Chinese scientists and engineers are applying ChatGPT-like technology to sex robots, aiming to create interactive, AI-powered companions in the face of technical and ethical challenges. In Shenzhen, Starpery Technology, a major producer of sex dolls, is now training its own large language model to enhance its product with artificial intelligence.
3. 450 flights delayed after Hong Kong airport runway closed for 8 hours
One of two operating runways at Hong Kong airport was closed for more than eight hours on Monday after a cargo plane burst a tyre during an emergency landing, resulting in delays to about 450 flights and sparking questions over clearance procedures.
4. What happens if the US cuts China out of its military supplies?
China’s central role in the global supply chain has prompted the United States to initiate a series of measures to de-risk its relationship with the world’s second largest economy as relations worsen. For the US defence industry, it seems inevitable that Washington will want to go further and seek to cut out China completely. Whether it will work is another question, though.
5. Hong Kong club for Americans angers non-US members with HK$1.5 million ultimatum
An exclusive Hong Kong club founded for Americans has angered non-US members after it said it wanted to redeem millions of dollars worth of membership fees at a fraction of the market value with the option to top up by as much as HK$1.5 million (US$192,139) or leave.
6. China ‘could match’ US in military conflict thanks to shipbuilding strength
China’s naval expansion and bolstering of its shipbuilding capabilities may give the PLA a strategic edge in a potential conflict, including the “hellscape strategy” floated recently by the US, military analysts said.
7. Families plan ‘ghost marriage’ after Malaysian couple die in pre-wedding crash
The families of a Chinese couple who died in a car accident decided to find closure on their deaths by holding a “ghost marriage” in their honour. The couple were together for 3 years and about to marry when they died.