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Tag: TechCrunch

  • Data Centers and AI Grapple with Rising Energy Costs

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Tech companies are expanding their data center footprint, but consumers are raising concerns about the potential impact on electricity costs. According to a recent survey commissioned by solar installer Sunrun, 80% of consumers are worried about data centers driving up utility bills.

    The surge in electricity demand from commercial users, including data centers, has outpaced growth in residential consumption. Data centers currently consume 4% of U.S. electricity, a figure expected to rise to 6.7% to 12% by 2028, as per Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory projections.

    To meet this growing demand, tech companies are turning to renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Solar, in particular, offers low cost, modularity, and quick deployment, enabling power delivery to data centers even before construction completion. The U.S. Energy Information Administration anticipates renewables continuing to dominate new generating capacity.

    However, the industry’s renewable energy trajectory could face challenges due to potential changes in policy. Experts suggest that a repeal of certain parts of the Inflation Reduction Act by Republicans might hinder the growth of renewables beyond 2026.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Embedding LLMs in Robots: Hilarious Mishaps and Challenges Revealed

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Researchers at Andon Labs recently conducted an experiment to assess the readiness of advanced Language Model Machines (LLMs) for embodiment in a vacuum robot. When tasked with simple office requests like ‘pass the butter,’ the robot encountered comedic mishaps, with one LLM humorously declaring ‘I’m afraid I can’t do that, Dave…’ reminiscent of a classic sci-fi film.

    The researchers concluded that while companies like Figure and Google DeepMind are leveraging LLMs for decision-making processes in robotics, further development is needed before LLMs can effectively power robotic functions. This experiment sheds light on the complexities of merging cutting-edge AI models with physical robotic tasks, showcasing the limitations of current technology.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Adam Raises $4.1M to Develop AI Copilot for 3D Design

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Adam, a startup from Y Combinator’s Winter 2025 cohort, has raised a $4.1 million seed round to enhance its text-to-3D model app into a sophisticated AI copilot. The company’s CEO, Zach Dive, shared that the startup garnered significant investor interest, ultimately selecting TQ Ventures as the lead investor due to shared visions on the future of computer-aided design (CAD) and product roadmap alignment.

    Initially targeting consumers, Adam plans to introduce a copilot for professional-grade CAD workflows by the end of the year. The startup’s unique approach involves incorporating various interaction paradigms beyond text prompts to create 3D models, setting it apart in the competitive AI copilot for CAD segment. Despite existing competitors like MecAgent, Adam aims to leverage its early traction to drive growth and recruitment efforts.

    Hiring remains a key focus for the team, with Dive and CPO Aaron Li, both UC Berkeley Master of Design graduates, emphasizing the rapid evolution of AI models that accelerated their product development timeline.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Perplexity Partners with Getty Images to Enhance AI-Powered Search

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Perplexity, an AI search startup, has secured a multi-year licensing agreement with Getty Images. This partnership allows Perplexity to utilize Getty’s extensive image library within its AI-driven search and discovery tools.

    According to a TechCrunch report, the collaboration between Perplexity and Getty has been ongoing for over a year. While Getty was initially involved in Perplexity’s Publishers’ Program, this new deal paves the way for deeper integration between the two companies.

    The specifics of the agreement remain undisclosed, but it is noted that the arrangement differs from a traditional lump-sum licensing model due to Perplexity’s reliance on external foundational models for its operations.

    By partnering with Getty, Perplexity aims to validate and enhance its image usage practices, particularly concerning Getty’s stock photos. This move follows previous allegations of plagiarism against Perplexity, including instances where Getty images were allegedly used without proper authorization.

    Furthermore, recent legal challenges, such as the lawsuit from Reddit accusing Perplexity of unauthorized data scraping, highlight the importance of formal content agreements in the tech industry. Perplexity’s collaboration with Getty not only improves image display quality but also ensures proper attribution by linking back to the original sources.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Suspected Government Hackers Infiltrate Telecom Giant Ribbon’s Network for Nearly a Year

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    U.S. telecommunications company Ribbon has disclosed that suspected government hackers had unauthorized access to its network for nearly a year before being discovered. The telecom provider revealed in a public filing submitted to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that a ‘nation-state actor’ infiltrated its IT systems as early as December 2024. Ribbon, headquartered in Texas, offers phone, networking, and internet services to various sectors, including Fortune 500 companies and government entities like the Department of Defense.

