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European Startups Attract Over $52B VC Investment in 2024 Signaling Resilient Growth Amid Challenges

European Startups Attract Over $52B VC Investment in 2024
Signaling Resilient Growth Amid Challenges

Venture capital investment in European startups surpassed $52 billion in 2024, indicating a resurgence following the pandemic peaks and the downturn of 2023. Despite political and regulatory challenges, the report from Orrick highlights a stabilizing market with increased adoption of standardized investment documents. Equity deals have gained traction, with a focus on scaling businesses rather than early exits. Notably, 21% of financings involved SaaS models, while AI and DeepTech sectors saw significant investment. However, growth-stage funding remains limited, signaling a need for further support in this area.

Created at: March 20, 2025 3:30pm

Tesla Recalls 46,000 Cybertrucks Over Risky Windshield Panel Issues

Tesla Recalls 46,000 Cybertrucks Over Risky Windshield Panel Issues

Tesla has announced a recall for approximately 46,000 Cybertrucks due to a defect involving an exterior steel trim panel that may detach while the vehicle is in motion. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that Tesla identified 151 warranty claims related to this issue since January. While no accidents or injuries have been reported, the company plans to fix the problem at no cost by using a more resilient adhesive and a clamping mechanism. This marks the eighth recall for the Cybertruck, amidst ongoing challenges in meeting production expectations.

Created at: March 20, 2025 3:00pm

Microsoft Expands Renewable Energy Footprint with 475 MW Solar Power Addition

Microsoft Expands Renewable Energy Footprint with 475 MW Solar Power Addition

Microsoft has announced a significant expansion of its renewable energy portfolio by adding 475 megawatts of solar power to support its data centers. This initiative follows a deal with energy provider AES for three solar projects located in Illinois, Michigan, and Missouri. With a growing demand for energy in AI technologies, Microsoft continues to prioritize solar energy due to its quick installation and cost-effectiveness. The company aims to address potential power shortages for future AI servers by investing in renewable resources, including a recent $9 billion renewable power coalition.

Created at: March 20, 2025 3:00pm

Spotify Launches 'Concerts Near You' Playlists for Local Show Discovery

Spotify Launches 'Concerts Near You' Playlists for Local Show Discovery

Spotify has introduced a new playlist called 'Concerts Near You' to help users find nearby concerts. Updated weekly, the playlist features 30 songs from local artists along with event details and ticket links. By partnering with ticket platforms like AXS and Ticketmaster, Spotify enhances its user experience. To receive updates, users must share their location and enable notifications. This launch aligns with Spotify's goal to improve event discovery and increase artist visibility. The move follows the release of Spotify's Loud & Clear report, highlighting its fair compensation to artists.

Created at: March 20, 2025 2:30pm

Meta AI Launches in EU with Limited Features Amid Privacy Concerns

Meta AI Launches in EU with Limited Features Amid Privacy Concerns

Meta has announced the launch of its AI-powered virtual assistant, Meta AI, across the European Union, albeit with a restricted feature set compared to the U.S. version. This rollout comes after a lengthy regulatory battle with EU privacy authorities, prompting Meta to avoid using local user data for AI training. The assistant will initially only support intelligent chat functions in six languages and will gradually become available in group chats. Meta's move aims to align with EU regulations, but challenges remain as the company faces ongoing scrutiny from regulators.

Created at: March 20, 2025 2:00pm

Adapty Launches FunnelFox: A Game Changer for App Revenue Management

Adapty Launches FunnelFox: A Game Changer for App Revenue Management

Adapty has unveiled FunnelFox, a web-based tool designed to help app developers earn revenue outside traditional app stores. This innovative platform allows users to create customer acquisition quizzes on websites, bypassing the 30% fees charged by Apple and Google. After testing with over 100 clients, Adapty reported a $20 million revenue boost, with many users doubling their earnings compared to in-app purchases. FunnelFox features AI-driven suggestions to enhance customer engagement and conversion rates. The startup, which serves over 10,000 apps, aims to integrate more AI capabilities in the future.

Created at: March 20, 2025 2:00pm

Exhibit at TechCrunch Events in 2025 to Elevate Your Brand

TechCrunch is inviting startups to showcase their innovations at various upcoming events in 2025, including TC Sessions: AI, TC All Stage, and TechCrunch Disrupt. Participants can enjoy full exhibit space, online promotion, and access to valuable networking opportunities. Limited spaces are available, and interested parties are encouraged to reserve their tables early. The events will gather industry leaders, VCs, and tech enthusiasts, providing a platform for startups to amplify their presence and connect with potential investors. Don't miss the chance to make a significant impact in the tech landscape.

