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Netflix to Stream BTS’ First Live Performance in Years as Group Launches ARIRANG Comeback Era

Global K-pop group BTS has officially announced their long-awaited return, marking their first full-group activities after completing mandatory military service. Netflix will stream the comeback events worldwide through a major partnership with HYBE.

Netflix confirmed a live concert titled “BTS THE COMEBACK LIVE | ARIRANG”, scheduled for March 21, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. KST. The performance will take place at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, with Gyeongbokgung Palace as the backdrop.

This concert will be BTS’ first full-group live performance in nearly four years. It also marks Netflix’s first global live broadcast from South Korea. The group will perform classic hits and debut songs from their upcoming fifth studio album, ARIRANG, which releases on March 20, 2026, one day before the show.

The livestream will be available exclusively on Netflix and included with all subscription plans, reaching viewers in more than 190 countries.

Netflix will also release a feature-length documentary titled “BTS: THE RETURN” on March 27, 2026. Directed by Bao Nguyen, the film offers behind-the-scenes access to BTS as they reunite, record their new album, and prepare for their comeback. The documentary follows the journey of all seven members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—as they begin a new chapter together.

The announcement has generated massive excitement among ARMY, BTS’ global fanbase. Teasers and promotional content are already trending across social media platforms.

This Netflix collaboration signals the beginning of BTS’s 2026 activities, with expectations high for a world tour later in the year. More details will be shared through Netflix and official BTS channels in the coming weeks.

Sidemen Sell Out All 90,000 Wembley Tickets in Less Than 3 Hours for Their 2026 Charity Football Match

The Sidemen have achieved another milestone, selling all 90,000 tickets for their upcoming charity football match at London’s Wembley Stadium in less than three hours.

The event, officially called the Sidemen Charity Match 2026, will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Tickets went on general sale on February 2, 2026, ranging from £16.50 to £38, following an earlier presale for Side+ members.

The rapid sell-out surpasses last year’s 2025 edition, which also sold out in about three hours and raised over £4.5 million for charity.

The popular YouTube group—KSI, Miniminter, Zerkaa, TBJZL, Behzinga, Vikkstar123, and W2S—will face a team of YouTube Allstars and other top influencers and streamers. The match will combine football, entertainment, and comedy while supporting charities, including Bright Side and BBC Children in Need.

Celebrating the achievement, the Sidemen posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“The 2026 Sidemen charity match is now sold out, and even quicker than last year! Thank you for being a part of this community.”

The sell-out highlights the Sidemen’s global following, as they have grown from online gaming and challenge videos to hosting one of the UK’s largest creator-led live events—often drawing bigger crowds than traditional celebrity matches like Soccer Aid.

With Wembley at full capacity, expectations are high for another record-breaking fundraiser. Fans who missed tickets can likely watch a livestream on the Sidemen’s YouTube channel, as in previous years.

More updates, including participants and kick-off times, will be shared on sidemenfc.com and their social media channels.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Set to Get Advanced Anti-Snooping Screen Feature

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Samsung has confirmed a new privacy feature that will debut with its upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra. The company says the technology will offer stronger protection against people viewing sensitive information on phone screens in public.

In a recent blog post, Samsung described the feature as a new “privacy layer” built into the display. Unlike traditional privacy screen protectors, the system combines software and hardware to control what is visible on the screen.

Samsung said smartphone privacy has become a growing concern, especially on public transport. Thieves often try to read screens to steal passwords or personal data, making simple screen locks no longer enough.

The new feature allows users to hide specific apps or information instead of blurring the entire display. Users can activate privacy mode only when entering passwords or using selected apps.

Samsung also confirmed the feature can be turned on or off using a toggle. Users will be able to set schedules so the privacy layer works only at certain times or in specific situations.

Another key benefit is notification privacy. The system may allow lock screen notifications to stay visible only to the phone’s owner, reducing the risk of others reading private messages nearby.

Samsung said the technology does not rely on a physical screen filter. Because of this, users will not need to adjust viewing angles when sharing content with others.

The company suggested the feature will arrive first on future Galaxy phones, with the Galaxy S26 Ultra expected to be the first model to include it. Samsung has not yet confirmed if other S26 models will also get the feature.

TikTok Fixes Data Center Outage After Users Allege Political Censorship

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TikTok said its service has returned to normal in the United States after a weeklong data center outage caused widespread glitches. The company said the disruption led to technical issues that sparked allegations of political censorship.

In a post on X late Sunday, TikTok USDS Joint Venture said the outage was caused by severe winter weather. The storm knocked out a primary U.S. data center operated by Oracle, affecting tens of thousands of servers.

TikTok said the outage disrupted core features on the platform. Users faced problems posting new videos, discovering content, and seeing accurate view and like counts in real time.

The company said its teams worked around the clock with Oracle to safely restore services. TikTok also apologized to users for the disruption.

The outage drew attention after users and lawmakers accused TikTok of censoring content critical of the Trump administration. Senator Chris Murphy and other Democrats said videos about immigration enforcement were getting fewer views or were marked as “ineligible for recommendation.”

The controversy grew when some users reported they could not send direct messages containing the word “Epstein.” Messages triggered alerts claiming guideline violations, though TikTok later said there is no rule banning the name in private messages.

California Governor Gavin Newsom said his office was reviewing whether TikTok violated state law by suppressing Trump-critical content. His office said it had received and confirmed reports of such issues after TikTok’s recent ownership change.

The problems come weeks after TikTok’s U.S. business was transferred to a new joint venture led by Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX. TikTok said the outage—not censorship—was responsible for the issues and that normal operations have now resumed.

Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton Step Out After Secret UK Date

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Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton have been seen together in public for the first time following reports of a romantic trip to the English countryside. The reality TV star and the Formula 1 driver were photographed in London after spending time together earlier this year.

The pair were spotted leaving Matsuhisa restaurant separately before heading to a private party. Kim wore a sparkly black dress, while Lewis appeared in a grey jacket, loose-fit jeans, and boots. They did not arrive or leave together, adding to speculation around their relationship.

Reports say Kim and Lewis also spent New Year’s Eve together at a VIP party hosted by actress Kate Hudson in Aspen, Colorado. Sources claim they kept their connection private during the event.