    While the breach impacted three of Ribbon’s customers, the company did not disclose the affected organizations due to confidentiality concerns. It remains unclear whether the hackers extracted personal data or sensitive information from these companies. However, Ribbon acknowledged that the threat actor accessed several customer files stored on external devices. The telecom firm promptly notified the affected customers about the security incident.

    This breach underscores the persistent cybersecurity challenges faced by telecommunication providers, with Ribbon becoming the latest victim in a string of similar incidents over the past couple of years. Despite the breach, Ribbon has not attributed the cyber attack to any specific government entity. Chinese state-sponsored hackers, in particular, have previously targeted numerous U.S.-based companies, including telecom firms, to pilfer phone records and calling data related to high-ranking U.S. officials.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • University of Pennsylvania Cyberattack Highlights Need for Robust Cybersecurity in Higher Education

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    A recent cybersecurity incident at the University of Pennsylvania has underscored the critical importance of robust security practices in educational institutions. Hackers breached the university’s systems, sending mass emails with alarming messages aimed at disrupting operations and potentially leaking sensitive data. The breach, which targeted alumni, students, and staff, highlights the vulnerability of academic organizations to cyber threats.

    The hackers, claiming to represent the university’s Graduate School of Education (GSE), criticized the institution’s security protocols and threatened to expose confidential information, including violating federal regulations like FERPA. This deliberate attack not only jeopardizes data privacy but also raises concerns about the integrity of the university’s digital infrastructure.

    In response to the incident, Penn’s spokesperson emphasized that the fraudulent emails did not reflect the values or activities of the university. The school’s incident response team is actively working to address the breach and prevent further unauthorized access to sensitive information.

    Furthermore, the breach’s potential connection to alumni donations highlights a concerning trend where cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities for financial gain or to advance specific agendas. This event serves as a stark reminder of the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard educational institutions from malicious cyber activities.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Bending Spoons: The Tech Conglomerate Reshaping Iconic Brands

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Bending Spoons, a Milan-based tech conglomerate, has recently made headlines with its acquisition of AOL, yet it remains relatively unknown despite serving over a billion users. The company, founded by Luca Ferrari, Matteo Danieli, Luca Querella, and Francesco Patarnello, has seen its value soar, with Forbes estimating their stakes at billions of dollars.

    Securing $270 million in the latest funding round, with investments from prominent firms like T. Rowe Price, Bending Spoons focuses on revitalizing underperforming tech brands to enhance user experience. The company’s approach involves restructuring acquired firms, sometimes leading to layoffs or product changes, as seen with Evernote and WeTransfer.

    With a massive user base of 300 million monthly active users and 10 million paying customers, Bending Spoons’ impact on the tech industry is substantial. Despite its low profile, the company’s influence is undeniable, reshaping well-known internet brands for improved efficiency and user satisfaction.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Bluesky Introduces ‘Dislikes’ Feature to Enhance User Experience

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Bluesky, a social network with 40 million users, is set to test a ‘dislikes’ feature aimed at improving content personalization on its Discover feed and beyond. This new signal will not only impact content ranking but also reply rankings as users provide feedback by ‘disliking’ posts. By understanding user preferences through dislikes, Bluesky seeks to create a more tailored user experience, enhancing the quality of conversations and promoting respectful exchanges on the platform. In response to user demand for improved moderation, Bluesky maintains its decentralized model where users control their own experience using features such as moderation lists, content filters, muted words, and the ability to subscribe to different moderation services.

    Additionally, Bluesky is experimenting with various ranking updates, design modifications, and feedback tools to foster better interactions within its network. The platform’s focus on empowering users to curate their online environment reflects a commitment to providing a space for enjoyable and authentic exchanges, moving away from the toxic culture seen in other social media platforms.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • CoreWeave’s Acquisition Shift Signals AI Market’s Python Notebook Preference

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    CoreWeave’s recent failed acquisition of Core Scientific for $9 billion highlights the evolving landscape of AI technology. Despite the setback, CoreWeave remains active in the market, recently acquiring the Python notebook Marimo.

