LinkedIn News

Health Insurance

Media & Entertainment

Customer Success

Biotech & Health

Education Technology

Human Resources

Telecommunications

Music Streaming

Entrepreneurship

Cloud Computing

Web Development

Renewable Energy

Renewable Power

Consumer Technology

Agriculture Tech

Machine Learning

Software Development

Environmental Health

Mergers and Acquisitions

Business Development

Government & Policy

Electric Vehicles

Biosphere Innovates Biomanufacturing with UV-C Light Sterilization

Biosphere Innovates Biomanufacturing with UV-C Light Sterilization

Biosphere has developed a bioreactor that utilizes UV-C light for sterilization, aiming to reduce costs and contamination risks in biomanufacturing. The company’s innovative approach replaces traditional steam sterilization, which is energy-intensive and costly. This new technology, part of a $1.5 million Department of Defense project, utilizes bright LEDs to ensure thorough decontamination. Biosphere has raised $8.8 million in seed funding to further its research and development. The startup plans to scale its bioreactor capabilities significantly in the future, potentially transforming the biomanufacturing landscape.

Created at: January 9, 2025 1:00pm

Xocean Secures $119M Funding to Advance Ocean Data Collection with USVs

Xocean Secures $119M Funding to Advance Ocean Data Collection with USVs

Xocean, an Irish marine robotics startup, has successfully raised €115 million ($119 million) to enhance its ocean data services for the energy and hydrography sectors. Established in 2017, the company operates a fleet of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) equipped with advanced sensors to gather critical environmental data. Xocean's clientele includes major players like BP and Shell, and with this new funding, it aims to expand into additional offshore markets such as wind energy and carbon capture. The investment was led by S2G Ventures, reflecting growing interest in climate tech solutions.

Created at: January 9, 2025 12:00pm

Turkish Gaming Startup Grand Games Secures $30M Series A Funding

Turkish Gaming Startup Grand Games Secures $30M Series A Funding

Grand Games, a Turkish gaming startup known for its titles Magic Sort and Car Match, has raised $30 million in Series A funding just nine months after launching. The round, led by Balderton Capital, was oversubscribed, reflecting strong investor interest in the burgeoning Turkish gaming sector. CEO Bekir Batuhan Çelebi emphasizes the company's focus on team culture and autonomy in game development, inspired by Finnish giant Supercell. With over $4 million in revenue from its first two games, Grand Games aims to expand its team and develop more titles, positioning itself as an emerging leader in casual gaming.

Created at: January 9, 2025 10:30am

Defiant Launches as Innovative European VC Firm Focused on Data-Driven Investments

Defiant Launches as Innovative European VC Firm Focused on Data-Driven Investments

Defiant, a new early-stage venture capital firm, has emerged in Europe, aiming to revolutionize investments in B2B SaaS and fintech. Founded by childhood friends Joseph Pizzolato and Cam Rail, the firm has secured $30 million and aims to raise a total of $70 million. Defiant plans to lead funding rounds, investing between $1 million and $10 million per startup. Their unique approach involves utilizing data and AI-driven products to identify promising investments, with products like Morpheus and Blueprint enhancing deal sourcing and founder insights. The firm seeks to build a portfolio of high-performing startups.

Created at: January 9, 2025 10:00am

xAI Launches Standalone iOS App for Grok Chatbot

xAI Launches Standalone iOS App for Grok Chatbot

Elon Musk's xAI is testing a standalone iOS app for its Grok chatbot, previously available only to X users. The app, now in beta across several countries, offers features such as real-time web data access, text rewriting, summarization, and image generation from prompts. Grok aims to provide a truthful and useful AI-powered assistant experience. A dedicated website, Grok.com, is also in the works. Recently, xAI expanded access to Grok by testing a free version for all users. The app's image generation capabilities reportedly excel in photorealistic rendering.