Over the weekend, several outlets reported that the two enjoyed a date at Estelle Manor in the Cotswolds. According to reports, they had dinner and shared a couple’s massage while staying at the luxury estate.

Kim is said to have flown from Los Angeles on her private jet, while Lewis arrived later by helicopter from London. Witnesses described the visit as low-key, with security present but kept out of sight.

Kim Kardashian and Lewis Hamilton have known each other for years and have been seen together at public events in the past. They were photographed together in 2021 after both received awards at the Wall Street Journal’s Innovator Awards.

Neither Kim nor Lewis has publicly commented on the latest reports. Their representatives have also not confirmed whether the pair are now dating.

Grammy Awards 2026: Full List of Winners Across All Major Categories

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The 2026 Grammy Awards honoured artists from around the world, spanning pop, rap, rock, R&B, country, electronic, global and classical music. Below is the complete list of categories with winners.

🎤 Best New Artist

  • Olivia Dean (Winner)
  • Katseye
  • The Marías
  • Addison Rae
  • Sombr
  • Leon Thomas
  • Alex Warren
  • Lola Young

🎧 Rap Categories

Best Rap Album

  • Kendrick Lamar – GNX (Winner)
  • Clipse – Let God Sort Em Out
  • GloRilla – Glorious
  • JID – God Does Like Ugly
  • Tyler, the Creator – Chromakopia

Best Rap Performance

  • Clipse – Chains & Whips (ft Kendrick Lamar & Pharrell Williams) (Winner)
  • Cardi B – Outside
  • Doechii – Anxiety
  • Kendrick Lamar – TV Off (ft Lefty Gunplay)
  • Tyler, the Creator – Darling, I

Best Rap Song

  • Kendrick Lamar ft Lefty Gunplay – TV Off (Winner)
  • Doechii – Anxiety
  • GloRilla – TGIF
  • Tyler, the Creator – Sticky
  • Clipse – The Birds Don’t Sing

Best Melodic Rap Performance

  • Kendrick Lamar with SZA – luther (Winner)
  • Fridayy ft Meek Mill – Proud of Me
  • JID ft Ty Dolla $ign & 6LACK – Wholeheartedly
  • Terrace Martin & Kenyon Dixon ft Rapsody – WeMaj
  • PARTYNEXTDOOR & Drake – Somebody Loves Me

🎶 Pop & Dance

Best Dance-Pop Recording

  • Lady Gaga – Abracadabra (Winner)
  • Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco – Bluest Flame
  • Zara Larsson – Midnight Sun
  • Tate McRae – Just Keep Watching
  • PinkPantheress – Illegal

Best Pop Duo/Group Performance

  • Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande – Defying Gravity (Winner)
  • Huntr/x – Golden
  • Katseye – Gabriela
  • Rosé & Bruno Mars – APT.
  • SZA ft Kendrick Lamar – 30 for 30

🎹 Dance / Electronic

Best Dance/Electronic Album

  • FKA twigs – Eusexua (Winner)
  • Fred again – Ten Days
  • PinkPantheress – Fancy That
  • Rüfüs Du Sol – Inhale / Exhale
  • Skrillex – F U Skrillex You Think Ur Andy Warhol But Ur Not!! <3

Best Dance/Electronic Recording

  • Tame Impala – End of Summer (Winner)
  • Disclosure & Anderson .Paak – No Cap
  • Fred again, Skepta & PlaqueBoyMax – Victory Lap
  • Kaytranada – Space Invader
  • Skrillex – Voltage

🎸 Rock & Alternative

Best Rock Album

  • Turnstile – Never Enough (Winner)
  • Deftones – Private Music
  • Haim – I Quit
  • Linkin Park – From Zero
  • Yungblud – Idols

Best Rock Performance

  • Yungblud – Changes (Live from Villa Park) (Winner)
  • Amyl and the Sniffers – U Should Not Be Doing That
  • Linkin Park – The Emptiness Machine
  • Turnstile – Never Enough
  • Hayley Williams – Mirtazapine

Best Rock Song

  • Nine Inch Nails – As Alive as You Need Me to Be (Winner)
  • Sleep Token – Caramel
  • Hayley Williams – Glu
  • Turnstile – Never Enough
  • Yungblud – Zombie

Best Alternative Music Album

  • The Cure – Songs of a Lost World (Winner)
  • Bon Iver – Sable, Fable
  • Tyler, the Creator – Don’t Tap the Glass
  • Wet Leg – Moisturizer
  • Hayley Williams – Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party

Best Alternative Music Performance

  • The Cure – Alone (Winner)
  • Bon Iver – Everything Is Peaceful Love
  • Turnstile – Seein’ Stars
  • Wet Leg – Mangetout
  • Hayley Williams – Parachute

🎷 R&B

Best R&B Album

  • Leon Thomas – Mutt (Winner)
  • Givēon – Beloved
  • Coco Jones – Why Not More?
  • Ledisi – The Crown
  • Teyana Taylor – Escape Room

Best R&B Performance

  • Kehlani – Folded (Winner)
  • Justin Bieber – Yukon
  • Chris Brown – It Depends
  • Leon Thomas – Mutt
  • Summer Walker – Heart of a Woman

Best Traditional R&B Performance

  • Leon Thomas – Vibes Don’t Lie (Winner)
  • Durand Bernarr – Here We Are
  • Lalah Hathaway – Uptown
  • Ledisi – Love You Too
  • SZA – Crybaby

Best R&B Song

  • Kehlani – Folded (Winner)
  • Summer Walker – Heart of a Woman
  • Chris Brown ft Bryson Tiller – It Depends
  • Durand Bernarr – Overqualified
  • Leon Thomas – Yes It Is

🌍 Global, Latin & African Music

Best Música Urbana Album

  • Bad Bunny – Debí Tirar Más Fotos (Winner)
  • Feid – Ferxxo Vol X: Sagrado
  • J Balvin – Mixteip
  • Nicki Nicole – Naiki
  • Trueno – EUB Deluxe

Best Global Music Performance

  • Bad Bunny – EoO (Winner)
  • Angélique Kidjo – Jerusalema
  • Shakti – Shrini’s Dream
  • Anoushka Shankar – Daybreak
  • Yeisy Rojas – Inmigrante Y Que?

