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Tag: TechCrunch

  • Neo Residency Program Offers Founder-Friendly Accelerator Model

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Ali Partovi, CEO of venture firm Neo, has announced the Neo Residency program, which aims to reshape the traditional accelerator model with founder-friendly terms. Unlike many accelerators that demand substantial ownership stakes from startups, Neo’s approach offers a unique structure that prioritizes minimal dilution for founders.

    Partovi, known for his early investments in tech giants like Facebook, Cursor, and Kalshi, has designed Neo Residency to provide top-tier mentorship and a supportive community without requiring startups to part with significant equity prematurely. The program includes a special track tailored for current college students, further expanding its reach.

    Key to Neo Residency’s appeal is its investment strategy. Startups selected for the program will receive $750,000 through an uncapped SAFE, ensuring that Neo’s equity stake is tied to the company’s future valuation. This innovative approach contrasts with conventional accelerators that often lock in fixed percentages early on.

    Partovi emphasized the program’s risk-sharing nature, highlighting its favorability towards startups. For instance, while Y Combinator typically secures a fixed 7% ownership for $125,000 in investment, Neo’s model adjusts its stake based on subsequent valuations, offering more flexibility and potential for founders.

    Neo Residency represents a departure from industry norms, presenting an alternative for tech leaders seeking support without sacrificing substantial equity. The program’s structure underscores a shift towards more founder-centric accelerator models.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • India Hosts Global AI Impact Summit, Attracting Tech Leaders and Heads of State

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    India is currently hosting a four-day AI Impact Summit aimed at attracting more AI investment to the country. The event has drawn executives from major AI labs and tech companies such as OpenAI, Anthropic, Nvidia, Microsoft, Google, and Cloudflare, alongside heads of state.

    Notable attendees include Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani, and Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis. The presence of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron adds to the summit’s global significance.

    The summit, expected to attract 250,000 visitors, serves as a platform for industry updates and discussions on the impact of AI across various sectors. A joint speech by Prime Minister Modi and President Macron is scheduled for Thursday, underscoring the event’s international prominence.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • General Catalyst Commits $5 Billion to India’s Startup Ecosystem

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    General Catalyst, a prominent Silicon Valley venture firm managing over $43 billion in assets, has announced plans to invest $5 billion in India over the next five years, significantly expanding its presence in the country’s burgeoning startup landscape. This move follows the firm’s merger with local venture company Venture Highway less than two years ago.

    The announcement, made at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, outlines General Catalyst’s focus on funding startups in artificial intelligence, healthcare, defense technology, fintech, and consumer tech sectors. This commitment represents a substantial increase from the previously allocated $500 million to $1 billion for India.

    With India emerging as a key AI investment hub, boasting a massive online population exceeding a billion users, the country aims to attract over $200 billion in AI-related investments in the next couple of years. The India AI Impact Summit, featuring industry players like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google, underscores the growing interest in India’s tech landscape.

    General Catalyst’s CEO believes that Indian founders possess a unique advantage in creating technology solutions for vast market segments. The firm views India’s AI potential in practical real-world applications rather than just theoretical models, citing the country’s robust digital infrastructure, large domestic market, and skilled workforce as key factors.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Meta CEO Zuckerberg Faces Scrutiny Over Social Media Impacts on Teens

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg faced intense questioning in a high-profile court case examining the potential addictive and harmful effects of the company’s social media platforms, particularly on teenagers and children. The trial, held in LA Superior Court, revealed Meta’s internal research suggesting that parental supervision may not be sufficient to curb teens’ excessive social media use, especially following traumatic experiences.

    During the trial, lawyers for the plaintiff probed Zuckerberg about Instagram employees’ objectives to boost daily app engagement. Contradicting his previous statement to Congress, a 2015 email chain presented as evidence indicated Zuckerberg’s push to extend users’ app time by 12%. Additionally, discussions arose regarding the use of beauty filters on Instagram, with Meta’s experts recommending bans for teen users.

