WBN News Langley

Google and Novastar Ventures have launched the Applied AI Lab for Africa to help startups build impactful AI solutions. The programme offers access to advanced AI models, expert mentorship, Cloud credits, and funding opportunities, empowering innovators to solve real-world challenges.

From Argentina's independence and the U.S. dollar to The Beatles and the Battle of Kursk, July 6–12 shaped our modern world.

Google and the Elba Hope Foundation are investing $1 million to give 100,000 creators across five African countries free access to Google Gemini and AI tools. The initiative removes technology barriers, empowers creativity, and helps African talent compete on the global stage.

OKX has launched OKX AI, a marketplace where AI agents can hire, pay, and collaborate with one another using stablecoins. The platform aims to power an emerging "agent economy," marking a new step toward autonomous AI-driven commerce despite ongoing regulatory and trust challenges.

Apple has raised prices on some products, citing soaring chip costs and AI-driven demand. The move has sparked debate among customers over the rising cost of technology, while highlighting broader industry challenges. Competition and innovation may still deliver greater value in the future.

Kenya's leading insurers are expanding into the Democratic Republic of Congo to tap its growing $5 billion insurance market. Backed by mining-driven growth and industry reforms, the move could boost financial inclusion, strengthen regional integration and support long-term economic development.

China has approved the NEO brain chip for mass production and patient use, marking a major milestone in brain-computer interface technology. The device helps paralyzed patients control digital devices with their thoughts and reaches commercialization ahead of Neuralink.

A Harvard Medical School study found advanced AI systems outperformed doctors in emergency room diagnoses under controlled testing. Researchers say AI could become a powerful decision-support tool, improving diagnostic accuracy while complementing, not replacing human clinicians.