Best African Music Performance

  • Tyla – PUSH 2 START (Winner)
  • Burna Boy – Love
  • Davido ft Omah Lay – With You
  • Ayra Starr ft Wizkid – Gimme Dat
  • Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin – Hope & Love

Best Latin Pop Album

  • Natalia Lafourcade – Cancionera (Winner)
  • Rauw Alejandro – Cosa Nuestra
  • Andrés Cepeda – Bogotá (Deluxe)
  • Karol G – Tropicoqueta
  • Alejandro Sanz – ¿Y ahora qué?

🤠 Country

Best Contemporary Country Album

  • Jelly Roll – Beautifully Broken (Winner)
  • Kelsea Ballerini – Patterns
  • Tyler Childers – Snipe Hunter
  • Eric Church – Evangeline vs the Machine
  • Miranda Lambert – Postcards from Texas

Best Traditional Country Album

  • Zach Top – Ain’t In It for My Health (Winner)
  • Charley Crockett – Dollar a Day
  • Lukas Nelson – American Romance
  • Willie Nelson – Oh What a Beautiful World
  • Margo Price – Hard Headed Woman

🎬 Visual Media & Other Key Awards

Best Compilation Soundtrack

  • Sinners (Winner)
  • A Complete Unknown
  • F1: The Album
  • K-Pop Demon Hunters
  • Wicked

Best Music Video

  • Doechii – Anxiety (Winner)
  • Sabrina Carpenter – Manchild
  • Clipse – So Be It
  • OK Go – Love
  • Sade – Young Lion

Producer of the Year

  • Cirkut (Winner)
  • Dan Auerbach
  • Dijon
  • Blake Mills
  • Sounwave

Songwriter of the Year

  • Amy Allen (Winner)
  • Edgar Barrera
  • Jessie Jo Dillon
  • Tobias Jesso Jr
  • Laura Veltz

Nvidia Pulls Back on $100B OpenAI Investment, Confirms Smaller, Measured Support

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has clarified that the previously reported $100 billion investment in OpenAI was never a firm commitment. He said the figure was an upper limit the company could consider, not a legally binding pledge.

Huang told reporters in Taipei that Nvidia will evaluate investment opportunities in OpenAI on a case-by-case basis. “It was never a commitment,” he said. “They invited us to invest up to $100 billion, and we will invest one step at a time.”

The announcement comes after paperwork signed in September 2025 suggested Nvidia could invest as much as $100 billion to help OpenAI build data centers and AI infrastructure. These facilities are planned to use large amounts of electricity and Nvidia chips for training and running AI models.

Recent reports suggested internal concerns at Nvidia about the size of the investment and OpenAI’s management practices. Some executives reportedly worried about excessive competition and the business structure. Huang dismissed such concerns, calling them “nonsense” while reaffirming his support for OpenAI.

Despite the clarification, Huang did not disclose exactly how much Nvidia will contribute. Analysts say the eventual investment will likely be significantly less than the reported $100 billion.

The situation highlights growing questions about financing in the AI industry. OpenAI is one of Nvidia’s largest customers, raising concerns about circular funding, where companies invest in firms that buy their products, potentially inflating market demand.

Nvidia is also investing $2 billion in CoreWeave, another cloud computing firm using Nvidia chips, to build AI infrastructure. This deal has fueled similar concerns about circular financing in the sector.

Huang remains bullish on AI and OpenAI’s work, but emphasized that Nvidia will take a measured approach to funding and support the industry strategically, rather than making massive upfront commitments.

V for Vendetta Returns to Theaters for 20th Anniversary in November 2026

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The cult classic V for Vendetta is returning to cinemas in 2026 to mark its 20th anniversary, with special screenings scheduled for 1 and 5 November. The event aligns with the film’s iconic rallying cry, “Remember, remember the Fifth of November.”

Fathom Entertainment, Saga Arts, and Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group confirmed the re-release. A teaser campaign launched in late 2025 invited fans to “join V one year from tonight,” building anticipation for the anniversary events.

A newly released 20th anniversary poster has been shared widely online. Fans praised the design for emphasizing the film’s revolutionary imagery, underscoring how V for Vendetta has remained a cultural touchstone over the past two decades.

The screenings will be offered as premium “event cinema,” rather than standard revival showings. Fans are encouraged to sign up via Fathom Entertainment’s website for early ticket notifications. A dedicated anniversary trailer reinforces the communal viewing experience and V’s call to gather.

Originally released in 2006, the film was directed by James McTeigue and adapted from the graphic novel by David Lloyd. Hugo Weaving stars as the masked vigilante V, with Natalie Portman playing Evey Hammond. Over twenty years, the movie has become a symbol for discussions around protest, authoritarianism, and personal freedom.

The Guy Fawkes mask, popularized by the film, has been adopted globally as a symbol of digital-age dissent and activism. Its continued use highlights the film’s ongoing relevance in political and cultural conversations.

By scheduling the screenings around 5 November, the re-release connects longtime fans and new audiences to the story’s most famous date. The 20th anniversary poster and trailer signal both a nostalgic celebration and a timely invitation to reflect on the film’s themes in today’s context.

For many viewers, the 2026 re-release offers an opportunity to experience a modern classic on the big screen while revisiting V’s enduring message of resistance and personal freedom.

Despite Criticism, “Melania” Draws $7 Million in First Weekend

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The documentary Melania, directed by Brett Ratner, earned an estimated $7 million in domestic theaters during its opening weekend, far exceeding projections of $2 million to $5 million.

The film follows First Lady Melania Trump as she prepared for President Donald Trump’s second inauguration. Despite receiving poor reviews, with an 11% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences gave it an “A” grade on CinemaScore.

This $7 million debut sets a new record for a documentary opening in the past decade, surpassing the $5 million record set by After Death in 2023.

Most of the audience has been older conservative women, particularly in the South. Data from the Hollywood Reporter shows that women over 55 made up 72% of ticket buyers on opening day and 78% of total ticket sales so far.

Even with the strong opening, the movie still faces a long road to profitability. Amazon reportedly paid $40 million for the film’s rights and spent $35 million on marketing.

