Slovak Premier Praises Chinese EV Battery Plant in Break With EU

The article discusses the drawbacks of cookie banners, which are meant to protect user privacy but often create frustration and confusion. With users in the EU spending an estimated 720,000 hours daily dismissing these pop-ups, the piece advocates for a zero-consent architecture as a more effective solution. This approach not only enhances user experience by eliminating unnecessary interruptions but also ensures better data integrity for organizations. Embracing this shift could lead to a more seamless online environment, benefiting both users and businesses alike.

WB Electronics SA, Europe's leading drone manufacturer, is planning to go public on the Warsaw stock exchange. This move comes as the company aims to expand its investments in response to increased EU funding for defense initiatives. This is significant not only for the company but also for the European defense sector, as it highlights the growing importance of drone technology in modern warfare and security.

The European Union is collaborating with private investors to establish a multibillion-euro scale-up fund, aiming to grow it to €25 billion. This initiative is significant as it reflects the EU's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting startups, which can drive economic growth and job creation across the region.

In 2025, Big Tech's lobbying expenditures in the EU reached a record €151 million, a significant increase from €113 million in 2023 and €97 million in 2021. This surge in spending reflects the growing influence and interest of major tech companies in shaping EU regulations. Between January and June 2025, these companies held 146 meetings with EU officials, highlighting their proactive approach to engage with policymakers. This trend is important as it raises questions about the balance of power in regulatory processes and the potential impact on legislation affecting technology and innovation.

Oppo has officially launched its latest smartphones, the Find X9 and Find X9 Pro, in the UK and EU markets, priced at €999 and €1,299 respectively. These devices feature impressive silicon-carbon batteries with capacities of 7,025mAh and 7,500mAh, ensuring long-lasting performance. Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chip, the Find X9 series promises to deliver a powerful user experience. This launch is significant as it showcases Oppo's commitment to innovation in the competitive smartphone market, particularly with its focus on battery technology and performance enhancements.

The European Union is urging major technology companies to step up and take greater responsibility in combating online fraud. With the rise of digital scams, Brussels believes that these tech giants play a crucial role in protecting users and maintaining the integrity of online platforms. This push highlights the ongoing tension between regulatory bodies and the tech industry, as the EU seeks to create a safer digital environment for its citizens.

A groundbreaking study reveals that chimpanzees can exhibit human-like rational thought by adjusting their beliefs based on new evidence. This discovery not only highlights the cognitive abilities of our closest relatives but also provides valuable insights into the evolutionary origins of rational thinking. Understanding how chimpanzees process information can deepen our knowledge of human cognition and the development of intelligence.

Ukraine's strategic move to enhance its battlefield capabilities with interceptor drones marks a significant shift in modern warfare dynamics. This development not only aims to counter Russian attacks effectively but also showcases Ukraine's commitment to leveraging advanced technology in defense. As the conflict evolves, the implications of drone warfare could redefine military strategies globally.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang emphasizes the importance of the US maintaining a collaborative approach with China in the AI sector. He warns that isolation could stifle innovation and hinder the US's long-term leadership in this critical field. This perspective is significant as it highlights the need for strategic engagement in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, ensuring that the US remains competitive while fostering global cooperation.

The latest article delves into the automation of hybrid AWS RDS deployments, building on previous discussions about Terraform and Ansible. This approach not only streamlines database management across multi-cloud and on-premises systems but also ensures compliance with security standards in the KSA. This is significant as it highlights the growing importance of efficient cloud solutions in today's tech landscape, making it easier for businesses to manage their data securely and effectively.

Paramount is making waves in the entertainment industry by enlisting the talented writers behind popular series like Yellowstone and Friday Night Lights for its upcoming Call of Duty movie. This collaboration is exciting for fans, as it promises a compelling narrative that could elevate the video game franchise to new cinematic heights. With a strong writing team, the film aims to capture the essence of the beloved game while appealing to a broader audience, making it a significant development in the world of adaptations.

AstrHori has launched an impressive new ultra-wide 9mm f/2.8 APS-C lens priced at just $169, making high-quality photography more accessible to enthusiasts and professionals alike. This lens offers a great combination of affordability and performance, allowing users to capture stunning wide-angle shots without breaking the bank. It's a significant addition to the market, especially for those looking to enhance their photography skills without a hefty investment.