📱 iPhone users spend way more on microdrama than Android users

New Omdia research shows iPhone users spend about 40% more on microdrama apps compared to Android users. This trend was observed across several major markets globally, challenging old assumptions about niche audiences. For instance, in South Korea, 59% of iPhone users pay versus 45% of Android users. Data also indicated iPhone users spend roughly $14 weekly, while Android users spend about $10 weekly. Maria Rua Aguete will present these global market findings at IBC 2026 and MIPCOM 2026.

🎬 Avengers and Dune 3 hype sets up huge holiday box office

Advance tickets for Avengers: Doomsday are now available, signaling a major holiday blockbuster season. This is happening with Marvel Studios and Warner Bros./Legendary, who are pushing these tentpoles. Sources indicate Doomsday presales are 65% ahead of Spider-Man: Brand New Day's pace after just two days. The hype, especially around Robert Downey Jr., is driving massive early fan engagement. Dune: Part Three also shows strong interest in exclusive Imax 70mm screenings.

🤔 Rijiju clarifies PM Modi's 'dimaagi Naxals' remark

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju clarified that PM Narendra Modi's 'dimaagi Naxals' comment was not aimed at Opposition leaders. The remark followed Congress veteran P. Chidambaram posting he was proud to be a 'dimagi naxal.' Modi had used the term in his Independence Day address to describe ideological backers of armed Naxalites. Rijiju listed who qualifies as 'dimaagi Naxals' based on supporting Maoists or separatists. This generated mixed reactions, with some critics calling it desperation while others embraced the phrase.

🧠 Blood pressure meds might slow rare kids' brain disease

A study from Amsterdam UMC found that a blood pressure medication could slow a rare brain disease in children. Patients were screened for vanishing white matter (VWM) between May 31, 2021 and May 31, 2024. Researchers compared treated children against 66 others, noting treated kids needed wheelchairs less often. This showed the fatal childhood disease could be influenced by guanabenz. A follow-up study is planned to monitor children long-term. 🧠

😮 Shortness of breath while sitting? Know the signs.

Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is experienced when the body lacks enough oxygen or lungs/heart work too hard. Globally, about 1 in 5 adults suffer from this condition, with 62.6 crore people affected in India. Acute dyspnea starts suddenly, while chronic dyspnea persists for a month or more. It can stem from lung, heart, blood, or even anxiety issues. Consulting a doctor is key if breathlessness occurs repeatedly at rest.

⚽ Liverpool defeats Como 2-0 in pre-season friendly

Liverpool won their pre-season match against Como, with Cody Gakpo scoring the opening goal. The game took place at the AXA Training Centre, and the final score was 2-0. This win shows the team is adapting to Andoni Iraola’s high-intensity system and improving stamina. The Reds kick off their Premier League campaign away to Newcastle on Sunday, August 23.

🍿 New OTT Drops: Jungle, Jana Nayagan & Toy Story 5

Several big titles are hitting streaming platforms this week, including Welcome To The Jungle and Jana Nayagan. On August 21st, Welcome To The Jungle will be on JioHotstar, while Jana Nayagan premieres on Zee5. Toy Story 5 arrives on Apple TV on August 18th, showcasing a new tech battle for toys. Other releases include Outer Banks Season 5 on August 20th and Lanterns starting August 17th. Viewers should check out the specific platform dates for their favorite genre. 🎬

🦟 Anti-CD20 drugs boost arbovirus risks, says CDC 🦟

The CDC is warning clinicians about increased risk of neuroinvasive disease from tick- and mosquito-borne viruses in anti-CD20 therapy users. This warning comes as the US started a strong West Nile virus season, with 30 states reporting disease in 2026. Through August 11, 181 cases were reported, 129 of which were neuroinvasive. These patients are vulnerable because anti-CD20s impair the antibody response, making diagnosis hard. Clinicians are advised to take bite precautions since no known treatments exist for these viruses.

🇨🇦 Canada updates Express Entry candidate scores

The Express Entry pool saw a drop of over 2,200 candidates between August 3rd and August 16th, according to IRCC's latest figures. This change occurred across various score bands, with a notable decrease in the 351–400 and 501–600 ranges. Despite this contraction, the number of top-scoring profiles actually increased from 19,096 to 20,205 during that period. This activity was influenced by four Express Entry rounds, leading to 8,807 ITAs issued. Moving forward, the system continues to issue invitations, with the last draw on August 17th having a lowest CRS score of 760.

🎬 Mohanlal's daughter film hits safe zone

Vismaya Mohanlal's debut film, Thudakkam, has entered the safe zone after 10 days at the box office. The movie, directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, features the superstar's daughter in her acting project. It has grossed 24 crore in India with a net collection of 20.34 crore as of Day 10. Given an estimated budget of 20 crore, the film has recovered 101.7% of its budget. Its run will continue until August 20 before competition increases. 🎬

🎭 Veer Pahariya's new role in Prem Keetanu review

The teaser for Prem Keetanu, set for October 2 release, showcases Veer Pahariya in a college student role. The film, directed by Apoorv Singh Karki, stars Aafiya Sayed and Aparshakti Khurana. While hints suggest a link to the Malayalam blockbuster Premalu, the teaser focuses on the protagonist's college struggles. Critics note that Veer's portrayal of a college student feels unconvincing so far. The film aims to be a fun campus movie, but needs a strong screenplay to match its inspiration. 🎬