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

Waymo Robotaxi Causes Traffic Jam at Chick-fil-A Drive-Thru

Waymo Robotaxi Causes Traffic Jam at Chick-fil-A Drive-Thru

A Waymo robotaxi became stuck in the drive-thru lane of a Chick-fil-A in Santa Monica, California, creating a traffic jam. The incident, confirmed by Waymo, occurred after the robotaxi dropped off a passenger and failed to execute a multi-point turn due to space constraints. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, though it inconvenienced other customers waiting to place orders. This incident adds to a series of similar occurrences, including previous malfunctions that have drawn attention on social media. Waymo operates robotaxi services in several major cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Created at: April 9, 2025 10:00pm

Meta Whistleblower Reveals Targeting of Teens Based on Emotional State

Meta Whistleblower Reveals Targeting of Teens Based on Emotional State

In a recent testimony, former Meta Director Sarah Wynn-Williams accused the company of targeting advertisements at teenagers based on their emotional conditions. During the Senate hearing, she highlighted that Meta exploited vulnerable emotions to enhance ad effectiveness, particularly aiming ads at teens feeling down or insecure. Wynn-Williams noted that even internal discussions showed awareness of the ethical implications, as executives often restricted their own children from using the platform. Meta has denied these allegations, claiming they are unfounded and misleading. The hearing also touched on Meta's broader interactions with China.

Created at: April 9, 2025 10:00pm

Base Power Secures $200M Funding for Major Battery Expansion

Base Power Secures $200M Funding for Major Battery Expansion

Base Power has rapidly evolved from a stealth startup to a leading battery fleet operator in Texas, securing $200 million in Series B funding. The round was led by prominent investors including Andreessen Horowitz and Lightspeed Venture Partners. The funds will facilitate the construction of a domestic battery factory and accelerate the installation of massive residential batteries, which offer competitive pricing compared to existing options like Tesla's Powerwall. As the company plans to expand its operations, it aims to reach 100 megawatt-hours of storage by summer.

Created at: April 9, 2025 10:00pm

Threads Introduces Feature to Follow Creators from X

Threads Introduces Feature to Follow Creators from X

Meta has confirmed that Threads is testing a new feature allowing users to follow creators from X, facilitating smoother transitions for those migrating from competing platforms. This beta feature, discovered by security researcher Jane Manchum Wong, offers users guidance on importing their following lists from X. Meta aims to help users maintain their communities on Threads, which has recently seen growth in monthly active users, reaching over 320 million. While the feature targets popular creators, the specifics of how creators are matched remain unclear.

Created at: April 9, 2025 9:30pm

Nvidia's H20 AI Chips Avoid Export Controls After Deal with Trump

Nvidia's H20 AI Chips Avoid Export Controls After Deal with Trump

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has reportedly negotiated with the Trump administration to avoid export restrictions on the H20 AI chips, crucial for U.S.-China tech relations. This agreement includes Huang's commitment to invest in U.S. AI data centers. The H20 chips, modified for lower performance, were previously at risk due to their use in training an open AI model in China. Despite bipartisan calls for restrictions, this deal allows Nvidia to continue exports, potentially undermining U.S. dominance in AI. The Trump administration retains prior export rules imposed under Biden, complicating the situation further.

Created at: April 9, 2025 9:30pm

Canoo CEO Cleared to Acquire Bankrupt EV Startup's Assets

Canoo CEO Cleared to Acquire Bankrupt EV Startup's Assets

A judge has approved Canoo CEO Anthony Aquila's acquisition of the bankrupt EV startup's assets for approximately $4 million. Despite objections regarding the fairness of the sale process, Judge Brendan Shannon ruled that no other bids were made. Aquila aims to continue offering services to former clients like NASA and the Department of Defense. The case highlights ongoing challenges in the EV sector, with several startups facing bankruptcy. Canoo's situation is further complicated by legal disputes over trade secrets with rival Harbinger, which objects to the sale's terms.

