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Tag: TechCrunch

  • WP Engine Alleges Automattic’s Plan to Impose Royalty Fees on Hosting Competitors

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Web hosting company WP Engine has escalated its legal battle with Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, by alleging that Automattic intended to target 10 hosting competitors with royalty fees for using the WordPress trademark. The dispute revolves around Automattic’s claim that WP Engine is profiting from WordPress without giving back to the community, demanding an 8% royalty fee. WP Engine also accuses Automattic of pressuring payment processor Stripe to cancel their contract. The latest filing, based on newly unredacted information, reveals Automattic’s alleged plans to extend royalty claims to other hosting providers, including Newfold’s Bluehost and HostGator. WP Engine further claims that Automattic engaged in conversations with additional hosts, the names of which were redacted in the court documents. Additionally, WP Engine asserts that Automattic’s co-founder, Matt Mullenweg, contacted a Stripe executive to influence the cancellation of WP Engine’s contract.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Cybersecurity Expert Vincenzo Iozzo Removed from Black Hat Conference Website

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Vincenzo Iozzo, a prominent figure in the cybersecurity industry, has been removed from the official websites of the Black Hat and Code Blue conferences. Iozzo, the CEO of SlashID, was previously a member of the Black Hat review board since 2011, but his name is no longer visible on the conference websites as of the latest update.

    Iozzo’s removal follows the release of over 2,300 documents by the Department of Justice, which revealed his correspondence with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein from 2014 to 2018. The emails show Iozzo’s attempts to arrange meetings with Epstein even after allegations of Epstein’s misconduct surfaced in late 2018.

    In response to his removal, Iozzo stated that he has not resigned voluntarily and is open to a thorough investigation. Iozzo’s career includes notable contributions to the cybersecurity field, such as his early work on Apple’s mobile software and his role as the founder of the cybersecurity startup IperLane, which was later acquired by CrowdStrike.

    Black Hat has not provided any comments on the matter at this time, leaving the situation surrounding Iozzo’s removal from the conference websites open to interpretation and further investigation.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Investors Seek Arbitration Over Coupang Data Breach in South Korea

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Recent events surrounding Coupang’s data breach in South Korea have led to legal action from U.S. investors against the South Korean government, creating a tech-related geopolitical issue.

    Coupang, a major e-commerce platform in South Korea, faced a significant data breach affecting millions of customers. The breach not only prompted a regulatory investigation into data security but also sparked allegations of discriminatory treatment by the South Korean government toward the U.S.-based company.

    Investors, including Greenoaks, Altimeter, Abrams Capital, Durable Capital Partners, and Foxhaven Asset Management, are now pursuing international arbitration under the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement. They claim losses due to what they perceive as unfair actions by the government during the investigation.

    The breach compromised personal information of nearly 34 million Korean customers, including sensitive data like names, email addresses, and order histories. Despite other data breaches in Korea resulting in milder repercussions, Coupang faced intensified government scrutiny and alleged misrepresentations of the breach’s extent.

    This case highlights the intersection of technology and international trade agreements, demonstrating how data breaches can lead to legal disputes with broader geopolitical implications.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Aurora’s Driverless Trucks Achieve Significant Efficiency Gains in Long-Haul Freight Transport

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Aurora, a prominent player in the autonomous vehicle industry, has reached a notable milestone with its self-driving trucks now capable of completing a 1,000-mile journey between Fort Worth and Phoenix in just 15 hours. This achievement surpasses the speed at which human drivers can legally transport freight over the same distance. The enhanced efficiency in travel time presents substantial benefits for companies interested in utilizing self-driving semi trucks for commercial purposes.

    Traditional human truck drivers face regulatory constraints that limit their driving hours, necessitating breaks and rest periods. In contrast, Aurora’s driverless trucks can operate continuously, significantly reducing transit times and offering cost-effective solutions to customers such as Uber Freight, Werner, FedEx, and Schneider. By cutting transit times almost in half, Aurora’s advanced technology is gaining traction among various industry players, including early adopters like Hirschbach.

    Aurora’s strategic expansion plans across the Sun Belt of the United States signify a shift from autonomous truck development to profitable commercial operations. With successful driverless routes already established between major cities, the company’s approach is reshaping the future of freight transportation.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Ever Secures $31M Funding to Revolutionize Electric Vehicle Marketplace with AI Technology

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Ever, a San Francisco-based startup, is aiming to transform the electric vehicle (EV) market with its AI-driven platform. The company, positioning itself as the first ‘AI-native, full-stack auto retail business’ for EVs, has gained traction among thousands of customers using its platform to buy and sell EVs.