Created at: January 9, 2025 8:00am

Flipkart Appoints Dunzo Co-Founder to Spearhead Quick Commerce Initiative

Flipkart Appoints Dunzo Co-Founder to Spearhead Quick Commerce Initiative

Flipkart has announced the appointment of Kabeer Biswas, the co-founder of Dunzo, to lead its quick commerce division, Flipkart Minutes. This strategic move aims to enhance its operations in India's burgeoning quick commerce market, which promises deliveries within 10 to 15 minutes. Despite previous acquisition talks that fell through due to ownership complexities at Dunzo, Flipkart's expansion reflects a growing trend in India, where competitors like Zomato's BlinkIt and Swiggy's Instamart are already leading. The quick commerce sector is gaining traction amid increasing consumer demand for rapid deliveries.

Created at: January 9, 2025 6:30am

CES 2025 Highlights: AI Products Raise Eyebrows and Questions

CES 2025 Highlights: AI Products Raise Eyebrows and Questions

At CES 2025, the latest AI innovations have drawn skepticism, showcasing products like Spicerr, an AI spice dispenser, and Dreo's AI-powered air fryer. Both items raise questions about their practical utility, with features that many consumers may not have desired. Razer’s Project Ava aims to be an AI gaming copilot, yet its effectiveness and the ethics of its training data have sparked controversy. The event reflects a broader trend in the tech industry where companies are experimenting with AI applications amidst ongoing challenges in finding practical uses for the technology.

Created at: January 9, 2025 12:30am

PickPad Revolutionizes Restaurant Takeout with Innovative Hardware

PickPad Revolutionizes Restaurant Takeout with Innovative Hardware

Chicago-based startup PickPad has introduced a smart platform to streamline restaurant takeout, showcased at CES 2025. This small device connects to a restaurant’s P.O.S. system, automatically inputting customer names for order pickup. Offered as a hardware as a service (HaaS) package, the price ranges from $9 to $19 monthly. Currently piloting with a local café, PickPad aims to reduce production costs while expanding its offerings to include modular shelving solutions. The initiative addresses the challenges faced by food businesses in the post-pandemic delivery landscape.

Created at: January 8, 2025 10:30pm

Elon Musk's Grok AI to Unveil Controversial 'Unhinged Mode'

Elon Musk's Grok AI to Unveil Controversial 'Unhinged Mode'

Elon Musk's xAI is set to introduce an 'Unhinged Mode' for its AI chatbot Grok, promising responses that are intentionally provocative and offensive. Although the mode has not yet launched, an updated FAQ hints at its edgy approach, reminiscent of an amateur comedian. This aligns with Musk's vision for Grok as an unfiltered alternative to mainstream AI, despite its current political leanings. Musk aims to recalibrate Grok's responses to be more politically neutral while addressing concerns of censorship in AI. Critics have raised alarms about the perceived biases in AI chatbots, particularly regarding conservative viewpoints.

Created at: January 8, 2025 10:00pm

Astrohaus Launches Wordrunner: A Mechanical Keyboard for Writers at CES 2025

Astrohaus Launches Wordrunner: A Mechanical Keyboard for Writers at CES 2025

Astrohaus, a Michigan-based startup, has unveiled the Wordrunner, a mechanical keyboard designed specifically for writers, during CES 2025. The device integrates unique features like a Wordometer for tracking word count and a sprint timer to enhance productivity. Founder Adam Leeb emphasizes that while gamers enjoy specialized keyboards, writers have lacked professional-grade tools. The aluminum keyboard features floating keys and a distinctive red control knob. Set to launch on Kickstarter in February, it aims to redefine the writing experience by making the keyboard an active participant in the writing process.

Created at: January 8, 2025 10:00pm

Halliday Unveils Smart Glasses with Real-Time AI Features at CES 2025

Halliday Unveils Smart Glasses with Real-Time AI Features at CES 2025

At CES 2025, Halliday introduced innovative smart glasses priced at $489, featuring the DigiWindow, a tiny module projecting a 3.5-inch display directly into the user's line of sight. These glasses offer real-time language translation in 40 languages, phone notifications, and an AI assistant for conversational support. Pre-orders are available for $369 through Kickstarter, with shipping set for March 2025. Unlike typical AR glasses, Halliday's design is more affordable and aesthetically pleasing, allowing for prescription lenses. The product aims to enhance daily interactions while maintaining a discreet appearance.