Created at: April 9, 2025 7:00pm

Ilya Sutskever's AI Startup Partners with Google Cloud for Revolutionary Research

Ilya Sutskever's AI Startup Partners with Google Cloud for Revolutionary Research

Ilya Sutskever, co-founder of OpenAI, has launched his AI startup, Safe Superintelligence (SSI), in partnership with Google Cloud. SSI will utilize Google Cloud’s TPU chips to enhance its AI research aimed at developing safe superintelligent systems. This collaboration positions SSI as a significant player in the AI sector, with backing from high-profile investors like Andreessen Horowitz and Sequoia Capital. Despite limited public updates since its stealth launch in June 2024, SSI's mission remains clear: to innovate in the field of safe AI technology.

Created at: April 9, 2025 7:00pm

Lerer Hippeau Raises $200M, Boosting New York Startup Ecosystem

Lerer Hippeau Raises $200M, Boosting New York Startup Ecosystem

Lerer Hippeau, a prominent New York venture capital seed fund, has successfully closed its ninth fund at $200 million, surpassing its previous fund's $140 million. This brings the firm's total assets under management to $1.4 billion. Since its founding in 2010, Lerer Hippeau has invested in several notable startups such as Allbirds and Warby Parker. The firm highlights its family-oriented structure, with key partners related to co-founders. This funding adds to the vibrant New York startup scene, following recent significant raises by other local venture firms.

Created at: April 9, 2025 6:30pm

Court Document Exposes Global Targeting of WhatsApp Users by NSO Spyware

Court Document Exposes Global Targeting of WhatsApp Users by NSO Spyware

A recent court document reveals that NSO Group's Pegasus spyware targeted 1,223 WhatsApp users across 51 countries during a 2019 hacking campaign. This information comes from a lawsuit filed by WhatsApp against NSO Group, highlighting the scale of the surveillance, which included over 100 human rights activists and journalists. Mexico had the highest number of victims, followed by India and Bahrain. The document also sheds light on the financial aspects of NSO Group's operations, with Mexico reportedly spending over $60 million on their spyware. The upcoming hearing will determine the damages NSO Group must pay to WhatsApp.

Created at: April 9, 2025 6:30pm

OpenAI Launches Pioneers Program to Redefine AI Benchmarks

OpenAI Launches Pioneers Program to Redefine AI Benchmarks

OpenAI has introduced the OpenAI Pioneers Program aimed at developing new, domain-specific AI benchmarks to improve model evaluations. The initiative seeks to address shortcomings in existing benchmarks that often focus on abstract tasks. By collaborating with various companies, OpenAI plans to create tailored assessments for fields such as legal, finance, and healthcare. The initial cohort will include startups working on impactful AI applications. This program emphasizes practical performance in real-world scenarios, potentially reshaping industry standards for AI evaluation.

Created at: April 9, 2025 6:00pm

YouTube Enhances AI Detection Tech to Combat Deepfakes and Supports NO FAKES ACT

YouTube Enhances AI Detection Tech to Combat Deepfakes and Supports NO FAKES ACT

YouTube has expanded its pilot program to identify AI-generated content that mimics the likeness of creators and influential figures. The initiative aims to improve detection of harmful replicas and is backed by the NO FAKES ACT legislation, co-sponsored by Sens. Chris Coons and Marsha Blackburn. The platform has collaborated with industry leaders like the RIAA and MPA to address the risks associated with AI misuse. YouTube's existing Content ID system will aid in this effort, with top creators involved in initial testing. The company plans to broaden the program throughout the year.

Created at: April 9, 2025 5:00pm

MIT Study Challenges Notion of AI Developing Values

MIT Study Challenges Notion of AI Developing Values

A recent MIT study refutes claims that AI systems possess coherent value systems. The research indicates that AI does not prioritize its own well-being over humans, as previously suggested. Co-author Stephen Casper emphasizes the unpredictability of current models from major firms like Meta and OpenAI, highlighting their inconsistent preferences based on prompts. The findings reveal that AI models are imitative rather than possessing stable beliefs. Experts agree that anthropomorphizing AI misrepresents its true nature, as these systems lack the ability to internally adopt human-like values.