Melania finished third at the weekend box office. Sam Raimi’s thriller Send Help led with $20 million, while the horror adaptation Iron Lung came in second. Other films, such as Jason Statham’s Shelter, underperformed, earning just $5.5 million.

This marks Brett Ratner’s first feature film since 2014, following a hiatus caused by sexual assault allegations. Ratner is also reportedly developing Rush Hour 4, reviving the franchise after nearly two decades.

The Melania documentary demonstrates that documentaries can still find strong niche audiences, even if critics are harsh, and highlights Ratner’s return to Hollywood filmmaking after a long absence.

CETOEX Listing To Bring $PATOS Token to Middle East & South Asia

The Patos Meme Coin ($PATOS) is expanding its presence worldwide. CETOEX, a crypto exchange based in Dubai with hubs in India, has confirmed that it will list the $PATOS token. This is the seventh centralized exchange to join the project’s network, giving investors in the Middle East and South Asia easier access to the token.

CETOEX serves over 70,000 users across 50 countries. While it is a mid-tier exchange, its location in Dubai connects it with a strong community of crypto traders and investors. Listing on CETOEX allows $PATOS to reach both retail traders and high-net-worth individuals in the region.

The exchange offers more than 70 crypto assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and popular meme coins like Dogecoin and Shiba Inu. CETOEX sees a daily trading volume of about $1.35 million, with peaks of $1.77 million, providing a solid base for $PATOS trading.

$PATOS will be paired with USDT (Tether) on CETOEX. This pairing makes it easy for users to trade without multiple steps. The goal is to encourage high trading activity during the token’s first week.

Patos Meme Coin is aiming for a record-breaking debut. The project plans to list on 111 exchanges in its first week, creating a “liquidity supernova.” It is currently in its “January Acceleration” phase, targeting 11 exchange confirmations. With seven confirmations so far, the team is moving quickly toward its June 26, 2026 launch.

The presale price for $PATOS is $0.000139999993 per token. Analysts predict that the token could rise 178x to 2,000x in value under favorable market conditions. The presale is structured in rounds, and Round 2 will increase in price by 7%, creating urgency for early investors.

The CETOEX listing is an important step in Patos Meme Coin’s global launch. More exchange confirmations are expected soon, bringing $PATOS closer to becoming a widely traded crypto asset.

Amazon’s $75 Million Melania Trump Documentary Criticized for Timing, Content and High Price Tag

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The Amazon-backed documentary Melania has opened in theaters to harsh reviews, with critics calling it propaganda and saying it lacks substance. The film premiered at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, before its worldwide release on Friday.

Amazon reportedly paid $40 million for the film’s rights and spent another $35 million on marketing and distribution. Director Brett Ratner denied that the movie was meant to curry favor with the Trump administration. Melania Trump is said to have received over $28 million from the deal.

Critics have been overwhelmingly negative. The Guardian called the film “a medieval tribute to placate the greedy king,” while The Independent described it as “a scowling void of pure nothingness in this ghastly bit of propaganda.” Variety said the documentary mostly shows Trump “walking into and out of rooms.”

Some reviewers criticized the timing of the release. They noted Melania Trump references her immigrant background while the Trump administration has conducted immigration raids. The Atlantic called it “galling” that the documentary celebrated her journey amid federal actions against immigrants.

Audience response has also been poor. On Letterboxd, users have given the film an average rating of 1.2 stars, while Metacritic shows a 0.4 average score.

The film’s director, Ratner, has faced past controversy, including sexual assault allegations in 2017. He defended the project, saying the investment helped hire a “top of the line” crew and denied claims of bribery or favoritism.

Despite Amazon’s backing and a high-profile premiere, Melania is expected to have a muted box office performance, with estimates projecting around a $5 million opening weekend.

The Best Smartphone Speakers Are Not From Apple or Samsung — They’re From Xiaomi

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The best smartphone speakers in 2025 may not come from Samsung or Apple. Instead, growing attention is focused on Xiaomi’s POCO F8 Ultra, which has received strong reviews for its audio performance and overall hardware.

Independent reviews, user feedback, and hands-on testing suggest the device delivers one of the most powerful and balanced sound experiences currently available on a smartphone.

Unreal Speaker System

The POCO F8 Ultra uses a Bose-tuned 2.1 speaker system, combining stereo speakers with a dedicated built-in subwoofer. Most smartphones rely only on two small speakers, which limits bass output.

Tests show the F8 Ultra produces deeper bass, higher volume, and lower distortion than typical flagship phones. Reviewers describe the sound as fuller and closer to a small Bluetooth speaker than standard phone audio.

In our own testing, the phone maintained clarity at high volume and delivered noticeably stronger low-end sound than competing devices. Across music, video, and gaming, no other phone tested matched its overall sound balance.

Display and Build

The device features a 6.9-inch 2K AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen is bright, smooth, and suited for video and gaming.

Build quality is solid, and the phone carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.

Performance and Software

The POCO F8 Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, with up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. Performance tests show smooth operation in everyday use and gaming.

The phone runs Android 16 with HyperOS 3.

Camera System

The phone includes three 50-megapixel rear cameras:

  • Main camera with optical image stabilisation
  • Wide-angle camera
  • 5x telephoto camera

It supports 8K video recording and delivers consistent results in good lighting.

Battery and Charging

A 6,500mAh battery supports full-day use. Charging options include:

  • 100W wired charging
  • 50W wireless charging
  • Reverse wireless charging

Connectivity and Security

The phone supports 5G, Wi-Fi 7, NFC, Bluetooth, GPS, and includes an infrared blaster. Security is handled by an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.

User and Review Feedback

Online reviews and user comments consistently highlight the speaker quality and battery life. Some users mention software polish and display colour tuning as minor concerns.

Overall feedback aligns with test results, particularly regarding audio performance.

Conclusion

The POCO F8 Ultra stands out primarily for its speaker system, which many reviewers and users consider unmatched among current smartphones. Combined with strong performance, a large display, and long battery life, it offers a complete flagship-level experience.

The device shows that leading smartphone innovation is no longer limited to Samsung or Apple.