Created at: January 8, 2025 9:30pm

California Mayor Sues Flock Safety Over Wrongful Termination

California Mayor Sues Flock Safety Over Wrongful Termination

Ulises Cabrera, the mayor of Moreno Valley, California, has filed a lawsuit against Flock Safety, claiming wrongful termination after being hired to promote the company’s surveillance technology. Cabrera alleges he was pressured to misuse his position to benefit Flock and faced retaliation for raising ethical concerns. Flock denies the allegations, stating its actions comply with California’s conflict-of-interest regulations. The controversy highlights the potential conflicts between private companies and elected officials. Flock, valued at $3.5 billion, is grappling with increasing scrutiny over its surveillance practices.

Created at: January 8, 2025 9:00pm

This $1,500 iPad Bundle Will Rickroll Your Family After You Die

This $1,500 iPad Bundle Will Rickroll Your Family After You Die

At CES 2025, Zugu unveiled a unique product called 'In Case of Death,' combining an iPad case, smart ring, and app. This $1,500 bundle is designed to erase or alter a user’s digital presence upon their death. The smart ring detects vital signs to confirm death, triggering 'Death Protections' set by the user. Options include deleting browser history, erasing iPad data, or playing a never-ending Rick Astley video. This quirky offering highlights the intersection of technology and morbid humor, showcasing innovative approaches to digital legacy management.

Created at: January 8, 2025 9:00pm

François Chollet Launches Nonprofit to Develop AGI Benchmarks

François Chollet Launches Nonprofit to Develop AGI Benchmarks

AI researcher François Chollet, known for his work at Google, is co-founding the ARC Prize Foundation to create benchmarks for assessing artificial general intelligence (AGI). The foundation, led by Greg Kamradt, aims to inspire progress in AI by addressing the gap between human and machine capabilities. Chollet's previous benchmark, ARC-AGI, evaluates an AI's skill acquisition outside its training data. The new foundation plans to launch a second-generation benchmark this year. OpenAI's CEO has indicated potential collaboration with the ARC-AGI team, although details remain unspecified.

Created at: January 8, 2025 8:30pm

Gridware Innovates Power Line Monitoring with AI-Driven Acoustic Sensors

Gridware Innovates Power Line Monitoring with AI-Driven Acoustic Sensors

Gridware, founded by Tim Barat, Abdulrahman Bin Omar, and Hall Chen, has developed an innovative device that listens for electrical problems in power lines. The technology utilizes AI and signal processing to detect mechanical perturbations, sending alerts to the cloud when issues are identified. Recently, the company secured $26.4 million in Series A funding led by Sequoia. Currently monitoring over 1,000 miles of power lines, Gridware aims to streamline outage detection, significantly reducing labor costs for utilities. The devices are solar-powered, quick to install, and enhance safety in the field.

Created at: January 8, 2025 7:00pm

Triller Unveils TikTok Backup Tool Amid U.S. Ban Concerns

Triller Unveils TikTok Backup Tool Amid U.S. Ban Concerns

Triller has launched SaveMyTikToks.com, a new tool aimed at helping users backup their TikTok content as the January 19 deadline for a potential U.S. ban approaches. The site allows creators to transfer their videos to Triller by connecting their TikTok accounts, although the process is more involved than a simple click. This move comes as TikTok faces scrutiny over its Chinese ownership, leading to national security concerns. Despite the looming ban, the incoming president Trump has sought to pause it, citing free expression issues. Creators remain anxious about their future on TikTok and are exploring alternatives.

Created at: January 8, 2025 5:30pm

Former Huami Employees Launch SATELLAI: A Revolutionary Satellite Pet Tracker

Former Huami Employees Launch SATELLAI: A Revolutionary Satellite Pet Tracker

At CES 2025, SATELLAI unveiled its innovative pet tracker and collar, designed to operate via satellite without LTE, ensuring constant location transmission even in remote areas. Founded by ex-Huami employee Mark Mao, the device features health monitoring, activity tracking, and an AI coach for tailored pet care. The smart collar, equipped with seven sensors, offers dual signal transmitters for enhanced positioning accuracy. Unique features include a solar-powered harness and virtual fencing capabilities. The tracker is set to be available in spring 2025, with pricing still to be announced.