Created at: April 9, 2025 5:00pm

Kalshi CEO Defends Sports Betting Operations Against State Lawsuits

Kalshi CEO Defends Sports Betting Operations Against State Lawsuits

Kalshi, a prediction market startup, has filed lawsuits against New Jersey and Nevada, arguing that state gaming laws do not apply to its federally regulated platform. CEO Tarek Mansour emphasized their federal licensing during a StrictlyVC event, stating that state regulators are motivated by a casino lobby's dissatisfaction. Recently, Kalshi won a legal victory in Nevada, allowing it to continue operations there. The startup, valued at $787 million, aims to establish itself in the sports betting market, leveraging its unique prediction markets that offer insights into events like political outcomes and sports results.

Created at: April 9, 2025 5:00pm

Anthropic Launches $200/Month Claude Subscription to Compete with ChatGPT Pro

Anthropic Launches $200/Month Claude Subscription to Compete with ChatGPT Pro

Anthropic has introduced a new subscription plan for its AI chatbot, Claude, named Max, with options priced at $100 and $200 per month. This offering provides users with significantly higher usage limits compared to its previous $20 Claude Pro plan. The launch aims to enhance revenue streams amidst rising competition in the AI sector, particularly against OpenAI’s ChatGPT Pro. Anthropic's product lead indicated potential for even pricier subscription tiers in the future. The company is also developing Claude for Education targeting universities. User feedback will shape future product directions.

Created at: April 9, 2025 5:00pm

Senator Wyden Blocks Trump’s CISA Nominee Over Telecom Security Concerns

Senator Wyden Blocks Trump’s CISA Nominee Over Telecom Security Concerns

Senator Ron Wyden has placed a hold on Sean Plankey's nomination as head of CISA, citing a cover-up of security flaws in U.S. telecommunications. He demands the release of a 2022 unclassified report detailing these weaknesses, which he claims the public has a right to see. Wyden's concerns were amplified by recent hacks by Chinese spies that exploited telecom vulnerabilities. He proposed legislation to enforce cybersecurity standards in the industry, highlighting that federal oversight remains inadequate. The White House has yet to comment on the senator's actions.

Created at: April 9, 2025 4:30pm

US May Impose $1B Fine on TSMC Over Huawei AI Chip

US May Impose $1B Fine on TSMC Over Huawei AI Chip

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) faces potential fines exceeding $1 billion due to a U.S. export control investigation regarding a chip used in Huawei's AI processor. The investigation revolves around TSMC's involvement with Huawei and Xiamen Sophgo Technologies, which is linked to Bitmain. TSMC, the world's leading contract chipmaker, has not supplied Huawei since September 2020. The situation escalated after TechInsights revealed the presence of TSMC-based chips in Huawei's 910B AI processor. The U.S. Commerce Department has previously restricted advanced chip shipments to Chinese firms, including Sophgo.

Created at: April 9, 2025 4:00pm

Startups Revolutionizing Laundry Services Attract Major Investments

Startups Revolutionizing Laundry Services Attract Major Investments

Innovative laundry startups are gaining traction as investors flock to fund their services. NoScrubs, an 11-month-old company, has secured $2 million in pre-seed funding led by Initialized Capital for its on-demand laundry delivery in Austin. Meanwhile, Rinse, dubbed the 'Uber of laundry,' raised $23 million in Series D funding to expand its operations across major U.S. cities. Both companies aim to streamline laundry processes, with NoScrubs promising rapid turnaround times and Rinse focusing on employee-based service. The laundry market is projected to grow, presenting opportunities for multiple players.