    The rejection of the acquisition offer by Core Scientific shareholders, influenced by Two Seas Capital’s Sina Toussi, reflects a growing preference for agile and adaptable AI technologies over traditional infrastructure investments. Core Scientific, once a crypto miner, now faces the challenge of proving its standalone value in the AI sector.

    CoreWeave’s strategic shift from mining to AI services, in partnership with Nvidia, has positioned it as a key player in the AI workload space. The company’s stock surge from $14 billion to $66 billion underscores investor confidence in its AI-focused direction.

    Despite the failed acquisition, CoreWeave has secured a long-term contract with Core Scientific for AI services and continues to expand its portfolio through acquisitions. The decision to walk away from the deal showcases investor preference for organic growth over immediate consolidation.

    As the AI market matures, CoreWeave’s pivot towards acquiring the Python notebook Marimo hints at a broader industry trend favoring agile and adaptable technologies over traditional infrastructural investments.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Meta’s Solar Power Investments Reflect Tech Industry’s Shift Toward Renewable Energy

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Meta, the social media giant, has made significant strides in its sustainability efforts by finalizing three deals to acquire almost 1 gigawatt of solar power. These procurement agreements are part of Meta’s strategy to power its expanding data centers and reduce its carbon footprint, aligning with its ambitious AI objectives.

    The recent agreements bring Meta’s total solar power acquisitions for the year to over 3 gigawatts of capacity. Solar energy, known for its cost-effectiveness and rapid deployment, has become a preferred energy source for tech companies, especially as their data center infrastructures continue to grow.

    One of the key deals involved Meta purchasing 600 megawatts from a large solar farm near Lubbock, Texas. While this solar power won’t directly supply Meta data centers, it will contribute to the local grid, offsetting energy consumption by Meta’s facilities.

    In Louisiana, Meta secured environmental attribute certificates (EACs) equivalent to 385 megawatts of electricity. These certificates enable Meta to counterbalance its usage of carbon-intensive power sources, showcasing the company’s commitment to sustainability.

    Despite the benefits of EACs, some experts have raised concerns about their potential to mask the true environmental impact of tech operations, especially with the escalating electricity demands driven by AI technologies.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • AWS Sees Surge in Cloud Infrastructure Demand, Driven by AI Sector

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced impressive growth figures, with a 20% year-over-year increase and a sales record of $33.1 billion in the first nine months of the year. This growth is primarily fueled by the soaring demand for cloud infrastructure services, especially in the AI sector.

    According to AWS CEO Andy Jassy, the company is experiencing its highest growth rate since 2022, with a re-acceleration to 20.2% year-over-year. AWS has been actively expanding its capacity, adding over 3.8 gigawatts in the last 12 months.

    During the third quarter, AWS expanded its presence by launching an infrastructure region in New Zealand and has plans for three more regions. The company also secured significant partnerships, including collaborations with AI browser company Perplexity and Cursor.

    Competitors like OpenAI, Oracle, Google, and Anthropic have also made substantial deals in the cloud computing space, underlining the industry’s high stakes. Despite concerns about potential overcapacity and market saturation, cloud providers like AWS are capitalizing on the willingness of customers to invest heavily in cloud services.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Tattd Brings Tattoo Artistry to TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    At TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, the platform Tattd made a unique impression by offering on-site tattoos to TechCrunch writers. Senior Producer Maggie Nye, Becca Szkutak, and Theresa Loconsolo all received custom tattoos, including a pixelated cursor arrow, a matching design, and a smiling moon.

    Contrary to the assumption that they visited a local tattoo shop, these tattoos were actually inked at the Tattd booth within the Moscone Center, where the startup had transformed its space into a mini tattoo parlor amidst the other startup showcases. Tattd’s approach involves using generative AI to create tattoo design mockups, which are then matched with artists through a reverse image search to facilitate collaboration on original designs.

    Founder Laura Schaak explained that Tattd’s AI streamlines the process of connecting clients with artists by interpreting design preferences that might be challenging for traditional search methods. TechCrunch Deputy Managing Editor Karyne Levy also participated, getting an escape key tattoo on her upper arm.