Created at: January 8, 2025 5:00pm

Grove AI Revolutionizes Clinical Trial Enrollment Using AI

Grove AI Revolutionizes Clinical Trial Enrollment Using AI

Grove AI, co-founded by Stanford engineers Tran Le and Sohit Gatiganti, has developed a generative AI solution to streamline clinical trial enrollment. The startup's voice-based agent, Grace, can pre-screen patients and schedule appointments within minutes, significantly reducing the cumbersome traditional processes. In just eight months, Grove AI has engaged with 250,000 patients, leading to 7,000 scheduled visits. Recently, the company secured $5.2 million in seed funding, with investors optimistic about its potential to transform patient data management and reduce bureaucratic obstacles in healthcare.

Created at: January 8, 2025 4:30pm

Omi: The AI Wearable Set to Transform Productivity with a Unique Brain Interface

Omi: The AI Wearable Set to Transform Productivity with a Unique Brain Interface

San Francisco startup Based Hardware unveiled Omi, an innovative AI wearable designed to enhance productivity during CES 2025. This device, which can be worn as a necklace or attached to the side of the head, responds to voice commands and utilizes a brain interface for interaction. Priced at $89, Omi is set to ship in Q2 2025, with a developer version available now. Founder Nik Shevchenko emphasizes user privacy with an open-source platform and has raised approximately $700,000 for development. Omi aims to become a complementary tool for smartphones, boasting over 250 developer-created apps.

Created at: January 8, 2025 4:30pm

CES 2025: Keyvault K1 Revolutionizes Vehicle Access with Smartphone Control

CES 2025: Keyvault K1 Revolutionizes Vehicle Access with Smartphone Control

At CES 2025, Keyvault unveiled its innovative K1 device, transforming vehicle access by eliminating the need for physical car keys. Set to launch in May 2025, the K1 allows drivers to control their vehicles entirely through their smartphones. It boasts universal compatibility across popular brands like Toyota and Mercedes, ensuring broad accessibility. The K1 prioritizes security with advanced encryption and a PIN-protected system to prevent unauthorized access. Early adopters can pre-order this sleek hardware starting January 5, 2025, with discounts available. Families and car rental companies report enhanced convenience and reduced management costs.

Created at: January 8, 2025 4:00pm

Former MoviePass CEO Pleads Guilty to Securities Fraud Over Misleading 'Unlimited' Plan

Former MoviePass CEO Pleads Guilty to Securities Fraud
Over Misleading 'Unlimited' Plan

Theodore Farnsworth, ex-CEO of MoviePass' parent company, Vinco Ventures, has pleaded guilty to securities fraud and conspiracy. He misled investors regarding the sustainability of MoviePass' 'unlimited plan', which was a money-losing gimmick. Farnsworth falsely claimed that the plan would break even on subscription fees and that HMNY utilized AI to monetize subscriber data. The Department of Justice revealed that he knew these statements were untrue, aimed solely at inflating stock prices. Farnsworth faces up to 25 years in prison for his actions.

Created at: January 8, 2025 3:30pm

H1 Acquires Ribbon: A Strategic Move in Healthcare Analytics

H1 Acquires Ribbon: A Strategic Move in Healthcare Analytics

H1, a healthcare analytics platform, has acquired Ribbon, a startup focused on connecting patients with insurance-supported doctors. The acquisition, whose financial details remain undisclosed, follows Ribbon's previous funding of $55 million from notable investors like a16Z and General Catalyst. H1 aims to leverage Ribbon's extensive data on healthcare professionals to enhance its services for pharmaceutical clients. CEO Arial Katz expressed long-term interest in acquiring Ribbon, emphasizing the synergies between the two companies. This acquisition highlights ongoing pressures in the startup landscape, where many firms are becoming acquisition targets.

