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Saturday, July 4, 2026

Top China Tech News

  1. 01
    Robotics

    NAVI AI humanoid robots deployed in multiple industries

    CB Signal31

    NAVI AI humanoid robots, developed by Zhejiang-based Zheshang Renxing, have been deployed in industrial manufacturing, logistics, service, education, and data collection sectors. The robots feature high-precision operations (±0.02 mm) and are supported by the EvoStack toolchain for development and deployment.

    Why it matters

    This demonstrates a significant step towards commercializing humanoid robots beyond lab settings, showcasing their practical application in diverse industrial and service environments.

    Leiphone · 21h ago
  2. 02
    Semiconductors

    Samsung to supply image sensors for iPhone 18, ending Sony's monopoly

    CB Signal23

    Apple's iPhone 18 series will reportedly feature image sensors from Samsung, ending Sony's long-standing exclusive supply deal. Production of these high-end sensors for the iPhone 18 is said to be occurring at Samsung's Texas facility, marking a first for core component manufacturing in the US.

    Why it matters

    This development signals a diversification in Apple's critical supply chain and a strategic move to onshore advanced semiconductor manufacturing, potentially influencing global component sourcing dynamics.

    CnBeta · 15h ago
  3. 03
    Policy

    China to end tax breaks for NEVs and energy-saving vehicles from 2027

    CB Signal15

    China will phase out tax incentives for energy-saving vehicles and several categories of new-energy vehicles starting in 2027. This policy extends the gradual withdrawal of incentives that supported the growth of China's EV market. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Finance, State Taxation Administration, and Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

    Why it matters

    The removal of tax incentives could impact EV sales and manufacturing strategies in China, potentially shifting market dynamics towards more cost-competitive offerings.

    SCMP China Future Tech · 15h ago
  4. 04
    AI

    Chinese AI chatbot Doubao introduces paid subscription plans

    CB Signal13

    Doubao, an AI chatbot, has launched a paid version with three tiers: Standard (68 yuan/month), Enhanced (200 yuan/month), and Premium (500 yuan/month), all accessing the Doubao 2.1 model series. A free version with basic services remains available. The introduction of paid tiers has sparked debate about user reliance and the AI's perceived capabilities.

    Why it matters

    This move signifies a potential shift in the monetization strategies for Chinese AI chatbots, moving from free access to tiered subscription models in response to user adoption.

    Guokr · 2d ago
  5. 05
    EVs

    BYD overtakes Tesla as world's top EV maker amid export growth

    CB Signal12

    BYD has once again surpassed Tesla to become the world's largest manufacturer of battery-powered electric vehicles, driven by increased overseas shipments despite a slight year-on-year decrease in overall deliveries. This achievement signals growing recognition of China's automotive manufacturing capabilities globally.

    Why it matters

    BYD's reclaimed lead highlights the intensifying global competition in the EV market and underscores China's dominant position in EV production and export.

    SCMP China Future Tech · 21h ago
  6. 06
    Platforms

    Alibaba bans employees from using Claude for coding

    CB Signal6

    Alibaba has prohibited its employees from using the Claude chatbot for coding purposes. The directive specifically targets the use of Claude for generating or assisting with code.

    Why it matters

    This policy decision reflects concerns over data security, intellectual property, and potential risks associated with using third-party AI tools in enterprise software development.

    TMTPost · 15h ago