivalry, particularly in... [Continue Reading]
Collapse at Rubaya coltan mine in eastern Congo results in at least 200 fatalities, with conflicting reports from authorities and rebels
A catastrophic collapse at the Rubaya coltan mine in eastern Congo on Tuesday has resulted in at least 200 fatalities, as reported by Congolese authorities. However, this figure has been contested by the M23 rebel group, which controls the mining site. The incident has sparked significant debate regarding the true scale of the tragedy and the circumstances surrounding it. The collapse occurred at one of the region's major coltan mining operations, where the Ministry of Mines confirmed the death toll through a press release. In stark contrast, Fanny Kaj, a senior official of the M23, claimed that only five individuals... [Continue Reading]
In a Riskier Era, China Bets on Technology to Resist U.S. Pressure
China announced a 7 percent increase in military spending and a five-year plan to try to reduce its military and industry’s reliance on Western technology. [Continue Reading]
China draft budget report 2026
China’s Ministry of Finance released its draft 2026 budget report, including plans for a more proactive fiscal policy to support the domestic market, advanced technology and public welfare. Major central government expenditures: National defence: 1.91 trillion yuan, up 7 per cent Debt interest payments: 874 billion yuan, up 6.7 per cent Science and technology: 426 billion yuan, up 10 per cent Public security: 258 billion yuan, up 5.9 per cent Education: 192 billion yuan, up 5 per... [Continue Reading]
Russian LNG tanker sinks in Mediterranean after alleged Ukrainian drone strike
A significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has unfolded in the Mediterranean Sea, where the Russian LNG tanker, Arctic Metagaz, has sunk following an alleged drone strike by Ukraine. Sharing the incident details, Moscow claimed that Ukrainian drones targeted the ship late on a recent Tuesday night while it was approximately 150 miles (240 km) off the coast of Libya, carrying 61,000 tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Although there were no fatalities reported among the crew of 30, the vessel went ablaze before ultimately sinking. The Russian government has strongly condemned this alleged act, with... [Continue Reading]
Israeli military issues evacuation orders for civilians in southern Lebanon amid escalating conflict with Hezbollah
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, the Israeli military has issued urgent evacuation orders to civilians living in large parts of southern Lebanon. Residents are being instructed to leave their homes immediately and relocate north of the Litani River, in anticipation of intensified military operations against Hezbollah. This directive highlights the increasing tensions and rising violence in the region, which have drawn widespread international concern. The current hostilities began earlier this week, following a series of US-Israeli airstrikes. Since combat operations commenced, approximately tens of thousands of individuals have already been displaced within... [Continue Reading]
RTÉ announces €30 million tender for technical support services for RTÉ Player starting in 2028
In a significant move to enhance its digital offerings, RTÉ has announced a tender valued at approximately €30 million for technical support services related to the RTÉ Player. This contract, which is set to begin from 2028, will span a duration of seven years, reflecting RTÉ's commitment to maintaining and evolving its streaming capabilities. The tender indicates that RTÉ is actively seeking expressions of interest from qualified suppliers who can provide various technology solutions and services to support the ongoing operation and enhancement of RTÉ's video streaming products. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the... [Continue Reading]
France, Germany, and Greece Increase Military Presence in Cyprus Following Iranian Drone Strikes
In response to recent Iranian-made drone strikes targeting a British military base in Cyprus, France, Germany, and Greece have significantly bolstered their military presence on the island. Cypriot officials confirmed that France will dispatch a warship and additional anti-drone and anti-missile systems to enhance the nation’s defenses. Germany also announced plans to send a warship, while Greece has already deployed four F-16 fighter jets and is dispatching two frigates to the region. The incident involving the Iranian drones marks an escalation in tensions that have been brewing in the Eastern Mediterranean. Cypriot authorities, facing a direct threat to security, underscored... [Continue Reading]
Iranian military actions disrupt global oil supply and impact China's energy security amid rising prices and halted LNG production
Heightened military actions involving Iranian forces have notably disrupted the global oil supply, particularly as they pertain to China's energy security. Recently, Saudi Arabia's largest oil refinery was struck by Iranian drones, subsequently resulting in its temporary shutdown and contributing to rising oil prices. On the same day, Qatar's state-run energy firm halted liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, further exacerbating supply concerns amidst these geopolitical tensions. Analysts suggest these developments could hasten China's transition away from its long-standing dependency on fossil fuels. The attacks on the refinery highlight the precarious nature of energy supply chains in the Middle East, which... [Continue Reading]
US and Israel Conduct Airstrikes on Iran, Prompting International Scrutiny and Legal Concerns
Recent airstrikes on Iran, executed jointly by the United States and Israel, have escalated tensions in the region, drawing international scrutiny and economic repercussions. Since their initiation over the weekend, there have been immediate concerns raised about the legality of the strikes by the United Nations, which have been strongly contested by Israeli officials. Israel's new ambassador to Australia, Hillel Newman, has publicly dismissed these claims, asserting the right to self-defense due to long-standing attacks from Iran and its proxies. Hillel Newman stated that the recent military actions were justified, emphasizing, "Israel has been under attack from Iran and its... [Continue Reading]
Drone attack on Ras Tanura refinery in Saudi Arabia causes significant damage and raises regional security concerns
A recent drone attack attributed to Iranian operatives has struck the Ras Tanura refinery in Saudi Arabia, one of the largest oil processing facilities globally, resulting in significant damage. This incident has heightened regional tensions and sparked concerns regarding security in a sensitive geopolitical landscape. The Saudi Arabian defence ministry reported that two drones were intercepted over the refinery, causing fire and necessitating emergency protocols. The facility, owned by the state oil giant Saudi Aramco, was temporarily shut down following the attack, which occurred local time on a recent Monday. Satellite imagery from the surveillance company Vantor revealed extensive damage... [Continue Reading]
Trump Confirms Continued US Airstrikes in Iran Amid Ongoing Military Campaign
