August 25, 2025
Tech News
Xiaomi is making significant strides in the electric vehicle sector with its new SUV, the YU7, which received nearly 300,000 orders within an hour of its launch. Competing with Tesla’s Model Y, the YU7 is priced at approximately $35,360.
This new push for electric vehicles comes after Xiaomi released its first sedan, the SU7, in December 2023. With a market value increase of around $120 billion over the past year, the company is aiming to expand internationally, eyeing the European market by 2027.
Meanwhile, Google has unveiled the Pixel 10, featuring several enhancements over the Pixel 9. Notably, the new Pixel includes a telephoto lens and the latest Tensor G5 chip, which promises to improve image quality significantly. The base model starts at $799 and showcases minor design changes yet crucial tech improvements.
The launch event in New York generated buzz, especially with the introduction of the Pixelsnap feature, allowing users to attach accessories seamlessly via built-in magnets. This upgrade enhances convenience and usability without compromising on performance.
In the fusion energy sector, Canadian startup General Fusion has received a $22 million lifeline from existing investors to support its long-term goals. Following substantial layoffs earlier this year, the company aims to achieve key scientific milestones with this funding.
The investment comes as General Fusion seeks to hit “scientific breakeven,” a critical point where the energy produced in a fusion reaction meets the energy used to initiate it. This milestone is essential for validating its reactor design and ensuring future viability.
Tech Explained
Electric Vehicle (EV) – An electric vehicle is powered by electric motors using electrical energy stored in batteries instead of relying solely on traditional fuels. Companies like Xiaomi are now entering this market to diversify and innovate beyond their original offerings in consumer electronics.
Telephoto Lens – A telephoto lens is a type of camera lens that has a long focal length, allowing for closer images of distant subjects. Google’s addition of a telephoto lens in the Pixel 10 addresses a previous limitation of the Pixel 9, enhancing its photography capabilities.
Tensor G5 Chip – The Tensor G5 chip is a custom processor designed by Google for its Pixel smartphones. It focuses on enhancing artificial intelligence and photography features, promising better performance and improved image processing in devices like the Pixel 10.
Fusion Energy – Fusion energy is derived from the process of fusing atomic nuclei, which releases a massive amount of energy. Companies like General Fusion are developing technologies to achieve viable fusion reactions as a sustainable and powerful energy source.
Scientific Breakeven – In fusion energy, scientific breakeven refers to the point when a fusion reactor produces as much energy as is used to initiate the fusion reaction. Hitting this milestone is crucial for proving the feasibility of fusion as a viable energy source.