Created at: April 9, 2025 3:30pm

Instagram Tests New Locked Reels Feature for Exclusive Content Access

Instagram Tests New Locked Reels Feature for Exclusive Content Access

Instagram is currently testing a feature that allows creators to lock reels, requiring viewers to enter a secret code and a hint to access them. This innovative approach aims to boost engagement and enable creators to share exclusive content with loyal fans. For instance, hints like 'my birthday' or 'my dog’s name' could be used to unlock content. The feature was first noticed on Instagram's Design account and may also serve as a tool for promotional campaigns. However, it remains unclear when or if this feature will be widely available.

Created at: April 9, 2025 3:00pm

WordPress.com Unveils Free AI-Powered Website Builder

WordPress.com Unveils Free AI-Powered Website Builder

WordPress.com has launched a new AI-driven website builder, enabling users to create websites through a chat interface. This feature is aimed at entrepreneurs and freelancers needing a professional online presence. Currently, the builder is limited to basic sites, not suitable for e-commerce or complex integrations. Users can provide prompts to guide the AI in designing their site, and they'll have 30 free uses before needing a hosting plan. The tool is intended to enhance WordPress's competitiveness against platforms like Squarespace and Wix.

Created at: April 9, 2025 3:00pm

Artisan Raises $25M Series A Despite Controversial 'Stop Hiring Humans' Campaign

Artisan Raises $25M Series A Despite Controversial 'Stop Hiring Humans' Campaign

Artisan, an AI sales agent startup founded by Jaspar Carmichael-Jack, has secured $25 million in a Series A funding led by Glade Brook Capital. The company, known for its provocative marketing campaign, has evolved from its early challenges, boasting a customer base of 250 and achieving $5 million in annual recurring revenue. Despite a tumultuous year, including a viral April Fool's joke about replacing its CEO with AI, Artisan continues to hire and now plans to launch additional AI products by the end of 2025. The startup emphasizes targeted outreach and a new success-based pricing model to enhance customer value.

Created at: April 9, 2025 3:00pm

Samsung Enhances SmartThings App with New Automation Features

Samsung Enhances SmartThings App with New Automation Features

Samsung has rolled out significant updates to its SmartThings app, introducing advanced home automation capabilities aimed at boosting sales of its smart home devices. The app now features an updated ‘Routines’ function, allowing users to schedule tasks like turning off lights or changing TV channels. New integrations with Samsung Health enable sleep tracking that interacts with home routines. Additionally, the app supports more devices through the Matter 1.4 standard, including water heaters and solar devices. Users can also send voice messages to connected speakers, a feature previously lacking in Samsung's ecosystem.

Created at: April 9, 2025 3:00pm

TechCrunch Sessions: AI to Gather 1,200 Innovators in Berkeley

TechCrunch Sessions: AI to Gather 1,200 Innovators in Berkeley

TechCrunch Sessions: AI is set for June 5, 2025, at UC Berkeley, bringing together 1,200 leaders from the AI sector. The event promises insightful discussions led by notable figures like Jared Kaplan and Ion Stoica, focusing on AI advancements and ethical considerations. Attendees will also witness startup pitches, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities designed for founders and investors alike. Early Bird tickets are available, offering discounts for teams. This event marks a significant return to topic-focused gatherings in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

Created at: April 9, 2025 2:30pm

Tessell Secures $60M to Transform Data Management with AI

Tessell Secures $60M to Transform Data Management with AI

Tessell, a startup specializing in multi-cloud database management, has raised $60 million in funding led by WestBridge Capital. The company aims to revolutionize operational data management by launching an AI-powered conversational database service. With a focus on flexibility and cost-efficiency, Tessell claims to deliver up to 10x performance improvements compared to traditional database services. The four-year-old startup is expanding its market reach, including plans to enter Europe and Asia-Pacific. Tessell currently supports major cloud providers and database engines, with 40 customers, primarily in India.