Lewis Hamilton Tops F1 2026 Barcelona Test with Ferrari

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Lewis Hamilton set the fastest time on the final day of the first Formula 1 pre-season test of 2026 in Barcelona. Driving for Ferrari, Hamilton clocked an unofficial best lap of 1:16.348, beating Mercedes’ George Russell’s previous fastest time of 1:16.445.

McLaren’s Lando Norris finished second, while Hamilton’s Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc came third. Several teams made driver changes on Friday, with Hamilton replacing Leclerc in the afternoon, and Norris taking over from Oscar Piastri at McLaren. Nico Hulkenberg drove for Audi, and Esteban Ocon replaced Oliver Bearman at Haas.

Red Bull returned to the track after missing sessions earlier in the week. Max Verstappen completed the most laps of the day, 118, and finished fifth. Fernando Alonso made his first appearance in the new Aston Martin AMR26, completing 49 laps and finishing 11th.

Mercedes and Racing Bulls did not run on the final day because both teams had already completed their maximum allowed three days of testing.

Here is a summary of the fastest laps on Day 5:

  1. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) – 1:16.348
  2. Lando Norris (McLaren) – 1:16.594
  3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – 1:16.653
  4. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – 1:17.446
  5. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) – 1:17.586

The five-day test in Barcelona gave teams their first real look at cars and drivers for the 2026 season, with Ferrari showing strong pace at the end of the session.

Mattel and Hasbro Launch KPop Demon Hunters Toys in 2026

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Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters is expanding beyond the screen with a major toy launch in 2026. Mattel and Hasbro have announced new products inspired by the hit animated film.

The film remains a global success after recent wins at the Critics’ Choice Awards and Golden Globes. It is also a contender at the Grammys and Oscars, boosting interest in merchandise tied to the franchise.

Mattel revealed its lineup at the Nuremberg Toy Fair. The collection includes fashion dolls, American Girl dolls, action figures, Polly Pocket sets, UNO cards, Little People Collector sets, and character keychains.

The American Girl collection features 18-inch dolls of Rumi, Mira, and Zoey. These dolls wear outfits inspired by the film’s opening scene and include their magical weapons. Shipping is expected to begin in November.

Mattel’s fashion dolls include multiple versions of the main characters, along with themed outfits. The figures are poseable and designed for both play and display.

Hasbro is focusing on role-play and interactive items. The lineup includes foam versions of the characters’ weapons, working K-pop lightsticks, themed Furby Furblets, and a Monopoly: K-Pop Demon Hunters Edition board game.

The Furby Furblets feature interactive sounds and character designs from the film. Hasbro has also created lightsticks for both HUNTR/X and The Saja Boys, aimed at fans of the series’ fictional K-pop groups.

An official release date for the full toy collection has not yet been announced. However, Mattel and Hasbro confirmed that products will roll out throughout 2026.

Scarlett Johansson Joins The Batman: Part II, Sebastian Stan Confirmed as Harvey Dent

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The Batman: Part II, the upcoming sequel to Matt Reeves’ 2022 hit, has added two major Hollywood stars to its cast. Scarlett Johansson has joined the film in an unconfirmed role, while Sebastian Stan has been officially cast as Harvey Dent.

Stan will play Dent, the Gotham City district attorney who later becomes the villain Two-Face. While his transformation may not happen in this film, the role sets up an important future storyline within Reeves’ Batman universe.

Johansson’s role has not been revealed, but reports suggest she may play a key character connected to Harvey Dent. One strong possibility is Gilda Dent, a figure from The Long Halloween comic storyline, which is believed to influence the sequel.

Director Matt Reeves is expected to continue the dark, crime-focused tone of the first film. The story may follow Batman working alongside Jim Gordon and Harvey Dent to stop a growing criminal threat in Gotham.

Robert Pattinson returns as Batman, with Barry Keoghan also set to reprise his role as the Joker. Colin Farrell will return as the Penguin, while Paul Dano is rumored to appear again as the Riddler.

Production is expected to begin soon at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in the UK. Johansson and Stan join the cast just weeks before filming starts.

The original The Batman earned $772 million worldwide despite releasing during the pandemic. Interest in the sequel has grown further after the success of HBO’s The Penguin series.

With strong returning characters and new star additions, expectations are high for The Batman: Part II as one of DC’s most anticipated films ahead of its planned 2027 release.

Popular Roblox Game Steal a Brainrot Set for Hollywood Adaptation

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A feature film based on the popular Roblox game Steal a Brainrot is now in early development. Production company Story Kitchen announced the project on January 29, 2026.

Story Kitchen is partnering with the game’s creators, Do Big Studios and Spyder Games. The company is known for adapting video games into movies and television series.

Steal a Brainrot launched on Roblox in May 2025 and quickly became a major hit. In the game, players collect, buy, sell, and steal meme-inspired creatures called “Brainrots.” The experience mixes internet humor with chaotic and competitive gameplay.

The game has attracted massive attention on Roblox, with billions of visits reported. Its popularity has helped push it beyond a typical Roblox experience and into mainstream online culture.

The upcoming film aims to reflect the game’s chaos, comedy, and mischief. It will center on a world filled with heists, rivalries, and over-the-top humor. No plot details, cast members, director, or release date have been announced so far.

Story Kitchen co-founders Dmitri M. Johnson and Michael Lawrence Goldberg shared their excitement about the project. They said they are thrilled to bring Steal a Brainrot to the big screen.

The announcement follows the game’s rapid rise in visibility. Steal a Brainrot recently hosted major in-game events, including a Bruno Mars concert inside Roblox, showing its wide appeal.

While the project is still in early development, it highlights a growing trend of Roblox games moving toward Hollywood adaptations. Many such projects do not reach production, but this one signals strong interest in youth-driven gaming franchises.

Spotify, UMG, Sony, and Warner Target Anna’s Archive in $13 Trillion Lawsuit

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Spotify and three major record labels have filed a major lawsuit against Anna’s Archive, accusing the site of widespread copyright violations. The plaintiffs are Spotify, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, and Sony Music Entertainment.

The lawsuit claims Anna’s Archive scraped about 86 million music files from Spotify. It also alleges the site copied metadata for roughly 256 million tracks. The plaintiffs describe this as “brazen theft” covering nearly all commercial sound recordings worldwide.

