WhatsApp to let users go by usernames, not phone numbers
WhatsApp says the feature is designed to give its three billion users a new layer of control over who can contact them.

WhatsApp says the feature is designed to give its three billion users a new layer of control over who can contact them.





Two countries sign economic and security pact, as China expresses concern that the agreement may be targeted at it.
China’s Ministry of Commerce says measures are a response to Tokyo’s ‘new militarism’.
South Korean president frames the push as a race against time to secure the country’s domination in AI boom.
South Korea’s World Cup exit after the group stage prompted the coach to quit, with the president calling for a probe.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32 pits South American giants Brazil against Asian heavyweights Japan in Houston.
The New Zealand public broadcaster reports that about 2,500 police officers were deployed to secure and monitor polling stations.
Canberra says tech platforms are still letting too many children bypass its under-16 social media ban.

Tropical Storm Mekkhala has triggered severe flooding across parts of Taiwan.
Suspect was stopped at Bangkok’s main airport as he allegedly tried to fly home.
Palestinian Interior Ministry says those killed in attack on Maghazi refugee camp were police officers.