Created at: April 9, 2025 2:30pm

Solve Intelligence Secures $12M to Revolutionize Patent Workflows with AI

Solve Intelligence Secures $12M to Revolutionize Patent Workflows with AI

Solve Intelligence, a Delaware-based startup, has raised $12 million in Series A funding led by 20VC to enhance its AI-driven document editor designed for patent attorneys. The platform, already utilized by 200 IP teams globally, streamlines patent drafting and related tasks, boasting a 25% month-on-month revenue growth. Co-founder Chris Parsonson highlighted the startup's profitability and plans for expansion, including a new office in New York and increased R&D for life sciences. The funding will also advance their AI capabilities tailored to unique legal drafting styles, setting them apart in the legal tech landscape.

Created at: April 9, 2025 2:30pm

Nuro Secures $106M Funding to Shift Focus to Licensing Autonomous Technology

Nuro Secures $106M Funding to Shift Focus to Licensing Autonomous Technology

Nuro has raised $106 million in Series E funding, bringing its total funding to $2.2 billion and valuation to $6 billion, down from its previous peak. The company is pivoting from building delivery robots to licensing its autonomous driving technology to automotive manufacturers and commercial fleets. This strategic shift follows layoffs and a halt in manufacturing plans as Nuro aims to enhance its self-driving capabilities, leveraging AI to extend its operational runway. Investor support remains strong, primarily from institutional backers like T. Rowe Price and Fidelity.

Created at: April 9, 2025 2:30pm

Waymo's Robotaxis May Soon Use AI for Targeted Ads—Privacy Concerns Arise

Waymo's Robotaxis May Soon Use AI for Targeted Ads—Privacy Concerns Arise

Waymo, Google's self-driving car division, is reportedly testing features to deliver targeted ads based on rider behavior, raising privacy alarms. A leaked privacy policy suggests the company could utilize interior camera footage to train AI models, potentially compromising user privacy. Waymo's spokesperson denied any immediate plans for ad-supported features, yet the document hints at future possibilities. As technology advances, the line between convenience and privacy blurs, prompting public concern over data exploitation. This development echoes themes from the sci-fi film 'Minority Report,' where personalized advertising becomes a reality.

Created at: April 9, 2025 1:00pm

UK Government's 'Murder Prediction' Program Sparks Outcry Over Privacy and Bias

UK Government's 'Murder Prediction' Program Sparks Outcry Over Privacy and Bias

The UK government's controversial 'murder prediction' program is facing significant backlash due to concerns over privacy violations and algorithmic bias. Critics argue that the initiative, aimed at forecasting violent crime using personal data, could lead to discrimination against vulnerable communities. The program, which relies on machine learning algorithms, is said to include sensitive information about individuals with no criminal convictions. While the Ministry of Justice insists the project is still in research stages, opposition groups warn of the potential for misuse and the exacerbation of existing inequalities in the justice system.

Created at: April 9, 2025 1:00pm

Google Messages Introduces 'Unsubscribe' Button to Combat Spam

Google Messages Introduces 'Unsubscribe' Button to Combat Spam

Google Messages has launched a new 'Unsubscribe' button to help users stop unwanted spam texts effortlessly. This feature allows users to opt out of promotional messages with a simple click, prompting a quick survey to select the reason for unsubscribing. The app sends an automatic 'Stop' message to the sender, enhancing user control over their messaging experience. Importantly, users can easily resubscribe if they change their mind. Currently, the feature is available in select countries including the US, UK, and India, as part of Google’s ongoing efforts to improve communication.

Created at: April 9, 2025 1:00pm

Google Pixel Watch 2 and 3 Introduce AI Scam Detection: Block Fraud Calls with Ease

Google Pixel Watch 2 and 3 Introduce AI Scam Detection: Block Fraud Calls with Ease

Google has rolled out an AI-powered Scam Detection feature for Pixel Watch 2 and 3 users in the US. This innovative update allows users to block unwanted scam calls directly from their wrist. The feature leverages AI to identify suspicious call patterns and provides real-time alerts through vibrations and audible notifications. Users paired with a compatible Pixel phone can easily activate the service via the Phone app. Currently, the feature is only available in English and the US, with no announcements on a broader release yet.