Created at: March 20, 2025 2:00pm

TikTok Integrates Amber Alerts into For You Feeds to Enhance Child Safety

TikTok Integrates Amber Alerts into For You Feeds to Enhance Child Safety

TikTok has announced a partnership with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) to display real-time Amber Alerts directly in users' For You feeds across the United States. This feature activates when law enforcement issues an Amber Alert in a specific search area identified through users' IP addresses. The alerts will provide essential details, including the child’s photo and description. Following a successful pilot in Texas, where alerts garnered over 20 million views, TikTok aims to leverage its teen user base to raise awareness. The company is also donating advertising credits to NCMEC for promoting youth safety.

Created at: March 20, 2025 1:30pm

Nvidia Transforms Into 'AI Factory' Under Jensen Huang's Vision

Nvidia Transforms Into 'AI Factory' Under Jensen Huang's Vision

At the GTC conference in California, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang declared the company's transformation from a chip manufacturer to an 'AI infrastructure company.' He unveiled four new GPU architectures aimed at powering AI innovation through 2026. Nvidia's sales have surged, with 3.6 million Blackwell GPUs sold to major US cloud providers last year. Huang emphasized that their AI products directly enhance customer revenues. Despite challenges from tariffs due to the US-China trade tensions, Huang reassured stakeholders of Nvidia's adaptable supply chain.

Created at: March 20, 2025 11:30am

EU Green Lights Apple's Portless iPhone 17 Air, Focusing on Wireless Charging

EU Green Lights Apple's Portless iPhone 17 Air, Focusing on Wireless Charging

Apple's vision for a portless iPhone 17 Air, reliant on MagSafe and Qi wireless charging, has received approval from the European Union. Despite initial concerns about regulatory restrictions, the EU has confirmed that selling a portless model is permissible, provided Apple avoids proprietary charging methods. The shift to a portless design aligns with the EU's goal of reducing electronic waste and promoting uniform charging standards. As wireless charging technology improves, consumers may increasingly embrace this innovation, especially with the growing availability of compatible chargers in various locations.

Created at: March 20, 2025 11:30am

Telegram Surpasses 1 Billion Users; Durov Slams WhatsApp as 'Cheap Imitation'

Telegram Surpasses 1 Billion Users; Durov Slams WhatsApp as 'Cheap Imitation'

Telegram has reached a significant milestone with over one billion active users, while CEO Pavel Durov criticized WhatsApp, labeling it a 'cheap knockoff.' Durov claims WhatsApp has spent billions on lobbying to undermine Telegram's growth. Despite these challenges, Telegram reported a profit of $547 million in 2024. Durov's comments come after his return from a legal battle in France, where he faced serious allegations, which he vehemently denied. Telegram is also taking steps to address illegal content on its platform, partnering with the Internet Watch Foundation.

Created at: March 20, 2025 10:00am

Elon Musk Claims Tesla Vandalism is Part of a Conspiracy Against Him

Elon Musk Claims Tesla Vandalism is Part of a Conspiracy Against Him

Elon Musk recently condemned the vandalism incidents targeting Tesla vehicles, asserting they stem from a larger political conspiracy. Following a negative reception of the Cybertruck at Mardi Gras, Musk publicly denounced the anti-Tesla protests, which he links to his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency. He speculates that these acts may be coordinated against him amid rising tensions. Environmental activists have also protested against Tesla’s designs, claiming safety hazards. Musk's comments highlight the growing anti-Tesla sentiment and its potential political undercurrents.

Created at: March 20, 2025 8:00am

Pruna AI Launches Open Source Optimization Framework for AI Models

Pruna AI Launches Open Source Optimization Framework for AI Models

Pruna AI, a startup from Europe, has announced the open-sourcing of its AI model optimization framework. This framework incorporates various efficiency techniques such as caching, pruning, and quantization to enhance AI model performance. The tool also evaluates the quality of compressed models to minimize loss. Unlike existing solutions, Pruna AI provides a comprehensive approach to combining multiple compression methods. Their focus is currently on image and video generation models, with existing users including Scenario and PhotoRoom. Pruna AI recently secured $6.5 million in seed funding to further its efforts.

