After the UK, online age verification is landing in the EU

Tesla just inked a massive $4.3 billion deal with LG Energy to buy lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries—the same type powering many of its more affordable models. This marks Tesla’s second major partnership in South Korea this month, signaling a push to lock down reliable, cost-effective battery supplies as EV demand grows.

Editor’s Note: Batteries are the heartbeat of the EV revolution, and Tesla’s latest move shows it’s doubling down on securing supply chains while keeping costs in check. LFP batteries are cheaper and longer-lasting than some alternatives, which could help Tesla maintain its edge in an increasingly crowded market. For consumers, this might mean more affordable EVs down the road—and for competitors, it’s a reminder that Tesla isn’t slowing down.

Reliance Industries, India's corporate giant, is reportedly planning to float just a 5% stake in its telecom arm Jio through an IPO, which could rake in over $6 billion. That’s a surprisingly small slice of the company—suggesting Reliance wants to keep tight control while still cashing in on Jio’s sky-high valuation.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another IPO—it’s a strategic move by one of India’s most powerful conglomerates. By offering only a tiny stake, Reliance signals confidence in Jio’s future growth while testing investor appetite. For markets, it’s a big deal: Jio revolutionized India’s telecom sector, and this listing could set benchmarks for tech valuations in the region. Keep an eye on how this plays out—it might ripple through other tech IPOs in Asia.

China is ramping up investments in artificial intelligence to reduce its dependence on U.S. technology, even as the U.S. tries to curb its advancements. This isn't just about keeping up—it's a strategic move to ensure China can compete independently in a field that could define global power in the coming decades.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just another tech race—it's a high-stakes battle for control over the future of AI, which could reshape everything from military power to economic dominance. If China succeeds in building a self-sufficient AI ecosystem, it could shift the balance of technological influence away from the U.S., with huge implications for geopolitics and global trade.

NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) are teaming up to launch a cutting-edge satellite called NISAR, which will use advanced radar to monitor Earth's surface in unprecedented detail. The mission aims to track everything from natural disasters to climate change impacts. If you're curious, there's even a way to watch the launch live.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just another satellite launch—it's a major international effort to better understand our planet. NISAR's radar tech will help scientists predict disasters, track environmental shifts, and maybe even improve how we respond to crises. Plus, the NASA-ISRO partnership shows how space exploration can bring countries together for a bigger cause. If you're into space or climate science, this is one to watch.

If you're stuck on today's NYT Mini Crossword, here's a quick cheat sheet—the answers for the July 30 puzzle are now available. Whether you're looking to check your work or just breeze through it, this has you covered.

Editor’s Note: For crossword enthusiasts, this is like a friendly nudge when you're stumped—no judgment, just answers. It’s a small but handy resource for anyone who enjoys the daily mental workout (or just hates leaving squares blank).