Technology Update: Key Highlights for January 18, 2026
Summary
- The price of large-capacity SSDs has outpaced that of gold due to AI chip shortages.
- CCTV’s Spring Festival Gala rehearsal showcases advanced tech, including AI and AR.
- Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 Pro rumored to feature a single punch hole and variable aperture capabilities.
1. SSD Prices Surpass Gold
In a significant development for tech consumers and investors alike, the price of 8TB NVMe SSDs has surged past that of gold. This escalation is largely attributed to a scarcity in artificial intelligence chips, leading to a skyrocketing demand for high-capacity solid-state drives (SSDs). As businesses and consumers eagerly adopt AI technologies, the implications for the storage market are profound, signaling potential shifts in pricing strategies and consumer behavior.
2. CCTV’s 2026 Spring Festival Gala Features Advanced Technology
CCTV has recently completed the first rehearsal for its highly anticipated "2026 Spring Festival Gala." This year’s performance introduces a high-tech spectacle by integrating AI, augmented reality (AR), and extended reality (XR) into the stage design, creating an immersive viewer experience. Notably, the gala will feature robotic mascots that represent the zodiac horse, enticing audiences with a blend of tradition and innovation.
3. Apple iPhone 18 Pro Design Leaked
Recent reveals about the iPhone 18 Pro indicate a striking design change that includes a single punch hole for the front camera and a variable aperture feature. The acclaimed tech analyst Jon Prosser shared a rendering showcasing the phone in new colors—burgundy, brown, and purple—hinting at Apple’s focus on aesthetics alongside technological advancements.
4. Weibo CEO Addresses Network Misconduct
The CEO of Weibo, Wang Gaofei, has issued a statement regarding recent bans placed on prominent figures like Luo Yonghao and Jia Guolong. He emphasized the platform’s commitment to curbing improper behaviors that may disrupt user engagement. This includes organizing unauthorized public debates that exploit personal disputes and intensify online animosity.
5. Luo Yonghao’s 15-Day Weibo Suspension
Luo Yonghao confirmed a 15-day ban from Weibo, attributing the suspension to earlier public discourse involving the Xibei Incident. He has stated he will refrain from commenting further, opting instead to adhere to platform guidelines that discourage contentious content. The incident raises questions about the limitations of free expression within digital platforms.
6. Huawei’s HarmonyOS Achieves Major Certification
In a pivotal achievement for domestic operating systems, Huawei’s HarmonyOS desktop OS has secured a Level II security certification from the China Information Security Evaluation Center. This certification not only underscores the system’s reliability and security but also positions it as a leading alternative in an increasingly competitive market.
7. Avita’s Response to Nanning Collision Incident
Avita has clarified its position following a 15-vehicle collision in Nanning, asserting that the brand’s assisted driving features were inactive during the incident. The company accused certain media outlets of spreading misinformation regarding the functioning and safety of its vehicles, emphasizing the need for factual reporting in the wake of accidents.
8. Apple to Upgrade OLED Screens Across Multiple Devices
Apple plans to roll out OLED screen upgrades for five of its devices, including the iPad Mini and MacBook Air, between 2026 and 2028. This transition signals Apple’s commitment to enhancing display quality, providing users with superior visual experiences across its product range.
9. Yu Hao’s Vision for Zhumi Technology
Yu Hao, founder of Zhumi Technology, has reiterated the goal of transforming the company into a billion-dollar enterprise over the next twenty years. He believes that historical market trends suggest significant revenue growth for tech firms will occur over two-decade spans, underlining a strategic vision that aligns with time-tested economic laws.
10. iOS 26.3 Introduces Design Changes to App Store
Apple is experimenting with a new search advertisement design in iOS 26.3, featuring the removal of the traditional blue background for promoted results. This test aims to streamline user experience while maintaining effective promotional visibility.
11. JD.com Launches Self-Pickup Food Delivery
In a bid to enhance consumer convenience, JD.com is set to introduce a self-pickup food delivery promotion, with prices beginning as low as 0.01 yuan. This initiative complements JD’s existing functionalities and reflects a strategic approach to optimize its food delivery operations.
12. Surprising Sales Spike from Free Promotions on Epic Games Store
In an emerging trend, indie game publisher New Blood Interactive noted a 200% increase in sales for its title "Blood West" on Steam during its free promotional period on the Epic Games Store. This phenomenon challenges conventional wisdom regarding free offers, revealing unexpected outcomes for marketing strategies.
13. Expansion of "Silent Car" Services on Railways
Starting February 1, the railway department will broaden its "silent carriage" services to include additional train categories. This enhanced feature offers travelers a more tranquil journey, further enhancing the overall travel experience across the nation’s rail network.
As we wrap up today’s technological insights, we look forward to more developments in the coming days. Stay tuned for more updates and innovations in the world of technology.