Created at: March 20, 2025 8:00am

Evroc Secures $55M to Launch Sovereign Cloud in Europe

Evroc Secures $55M to Launch Sovereign Cloud in Europe

Swedish startup Evroc has raised €50.6 million ($55 million) in Series A funding to establish a hyperscale cloud infrastructure in Europe. The initiative seeks to create a secure and sustainable digital ecosystem independent of U.S. tech giants. Amid rising geopolitical tensions, Evroc plans to construct data centers across Europe, with two already operational in Stockholm and Paris. The company aims to focus on AI workloads and is set to launch later this year, catering to sectors requiring high sovereignty, including defense and healthcare. CEO Mattias Åström emphasizes the importance of Europe controlling its own digital destiny.

Created at: March 20, 2025 7:00am

Michael Seibel Transitions to Emeritus Role at Y Combinator

Michael Seibel Transitions to Emeritus Role at Y Combinator

Michael Seibel announced his transition to a partner emeritus role at Y Combinator after over 12 years with the accelerator. Previously a founder and CEO, Seibel managed various roles within YC, including group partner and managing director. His reduced operational role aligns with a desire to help government serve citizens better, a passion he aims to reignite. The announcement, made via X, took some employees by surprise, especially following Garry Tan's appointment as CEO in 2022. Seibel will take a summer break before his new endeavors begin.

Created at: March 20, 2025 6:01am

OpenAI Faces New Privacy Complaint Over ChatGPT's Defamatory Hallucinations

OpenAI Faces New Privacy Complaint Over ChatGPT's Defamatory Hallucinations

OpenAI is under scrutiny in Europe after a privacy rights group, Noyb, filed a complaint regarding ChatGPT's propensity to generate false and defamatory information. The complaint stems from a Norwegian individual who was shocked to discover the AI falsely accused him of child murder. This incident raises serious concerns under the EU's GDPR, as it mandates data accuracy. Noyb argues that ChatGPT's disclaimers are insufficient and calls for stricter enforcement. The case could lead to significant penalties for OpenAI and necessitate changes to its AI products.

Created at: March 20, 2025 6:00am

Google Messages Launches Remote Delete Feature to Combat Embarrassing Texts

Google Messages Launches Remote Delete Feature to Combat Embarrassing Texts

Google Messages has introduced a Remote Delete feature, enabling users to delete sent messages from one device while using another, provided both devices have the app and are logged into the same Google account. This feature allows users a 15-minute window to remove messages, which will be replaced by a 'Message deleted' placeholder in the chat. The update is part of the RCS Universal Profile 2.7 enhancement, and it aims to enhance user experience, especially as Google’s focus on generative AI grows. Additionally, Google Messages now supports a floating action button for easier AI interactions.

Created at: March 20, 2025 5:30am

ClearGrid Raises $10M to Revolutionize Debt Collection with AI in MENA

ClearGrid Raises $10M to Revolutionize Debt Collection with AI in MENA

ClearGrid, a Dubai-based startup, has emerged from stealth with $10 million in funding to modernize debt collection in the MENA region using AI. Founded in May 2023, the company aims to enhance recovery for banks and fintechs while avoiding customer harassment. Co-founder Mohammed Al Zaben emphasized the need for innovation in an outdated industry. ClearGrid's platform automates collections and personalizes outreach, boasting a 50% reduction in collection costs. The startup is already profitable in the UAE and plans to expand into Saudi Arabia, targeting significant revenue growth in the coming year.

Created at: March 20, 2025 4:30am

Verizon Launches Satellite Texting for Galaxy S25 and Pixel 9 Users Stay Connected Even Without Signal

Verizon Launches Satellite Texting for Galaxy S25 and Pixel 9 Users
Stay Connected Even Without Signal

Verizon has introduced satellite texting, enabling users of the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Google Pixel 9 to send messages without a cellular signal. This innovative feature allows texts to be sent to any smartphone, even those not equipped for satellite communication. While Verizon claims to be the first U.S. carrier to offer this service, details on additional compatible devices are forthcoming. The rollout is underway, enhancing connectivity options for those in remote areas. This move follows similar advancements by other tech companies in satellite communication technologies.

Created at: March 20, 2025 4:00am

Apple's homeOS Set to Launch with HomePad This Year

Apple's homeOS Set to Launch with HomePad This Year

Apple is gearing up to release its much-anticipated homeOS, designed as the central operating system for smart home devices. Expected to debut later this year, homeOS will integrate seamlessly with the HomePad, featuring familiar layouts akin to iOS and iPadOS. Users can anticipate Widgets for quick access to essential apps and enhanced voice control capabilities via Siri and Apple Intelligence. Although it won't initially have its own App Store, the system aims to elevate user experience with smart home controls and a new robotic assistant. Official confirmation from Apple is still pending.