Created at: January 8, 2025 3:00pm

Vay Expands Driverless Car-Sharing Fleet in Las Vegas

Vay Expands Driverless Car-Sharing Fleet in Las Vegas

Vay, a Berlin-based startup, is set to expand its driverless car-sharing service in Las Vegas, increasing its fleet to 100 Kia e-Niro vehicles. The service, which utilizes teleoperation technology, allows users to hail a car that arrives without a driver. Customers take control once inside and drive to their destination, after which a remote operator returns the vehicle. The expansion follows a successful year, with over 6,000 trips recorded. Vay also plans to extend into B2B operations and is hiring remote drivers to support this growth.

Created at: January 8, 2025 2:00pm

Whatnot Secures $265M in Series E Funding, Valuation Approaches $5B

Whatnot Secures $265M in Series E Funding, Valuation Approaches $5B

Whatnot, a livestream shopping platform, announced it has raised $265 million in a Series E funding round, elevating its valuation to $4.97 billion. This significant investment underscores the growing potential of livestream shopping in the U.S. The funds will support expansion into new categories like art and golf, and enhance seller tools. Additionally, Whatnot plans to enter the Australian market and expand in Europe this year. The company has raised a total of approximately $746 million to date, with its annual gross merchandise value exceeding $3 billion.

Created at: January 8, 2025 12:30pm

Lenovo Launches Legion Go S, Expanding SteamOS into Handheld Gaming

Lenovo Launches Legion Go S, Expanding SteamOS into Handheld Gaming

Lenovo unveiled its latest gaming handheld, the Legion Go S, at CES 2025, which features a traditional 8-inch display and offers consumers a choice between two AMD chipsets. This new device allows buyers to select between SteamOS and Windows 11, marking a notable expansion of SteamOS as a viable alternative for handheld gaming. The Legion Go S will be priced between $499 and $729, depending on the specifications. Lenovo aims to cater to diverse gaming preferences while enhancing its original Legion Go series. The device is set for release in January and May 2025.

Created at: January 8, 2025 11:30am

Nomupay Secures $37M to Revolutionize Cross-Border Payments in Asia

Nomupay Secures $37M to Revolutionize Cross-Border Payments in Asia

Nomupay, a Dublin-based fintech startup, has raised $37 million at a $200 million valuation to enhance payment solutions in underserved Asian markets. Founded in 2023, the company focuses on cross-border payments, experiencing 100% annual growth and expecting profitability this year with an ARR of $20 million. This funding round included contributions from Endeit Capital and Uneti Ventures. Nomupay aims to challenge larger competitors by addressing complex payment landscapes that they often overlook. The startup is also pursuing an M&A strategy, targeting expansion into Indonesia, Japan, and Vietnam.

Created at: January 8, 2025 7:00am

Delta Air Lines Unveils AI Assistant and Enhanced In-Flight Experience at CES 2025

Delta Air Lines Unveils AI Assistant and Enhanced In-Flight Experience at CES 2025

At CES 2025, Delta Air Lines showcased its latest innovations, including the Delta Concierge, an AI-powered assistant designed to provide travelers with proactive advice and notifications about passport expirations and visa requirements. The airline also announced a new cloud-based in-flight entertainment system featuring 4K HDR displays and Bluetooth connectivity, set to roll out in 2026. SkyMiles members will enjoy free access to YouTube Premium and Music during flights. Additionally, Delta plans to collaborate with Airbus on the fello'fly project, aimed at energy-efficient flight formations. However, some updates seem to lag behind competitors.

Created at: January 8, 2025 1:31am

Delta SkyMiles Partners with Uber for Mileage Rewards

Delta SkyMiles Partners with Uber for Mileage Rewards

Uber has announced a multi-year exclusive partnership with Delta Air Lines at CES 2025, allowing SkyMiles members to earn miles on Uber rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S. This collaboration marks the end of Delta's previous partnership with Lyft. Starting in the spring, customers can earn 1 to 3 miles per dollar spent, depending on the service used. This initiative aligns with Delta's plans to connect with Joby Aviation's electric air taxi service, further integrating ground and air travel. Joby aims to launch its service in 2025, pending necessary certifications.

