Latest news with #AliExpress


Korea Herald
3 days ago
- Health
- Korea Herald
Hazardous materials found in kids' items from Chinese platforms
Children's summer textile products sold on Chinese e-commerce platforms have been found to contain toxic substances far exceeding permitted safety levels, the city announced Thursday. In the latest safety inspection conducted by the Seoul Metropolitan Government on 24 items of summer shoes and clothing for children from AliExpress, Shein and Temu, 14 were deemed unsuitable for sale. According to the city government, products from Temu and AliExpress contained hazardous materials at levels up to 33 times higher than the country's legal standards. Four types of summer shoes being sold on AliExpress contained a phthalate plasticizer that exceeds the legally permitted amount. The items were also found to have lead levels that exceeded standards by 25 times. Phthalates are commonly used to increase the flexibility and longevity of plastics. But they are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can affect the body's reproductive function and increase the risk of cancers. Lead exposure beyond safe levels can also negatively affect health, including the reproductive health and brain development of unborn children. The city government underlined that the DEHP, or di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate, which is a chemical linked to various health concerns like developmental issues and potential carcinogenic effects, was also found in the shoes' insoles. Three summer tops from AliExpress and one kids' shirt from Temu were ruled unsuitable for their high pH levels. South Korea permits a pH range between 4 and 7.5, but three clothing items from AliExpress measured over 8.5, while the Temu top had a pH of 7.8. The city government also detected nonylphenol that exceeded the standards by 1.3 times in a shirt sold on AliExpress. Nonylphenol is a toxic substance known to disrupt estrogen and potentially cause infertility. The city's exam revealed structural problems for five pairs of summer pants, such as excessive drawstring length, which can pose safety risks for children. A pair of children's pants also showed a pH level of 8, which is outside the permitted range of 4 to 7.5. Items from Shein, meanwhile, tested within the acceptable limits. The city government has requested that AliExpress and Temu halt sales of these products based on the findings and urged people here to be cautious when purchasing children's items through overseas shopping sites. The Seoul Metropolitan Government added that it would continue safety inspections in June, focusing on children's umbrellas, raincoats and rain boots.


Gizmodo
4 days ago
- Business
- Gizmodo
Retro Maker Anbernic Hopes to Make Handhelds Mainstream
Anbernic makes retro handhelds, practically an avalanche of retro handhelds. The company is known for pushing so many products out the door each year, customers can barely keep up. Now, the handheld maker seems to be one of the few pushing into the direct U.S. market in an effort to offer customers one of the bare few avenues of gaming for cheap. Going mainstream has a few costs—not just in price—but in what the company needs to do to avoid scrutiny over its promotion of legally murky game emulation. Gaming deals hunter Wario64 first picked up on Anbernic's move into the mainstream. The device maker now offers a select few products on Best Buy, specifically the company's more powerful handhelds like the RG 556 with its 5.5-inch display and the RG406H with the 4-inch touchscreen. The RG 406V is a Game Boy-style handheld with a smaller display, but all of these devices run on Android compared to Anbernic's usual stock software. These devices are also far more expensive than if you buy directly from Anbernic. The RG 406V starts at $160 on the handheld maker's site. Through Best Buy, it's $250. Based on the product descriptions, none of the handhelds listed on Best Buy include any ROMs—the video games ripped from retro cartridges or game discs. These kinds of handhelds normally include a microSD card with a metric ton of old-school titles on them. If you order the devices from China, you can pay a little extra for a small, 128GB microSD card packed to the gills with games (though in our experience, not every ripped ROM will actually work). You can also find most Anbernic devices on Amazon through third-party sellers at the same price or less than Best Buy. Depending on the reseller, some of these devices will also come with the microSD card full of retro titles. If you want to save money, it's still better to buy directly from the handheld maker. Previously, retro gaming enthusiasts would tell you to check out the prices on dropshipping sites like AliExpress. However, ever since President Donald Trump's 'Liberation Day' and the end of de minimis exemptions, AliExpress and fellow cheapo product sites Temu and Shein are still flailing against the crushing weight of new U.S. import taxes. It's now much easier to buy directly from Anbernic. Last month, the company declared it had to stop direct shipments from China to the U.S., citing tariffs. It promised it would keep shipping to its U.S.-based warehouse and eat some degree of the customs cost. Since then, Anbernic removed the notice from its shipping page and posted on its products that China-to-U.S. shipping was 'restored.' Despite that, if the company wants to continue on its trajectory, it needs other avenues for customers to get its new products. In just three days, Anbernic announced two separate devices that could be its most enticing creations yet. The first was the RG 35XXPro, a Game Boy recreation with twin joysticks not found on Nintendo's original handhelds. The device bears a striking resemblance to the BatlEXP G350, a super-cheap handheld I bought for around $35 (Anbernic has not clarified its connection to the G350, despite the box including a thank you card with its logo). That cheap-end Game Boy mimic didn't include a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi chip, but the new device does. If the Pro includes a better speaker than the G350 and the original RG35XX, it could prove to be one of the best handhelds of its class. For those desperate for something truly different, Anbernic dropped a video Wednesday showing off the RG Slide. At first glance, it could be an homage to the T-Mobile Sidekick with its slide-out main screen. We don't know what's happening on the other side of that backplate, but we're praying it's a second screen. There are a paltry few devices designed for Nintendo DS emulation. Those that exist, like the Ayaneo Flip, are priced for handheld PC gamers rather than emulation enthusiasts. We doubt the upcoming OneXSugar with its flip-up controls will be any less expensive. When a Switch 2 costs $450, $150 more than an original Switch, we're growing increasingly desperate for cheap avenues to get into gaming. Anbernic is in a position to level the playing field, as long as it doesn't lose itself in the process.


Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
I transformed my tot's boxroom into a circus-themed space for £8 – people are amazed when they see what it looks like
Plus, ten easy DIY jobs to transform your home for as little as £1 CLASS ACT I transformed my tot's boxroom into a circus-themed space for £8 – people are amazed when they see what it looks like Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A THRIFTY mum has left people open-mouthed after sharing her daughter's epic bedroom makeover on a budget. Ana J Dacre took to Facebook to post snaps of the jaw-dropping boxroom transformation that cost her less than £10. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Before the epic makeover, the room was pretty simple and featured a bed, white walls and a bedside table Credit: FACEBOOK/DIY ON A BUDGET 2 But thanks to a £8 Facebook Marketplace bargain and loads of upcycling, the DIY-loving mum managed to turn it upside down Credit: FACEBOOK/DIY ON A BUDGET So if you're looking for some inspiration for your tot's bedroom - or even your own - you've come to the right place. Before the stunning glow-up, the toddler's room was very plain, featuring just a a bed, light walls, a mini bedside table and a lamp. But thanks to a Facebook Marketplace bargain, as well as some impressive DIY skills and a whole lot of upcycling, the thrifty woman was able to give the room a totally need look. Now the walls boast a fun circus-themed wallpaper, a circus tent above the three-year-old's bed, as well as several circus-inspired decotations. Another new change was the huge pine bookcase which the mother had snapped up second-hand for just £8. To give it a more funky appearance that would fit the overall bright aesthetic, Ana changed the original colours to dark blue, as well as attached the curtains which she had made herself. There were also plenty of drums, a huge array of prints, books and more - and judging by the snaps online the little girl has approved the glow-up. Ana wrote in the caption: ''Hi everyone,I just wanted to show you my 3y old daughters circus themed bedroom... ''It's not 100% finished yet as after the move we struggle to find all the bits and pieces haha but it started lookin' good... ''Lamp,circus tent, curtains and all furniture been hand made/upcycled by me. AliExpress is selling a tiny home for just £5k - it comes with two bedrooms & would be the perfect granny flat ''Total cost for the room 8£ as I already had people told me not to hoard stuff,'' she chuckled. 'You've put a lot of work into that' Since being shared in the popular DIY On A Budget Official, the transformation has already taken the internet by storm, winning the DIY fan more than 440 likes. 10 DIY hacks for under £1 each These simple and affordable DIY hacks can help you get creative while saving money Homemade Air Freshener: Mix baking soda with a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Place it in a small jar with a perforated lid to keep your home smelling fresh. Upcycled Tin Can Planters: Clean and paint empty tin cans to use as stylish planters for herbs or small plants. Custom Phone Stand: Use a sturdy piece of cardboard or an old plastic credit card to create a custom phone stand. Decorate it with washi tape or paint. DIY Lip Scrub: Combine sugar and a bit of honey or coconut oil to make a natural lip scrub. Store in a small container. Personalised Bookmarks: Use old greeting cards or decorative paper to create unique bookmarks. Punch a hole at the top and add a ribbon for a finishing touch. Decorative Mason Jars: Paint or decoupage old mason jars to use as decorative vases, storage containers, or candle holders. Easy Cable Organiser: Use empty toilet paper rolls to organize cables and cords. Decorate the rolls with colorful paper or tape. Magnetic Spice Jars: Attach small magnets to the lids of small jars and stick them to a metal board or fridge for easy-access spice storage. Handmade Coasters: Cut out squares from old corkboard or felt and decorate them with paint or fabric to create custom coasters. Natural All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent. Use it to clean surfaces around your home. Dozens of social media users flooded to comments, where one wrote: ''Absolutely stunning, so creative, love it .'' Another chimed in: ''You've put a lot of work into that, mits fab. Great find with the book care.'' A fellow mum said: ''I love it !! I once wanted to do my little one circus bedroom, he was born into the circus world, don't think I could of achieved anything like this.'' ''Absolutely incredible I love it, wish I could get my creative mojo back,'' someone else commented. ''Love this n love that it's vintage looking too wallpaper is amazing,'' another member of the popular page said. Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club