    This integration of technology and art highlights Tattd’s commitment to revolutionizing the tattoo industry by leveraging AI to enhance the matchmaking process between tattoo enthusiasts and skilled artists, providing a unique experience for both parties.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Charting the Rise of OpenAI’s ChatGPT: Navigating the Evolving AI Chatbot Landscape

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    OpenAI’s ChatGPT, the text-generating AI chatbot, has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut in November 2022. Initially designed to enhance productivity in writing and coding tasks, ChatGPT has experienced exponential growth, boasting a staggering 300 million weekly active users.

    The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for OpenAI, with key developments such as the partnership with Apple for Apple Intelligence, the introduction of GPT-4 with voice functionalities, and the unveiling of the innovative text-to-video model, Sora.

    However, OpenAI has also faced internal challenges, including the departure of top executives like co-founder Ilya Sutskever and CTO Mira Murati. Legal battles, such as copyright infringement lawsuits from Alden Global Capital-owned newspapers and an injunction from Elon Musk, have also tested the company.

    In 2025, OpenAI faces competition from Chinese counterparts like DeepSeek, prompting efforts to strengthen relationships with Washington. Simultaneously, the company pursues a substantial data center project and prepares for a record-breaking funding round.

    For a detailed timeline of ChatGPT updates and releases, including the most recent developments, please refer to the continually updated information available here.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Luminar Faces Financial Challenges Amid Leadership Changes

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Luminar, a prominent lidar-maker, is grappling with financial difficulties, projecting a cash shortage in early 2026. The company recently announced a 25% reduction in its workforce, marking its second layoff this year, in an effort to address the financial strain. The departure of Chief Financial Officer, Thomas Fennimore, to pursue other opportunities adds to the company’s current instability.

    Founder Austin Russell, who was replaced as CEO earlier this year, is now seeking to buy back the company amidst these turbulent times. Luminar’s struggles have been attributed to declining sales of lidar sensors to Volvo, a key customer, leading to financial pressure and cost-cutting measures.

    With $72 million in cash and marketable securities as of late October, Luminar faces the risk of running out of funds by the first quarter of 2026 without additional financial support. The company has already missed interest payments on loans, prompting lenders to grant a brief extension.

    Despite the impending financial challenges, Luminar expects to report around $18 million in revenue for the third quarter. The company’s future hinges on its ability to secure funding and navigate the evolving competitive landscape in the lidar technology market.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Apple Explores AI Partnerships and Acquisitions to Enhance Its Capabilities

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    During Apple’s Q4 2025 earnings call, CEO Tim Cook revealed the company’s openness to mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and partnerships to enhance its AI capabilities. Cook confirmed the progress on the upcoming AI-powered Siri set to launch in 2026.

    Apple continues to follow a three-pronged approach for its personalized AI development, combining in-house models, collaborations with third-party providers, and potential acquisitions. Cook emphasized Apple’s vigilance in monitoring the market for M&A opportunities that align with their roadmap.

    Notably, Apple plans to announce more AI partnerships similar to the one with OpenAI, integrating ChatGPT into Siri and Apple Intelligence. The company’s focus on AI extends to its Private Cloud Compute technology, utilized for Siri queries and data center operations.

    Cook highlighted the commencement of server manufacturing in Houston for Apple Intelligence, indicating a robust infrastructure to support AI advancements. With AI influencing consumer choices, Apple’s strategic investments in AI technologies and partnerships underscore its commitment to enhancing Apple Intelligence.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Perplexity Secures Licensing Deal with Getty Images to Enhance AI Image Search

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Perplexity, an AI search startup, has finalized a multi-year licensing agreement with Getty Images. This partnership allows Perplexity to utilize Getty’s image library within its AI-driven search and discovery tools. The collaboration addresses previous concerns over Perplexity’s use of Getty’s stock photos without proper attribution.

    According to a source familiar with the deal, as reported by TechCrunch, the partnership has been in progress for over a year. While the specifics of the agreement were not disclosed, it is evident that Getty’s involvement in Perplexity’s Publishers’ Program, which shares revenue with publishers when their content appears in search results, laid the groundwork for this formalized partnership.

    The new deal is crucial for Perplexity as it seeks to enhance its image display practices by ensuring proper credits and source links accompany search results featuring Getty’s images. This collaboration not only improves Perplexity’s image search capabilities but also underscores the importance of ethical content sourcing in AI applications.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Nvidia Expands AI Partnerships in South Korea to Drive Innovation

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Nvidia has announced expanded collaborations with major Korean tech companies like Samsung, Hyundai, SK, and Naver. The focus of these partnerships is on AI-powered networks and next-generation intelligent systems. The initiative aims to boost South Korea’s AI infrastructure and physical AI capabilities, with significant implications for the country’s manufacturing and telecommunications sectors.