Created at: January 8, 2025 1:30am

Silicon Valley Dominates Global VC Funding, Capturing 57% in 2024

Silicon Valley Dominates Global VC Funding, Capturing 57% in 2024

Silicon Valley's startups attracted an impressive $90 billion in venture capital funding in 2024, accounting for 57% of the total $178 billion global investment. Leading this charge is OpenAI, which not only fuels a burgeoning local AI startup ecosystem but also secures massive funding for itself. Other notable firms include Databricks with $10 billion and Elon Musk's xAI, which raised $12 billion. The Bay Area's concentration of skilled tech talent and established startup infrastructure continues to make it a prime location for innovation and investment, with no signs of decline into 2025.

Created at: January 7, 2025 10:30pm

AWS to Invest $11B in Georgia's Data Center Expansion

AWS to Invest $11B in Georgia's Data Center Expansion

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced plans to invest at least $11 billion in Georgia to enhance its data center infrastructure for cloud computing and AI technologies. This investment is expected to create approximately 550 jobs in the state. AWS's expansion follows a similar commitment made eight months ago for Indiana. Georgia's appeal as a data center location is driven by low electricity costs and favorable tax incentives. However, local residents express concerns over the impact on housing and environmental sustainability. This story continues to develop.

Created at: January 7, 2025 10:00pm

CaiqueTech Unveils Modular Baseball Radar Gun at CES 2025

CaiqueTech Unveils Modular Baseball Radar Gun at CES 2025

At CES 2025, CaiqueTech introduced the PI SpeedGun, an innovative baseball radar gun that connects to an iPhone via USB-C. This modular design allows users to measure speed and statistics directly on their phone's screen. Although real-time accuracy couldn't be tested in the crowded venue, the company plans to launch this product on Kickstarter around June, pricing it at approximately $150. This tool is expected to be beneficial for amateur baseball players seeking to enhance their game.

Created at: January 7, 2025 10:00pm

Shure Unveils MV7i: A Smart Microphone for Podcasters

Shure Unveils MV7i: A Smart Microphone for Podcasters

At CES 2025, Shure announced the MV7i, an innovative microphone designed for podcasters. This model allows users to connect a second microphone via its XLR port, enabling dual-channel control through the Motiv Mix app. Emphasizing convenience, the MV7i negates the need for a separate audio interface, making it accessible for beginners. It features auto leveling, denoising, and adjustable reverb for enhanced sound quality. Priced at $349, the MV7i aims to restore in-person podcasting conversations, a format largely abandoned during the pandemic. Shure targets creators seeking quality and simplicity in audio production.

Created at: January 7, 2025 9:30pm

Nuclear Startup Deep Fission Aims to Power Data Centers with Burying Micro-Reactors

Nuclear Startup Deep Fission Aims to Power Data Centers with Burying Micro-Reactors

Deep Fission, a nuclear startup, has partnered with Endeavour to construct 2 gigawatts of subterranean nuclear power to meet the rising energy demands of data centers. Their innovative approach involves lowering pressurized-water reactors into a one-mile deep borehole, utilizing geological depth to enhance safety. The startup aims for a competitive cost of five to seven cents per kilowatt-hour, significantly less than existing nuclear power estimates. With plans to activate its first reactor by 2029, Deep Fission awaits regulatory approval under an expedited timeline, paving the way for a potential nuclear power renaissance in the U.S.

Created at: January 7, 2025 9:00pm

Chinese VCs Pursue Failed Founders to Recover Investments

Chinese VCs Pursue Failed Founders to Recover Investments

In a stark contrast to the U.S. startup culture, Chinese venture capitalists are increasingly taking legal action against failed founders to reclaim their investments. As the Chinese economy faces challenges, VCs are enforcing redemption clauses in funding agreements, leading to some entrepreneurs owing substantial sums. This trend may deter future startup fundraising and has raised concerns about the health of China's startup ecosystem. Founders are finding themselves on debtor blacklists, severely restricting their freedom of movement and business activities amidst ongoing governmental scrutiny and international tensions.