Anna’s Archive operates as a shadow library and search engine. It is known for providing access to books, academic papers, and other digital media. In late 2025, the group said it had created a music preservation archive to save lesser-known recordings.

According to the lawsuit, the group shared music files using BitTorrent technology. The labels argue this went far beyond preservation and resulted in large-scale illegal distribution of copyrighted content.

The case was filed in December 2025 in a federal court in New York. It remained under seal until January 2026, when the court made the case public. A judge has since issued a preliminary injunction blocking access to several Anna’s Archive domains.

The plaintiffs are seeking up to $150,000 in damages per infringed track, which is the maximum allowed under U.S. law for willful copyright infringement. If fully awarded, the total damages could reach nearly $13 trillion.

In addition to direct copyright infringement, the lawsuit includes claims of breach of contract, violations of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, and breaches of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. Anna’s Archive did not respond to the court summons.

The case highlights growing tension between major music companies and online preservation efforts. While no final ruling has been made, the scale of the claims and potential damages has sparked widespread debate online.

Realme P4 Power 5G Launches in India with Massive 10,001mAh Battery

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Realme has launched its new P4 Power 5G smartphone in India, featuring a massive 10,001mAh battery, one of the largest in a mainstream device today. The company calls it the Titan Battery, built with advanced silicon-carbon technology.

The battery supports 80W fast charging, reaching 50% in around 30-36 minutes. It also offers 27W reverse charging, allowing users to charge other devices like a power bank. Despite the huge battery, the phone weighs just 219 grams, making it light for its size and capacity.

The P4 Power features a 6.8-inch quad-curved AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate. It reaches peak brightness of 6,500 nits, ensuring clear viewing even under bright sunlight.

Under the hood, the phone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultra chipset, capable of handling gaming and everyday tasks smoothly. The camera setup includes a 50MP main sensor and a 16MP front camera for selfies.

The device comes with strong durability features, including an IP69 rating for dust and water resistance. Realme promises long-lasting battery health, retaining over 80% capacity even after eight years of use.

The Realme P4 Power 5G will be available in Trans Silver, Trans Orange, and Trans Blue colors. Prices start at around ₹23,999, with special offers available at launch.

Battery technology in smartphones has advanced rapidly. Just a few years ago, 5,000mAh was considered high, but Realme shows that over 10,000mAh can now fit in a slim, lightweight phone, marking a major step forward in mobile power.

WhatsApp Rolls Out ‘Strict Account Settings’ to Protect Users

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WhatsApp has introduced new security features to better protect users from spyware and cyberattacks. The update includes a new ‘Strict Account Settings’ mode and behind-the-scenes privacy improvements.

The Strict Account Settings mode can be activated in Settings → Privacy → Advanced. It locks account settings to their most secure levels and restricts certain actions, such as blocking media and attachments from unknown contacts.

The feature is designed for users who need extra protection, such as journalists and public figures, though anyone can enable it once it fully rolls out.

In addition to this mode, WhatsApp has upgraded its security infrastructure using the Rust programming language. This update strengthens protections for messages, photos, and videos without requiring users to take any action.

WhatsApp says these improvements aim to keep accounts safe from sophisticated cyber threats while allowing users to continue sharing and chatting with confidence.

The company emphasized that even users who do not activate the strict mode benefit from the new Rust-based protections.

These changes highlight WhatsApp’s commitment to privacy and account security, especially for those facing higher digital risks.

ChatGPT Ads Could Reshape Digital Marketing for Businesses Everywhere

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OpenAI’s introduction of ads in ChatGPT is changing how digital marketing works. Experts say the move signals a shift away from traditional click-based advertising toward conversation-driven engagement.

For years, small businesses relied on Google and Facebook ads to compete online. Rising costs and complexity made those platforms harder to use. ChatGPT’s large and engaged user base offers a new way to reach customers through direct, relevant conversations.

OpenAI began testing ads in ChatGPT on January 16 for Free and Go users in the United States. The ads appear at the end of conversations and match the topic a user is asking about. OpenAI says ads will not affect ChatGPT’s answers.

The company says the system is built around privacy, transparency, and user control. OpenAI has stated that user data will not be sold to advertisers and that ads will remain separate from organic responses.

Marketing experts say this approach introduces “conversational advertising.” Instead of pushing users to click links, ads become part of the decision-making dialogue. This could reduce the need for traditional landing pages.

The change may favor small businesses. With less emphasis on large ad budgets, clear and helpful information becomes more valuable than aggressive promotion.

Advertisers are now encouraged to focus on answering real customer questions and building trust. Success may be measured by engagement and influence, not just clicks or sales.

Analysts say this marks the start of a long-term shift. As AI tools become central to how people search and decide, marketing is expected to move toward relevance, credibility, and conversation.

Chinese AI Models Close the Gap With OpenAI and Google

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Chinese technology companies are speeding up the release of new artificial intelligence models as competition with U.S. firms intensifies. The push comes just over a year after DeepSeek drew global attention with a low-cost AI chatbot.

Beijing-based startup Moonshot AI this week unveiled Kimi K2.5, an upgraded model with video generation and agent-style task abilities. The company said the model performs better than leading systems from OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic. The release followed Moonshot’s K2 model by only three months.

Alibaba also announced a new generative AI model called Qwen3-Max-Thinking. The company said it performed strongly on a major benchmark test and can handle text, image, and video tasks. Alibaba added that the model works efficiently by choosing the best tools automatically.

Earlier in January, Z.ai launched a free version of its GLM 4.7 model. Strong demand forced the company to limit new sign-ups for its AI coding tool. Baidu also released an updated model, Ernie 5.0, which helped lift its stock to a near three-year high.

Experts say China’s AI models are now only months behind those developed in the United States. Many Chinese companies focus on rapid updates and wider access rather than only building the most advanced systems.

Chinese firms are also competing by offering open-source or low-cost models. This approach helps attract users in emerging markets. Microsoft recently noted that DeepSeek usage in parts of Africa is far higher than in other regions.

Tech giants like Tencent, Alibaba, and ByteDance are tying AI tools into existing apps and services. Promotions and in-app rewards aim to boost user traffic and long-term adoption.