    Recently, Ever announced a $31 million Series A funding round, led by Eclipse. Ibex Investors, Lifeline Ventures, and JIMCO also participated as co-investors.

    While traditional automakers and startups have explored AI tools to enhance the car-buying experience, Eclipse’s Jiten Behl believes that Ever’s AI-first approach sets it apart. Behl noted that some automakers have repurposed combustion vehicles for EVs instead of designing from scratch, in contrast with Tesla and Rivian’s strategies.

    Ever’s co-founder and CEO, Lasse-Mathias Nyberg, highlighted the complexities involved in car transactions, emphasizing the multitude of actions required for a successful deal. By leveraging AI to streamline processes and reduce friction, Ever aims to modernize the automotive retail landscape.

    Through this funding round and its AI-driven platform, Ever is poised to reshape the EV marketplace and set new standards for auto retail, showcasing the potential of technology to transform the industry.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • FTC Raises Concerns Over Alleged Apple News Censorship

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has expressed concerns about allegations suggesting that Apple is censoring conservative viewpoints within the Apple News app. FTC chair Andrew Ferguson referenced a report from Media Research Center, a right-leaning think tank, which accused Apple of omitting right-leaning sources from the top articles in the Apple News feed.

    The FTC’s letter to Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted concerns about whether Apple News is adhering to its terms of service and commitments to users. While the FTC lacks the authority to dictate Apple’s ideological stance on news curation, Ferguson emphasized that if Apple’s actions contradict its terms or consumer expectations, they could potentially breach the FTC Act.

    Brendan Carr, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, echoed support for Ferguson’s position, stating that Apple must not suppress conservative viewpoints in violation of regulations. The call for Apple to review its content curation policies came after President Donald Trump amplified the Media Research Center’s report on Truth Social, accusing tech firms of biased content moderation.

    This development underscores the ongoing debate on content moderation and political neutrality within tech platforms, prompting scrutiny on how companies like Apple curate news and handle diverse viewpoints.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Inertia Enterprises Secures $450M for Fusion Power Laser Technology

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Inertia Enterprises, a fusion startup, has secured $450 million in Series A funding to develop one of the world’s most powerful lasers, a significant step towards constructing a grid-scale power plant by 2030. The startup plans to leverage this investment to implement cutting-edge technology developed at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory’s National Ignition Facility (NIF).

    The core technology at the heart of Inertia’s project revolves around inertial confinement fusion. This approach involves using lasers to compress a fuel target, triggering fusion reactions that release substantial energy. By building on NIF’s breakthrough designs, Inertia aims to advance fusion power research significantly.

    Key figures behind Inertia Enterprises include Jeff Lawson, co-founder of Twilio, and Annie Kritcher, a pivotal figure in successful NIF experiments. With the support of investors like Bessemer Venture Partners and GV, Inertia is poised to make progress in overcoming the challenges of commercially viable fusion power.

    While NIF has achieved scientific breakeven in fusion reactions, substantial challenges remain before fusion power can be commercially viable. Inertia’s focus on developing a high-powered laser capable of frequent energy delivery underscores the startup’s commitment to this goal.

    The fusion power sector holds immense potential for addressing global energy needs sustainably. Inertia Enterprises’ dedication to pushing the boundaries of laser technology in fusion power represents a crucial step towards realizing this clean energy vision.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Google Unveils Android 17 Beta with Continuous Developer Release Model

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Google has introduced the first beta version of Android 17, featuring performance enhancements and new capabilities for media and camera applications. A significant change in this release is how developers will access the latest APIs and features.

    Instead of traditional developer betas, Google is adopting a continuous Canary channel model for providing updates to developers promptly. This approach mirrors Google’s strategy in web browser development, where a Canary channel is used for Chrome browser updates.

    By moving to this new model, approved features and APIs will be instantly accessible to developers. The Canary channel enables seamless over-the-air updates, streamlining workflows and enhancing app testing processes for developers.

    Google aims for platform stability by March, targeting the official release of Android 17 in Q2 2026. Following the two-release structure introduced with Android 16, this approach facilitates quicker adoption of the latest Android versions by device manufacturers, reducing fragmentation within the Android ecosystem.