Created at: January 7, 2025 8:30pm

Xpeng Aero HT Reveals Groundbreaking Modular Flying Car at CES 2025

Xpeng Aero HT Reveals Groundbreaking Modular Flying Car at CES 2025

At CES 2025, Xpeng Aero HT showcased its innovative 'modular flying car', the Land Aircraft Carrier, combining an electric minivan with a folding eVTOL. The company, which has secured 3,000 intent orders, aims for mass production this year and first deliveries in 2026. Designed for luxury and emergency use, the vehicle promises easy transition from land to air. With a production facility under construction in Guangzhou, Aero HT plans to build 10,000 units annually. The vehicle features advanced safety systems and autonomous flight capabilities, marking a significant step in urban air mobility.

Created at: January 7, 2025 8:01pm

Anthropic in Talks for $2B Funding Round Valuing Company at $60B

Anthropic in Talks for $2B Funding Round Valuing Company at $60B

AI startup Anthropic is reportedly negotiating to raise $2 billion in a funding round led by Lightspeed Venture Partners, which would elevate its valuation to $60 billion. This move would increase Anthropic's total capital raised to $15.7 billion. The company aims to expand its operations amid a competitive AI landscape, where significant funding is crucial for technology development. The latest round follows a $4 billion investment from Amazon, establishing a key partnership for AI model training. Anthropic is set to become the fifth-most valuable U.S. startup if the deal is finalized.

Created at: January 7, 2025 8:00pm

South Park Commons Targets $40M for India-Specific Fund Amid Startup Challenges

South Park Commons Targets $40M for India-Specific Fund Amid Startup Challenges

South Park Commons, a Silicon Valley collective founded by Ruchi Sanghvi, is raising $40 million for an India-focused fund, according to a recent SEC filing. This initiative follows their entry into the Indian market last June through a partnership with Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal. The collective supports early-stage technologists who may not yet be ready for traditional fundraising. Currently, South Park Commons boasts 175 active members and 800 alumni, primarily comprising founders and domain experts. Despite challenges in India's startup ecosystem, global VC interest remains strong.

Created at: January 7, 2025 7:30pm

Panasonic Debuts AI Wellness Coach 'Umi' at CES 2025

Panasonic Debuts AI Wellness Coach 'Umi' at CES 2025

At CES 2025, Panasonic introduced 'Umi,' an AI-powered wellness coach developed in collaboration with Anthropic. Umi aims to enhance family connections by assisting with goal setting and managing tasks through a mobile app interface. It allows users to engage in group chats and coordinate wellness activities. The app is particularly beneficial for caregivers monitoring aging relatives. Set to launch in 2025, Umi will integrate with various wellness partners, offering expert guidance for healthier lifestyles. This partnership also enhances Panasonic's internal operations using Claude AI in customer service and marketing.

Created at: January 7, 2025 7:00pm

Fintech Shock: Bench's Sudden Shutdown and Acquisition Leaves Customers Reeling

Fintech Shock: Bench's Sudden Shutdown and Acquisition Leaves Customers Reeling

Fintech company Bench, which previously raised over $110 million, has unexpectedly shut down, only to be acquired shortly afterward. This abrupt turn of events has left thousands of customers and hundreds of employees bewildered. Affected clients, some with years of data stored on Bench's platform, were blindsided by the news. Meanwhile, Thomson Reuters made headlines by acquiring tax automation firm SafeSend for $600 million. In other fintech developments, TBC Bank Uzbekistan raised $37 million to enhance its digital services and Tyme Group secured $250 million in funding, pushing its valuation to $1.5 billion.

Created at: January 7, 2025 6:31pm

OnPay Secures Over $100 Million Funding to Expand Payroll Solutions

OnPay Secures Over $100 Million Funding to Expand Payroll Solutions

OnPay, a payroll software startup founded by Jesse Burgess, has successfully raised over $100 million in new funding, including a $63 million Series B round led by Carrick Capital Partners. The company, which launched in 2011, focuses on streamlining payroll and HR processes through innovative software solutions. With the global HR payroll software market expected to exceed $55 billion by 2031, OnPay aims to enhance its product development and accelerate market outreach. Burgess emphasized that this funding milestone will empower OnPay to better serve businesses reliant on payroll and HR services.

Created at: January 7, 2025 6:30pm