Created at: April 9, 2025 1:00pm

Apple Vision Pro's Sales Struggles Prompt New Model with M5 Chip by 2025

Apple Vision Pro's Sales Struggles Prompt New Model with M5 Chip by 2025

Apple's Vision Pro headset has faced disappointing sales, failing to meet market expectations despite an enthusiastic launch. The company is now working on an incremental upgrade, the Vision Pro 2, aimed for late 2025 release. This new model will feature the next-generation M5 chip but minimal redesign. Reports indicate that production of the original Vision Pro will cease by the end of 2024. Apple hopes that the enhanced performance will attract more customers as they phase out the first version. However, significant improvements may be delayed due to development challenges.

Created at: April 9, 2025 12:31pm

Reddit Upgrades AI Search Tool with Google Gemini Integration

Reddit Upgrades AI Search Tool with Google Gemini Integration

Reddit has enhanced its conversational AI search tool, Reddit Answers, by integrating Google Gemini. This update, announced by both companies, aims to improve search relevance and deliver quick answers to users. Since its beta launch in December 2024, Reddit Answers has allowed users to pose questions and receive curated summaries of relevant comments. The integration is intended to retain users on Reddit, competing against other generative AI tools. User feedback has been mixed, with some finding it useful while others critique it as a lesser version of existing AI tools. Currently, it is available in the U.S. on web and iOS.

Created at: April 9, 2025 12:31pm

Google's Gemini Code Assist Introduces New 'Agentic' Features for Enhanced Coding

Google's Gemini Code Assist Introduces New 'Agentic' Features for Enhanced Coding

At the recent Cloud Next conference, Google unveiled upgrades to its AI coding assistant, Gemini Code Assist, introducing 'agentic' capabilities. These new features include AI agents that can perform complex programming tasks, such as creating applications from Google Docs specifications and executing code transformations. The tool is now available in Android Studio and other environments, amid growing competition from rivals like GitHub Copilot. However, the effectiveness of these agents is still under scrutiny, as AI-generated code can introduce security vulnerabilities. Users are advised to review generated code for safety.

Created at: April 9, 2025 12:31pm

Google Unveils New AI Features for Vertex Cloud Amidst Growing Competition

Google Unveils New AI Features for Vertex Cloud Amidst Growing Competition

Google has announced significant updates to its Vertex AI cloud platform, introducing the Lyria music-generating model in preview. Enhancements to the Veo 2 video creation model now allow advanced editing and visual effects. The new voice-cloning feature, powered by Chirp 3, can synthesize speech in approximately 35 languages and enables Instant Custom Voice. Imagen 3 has also received upgrades for improved image generation. These updates aim to strengthen Google's position in the enterprise generative AI market, competing directly with Amazon's Bedrock platform.

Created at: April 9, 2025 12:31pm

Google Workspace Introduces AI Automation Flows and New Features

Google Workspace Introduces AI Automation Flows and New Features

Google has unveiled significant updates to its Workspace productivity suite, including the launch of Workspace Flows, which automates multi-step processes using AI. This feature allows users to create complex workflows with simple commands and integrates with third-party tools. Additional enhancements include podcast-style summaries in Google Docs, new analytical features in Google Sheets, and automated note-taking in Google Meet. These updates aim to enhance user experience and make Workspace a more competitive, AI-driven platform, in light of its rivalry with Microsoft 365.

Created at: April 9, 2025 12:30pm

Google Launches Gemini 2.5 Flash AI Model for Enhanced Efficiency

Google Launches Gemini 2.5 Flash AI Model for Enhanced Efficiency

Google has announced the upcoming release of its Gemini 2.5 Flash AI model, designed for efficiency and strong performance. Set to debut on the Vertex AI platform, this model allows developers to adjust processing times based on query complexity. With a focus on balancing speed, accuracy, and cost, Gemini 2.5 Flash serves high-volume applications like customer service and document parsing. The model is also being adapted for on-premises environments, ensuring compliance with data governance needs. Despite lacking a safety report, it presents a viable alternative to more expensive AI models.