    South Korea is set to receive over 260,000 of Nvidia’s latest GPUs to address the increasing demand for AI technologies. A substantial portion of these GPUs will support public projects, including the establishment of a national AI data center and the development of domestic AI models. The remaining GPUs will be utilized by industry giants like Samsung, SK, Hyundai Motor Group, and Naver to drive innovation in AI-based manufacturing processes and industry-specific AI applications.

    One of the key collaborations involves Samsung and Nvidia working together on an AI Megafactory, integrating AI across semiconductor, mobile device, and robotics manufacturing. This partnership will leverage Nvidia GPUs and the Omniverse platform to create an intelligent network for real-time production analysis and optimization.

    Furthermore, Nvidia, Samsung, and Korean telecom operators are teaming up to develop AI-RAN, a project aimed at enhancing the performance and efficiency of mobile networks through AI integration.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Reddit CEO Downplays Chatbots’ Impact on Platform Traffic

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Reddit CEO Steve Huffman revealed that AI chatbots are not significant traffic drivers for the platform, despite advancements in AI utilization for search purposes by companies like OpenAI and Google. Huffman emphasized that Google search and direct access remain the primary sources of traffic for Reddit. He stated during the Q3 2025 earnings call that chatbots do not currently play a major role in generating traffic. Huffman also mentioned the valuable insights gained from Reddit’s data and collaborations with partner companies, expressing optimism about future endeavors.

    When asked about traffic distribution, Huffman indicated that approximately half comes from Google, with the rest from direct sources. Reddit’s stance on data privacy led to policy changes, including restrictions on commercial data use without a license. Collaborations with AI entities like OpenAI for data utilization contrast with legal disputes involving companies such as Anthropic and Perplexity.

    Despite these dynamics, Reddit reported robust financial performance, with $585 million in revenue, a 68% increase year-on-year. The platform boasts 116 million daily active unique users and 444 million weekly active unique users, with significant international user growth. Huffman underscored ongoing investments to enhance the search experience, with Reddit handling 20% of searches.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • WhatsApp Enhances Security with Passkey Protection for Encrypted Backups

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    WhatsApp has announced a new feature that adds passkey support to access encrypted backups, strengthening security measures for users. Previously, users had to rely on passwords or encryption keys to protect their backups, requiring them to remember or store these credentials separately. With the introduction of passkeys, users can now utilize methods like fingerprint, face, or the screen lock code of their device to access WhatsApp’s backup seamlessly.

    This update comes after Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, implemented end-to-end encryption for backups in 2021, providing users with added security for their stored data. The addition of passkey support simplifies the backup restoration process, eliminating the need for users to manage additional passwords or encryption keys.

    WhatsApp, with over 3 billion active users, plans to roll out this feature gradually in the upcoming weeks and months. Users can navigate to Settings > Chats > Chat backup > End-to-end encrypted backup to enable this enhanced security feature and check for the availability of passkey support.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Highlights from TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Tech Leaders Discuss AI, Startups, and Innovation

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    The 2025 edition of TechCrunch Disrupt in San Francisco brought together a diverse array of tech leaders, startup innovators, and industry insights. Vinod Khosla, known for his perspectives on AI and climate change, highlighted the potential of geothermal energy and discussed regulatory changes under the current administration. Roelof Botha from Sequoia emphasized the importance of timing in fundraising, cautioning startups against waiting too long.

    Glīd Technologies emerged victorious in the Battlefield competition, showcasing the intense preparation startups undergo for such events. Roy Lee, founder of Cluely, offered unconventional marketing advice, urging businesses to push boundaries for visibility. Meanwhile, Tristan Thompson, transitioning from the NBA to entrepreneurship, raised intriguing questions about the intersection of sports and technology, particularly in the context of web3 platforms like Basketball Fun.

    These insights from TechCrunch Disrupt offer a glimpse into the evolving tech landscape, where diverse perspectives converge to shape the future of innovation and entrepreneurship.

    Source: TechCrunch