    Zuckerberg defended the challenges of age verification, proposing that smartphone manufacturers like Apple could play a more supportive role in this area. Notably, Apple recently introduced age assurance tools for developers, aligning with the growing regulatory scrutiny of social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram across various U.S. states.

    Throughout his testimony, Zuckerberg maintained Meta’s official stances, at times refuting the plaintiff’s attorneys for allegedly distorting document contents or context.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Reddit Unveils AI-Powered Shopping Search to Leverage Community Insights

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Reddit has introduced a new AI-powered search tool that leverages community recommendations to connect users with products from its shopping and advertising partners. Initially being tested by a select group of U.S. users, the feature enhances search results by displaying interactive product carousels containing pricing, images, and direct purchase links.

    This move aligns Reddit’s community-centric platform with e-commerce functionalities. The platform had previously introduced Dynamic Product Ads (DPA) to offer personalized product suggestions based on user interests. With the latest AI search feature, users searching for items like ‘best noise-canceling headphones’ or ‘electronic gift ideas for a college student’ will now encounter a carousel showcasing related products sourced directly from user conversations on relevant posts and comments.

    By tapping on a product within the carousel, users can access more details and proceed to purchase the item from the retailer. Reddit aims to streamline the browsing experience by providing instant access to top-recommended products originating from discussions, while prioritizing community perspectives.

    While established platforms like TikTok and Instagram have long integrated shopping functionalities, Reddit’s foray into AI-driven shopping echoes a broader industry trend. Notably, OpenAI’s ChatGPT introduced an ‘Instant Checkout’ feature last year, enabling users to make Etsy and Shopify purchases seamlessly within conversations.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Google Chrome Enhances Productivity with New Features Amid Browser Competition

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google Chrome, the leading web browser globally, has introduced a set of new features to enhance user productivity. The additions include Split View, PDF annotations, and a ‘Save to Google Drive’ functionality. These updates aim to integrate Chrome more deeply with Google’s suite of online services, offering users a seamless browsing experience.

    In response to the intensifying competition in the browser market, Google has bolstered Chrome with innovative features to maintain its competitive edge. While Chrome has already integrated its Gemini AI assistant, the latest enhancements focus on improving user experience and multitasking capabilities.

    The Split View feature facilitates multitasking by enabling users to view two web pages side by side within the same tab. This feature simplifies tasks such as working across multiple pages or watching videos while taking notes. Users can easily activate Split View by dragging a tab to the browser window’s edge or selecting ‘Open Link in Split View’ from the right-click menu.

    Additionally, the PDF annotations feature allows users to add notes and highlight text directly within the browser, eliminating the need to download the PDF for editing in external applications. This feature streamlines basic PDF tasks like document signing, form filling, and note-taking within files.

    Furthermore, the ‘Save to Google Drive’ feature permits users to save PDFs directly to their Google Drive accounts, ensuring easy access and preventing files from getting lost on their computers. By utilizing this feature, users can efficiently manage and organize their PDF documents online.

    These new features not only streamline everyday tasks but also showcase Google’s dedication to offering a seamless browsing experience to its users.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Deadline Extended for 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award: Opportunity for Tech Innovators

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The deadline for the 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award has been extended, providing tech innovators with additional time to showcase their cutting-edge solutions. Originally set to close earlier, the nomination window is now open until February 27, 2026.

    The Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award, named after the connectivity and communications pioneer, celebrates emerging companies and breakthrough technologies that are making a tangible impact across various connected industries. From digital infrastructure to cybersecurity and industrial automation, the award program seeks to highlight technologies that drive real-world change.

    One of the key focuses for this year’s award is on the convergence of IT and OT, emphasizing solutions that bridge information technology and operational systems. As businesses increasingly modernize their operations and integrate physical and digital realms, technologies that facilitate this convergence are crucial for enhancing performance, resilience, and growth.

