📱 Fairphone 6 Plus hits US market direct

Fairphone is officially launching its latest repairable phone, the Fairphone 6 Plus, directly in the United States. The phone is available now for $649.99 through the company's website and Amazon, supporting T-Mobile and AT&T. It features a faster Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset and 12GB of RAM, with a software support lifespan until 2033. Unlike previous US sales, this version is sold directly by Fairphone, unlike the past partnership with Murena. Replacement parts are available in the US, maintaining the phone's high repairability score.

🤔 DMK questions TVK renaming of breakfast scheme

The DMK criticized the TVK government for renaming the Chief Minister’s Breakfast Scheme after Kamaraj. This controversy unfolded in the Assembly on Tuesday, with former minister EV Velu leading the opposition's charge. The TVK government officially renamed the scheme to Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Breakfast Scheme on July 22. Velu argued this was just claiming credit for the DMK's existing initiative, which was launched by M K Stalin in September 2022. He suggested the government should have launched a new program instead of rebranding the established one.

🏸 Badminton sibling bonds at World Championships

Identical twins Christopher and Matthew Grimley are playing at the BWF World Championships in New Delhi. These 26-year-old Scottish siblings started in juniors and now focus on doubles competition. They recently beat Kevin Lee and Ty Alexander Lindeman in a match on Monday. The brothers find relying on each other crucial for motivation and understanding on the court. Other duos, like the Popovs and Kral siblings, also leverage family bonds in doubles.

⚽ Simeone stands firm on Julian Alvarez's Atletico future

Diego Simeone confirmed that Julian Alvarez remains central to Atletico Madrid's plans despite Barcelona transfer rumors. The Argentine coach stated that their recent conversation was routine, focusing on sporting aspects for the upcoming La Liga opener. Simeone emphasized that Alvarez is their best attacking player and the team should be built around him. Regarding his stay, the manager pointed to the club owner's categorical statement, leaving no room for doubt. Atletico is currently preparing for their match against Malaga with Alvarez expected to improve over the next few days.

💡 IIT Bombay unveils cheap catalyst for green hydrogen

Researchers at IIT Bombay have developed a highly efficient, low-cost catalyst to boost green hydrogen production. This novel material combines cobalt, nickel, phosphate, and graphite to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Testing showed the catalyst ran continuously for 72 hours with minimal performance drop. This breakthrough bypasses expensive noble metals, aiming for affordable zero-emission fuel. The team believes this paves the way for a sustainable energy future. 💡

🏛️ Court says police can't police protest content

The Madras High Court ruled that police should not interfere with the content of a protest. Justice V Lakshminarayanan made this observation while hearing a plea from Dravida Kazhagam against a rally denial. The court stated that police must provide protection unless speech restrictions under Article 19(2) apply. The state was seeking logistics for a bike rally against NEET and EWS reservation. Dravida Kazhagam was directed to provide necessary details by the next day. ✊

📉 Baidu's profits slide as it shifts focus to AI

Baidu's financial performance shows a continued downturn in both profits and revenue. This trend was observed across the company's operations. For the latest period, the figures showed a decrease in earnings and sales. The company is currently making a major pivot towards integrating Artificial Intelligence into its core business. Analysts are watching closely to see how this AI strategy impacts future growth. 📉

🏙️ Flatiron Building is NYC's hottest luxury spot

The iconic Flatiron Building is quickly becoming one of Manhattan's most sought-after luxury addresses. Located at 175 Fifth Avenue, only four out of 22 publicly listed residences remain unsold. Demand is intense, highlighted by a 4,626 sq ft unit entering contract last week at $23.95 million. This conversion, from office space to luxury homes, contrasts with slow sales in newer high-end developments. Residents are expected to move in this autumn, with amenities opening in early 2027. 🏙️

🔥 Bad animated film turns into meme sensation

A poorly animated film called Niu Lai gained massive popularity through social media memes. It was directed by Xin Yumeng and Sun Lifang in China. After an August 5 release, it initially earned 7,700 yuan from 300 tickets nationwide. The film eventually made 14.1 million yuan after netizens turned it into a trending topic. This success highlights how online buzz can drive commercial success even with a rough product. 🎬

🩺 16-year-old loses 50kg after major surgery

A 16-year-old boy from Delhi, weighing 275 kg with a BMI near 100, successfully underwent bariatric surgery at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. His extreme obesity caused severe breathing issues and required him to be transported in a Matador. Around 20 specialists assessed the case before the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy was performed. The teenager subsequently lost nearly 50 kg in about two months following the procedure. Doctors are now focusing on improving his long-term health, mobility, and overall quality of life.

🔥 Goa club fire: Luthra brothers' bail cancelled

The Bombay High Court cancelled the bail of Saurabh Luthra, Gaurav Luthra, and Ajay Gupta related to the Birch nightclub fire. The incident occurred in Arpora, Goa, last December, claiming 25 lives including 20 staff and five tourists. The court ordered the three accused to surrender within two weeks, allowing for fresh bail applications. Police allege the club lacked safety clearances and had locked exit routes. The case is also under investigation for document forgery and potential money laundering. 😥