In a significant escalation of military operations, US President Donald Trump has confirmed that American forces will continue airstrikes against strategic targets in Iran. This announcement, made in the early morning hours on the third day of strikes, indicates a broader commitment to a sustained military campaign aimed at dismantling Iran’s military capabilities. Trump asserted that the operations would proceed with "ferocious, unyielding resolve" and projected the military campaign could last for four to five weeks, albeit with the potential for extension if necessary. Trump detailed the objectives of the strikes, emphasizing the need to "eliminate the intolerable threat posed... [Continue Reading]
Israel uses Iron Beam laser defense system to intercept Hezbollah rockets amid rising regional tensions
In a significant escalation of ongoing regional tensions, Israel has for the first time employed its Iron Beam laser defense system to intercept rockets fired by Hezbollah. This development follows a surge in rocket attacks from Hezbollah, which is considered an Iranian proxy in the region. The incident occurred as Iranian-backed forces launched strikes aimed at Israeli positions in a protracted conflict that has seen increasing hostilities in recent days. The Iron Beam system allows Israel to target incoming projectiles using advanced laser technology. Recent footage disclosed shows a laser beam striking projectiles mid-air, resulting in their explosion before reaching... [Continue Reading]
US and Israel launch military strike on Iran, resulting in significant casualties and regional missile retaliation
In a dramatic escalation of tensions, a coordinated military strike by the United States and Israel on Iran on the final day of February has resulted in significant casualties and geopolitical ramifications. This operation reportedly killed hundreds, including Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Following the strike, Iran retaliated by launching missiles against multiple nations in the region, including Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, marking the onset of a potential wider conflict. According to reports, the military strike employed advanced technology, including AI-assisted systems for intelligence assessments and target identification, underscoring the growing role of artificial... [Continue Reading]
The Proving Ground, When “Decent” Reporting Meets High-Tech Warfare
For two decades I have watched wars unfold not only on battlefields, but on screens. Today’s incident over Kuwait, involving the downing of a U.S. F-15 Strike Eagle, is not just another headline in the Iran conflict. It may be a signal that something larger is unfolding behind the noise. Iranian state outlets rapidly circulated imagery of an ejected pilot. Washington responded cautiously. But beneath the spectacle lies a deeper question, whose technology was truly being tested? The Gulf as a live-fire laboratory For years, China has refined export-ready variants of its air defense systems, particularly the HQ-9 family and... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 02 Mar 2026 09:36
Chinese officials to discuss electric vehicle production regulations at upcoming legislative convention
Chinese officials and industry leaders are poised to address plans for regulating electric vehicle (EV) production during the upcoming "two sessions," a significant annual legislative convention for the country's top political bodies,the National People’s Congress and the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. These discussions aim to mitigate ongoing challenges within the domestic EV sector, characterized by slowed growth and fierce price competition that has adversely impacted profit margins. The anticipated discussions are framed against a backdrop where the Chinese government has intervened previously to prevent extreme internal competition,or "involution",that has impacted nearly all EV manufacturers. In... [Continue Reading]
Thousands of Australians stranded as US and Israel military actions disrupt flights in the Middle East
Recent military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran have thrown the Middle East into turmoil, with significant repercussions felt globally. As hostilities escalate, thousands of Australians find themselves stranded in international airports across the region, as flight services have been heavily disrupted. The unannounced airstrikes, which occurred on a recent Saturday, prompted multiple country closures of their airspace, severely impacting travel routes. According to the Australian Travel Industry Association, the sudden cessation of commercial flights and subsequent cancellations have affected an estimated 115,000 Australians currently in the region. Affected areas include major international transit hubs in countries... [Continue Reading]
Iranian drone strikes US military installation Camp Buehring in Kuwait amid escalating tensions in the Middle East
In a recent escalation of military confrontations in the Middle East, an Iranian drone reportedly struck a US military installation known as Camp Buehring in northwestern Kuwait. The incident was captured on footage, which showed the drone impacting the camp and releasing a significant explosion alongside a cloud of smoke. This strike adds to the increasing hostilities between Iran and the United States, particularly following a series of military engagements in the region. According to reports, the drone attack has confirmed heightened tensions that have been brewing for some time. The strike on Camp Buehring occurred as part of broader... [Continue Reading]
US and Israeli forces strike Iranian targets, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
In a dramatic escalation of military operations, US and Israeli forces conducted strikes on Iranian targets, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. These strikes began on Saturday, creating significant ripples in regional geopolitics and international relations. This marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing tensions between Iran and Western nations, especially the United States and Israel. Reports indicate that the attacks incorporated advanced technology, with the US military utilizing Anthropic's AI model, Claude, to assist in operational decisions. Despite former President Donald Trump's recent orders to limit the use of such AI tools due to his... [Continue Reading]
Hong Kong government announces HK$30 billion funding for Northern Metropolis urban development projects in New Territories
Hong Kong's government announced significant plans for urban development as it seeks to secure HK$30 billion (approximately US$3.8 billion) for the initial phase of the Northern Metropolis project. This budget allocation is aimed at supporting the establishment of three key developments: the Hetao Hong Kong Park, San Tin Technopole, and Hung Shui Kiu Industry Park, which together are expected to cover an expansive area of 30,000 hectares in the New Territories. The announcement was made by Bernadette Linn Hon-ho, the Secretary for Development, who outlined the proposed legal framework for these projects at a recent press briefing. The official stated... [Continue Reading]