    Finalists of the award will receive industry visibility, exposure to executive audiences, and tailored co-marketing opportunities aimed at propelling the adoption of their solutions. The winners will be unveiled during the Belden Innovation Summit in June 2026, offering them a platform to showcase their tech capabilities to industry leaders and enthusiasts.

    To be eligible for the award, companies must be small to midsize with revenue below $500 million and have launched products post-July 1, 2024, with at least one customer deployment. The deadline extension provides tech innovators with another chance to demonstrate their work and become part of a community that is shaping the future of connected industries.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Cellebrite Faces Scrutiny Over Alleged Misuse of Phone Unlocking Tools

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Cellebrite, a prominent provider of phone hacking tools, has come under scrutiny for the alleged misuse of its tools in Serbia, Jordan, and Kenya. Last year, Cellebrite suspended sales to the Serbian police following accusations of hacking into the phones of a journalist and an activist. However, the company chose not to investigate similar claims that surfaced in Jordan and Kenya, deviating from its previous stance.

    According to a report by the Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto, Cellebrite’s tools were used by the Kenyan government to unlock the phone of activist Boniface Mwangi and by the Jordanian government to access the phones of local activists and protesters. This scrutiny was based on the discovery of a specific Cellebrite-linked application on the victims’ phones, indicating potential tool usage.

    While Cellebrite has been urged to address these concerns directly, the company’s response remains guarded, with a spokesperson emphasizing the need for evidence-based claims. This scrutiny highlights the challenges faced by tech companies providing tools that can be repurposed for surveillance and raises questions about accountability and oversight in the digital security sector.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Nvidia Strengthens Ties with India’s Emerging AI Startup Ecosystem

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Nvidia, a prominent AI chipmaker, has intensified its efforts to connect with artificial intelligence startups in India at an early stage of their development. This strategic move involves forming partnerships with investors, nonprofits, and venture firms to establish relationships with emerging founders even before their companies are formally established. By collaborating with Activate, an early-stage venture firm, Nvidia aims to support around 25 to 30 AI startups from Activate’s debut fund with access to Nvidia’s technical expertise. This initiative aligns with Nvidia’s goal to engage with potential future customers in India, a rapidly growing market for developers.

    The company’s recent engagements in India include partnering with nonprofit AI Grants India to provide assistance to early-stage founders and establishing new connections with venture firms focused on the Indian market. India’s significance in the AI landscape has prompted Nvidia to take a more proactive approach in working with startups from the inception stage, recognizing the country’s emergence as a hub for AI developers and startups.

    Although Nvidia’s CEO was unable to attend India’s AI Impact Summit, the company’s executive vice president Jay Puri led a senior delegation to engage with key stakeholders in the Indian AI ecosystem. This increased focus on early-stage collaborations underscores Nvidia’s strategic positioning to address the rising demand for AI technology in India and strengthen its foothold in the region.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Google’s Gemini 3.1 Pro Model Showcases Advancements in AI Performance

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has unveiled its latest innovation in AI technology with the release of the Gemini 3.1 Pro model, showcasing remarkable advancements in benchmark scores. The new Large Language Model (LLM) is positioned to enhance complex work processes with improved capabilities.

    Following the success of its predecessor, Gemini 3, Google’s latest offering has exceeded expectations, setting new standards for AI performance. Independent benchmarks, including Humanity’s Last Exam, have confirmed the significant performance improvements of Gemini 3.1 Pro over previous iterations.

    Mercor, an AI startup, has highlighted Gemini 3.1 Pro’s exceptional performance on APEX, a benchmarking platform evaluating AI models in real-world scenarios. The model has demonstrated its prowess in handling knowledge-intensive tasks, showcasing its leadership position on the APEX-Agents leaderboard.