Created at: March 20, 2025 3:30am

SoftBank to Acquire Ampere Computing for $6.5B in Cash

SoftBank to Acquire Ampere Computing for $6.5B in Cash

SoftBank Group has announced plans to acquire Ampere Computing, a semiconductor designer, for $6.5 billion in an all-cash deal. The acquisition aims to enhance SoftBank's investments in AI infrastructure and will position Ampere as a wholly-owned subsidiary. Carlyle and Oracle, Ampere's major investors, will exit the company as part of the deal. SoftBank, already a significant player with Arm Holdings, is looking to bolster its capabilities in AI and computing. The deal is expected to close in the latter half of 2025, furthering SoftBank's commitment to AI innovation.

Created at: March 20, 2025 3:30am

Google Postpones Pixel 9a Launch Until April Due to Component Issues

Google Postpones Pixel 9a Launch Until April Due to Component Issues

Google has confirmed a delay in the release of its budget smartphone, the Pixel 9a, which was initially scheduled for this month. The company cited unexpected component quality issues as the reason for the setback, pushing the launch to April. Preorders through the Google Store and major retailers like Best Buy have been canceled. Despite the delay, the Pixel 9a promises a feature-rich experience with a Tensor G4 chipset and a redesigned minimalist body. Google aims to maintain its budget-friendly Pixel lineup despite this hiccup.

Created at: March 20, 2025 3:00am

Apple's AirPods to Feature Live Language Translation, Competing with Google's Pixel Buds

Apple's AirPods to Feature Live Language Translation, Competing with Google's Pixel Buds

Apple is reportedly developing a live language translation feature for its popular AirPods, a significant upgrade since the device's release in 2016. This anticipated feature aims to enhance user experience by providing real-time translations, similar to Google’s Pixel Buds, which have offered this capability since 2017. The upgrade comes as Apple seeks to innovate beyond its current audio functionalities, previously introducing hearing aid capabilities. The effectiveness of Apple's translation feature compared to Google's remains to be seen, but it could greatly benefit multilingual users in everyday conversations.

Created at: March 20, 2025 2:00am

Cyberstarts Turns $6M Investment in Wiz into $1.42B Windfall

Cyberstarts Turns $6M Investment in Wiz into $1.42B Windfall

Cybersecurity startup Wiz's acquisition by Alphabet is set to yield enormous returns for its early backers, particularly Cyberstarts. The Israeli VC invested $6.4 million in Wiz's seed round, now valued at a staggering $1.3 billion, marking a 222x return. Additionally, Cyberstarts previously sold shares worth $120 million, bringing total returns to $1.42 billion. Sequoia Capital, another prominent investor, is expected to gain $3 billion from its stake. This acquisition underscores the impressive performance of early-stage investments in the tech sector.

Created at: March 20, 2025 12:30am

Data Breach Exposes Nearly 2 Million Users in SpyX Spyware Incident

Data Breach Exposes Nearly 2 Million Users in SpyX Spyware Incident

A significant data breach involving the stalkerware SpyX has compromised the private information of almost 2 million users, including thousands of Apple customers. This breach, which dates back to June 2024, was only recently disclosed. The data, provided to security expert Troy Hunt, includes nearly 1.97 million unique account records with email addresses. This incident marks the 25th known data breach in the consumer-grade spyware sector since 2017. The operators of SpyX did not respond to inquiries regarding the breach, raising concerns about the ongoing risks to affected individuals.

Created at: March 19, 2025 11:00pm

Stalkerware Breach Exposes Data of Nearly 2 Million Victims

Stalkerware Breach Exposes Data of Nearly 2 Million Victims

A recent breach at SpyX, a stalkerware app provider, has compromised the sensitive data of almost two million victims. This incident adds to a troubling trend, as at least 25 stalkerware companies have suffered similar breaches since 2017. Security experts highlight that these apps, often marketed for monitoring partners, pose significant ethical and legal risks. Despite increasing awareness, the stalkerware industry remains vulnerable, with hackers targeting companies that fail to secure sensitive data. Experts urge consumers to avoid these applications due to their inherent risks and the potential for real-world harm.

Created at: March 19, 2025 11:00pm

OpenAI Launches o1-pro: Its Most Expensive AI Model Yet

OpenAI Launches o1-pro: Its Most Expensive AI Model Yet

OpenAI has introduced o1-pro, its most advanced AI model, now available through its developer API. This model promises superior performance, utilizing greater computing power than its predecessor, o1. Priced at $150 per million tokens for input and $600 for output, it’s significantly more costly than previous models. Currently accessible to select developers, o1-pro aims to deliver more reliable responses. However, early user feedback indicates mixed results, with issues noted in solving puzzles and answering basic queries. OpenAI hopes its enhanced capabilities will justify the high costs for developers.