Analysts say the strategy is clear. Chinese companies want more users and deeper integration into daily digital life, even if it means prioritizing reach over cutting-edge performance.

Delete These 17 Browser Extensions Now, Security Experts Warn

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Security researchers have found a new wave of malicious browser extensions affecting Chrome, Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. The extensions can track user activity and weaken online security. Experts warn users to delete them immediately.

The campaign is known as GhostPoster. It was first identified in December and may have been active since 2020. Researchers say some of the extensions hid malicious code inside their logo images.

According to security firm LayerX, the extensions were installed more than 840,000 times in total. Once active, they could monitor browsing behavior, inject scripts, and redirect online traffic for fraud.

The malware avoids detection by delaying its activity and only connecting to attack servers under certain conditions. While it does not steal passwords, it still poses a serious privacy risk.

Researchers identified the following 17 malicious extensions:

  • Google Translate in Right Click
  • Translate Selected Text with Google
  • Ads Block Ultimate
  • Floating Player – PiP Mode
  • Convert Everything
  • Youtube Download
  • One Key Translate
  • AdBlocker
  • Save Image to Pinterest on Right Click
  • Instagram Downloader
  • RSS Feed
  • Cool Cursor
  • Full Page Screenshot
  • Amazon Price History
  • Color Enhancer
  • Translate Selected Text with Right Click
  • Page Screenshot Clipper

One extension, Google Translate in Right Click, alone had over 520,000 installs. Others were also widely used across different browsers.

These extensions have been removed from official stores. However, they remain dangerous if still installed. Users should check their browsers and delete any listed add-ons right away to stay safe.

Hate Spoilers? This Free Sports Site Fixes That

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A free website called Don’t Tell Me The Score lets sports fans watch highlights without seeing the final score. The goal is simple: keep the suspense alive, even after the game has ended.

Many fans miss live games but still want the excitement of not knowing who won. Traditional highlight pages often spoil the result with headlines, scores, or banners. This site removes all of that.

Don’t Tell Me The Score supports NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB games. Its homepage shows only team icons, not scores or results. Games with available highlights appear in color, while others are greyed out.

Users can click a game and watch extended highlights right away. The videos usually run about 10 minutes and include all the key moments, just like official league recaps.

The site pulls videos directly from the leagues’ official YouTube channels. This keeps the content reliable while avoiding spoilers before playback begins.

There is one limitation. NFL highlights cannot play directly on the site due to league restrictions. Fans must open those videos on YouTube, though the pages usually avoid spoilers if comments are ignored.

The site does not support soccer or women’s leagues yet. Still, for fans of major North American sports who hate spoilers, Don’t Tell Me The Score offers a clean and simple solution.

How to Nearly Double Your iPhone Battery Life

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If your iPhone battery often dies before the day ends, a few simple changes could help it last much longer. According to tech YouTuber Tom Wells, also known as Proper Honest Tech, adjusting just a handful of settings can nearly double your battery life.

One key adjustment is turning off Wi-Fi Assist. This feature automatically switches your phone to cellular data when Wi-Fi is weak, which can drain your battery unnecessarily. To disable it, go to Settings > Mobile Data Options > Voice and Data.

Another drain is Background App Refresh. This allows apps to update in the background even when you’re not using them. For most apps, this is unnecessary. You can customize which apps refresh by going into Settings and adjusting each app individually.

Disabling Always-On Display can also help. While it’s convenient to see your clock and widgets without touching your phone, turning it off can save battery and reduce distractions. Go to Settings > Display & Brightness to switch it off.

Brightness and Dark Mode are important too. iPhones with OLED screens use less power with darker colors, so enabling Dark Mode can significantly save battery.

Turning off analytics tracking and location services can also make a difference. Your iPhone collects usage data in the background, which consumes power. Disable these in Settings > Privacy & Security > Analytics & Improvements, and adjust location access to “While Using” for apps that don’t need constant tracking.

Finally, be mindful of Low Power Mode and charging habits. Using Low Power Mode all the time reduces performance unnecessarily, and fully charging your phone repeatedly can shorten battery life. Experts suggest charging to around 80–90% instead of 100% for better long-term health.

With these simple tweaks, iPhone users can get significantly more battery life without buying a new device.

Sydney Sweeney Could Be Charged After Hollywood Sign Stunt

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Actress Sydney Sweeney could face criminal charges after allegedly climbing the Hollywood sign to promote her new lingerie brand. The stunt, captured on video and shared by TMZ, has been described as a marketing move gone wrong.

Sweeney, who appeared in Sony’s Madame Web, was reportedly filmed climbing the letter “H” on the iconic sign. The footage appears to show bras strung across the landmark as part of the promotion for her brand, which is backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

According to TMZ, Sweeney’s team had a permit to film near the Hollywood sign but did not have permission to touch or climb it. The Hollywood sign is protected, and any physical contact requires special approval.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce confirmed that no permission was granted for the stunt. It said filming or using images of the sign without approval is not allowed under its rules.

TMZ reported that the incident could put Sweeney at risk of criminal trespass or vandalism charges. The Chamber of Commerce did not say whether it plans to file a police report.

Sweeney has not publicly commented on the situation. Her representatives also did not respond to questions about the incident.

Others have faced legal trouble for similar stunts in the past. Several people have been arrested over the years for climbing or altering the Hollywood sign, including incidents involving messages like “Hollyweed” and “Hollyboob.”

The situation adds to recent attention around Sweeney, who remains one of Hollywood’s biggest stars and is set to return in Euphoria season three.

Users Quit TikTok Over “Terrifying” New Terms of Service

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Some TikTok users say they are deleting the app after noticing changes to its Terms of Service. Many describe the updates as “terrifying” and say they give the platform too much control over personal data.

The backlash comes as TikTok’s position in the U.S. appears more secure. A new deal created TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, an entity partly owned by U.S. investors, including Oracle. The move was meant to address long-standing national security concerns.

Critics say the updated terms clearly spell out how much data TikTok can collect. This includes sensitive information such as gender identity, medical details and immigration status. While other social media apps collect similar data, users say TikTok’s wording feels broader.

Another concern is content scanning before upload. The terms say TikTok can analyze videos even if users decide not to post them. The company says this helps prevent rule violations.