    This launch signals Google’s commitment to staying at the forefront of the competitive landscape in AI development. With rival tech giants like OpenAI and Anthropic also introducing cutting-edge models, the industry is witnessing a surge in advanced LLMs tailored for intricate problem-solving and multi-step reasoning.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Snap Faces Executive Departure Ahead of VR Glasses Launch

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Snap Inc. is preparing to unveil its latest augmented reality glasses, Specs, to the public later this year. However, the company has faced a recent setback with the departure of one of the key executives behind the project, Scott Myers.

    Myers, who served as the Senior Vice President of Specs, has decided to step down from his role at Snap, as confirmed by a company spokesperson in response to inquiries from TechCrunch. While the exact details of the disagreement were not disclosed, Snap emphasized its commitment to delivering Specs to the market in the coming months.

    Specs has been a focus for Snap, with the company even establishing a separate subsidiary, Specs Inc., to streamline operations and enhance the product’s development. Myers, who brought experience from SpaceX, Apple, and Nokia to Snap, had described the challenge of ensuring the glasses’ design was both innovative and user-friendly.

    As Snap navigates this executive transition, the tech industry will be closely watching to see how the company manages the launch of Specs amidst leadership changes. The departure of a key figure at such a critical juncture raises questions about the impact on Snap’s hardware ambitions and the future of its AR ventures.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • FBI Warns of Surging ATM ‘Jackpotting’ Attacks, Highlighting Cash Dispenser Vulnerabilities

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The FBI has issued a warning about a significant rise in ATM ‘jackpotting’ attacks, where hackers manipulate ATMs to dispense cash illicitly, resulting in millions of dollars in stolen currency. This criminal activity, once a demonstration by security researcher Barnaby Jack, has escalated into a profitable venture for cybercriminals.

    According to the FBI’s security bulletin, over 700 attacks targeted ATMs in 2025, yielding at least $20 million for hackers. The attacks involve a combination of physical access techniques, like using generic keys to unlock ATM components, and digital methods, such as deploying malware like Ploutus to force dispensers to release cash rapidly.

    Ploutus, a malware strain highlighted by the FBI, exploits vulnerabilities in the underlying Windows operating system that powers many ATMs. By compromising an ATM, hackers gain full control, enabling them to manipulate the cash dispensing process without affecting customer accounts directly.

    This type of attack, focused on the ATM hardware itself, allows for quick cash-out operations that are challenging to detect until after the money is withdrawn. The FBI’s bulletin underscores the urgency for financial institutions to address security gaps in their ATM systems to prevent further exploitation by cybercriminals.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Toyota Integrates Agility Humanoid Robots in Canadian Manufacturing

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Toyota’s Canadian manufacturing subsidiary has recently integrated seven humanoid robots into its production processes, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and the team member experience. These robots, built by Agility Robotics, are part of a robots-as-a-service arrangement and will primarily handle unloading tasks of auto parts from an automated warehouse tugger. While the use of humanoid robots in industrial settings is still relatively uncommon, Agility Robotics has been deploying such technology in real-world scenarios, with their robots already employed by logistics providers like GXO, Schaeffler, and Amazon.

    According to Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada President Tim Hollander, the deployment of Digit robots is aimed at streamlining manufacturing operations and improving overall efficiency within the plant. This move not only signifies a step towards automation but also highlights the significance of integrating advanced robotics into traditional manufacturing environments. The incorporation of AI-driven solutions, such as Agility’s cloud-based software package Arc, is expected to play a crucial role in reducing deployment costs and optimizing robot management.

    In a statement, Agility’s CTO, Pras Velagapudi, emphasized the importance of leveraging AI tools to streamline the deployment process and enhance operational effectiveness. As the industry continues to witness advancements in robotics and automation, the integration of humanoid robots like Digit by Toyota represents a significant milestone in the evolution of manufacturing practices.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • YouTube Brings Conversational AI to Smart TVs, Enhancing Viewer Engagement

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    YouTube is expanding its conversational AI capabilities to smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. This move allows viewers to engage with the AI tool directly on their big screens, asking questions related to the content they are watching without interrupting their viewing experience.

