HONG KONG—Chinese state media took turns denouncing a White House-approved plan to turn TikTok into a U.S.-based company, casting more doubt over the fate of the Chinese-owned short-video app that needs nods from both Beijing and Washington to avoid a ban in the U.S. Over the weekend, TikTok appeared to narrowly avoid having to shut … Read more
A White House-approved plan to transform TikTok into a U.S.-based company would keep the operation of the viral short-video app, and likely the algorithm that has powered its rise, in Chinese hands. This structure improves the deal’s chances of finding favor in Beijing, which had threatened to veto a sale. President Trump said Saturday he … Read more
WASHINGTON—President Trump has told advisers he is uncomfortable with a pending deal for Oracle Corp. to become TikTok’s U.S. technology partner, according to people familiar with conversations, in another sign that the proposed tie-up isn’t yet a done deal. Mr. Trump’s private concerns were echoed publicly on Thursday by White House chief of staff Mark … Read more
TOKYO—Yoshihide Suga was elected Japan’s first new prime minister in almost eight years, ushering in a rare period of political uncertainty as the country seeks to emerge from the coronavirus pandemic, navigate rising U.S.-China tensions and prepare for the Olympics in Tokyo next year. “What the people want is a quick end to the coronavirus … Read more
The Trump administration is weighing whether to place export restrictions on China’s most advanced manufacturer of semiconductors, a move that could cut to the heart of China’s ambitions to become self-reliant on critical technologies. The step is the same one that U.S. officials imposed on Chinese telecom equipment maker Huawei. The decision to add Huawei … Read more
A Chinese diplomatic offensive to improve ties with Europe and counter U.S. influence has failed to yield clear gains so far. On the last leg of a two-week fence-mending tour of the continent, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stopped in Germany on Tuesday, having met with skepticism even in friendlier countries. China is eager to … Read more
Zhang Yiming was having breakfast at home in Beijing in July when a message popped on his computer screen. A friend sent a link featuring President Trump, in which he said the coronavirus came from China and, as part of a U.S. response, he might ban TikTok, the hit video app Mr. Zhang founded. Mr. … Read more
Story highlights Virtual reality headsets range from inexpensive Cardboard to pricey PlayStation Here are your options if you want to dip your toe in or really swim with the VR big fish Thinking about treating your family to a little virtual reality this holiday? Have no idea where to start? Don’t worry. From Google’s inexpensive … Read more