    Android 17 will enforce restrictions on developers regarding screen resizing options, promoting app optimization for various screen sizes and orientations, including tablets and foldable devices. Additionally, Google is enhancing camera capabilities in Android 17 by introducing smoother camera transitions, VVC video codec support, improved loudness management for consistent volume, and stricter background audio controls.

    The update also includes performance improvements, reduced missed frames, and enhanced garbage collection, focusing on delivering a smoother user experience.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Threads Unveils ‘Dear Algo’ Feature for Personalized Social Feeds

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Threads, the Meta-owned social network, has introduced a new AI-powered feature called ‘Dear Algo’ that allows users to customize their feed based on their preferences. This feature enables users to request more or less content on specific topics by posting ‘Dear Algo’ followed by their preferences in a public Threads post. For instance, users can ask for more posts about podcasts or less content on certain TV shows. The feed adjusts accordingly for three days after the request is made.

    While this personalization feature enhances user control over their content, it also has a unique twist – the requests are public, allowing others to see and even apply them to their own feeds. Meta positions this transparency as a way for users to explore new discussions and themes, transforming personalization into a communal experience.

    By empowering users to influence their feed content temporarily, Threads distinguishes itself from competitors and offers a feature not found on other platforms. This aligns with Threads’ aim to keep users informed about current events efficiently.

    Although Threads and its rivals like X and Bluesky already provide a ‘Not Interested’ option for user preferences, the addition of ‘Dear Algo’ takes personalization to a deeper level. This feature not only enhances user engagement but also aligns Threads more closely with the real-time experience X is known for.

    The ‘Dear Algo’ feature is currently available in select regions, including the U.S., New Zealand, Australia, and the U.K., with plans for further expansion in the future.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Ancora Holdings Challenges Netflix’s Bid for Warner Bros. Discovery: Implications for the Streaming Industry

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Ancora Holdings, an investment group with a $200 million stake in Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), is publicly opposing Netflix’s bid to acquire the company. This move highlights the complex tech implications of corporate deals in the streaming industry.

    Ancora is backing Paramount’s improved bid, which includes a $0.25 per share incentive for delays and a commitment to cover termination fees. This aims to sway WBD shareholders, even though Ancora’s stake is relatively small.

    The clash between Netflix and Paramount, fueled by investors like Ancora, underlines the intricate tech strategies at play in the streaming sector. This raises questions about whether tech alliances will shift as investors influence streaming giants. If Ancora succeeds in convincing shareholders, the tech industry dynamics could see a significant alteration.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Amazon’s eero Signal Ensures Uninterrupted Internet Access During Outages

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Amazon’s eero has unveiled a new $99.99 eero Signal 4G LTE device designed to keep users connected to the internet even during outages, as reported by TechCrunch. The eero Signal acts as a backup system, automatically switching to cellular data when the primary internet connection fails, allowing seamless connectivity for work-from-home professionals, security system users, and those in outage-prone areas.

    Users can simply plug the eero Signal into a compatible USB-C powered eero device with Wi-Fi 6 or higher. The device intelligently switches to cellular data during outages and reverts to Standby mode when regular service resumes.

    Offering cost-effective connectivity, eero provides subscription options including a $99.99 annual plan with 10 GB of backup data or a $199.99 plan with 100 GB of data. The device supports major carriers like AT&T and Verizon, using a multi-carrier eSIM to connect to the most suitable network at any given time.

    Future plans include a 5G variant of the eero Signal priced at $199.99 and integration with eero Business plans. This innovation ensures uninterrupted connectivity, enhancing user experience and reliability in the face of internet disruptions.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Cash App Introduces Seamless Payment Links for Improved Transactions

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Cash App, owned by Block, Inc., has enhanced its user experience by launching a new feature known as payment links, as reported by TechCrunch. This feature allows users to simplify the process of sending and receiving payments by generating hyperlinks that can be shared across various digital platforms.

    By accessing the payment tab on Cash App, users can now create a payment link instead of adding a recipient. These links can be seamlessly integrated into texts, emails, and direct messages, streamlining payment requests. When the recipient clicks the link, the requested payment amount is preloaded, expediting the transaction.

    Cash App’s initiative stems from insights gathered from Gen Z users, revealing the need for smoother payment interactions. Payment links cater to recurring payments and group transactions, aiming to eliminate social discomfort often associated with money exchanges. The feature aims to make the money request process more personalized and less formal.