Created at: April 9, 2025 12:30pm

Google Unveils Ironwood: The Next Generation AI Accelerator Chip

Google Unveils Ironwood: The Next Generation AI Accelerator Chip

At the Cloud Next conference, Google introduced Ironwood, its latest TPU AI accelerator chip optimized for inference. This seventh-generation chip will launch later this year in two configurations, significantly boosting AI model performance. Google Cloud VP Amin Vahdat highlighted Ironwood's energy efficiency and enhanced processing capabilities, delivering 4,614 TFLOPs of computing power. The chip features specialized cores for advanced data processing, and Google plans to integrate it with its AI Hypercomputer. As competition intensifies, Ironwood positions Google against rivals like Nvidia, Amazon, and Microsoft in the AI accelerator market.

Created at: April 9, 2025 12:30pm

Samsung Integrates Google’s Gemini AI into Home Robot Ballie

Samsung Integrates Google’s Gemini AI into Home Robot Ballie

Samsung announced a partnership with Google Cloud to incorporate the Gemini AI into its home robot, Ballie. This integration allows users to engage with the robot using queries, benefiting from Gemini’s multimodal capabilities. Ballie will offer personalized responses, including outfit suggestions and health recommendations, by utilizing its camera and visual intelligence. Samsung aims to redefine AI's role in the home through this collaboration. The robot is set to launch in South Korea and the U.S. later this year, following years of showcasing at tech events.

Created at: April 9, 2025 12:00pm

Governments Uncover Spyware Hidden in Popular Android Apps

Governments Uncover Spyware Hidden in Popular Android Apps

A coalition of governments, including the U.K., U.S., Australia, Canada, Germany, and New Zealand, has revealed that over 100 legitimate-looking Android apps are actually spyware targeting civil society opposing China’s interests. The spyware families, BadBazaar and Moonshine, exploit popular apps to access users' cameras, microphones, and location data. These malicious apps specifically target Uyghurs, Tibetans, and Taiwanese communities, reflecting ongoing surveillance issues. The National Cyber Security Centre has published advisories to raise awareness of these threats, highlighting the risks faced by individuals advocating for democracy and minority rights.

Created at: April 9, 2025 10:30am

Lyst Acquired by Japan's Zozo for $154M Amid E-Commerce Challenges

Lyst Acquired by Japan's Zozo for $154M Amid E-Commerce Challenges

Lyst, the high-end fashion marketplace once valued at $700 million, has been acquired by Japan's Zozo for $154 million in cash. The acquisition allows Zozo to expand its international portfolio while Lyst will operate as a standalone business with its CEO, Emma McFerran, remaining at the helm. The deal comes as Lyst faces challenges from U.S. tariff hikes, fierce competition from giants like Amazon, and shifting investor interest towards AI. Despite a significant reduction in value, Lyst aims to leverage Zozo's resources to enhance its operations in the competitive fashion e-commerce landscape.

Created at: April 9, 2025 10:30am

Amazon Haul Shifts Focus Amid Trump Tariffs: A New Era for E-Commerce

Amazon Haul Shifts Focus Amid Trump Tariffs: A New Era for E-Commerce

Amazon is set to change its e-commerce strategy for the Amazon Haul app due to new tariffs imposed by President Trump on imported goods, particularly from China. The platform, originally aimed at providing low-cost products from Chinese warehouses, will now prioritize items available from US warehouses, including brands like Gap and Adidas. This shift comes as Amazon seeks to remain competitive against rivals like Temu and Shein. The impact of these tariffs is significant, particularly for the tech industry, which heavily relies on foreign manufacturing. Amazon's adjustments reflect broader trends in US-China trade tensions.

Created at: April 9, 2025 3:00am