What in the World
Jul 9, 2026
You've heard of a situationship. Now meet its chaotic cousin: the ‘maybelatership'. It's when someone says they want a relationship... just not right now.
So are more people putting commitment on hold? How do you know if you're in a ‘maybelatership’? And what does this latest dating trend tell us about modern dating?
Chelsea Coates from the What in the World team explains how ‘maybelaterships’ differ from situationships, why they can leave one person stuck in limbo, and whether they can ever become healthy, committed relationships. We also hear from a dating coach on how to communicate your expectations and avoid waiting around for someone might not want to commit.
Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: James Beardsworth, Ash Mohamed and William Lee Adams Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde
China says no to AI boyfriends
AI has evolved. It’s not just typing a message or speaking to robot-like voice similar to Siri anymore. Now there re apps where you can a design AI companions - digital characters customised to act, look and sound however you want. Some users have made AI boyfriends or AI life assistants. Experts have raised concerns about misuse and how apps like this can reinforce negative or even risky behaviours.
The market is continuing to grow globally but China has become the first country to introduce regulation in this area, due to take effect next week
We chat to BBC’s China Media Analyst, Kerry Allen about what’s behind China’s clamp down on these apps. Plus we hear from an AI companion user.
Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Benita Barden, Emily Horler and Liv Cleal Editor: Verity Wilde
How dangerous is extreme heat?
Extreme heat is becoming more common around the world. From Europe to India, record-breaking heatwaves are affecting millions of people - but what is all that heat actually doing to our bodies?
Brain fog, poor sleep, heat exhaustion and heatstroke are just some of the ways extreme heat can affect our health. So when does hot weather become dangerous, and how can you stay safe during a heatwave?
BBC Health Editor and doctor Michelle Roberts explains how the body keeps itself cool, why extreme heat can become life-threatening, and who is most at risk. We also hear from some of you about how you're coping with increasingly extreme temperatures where you live.
Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Hannah Gelbart Producers: Emily Horler and Stefania Okereke Video Producer: Baldeep Chahal Editor: Verity Wilde
Why is West Africa experiencing extreme rainfall and floods
West Africa has been struggling with heavy rains. Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast and other countries across the region have had severe flooding - you might have seen videos online. Deep water, filled gutters and lots of people trying to get to safety.
People have sadly died in the floods - at least 59 people in Ivory Coast and 13 people in Ghana. And more heavy rains are expected.
We hear from some of you in Ivory Coast, Ghana and Lagos for how you’ve been affected. Makuochi Okafor, our West Africa reporter, explains what’s been happening in the region.
Plus, Sophia Herod, from BBC Weather, takes us through how the weather works in this part of the world and how much climate change is playing a role in the rains.
Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Emma-Louise Amanshia Producers: Benita Barden and Emily Horler Editor: Verity Wilde