    The new feature, previously available on mobile and web platforms, enables users to click the ‘Ask’ button on their TV screen or use the remote’s microphone to interact with the AI. By providing real-time answers to queries about video content, such as recipe details or song background, YouTube aims to deepen user engagement and offer a seamless viewing experience.

    Currently accessible to a limited group of users above 18 years old, the AI tool supports multiple languages including English, Hindi, Spanish, Portuguese, and Korean. This expansion to TVs reflects YouTube’s response to the growing trend of viewers accessing content via television sets. Recent data shows that YouTube has become a dominant player in the television audience landscape, outpacing traditional networks like Disney and Netflix.

    This move aligns with similar efforts from tech giants like Amazon and Roku, who are also refining their conversational AI capabilities on TV devices. With Amazon’s Alexa+ offering personalized content recommendations and Roku enhancing its AI voice assistant for movie and show queries, the competition in the conversational AI space is intensifying across various platforms.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Redwood Materials Expands Energy Storage Business to Meet Surging Demand from AI Data Centers

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Redwood Materials has experienced significant growth in its energy storage business, emerging as the fastest-growing unit within the company’s portfolio. The surge in this sector is attributed to the ongoing expansion of AI data centers, as reported by TechCrunch.

    Within a year, Redwood Materials transitioned from not having an energy storage division to witnessing remarkable expansion in this area. The company’s R&D lab in San Francisco has grown four-fold, now spanning 55,000 square feet and employing close to 100 individuals. This expansion aligns with the increasing demand for energy storage solutions driven by the rise of AI data centers.

    The San Francisco facility, opened in April 2025, serves as the hub for developing integrated hardware, software, and power electronics for energy storage systems catering to data centers, AI computing, and various large-scale industrial applications.

    In a recent announcement, Redwood Materials outlined plans for further expansion to meet the escalating demand for energy storage solutions in data centers. The company’s successful $425 million Series E funding round, with support from tech giants like Google and Nvidia, will fuel the growth of its energy storage business.

    Claire McConnell, Vice President of Business Development at Redwood Materials, emphasized the critical role of AI data centers in driving the company’s focus on energy storage. Beyond data centers, Redwood’s energy storage systems are also poised to support renewable energy projects such as solar and wind initiatives.

    This surge in demand for energy storage solutions underscores the evolving landscape of data centers, where the convergence of AI technologies necessitates reliable and scalable power supply infrastructure.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Google’s AI Defenses Curb Malware Threats on Google Play in 2025

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has reported a significant decrease in the number of malicious apps attempting to infiltrate the Google Play Store, attributing this positive trend to its advanced AI systems and enhanced security measures. According to a recent Android app ecosystem safety report, Google successfully blocked 1.75 million policy-violating apps from being published on Google Play in 2025, marking a decrease from previous years. The company emphasized its ongoing commitment to protecting users from various security risks, including malware, financial fraud, and privacy breaches.

    By implementing proactive security protocols, such as developer verification, mandatory pre-review checks, and extensive testing requirements, Google has effectively raised the bar for app quality and security within the Play Store. The company’s AI-powered defense mechanisms play a crucial role in identifying and deterring malicious actors, with over 10,000 safety checks conducted on each app before publication. Furthermore, Google’s integration of AI models has accelerated the detection of complex threats, enabling faster responses to emerging risks.

    Looking ahead, Google announced plans to further bolster its AI investments in 2026 to stay ahead of evolving security challenges. By leveraging innovative technologies and stringent review processes, the company aims to maintain a secure and reliable app ecosystem for Android users worldwide.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Starbase, SpaceX’s Company Town, Expands Municipal Services with Its Own Court

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Starbase, the company town spearheaded by Elon Musk’s SpaceX in Texas, is rapidly expanding its municipal services. Initially boasting a volunteer fire department and in the process of establishing a police department, Starbase now seeks to introduce its own court system.