The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
I transformed my tot's boxroom into a circus-themed space for £8 – people are amazed when they see what it looks like
A THRIFTY mum has left people open-mouthed after sharing her daughter's epic bedroom makeover on a budget. Ana J Dacre took to Facebook to post snaps of the jaw-dropping Advertisement 2 Before the epic makeover, the room was pretty simple and featured a bed, white walls and a bedside table Credit: FACEBOOK/DIY ON A BUDGET 2 But thanks to a £8 Facebook Marketplace bargain and loads of upcycling, the DIY-loving mum managed to turn it upside down Credit: FACEBOOK/DIY ON A BUDGET So if you're looking for some inspiration for your tot's bedroom - or even your own - you've come to the right place. Before the stunning glow-up, the toddler's room was very plain, featuring just a a bed, light walls, a mini bedside table and a lamp. But thanks to a Now the walls boast a fun circus-themed wallpaper, a circus tent above the three-year-old's bed, as well as several circus-inspired decotations. Advertisement read more on homes Another new change was the huge pine bookcase which the mother had snapped up To give it a more funky appearance that would fit the overall bright aesthetic, Ana changed the original colours to dark blue, as well as attached the There were also plenty of drums, a huge array of prints, books and more - and judging by the snaps online the little girl has approved the glow-up. Ana wrote in the caption: ''Hi everyone,I just wanted to show you my 3y old daughters circus themed bedroom... Advertisement Most read in Fabulous ''It's not 100% finished yet as after the move we struggle to find all the bits and pieces haha but it started lookin' good... ''Lamp,circus tent, curtains and all furniture been hand made/upcycled by me. AliExpress is selling a tiny home for just £5k - it comes with two bedrooms & would be the perfect granny flat ''Total cost for the room 8£ as I already had people told me not to hoard stuff,'' she chuckled. 'You've put a lot of work into that' Since being shared in the popular , the transformation has already taken the internet by storm , winning the DIY fan more than 440 likes. Advertisement 10 DIY hacks for under £1 each These simple and affordable DIY hacks can help you get creative while saving money Homemade Air Freshener: Mix baking soda with a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Place it in a small jar with a perforated lid to keep your home smelling fresh. Upcycled Tin Can Planters: Clean and paint empty tin cans to use as stylish planters for herbs or small plants. Custom Phone Stand: Use a sturdy piece of cardboard or an old plastic credit card to create a custom phone stand. Decorate it with washi tape or paint. DIY Lip Scrub: Combine sugar and a bit of honey or coconut oil to make a natural lip scrub. Store in a small container. Personalised Bookmarks: Use old greeting cards or decorative paper to create unique bookmarks. Punch a hole at the top and add a ribbon for a finishing touch. Decorative Mason Jars: Paint or decoupage old mason jars to use as decorative vases, storage containers, or candle holders. Easy Cable Organiser: Use empty toilet paper rolls to organize cables and cords. Decorate the rolls with colorful paper or tape. Magnetic Spice Jars: Attach small magnets to the lids of small jars and stick them to a metal board or fridge for easy-access spice storage. Handmade Coasters: Cut out squares from old corkboard or felt and decorate them with paint or fabric to create custom coasters. Natural All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent. Use it to clean surfaces around your home. Dozens of social media users flooded to comments, where one wrote: ''Absolutely stunning, so creative, love it .'' Another chimed in: ''You've put a lot of work into that, mits fab. Great find with the book care.'' A fellow mum said: ''I love it !! I once wanted to do my little one circus bedroom, he was born into the circus world, don't think I could of achieved anything like this.'' ''Absolutely incredible I love it, wish I could get my creative mojo back,'' someone else commented. Advertisement ''Love this n love that it's vintage looking too wallpaper is amazing,'' another member of the popular page said. Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club


Globe and Mail
15-05-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Why Alibaba Stock Is Sinking Today
Shares of Alibaba (NYSE: BABA) are plunging on Thursday. The company's stock was down 7.9% as of 12:43 p.m. ET and fell as much as 8.3% earlier in the day. The steep decline comes as the S&P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) edged up 0.3% and the Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX: ^IXIC) was up 0.1%. The Chinese tech giant reported quarterly earnings that fell significantly short of Wall Street's expectations. Alibaba misses earnings targets Alibaba reported weaker-than-expected results for the quarter ended March 31. Its net income of $1.71 million (12.38 billion Chinese yuan) was well below analysts' expected $2.93 billion. Revenue grew 7% year over year to $32.58 billion, also falling short. Growth slowdown raises concerns The 7% revenue growth rate is less than previous quarters, pointing to a deceleration and highlighting issues in Alibaba's core e-commerce business. The Chinese economy isn't recovering the way many investors had hoped, and consumer spending has not returned to levels analysts had forecast. Alibaba also faces increased competition from and Temu domestically, while AliExpress, Alibaba's international marketplace, is reeling from the U.S.-China trade tensions. AliExpress also faces competition from Temu and Shein, as well, of course, from Amazon. The short term could be bumpy While Alibaba faces significant challenges in the near term, the company is making significant investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and building for the future. Still, with a rocky domestic economy and international trade wars, the company's stock could struggle for some time. However, long term, I think Alibaba will succeed, and with a price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) a little over half of that of Amazon, its stock is attractively priced. Should you invest $1,000 in Alibaba Group right now? Before you buy stock in Alibaba Group, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Alibaba Group wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $620,719!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $829,511!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor 's total average return is962% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to170%for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor. See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of May 12, 2025 John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Johnny Rice has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon. The Motley Fool recommends Alibaba Group and The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.