The terms also now refer to collecting “precise” location data instead of approximate location. Users can opt out, but privacy advocates say the change is worrying.

Some users also fear how TikTok may use their image or likeness. Online, people warned they could appear in ads years after deleting the app.

On Reddit and social media, many called the update a “wake-up call.” Some urged others to delete TikTok, saying constant scrolling is unhealthy and unnecessary.

Kanye West Says Bipolar Disorder Led to Harmful Statements He Now Regrets

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Kanye West has said he keeps a personal “checklist” of harmful things he said during manic episodes, following a public apology for past antisemitic remarks. The rapper, who now goes by Ye, spoke about the list in a new interview after publishing a full-page apology in The Wall Street Journal.

In the apology, Kanye said his behavior was linked to bipolar disorder caused by a brain injury from a car crash 25 years ago. He said damage to his right frontal lobe went undiagnosed until 2023 and contributed to episodes where he lost touch with reality.

Kanye said his antisemitic actions, including selling shirts with swastikas and releasing a song titled Heil Hitler,” came during manic periods. He said he gravitated toward extreme symbols while mentally unwell and stressed that he is not a Nazi or an antisemite.

Speaking to Vanity Fair, Kanye said he now reviews what he said during those episodes each day. He said the comments damaged his family life, friendships and professional relationships, adding that the fallout has followed him for the past several years.

He also rejected claims that the apology was a publicity move to promote his upcoming album, Bully. West said the apology was driven by guilt and remorse, not commercial interests, and that he felt a responsibility to address the harm he caused.

Kanye ended by apologizing again to Jewish and Black communities, saying he is committed to treatment and long-term change. He said his illness does not excuse his actions but believes accountability is necessary as he works to rebuild trust.

Jeff Bezos Reclaims World’s No. 3 Richest Spot as Amazon Stock Rises

Jeff Bezos retook his position as the world’s third-richest person on Tuesday, passing Google cofounder Sergey Brin after Amazon’s stock climbed following a major shift in its retail strategy.

Amazon shares rose 2.4% to more than $244 after the company announced it would shut down all Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh physical stores. The move is part of a broader plan to focus on same-day online delivery and expand its Whole Foods Market footprint.

Amazon said the Go and Fresh stores failed to deliver a strong customer experience or a business model that could scale. Some of the closed locations will be converted into Whole Foods stores, and the company plans to open more than 100 new Whole Foods locations in the coming years.

The stock increase lifted Bezos’ net worth by about $4.8 billion to $254 billion, according to Forbes’ real-time estimates. That pushed him just ahead of Brin, whose fortune stands at roughly $253 billion. The two billionaires have swapped positions several times in recent weeks.

Alphabet shares rose slightly on Tuesday, but not enough to keep Brin ahead. Larry Page, Google’s other cofounder, remains the world’s second-richest person, behind Elon Musk, who continues to hold the top spot despite a dip in his fortune.

The broader tech sector also saw gains, helping lift major stock indexes. Analysts said Amazon’s decision to refocus its grocery business could strengthen its long-term position as it competes with Walmart, Target and Costco.

Khaby Lame Cashes In as Brand Company Sells for Nearly $1 Billion

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Khaby Lame has sold his core company, Step Distinctive Limited, in a deal valued at $975 million. The company manages his global brand and commercial operations, according to a public SEC filing.

The buyer is Rich Sparkle, a publicly traded holding company based in Hong Kong. The transaction will be completed through the issuance of 75 million ordinary shares, making Lame a controlling shareholder in Rich Sparkle.

Step Distinctive Limited will continue to be led by Lame after the acquisition. Before the deal, he owned 49% of the company.

Rich Sparkle said Lame’s global fan base could generate more than $4 billion in annual sales through expanded commercial activity. The company plans to grow his brand across multiple international markets.

As part of the agreement, Lame approved the use of his face, voice, and behavioral data to create an AI-powered digital twin. The technology will be used for multilingual livestream e-commerce content across different time zones.

Livestream shopping is already a major industry in China and is growing rapidly in other markets, including the United States. Rich Sparkle sees the digital twin as a way to scale Lame’s presence without physical limits.

Lame is the most-followed creator on TikTok, with over 160 million followers and 2.6 billion total likes. His videos regularly attract hundreds of millions of views.

The 25-year-old creator was born in Senegal and raised in Italy. He rose to fame after losing his factory job during the COVID-19 pandemic and began posting on TikTok in 2020.

Lame has since become one of the world’s highest-earning digital creators, partnering with brands such as Hugo Boss, Airbnb, Binance, and major Hollywood studios.

Netflix Documentary Reopens Debate Over ‘America’s Next Top Model’ Legacy

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A new Netflix documentary is reigniting debate around America’s Next Top Model, as former producers and stars speak openly about the show’s long-running controversies. The film examines the backlash that has followed the popular reality series years after it ended.

Netflix released the trailer for Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model on Monday. The documentary features interviews with former contestants, winners, judges, and producers, including Tyra Banks, Jay Manuel, J. Alexander, and Nigel Barker.

The series, which aired from 2003 to 2018, followed aspiring models competing in photo shoots, fashion shows, and challenges. While the show drew a massive global audience at its peak, it later became widely criticized for its treatment of contestants.

Critics have accused the show of promoting body shaming, emotional pressure, and unsafe or insensitive creative choices. Several past photo shoots and judging moments have faced renewed criticism in recent years, especially as clips resurfaced on social media.

In the trailer, Tyra Banks appears to acknowledge that the show went too far at times. However, her comments have drawn backlash online, with viewers accusing her of shifting responsibility onto audiences rather than taking full accountability.

Fans reacted strongly on social media, with many rejecting the idea that viewer demand justified the show’s controversial elements. Some users said the comments felt dismissive of the impact the show had on young contestants.

One of the documentary’s strongest moments comes from producer Ken Mok, who says there was a point when he realized the show had become “a monster.” The remark highlights the internal conflict behind a series that shaped reality TV culture.

Reality Check: Inside America’s Next Top Model will premiere on Netflix on February 16. The documentary aims to reassess the show’s legacy as conversations around ethics, power, and responsibility in reality television continue.