    Alongside this update, Cash App has introduced new functionalities, such as an AI chatbot for financial guidance and an enhanced benefits program. These advancements underscore Cash App’s commitment to providing convenient and user-centric financial services.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • xAI Unveils Interplanetary Ambitions and Organizational Restructuring in Public Video

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    AI technology company xAI has shared a comprehensive 45-minute all-hands meeting on the X platform, shedding light on its interplanetary aspirations and internal reorganization.

    The video, initially reported by The New York Times, outlined CEO Musk’s strategic vision for the AI lab, emphasizing product roadmap details and its close ties to the X platform. Musk addressed recent layoffs attributed to organizational adjustments, signaling the company’s rapid growth and evolving structure.

    Under the new organizational setup, xAI is now structured into four core teams, each dedicated to distinct projects like the Grok chatbot, app coding system, Imagine video generator, and the Macrohard initiative, which aims to revolutionize computer simulations with AI-generated designs, including rocket engines.

    The all-hands meeting also highlighted impressive usage and revenue milestones, with X surpassing $1 billion in annual recurring revenue from subscriptions, as shared by Nikita Bier, X’s product lead.

    xAI’s transparency in sharing its vision and internal changes underscores its commitment to innovation in the AI space.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Microsoft Rushes to Patch Critical Zero-Day Vulnerabilities Exploited by Hackers Targeting Windows and Office Users

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Microsoft has quickly responded to critical security vulnerabilities affecting Windows and Office users, as reported by TechCrunch. These vulnerabilities have become the target of cyber attackers aiming to compromise victims’ computers through malicious links and files. The exploits, known as zero-days, enable hackers to gain complete control of a system with minimal user interaction, underscoring the urgency for users to apply the patches immediately.

    The vulnerabilities allow for one-click attacks, where a simple action like clicking on a malicious link or opening a corrupted Office file can lead to a system breach. Microsoft acknowledged the severity of the situation, emphasizing the need for prompt action to prevent further exploitation.

    Security researcher Dustin Childs highlighted the significance of one of the bugs, CVE-2026-21510, found in the Windows shell. This bug, affecting all supported Windows versions, circumvents Microsoft’s SmartScreen protection, facilitating the remote installation of malware upon clicking a malicious link.

    Google’s Threat Intelligence Group also confirmed the active exploitation of the Windows shell bug, posing significant risks due to the silent execution of malware with elevated privileges. The collaboration between security researchers and tech companies remains crucial in identifying and mitigating such threats.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Uber Eats Introduces AI-Powered Cart Assistant for Streamlined Grocery Shopping

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Uber Eats has unveiled a new AI feature called ‘Cart Assistant’ aimed at simplifying grocery shopping for customers. The Cart Assistant is now accessible in the Uber Eats app, allowing users to quickly fill their virtual carts with essential items.

    To use this AI chatbot, customers can search for a grocery store within the Uber Eats app and select the Cart Assistant icon on the store’s page. Users have the flexibility to input a list of items or upload an image containing the required products, and the Cart Assistant will automatically populate their basket with the necessary goods. This includes the ability to process handwritten lists or images of recipes along with their corresponding ingredients. Customers can further customize their cart by substituting items with preferred brands or adding more products from the store.

    One key feature of the Cart Assistant is its ability to prioritize familiar items based on previous orders, creating a personalized shopping experience for users.

    With the introduction of the Cart Assistant, Uber Eats aims to enhance its competitiveness in the market against other food delivery and grocery applications that are also exploring AI chatbot functionalities. For instance, Instacart introduced an AI-powered search tool in 2023 to aid customers, while DoorDash experimented with an AI chatbot named DashAI during the same period.

    Both Uber Eats and DoorDash have previously integrated ChatGPT to streamline food ordering processes. U.S. users of Uber Eats can leverage ChatGPT to explore nearby restaurants and menus before finalizing their purchases within the app. Likewise, DoorDash customers have the option to request meal plans and automatically populate their carts with the necessary ingredients.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • OpenAI Shifts Focus from Safe AI Development to Exploring AI’s Future Impact

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    OpenAI has disbanded a team dedicated to ensuring its AI systems are safe, trustworthy, and aligned with human values. The team’s former leader has transitioned to the role of Chief Futurist within the company, while other team members have been reassigned to different positions.

    The now-dissolved team, established in 2024, was focused on alignment research, aiming to make AI systems follow human intent across various scenarios. OpenAI emphasized the importance of AI acting in line with human interests, avoiding harmful behavior, and remaining controllable and auditable.

