Meta has acquired Manus, a Chinese artificial intelligence startup, in a move aimed at strengthening its AI research and product development capabilities. The deal is part of a broader wave of late-year investments by large technology companies seeking to accelerate progress in artificial intelligence.

Manus is known for its work in advanced AI systems and model development, and the acquisition is expected to bolster Meta’s efforts to integrate more powerful AI tools across its platforms, including social media, advertising technology, and emerging products. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The acquisition comes amid heightened competition among global technology firms to ...

China has lodged a formal protest after the demolition of a monument in Panama commemorating Chinese labourers who contributed to the construction of the Panama Canal. Chinese officials described the action as regrettable and said it had caused concern among the Chinese public.

The memorial honoured thousands of Chinese workers who played a role in building the canal in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many of whom endured harsh conditions. Chinese authorities said the monument carried historical and cultural significance and called for respect for the contributions of Chinese migrants.

Panamanian officials said the demolition was linked to urban redevelopment ...

Recent leaks have offered a more detailed look at a potential foldable iPhone being developed by Apple, suggesting the device could feature a book-style folding design similar to other premium foldable smartphones. Renderings and hands-on mockups indicate a large internal display paired with a slimmer external screen.

According to the leaked information, the foldable iPhone may prioritise a refined hinge mechanism aimed at reducing visible creases when unfolded. The device is also expected to maintain Apple’s design focus, with a thin profile and premium materials consistent with current iPhone models.

The reports suggest the handset would run a version of iOS adapted ...

Israel has warned that it could suspend or restrict the activities of certain humanitarian organisations operating in Gaza, citing security concerns and allegations of improper conduct. Israeli officials said the measures would apply to groups found to be violating regulations or failing to meet oversight requirements.

The warning comes amid ongoing efforts to deliver aid to Gaza’s civilian population following months of conflict. Humanitarian organisations say access constraints, inspections, and administrative hurdles have already slowed the delivery of food, medical supplies, and fuel into the territory.

Aid agencies have cautioned that further restrictions could significantly worsen living conditions for civilians, many of ...

Russia has said it has deployed its nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile system to Belarus, marking a further expansion of military cooperation between the two allies. Russian officials described the move as part of agreed defence arrangements with Minsk.

The Oreshnik system is reported to be capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads. According to statements from Moscow, the deployment is intended to strengthen deterrence and enhance joint defence capabilities within the existing Russia–Belarus security framework.

Belarusian authorities have previously said that hosting advanced Russian weapons systems is aimed at ensuring national security and responding to what they describe as increased military pressure ...