    The city administrator recently presented a proposal to the city commission outlining plans for a municipal court, which will include a part-time judge, prosecutor, and court clerk. Until a judge is appointed for a two-year term, Starbase’s mayor will fulfill this role. The city aims to have a suitable candidate identified by the upcoming monthly meeting.

    As Starbase, which currently accommodates approximately 580 residents and is situated near SpaceX’s South Texas rocket facilities, continues to develop its infrastructure, the addition of a court marks a significant milestone. Alongside the fire department and imminent police force, Starbase has taken control of building permits, fire code inspections, and even law enforcement responsibilities following the dissolution of a plan to enlist county sheriff’s deputies.

    The city’s endeavor to establish its police department is progressing, with an estimated timeline of six months for completion. Recent applications to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement have unveiled insights into the city’s evolving law enforcement strategies to address the rising demand for services, including law enforcement, fire, and EMS responses, as well as managing traffic incidents.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • New York Pauses Waymo’s Robotaxi Expansion Plans: Implications for Autonomous Vehicles

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    New York Governor Kathy Hochul has withdrawn a proposal that would have allowed robotaxis to operate outside of New York City, halting Waymo’s plans for expansion in the state. The decision, based on a lack of sufficient support, has put a pause on Waymo’s efforts to introduce its autonomous vehicles to New York’s roads.

    Waymo, a prominent player in the autonomous vehicle industry, expressed disappointment at the setback but remains committed to bringing its services to New York. The company highlighted the demand for safe, private, and comfortable transportation options that robotaxis can offer, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with state authorities to address public safety concerns.

    This development underscores the challenges that AV companies face in navigating regulatory landscapes to deploy their technologies in new regions. Despite the setback, Waymo’s determination to work with the State Legislature signals a continued push towards establishing robotaxis as a viable mobility solution in New York.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Meta Consolidates Messaging with Shutdown of Standalone Messenger Website

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Meta has announced the closure of its standalone Messenger website, redirecting users to Facebook for web-based messaging starting April 2026. This decision follows the recent shutdown of Messenger’s desktop apps for Windows and Mac, signaling a shift towards unified messaging platforms.

    Users with Facebook accounts can still access messaging features through the social network’s website, while those without a Facebook account will be limited to the Messenger mobile app. Chat history restoration is possible using previously set PINs, with options for PIN resets if forgotten.

    The move has prompted user concerns, particularly among those who prefer to use Messenger independently from Facebook. However, Meta’s consolidation strategy aims to streamline operations and reduce platform maintenance costs.

    Originally launched as ‘Facebook Chat’ in 2008, Messenger evolved into a separate service in 2011. Meta’s recent actions suggest a strategic alignment of messaging services with the core Facebook platform, simplifying user experiences and operational efficiencies.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Rivian Enhances Vehicle Control with Apple Watch Integration

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Rivian, the automotive company focused on tech-savvy adventurers, is set to revolutionize how its customers interact with their vehicles by enabling control through the Apple Watch. In an upcoming update to the Rivian mobile app, users will be able to leverage their Apple Watch to perform essential tasks like locking/unlocking doors, adjusting vehicle temperature, and more.

    This integration marks Rivian’s commitment to enhancing user experience and convenience. Owners of the latest Rivian models will have access to a range of customizable functions, including setting charge levels and personalizing quick controls based on individual preferences.

    While first-generation R1T trucks and R1S SUVs have limited functionality allowing only manual locking/unlocking via the Watch, second-generation R1 vehicles will offer automatic unlocking when the driver approaches with the digital key set up.

    Notably, this integration comes alongside a comprehensive software update aimed at improving performance and accessibility. Features like ‘kneel mode’ for lowering the vehicle, seamless drive mode transitions, and a cold weather indicator for monitoring battery usage further enhance the Rivian driving experience.

    Source: TechCrunch