    Josh Achiam, the former head of the disbanded team, shared in a blog post his new responsibilities as Chief Futurist, focusing on studying the impact of AI and artificial general intelligence on the world. This move showcases OpenAI’s commitment to understanding the implications of advanced AI technologies on society and the future.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Former Trenchant Executive Convicted for Selling Hacking Tools to Russian Broker

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    In a significant development, the former executive of Trenchant, a U.S. maker of hacking and surveillance tools, has been found guilty of selling exploits to a Russian broker with ties to the Russian government. This potentially enabled access to millions of computers and devices globally. Peter Williams, an Australian national, admitted to selling eight hacking tools stolen from Trenchant, making over $1.3 million in cryptocurrency from the sales between 2022 and 2025. These exploits, capable of indiscriminate government surveillance, cybercrime, and ransomware attacks, were sold to a company linked to the Russian government, posing a threat to international cybersecurity.

    The Justice Department disclosed that Williams’ actions directly harmed the U.S. intelligence community, leading to a call for a nine-year prison sentence, supervised release, restitution of $35 million, and a significant fine. The severity of the breach underscores the risks associated with the illicit trade of hacking tools and the potential for widespread misuse by state actors and cybercriminals.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Nominations Open for 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award: Recognizing Tech Breakthroughs

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The 2026 Joseph C. Belden Innovation Award nominations are now open, offering small- and medium-sized businesses a chance to showcase their cutting-edge technologies and solutions. This prestigious award, named after Joseph C. Belden, a key figure in early telecommunications, aims to honor innovations that drive significant impact across various industries.

    With a rich legacy spanning over 120 years, the program seeks to highlight innovative technologies in sectors such as manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and telecommunications. One notable focus for this year’s award is the IT/OT convergence, emphasizing solutions that bridge information technology and operational systems, a crucial aspect of modern industrial and enterprise innovation.

    Finalists and winners of the award will gain exposure to industry leaders, networking opportunities, and tailored co-marketing support to enhance the visibility of their solutions. Past recipients have included companies offering fault-tolerant computing and AI platforms that revolutionize large-scale operations.

    To qualify, nominees must represent small- or medium-sized companies with revenues under $500 million, have launched products after July 1, 2024, and deployed their solutions with at least one customer. Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of expert judges, with finalists set to be announced in April.

    For those interested in applying, the deadline for nominations is February 13. This is an opportunity for innovators to showcase the technologies shaping the future landscape of various industries.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Talent Exodus at xAI Raises Concerns About AI Innovation

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The recent departures of senior engineers, including co-founders, from xAI have sparked discussions about the company’s stability and future direction. While employee turnover is common in startups, the exit of key founding members raises concerns about xAI’s ability to retain talent and navigate potential challenges.

    The departures, though not officially commented on by xAI or Elon Musk, suggest a significant shift within the company. Some departing engineers have expressed a desire for more autonomy and faster innovation in frontier technologies like AI.

    Yuhai Wu, a co-founder of xAI, highlighted the potential of small, AI-empowered teams to redefine what’s achievable. Meanwhile, Valid Kazemi, who recently left xAI, emphasized the need for more exciting AI projects beyond the current industry trends.

    These exits could impact xAI’s future projects and culture, potentially leading to the emergence of new ventures from former employees. The departures also underscore the competitive landscape in AI research and development, where talent retention and innovation are crucial for staying ahead.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • UpScrolled Struggles to Moderate Hate Speech Amid Rapid Growth

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    UpScrolled, a social network that gained popularity following changes in TikTok’s ownership, is facing challenges in moderating hate speech and harmful content despite its rapid growth. The platform, which amassed over 2.5 million users in January, has been criticized for allowing racial slurs and hate speech in usernames and hashtags.

    Reports from users and investigations by TechCrunch have revealed a concerning trend of racial slurs and hate speech present on the platform. UpScrolled has acknowledged the issue, stating that they are actively working to remove inappropriate content and enhance their moderation capabilities.

    However, even after users reported instances of hate speech, accounts with offensive usernames remained active on the platform. Further analysis uncovered additional harmful content, including text posts and media glorifying extremist figures like Hitler.

    Organizations like the ADL have also flagged UpScrolled for hosting antisemitic and extremist content, emphasizing the platform’s struggle to curb such harmful material.

    The platform’s failure to effectively moderate hate speech raises concerns about the limitations of current content moderation technologies in combating online toxicity, despite UpScrolled’s claims of empowering every voice equally.

    Source: TechCrunch