Created at: March 19, 2025 11:00pm

OpenAI's Noam Brown: AI Reasoning Models Could Have Emerged Two Decades Earlier

OpenAI's Noam Brown: AI Reasoning Models Could Have Emerged Two Decades Earlier

Noam Brown, the research lead for AI reasoning at OpenAI, stated at Nvidia’s GTC conference that advanced AI reasoning models could have been developed much earlier if the right approaches were known. He emphasized the importance of 'thinking' before acting in AI, a technique employed by OpenAI's o1 model. Brown noted that while pre-training remains important, there's a shift towards combining it with test-time inference for enhanced accuracy. He also highlighted the potential for academic contributions in AI benchmarking, despite limited computational resources in academia amid recent funding cuts.

Created at: March 19, 2025 9:30pm

Sequoia Capital Closes D.C. Office, Disbands Policy Team

Sequoia Capital Closes D.C. Office, Disbands Policy Team

Sequoia Capital will shut down its Washington D.C. office and disband its policy team by the end of March. This decision contrasts with other Silicon Valley firms, like Andreessen Horowitz, which are strengthening ties with the new Trump administration. Sequoia, which opened the office five years ago to assist companies with regulatory matters, has stated they are now well-equipped to maintain relationships without a dedicated team. The closure affects three full-time employees and policy fellows. The firm remains politically neutral despite some partners' past political expressions.

Created at: March 19, 2025 9:30pm

Concerns Rise as X Users Rely on Grok for Fact-Checking

Concerns Rise as X Users Rely on Grok for Fact-Checking

Users on Elon Musk’s X are increasingly turning to the AI bot Grok for fact-checking, raising alarms among experts regarding misinformation. Since its launch, Grok has been asked to verify politically charged statements, causing concerns about its reliability. Human fact-checkers emphasize that AI lacks accountability and transparency, which can lead to misinformation spreading rapidly. Instances of Grok generating misleading information have been reported, prompting calls for critical changes from officials. Experts warn that as AI becomes more integrated into social media, the potential for harm increases significantly.

Created at: March 19, 2025 9:30pm

Nvidia Acquires Synthetic Data Startup Gretel for Nine-Figure Sum

Nvidia Acquires Synthetic Data Startup Gretel for Nine-Figure Sum

Nvidia has reportedly acquired Gretel, a San Diego-based startup specializing in synthetic AI training data. The acquisition price, exceeding Gretel’s last valuation of $320 million, remains undisclosed. Founded in 2019, Gretel employs around 80 people and enhances AI models with proprietary technology. This strategic move enables Nvidia to bolster its generative AI services, keeping pace with competitors like Microsoft and Meta, who are increasingly utilizing synthetic data. Prior to the acquisition, Gretel secured over $67 million from notable investors, including Anthos Capital and Greylock.

Created at: March 19, 2025 8:00pm

AWS Generative AI Executive Raj Aggarwal Launches New Startup

AWS Generative AI Executive Raj Aggarwal Launches New Startup

Raj Aggarwal, formerly the GM of generative AI at AWS, has announced his departure to launch a new startup. During his tenure, he contributed to significant advancements in AWS's generative AI products, which reportedly increased pipeline generation by 4.9%. Aggarwal has an entrepreneurial background, having previously founded Localytics and Demand Sage, both of which secured substantial venture funding. Although he did not disclose specifics about his new venture, he expressed excitement about returning to his entrepreneurial roots. TechCrunch has reached out for further details.

Created at: March 19, 2025 7:30pm

Bluesky’s T-Shirt Sales Outshine Custom Domains with Zuck Jab

Bluesky’s T-Shirt Sales Outshine Custom Domains with Zuck Jab

Bluesky CEO Jay Graber recently showcased a T-shirt at SXSW that humorously critiqued Mark Zuckerberg, leading to a spontaneous surge in sales. The shirt, which features a Latin phrase meaning 'a world without Caesars,' quickly sold out, generating more revenue in a single day than two years of custom domain sales. COO Rose Wang jokingly suggested a pivot to T-shirt sales due to the overwhelming demand. As Bluesky continues to explore monetization strategies, its unexpected fashion venture highlights the intersection of tech and culture.

Created at: March 19, 2025 6:30pm

DeepMind Robotics Researcher Launches Stealth Startup with Nvidia's Backing

DeepMind Robotics Researcher Launches Stealth Startup with Nvidia's Backing

Pete Florence, a former senior research scientist at DeepMind, has exited Google to establish his robotics startup, Generalist AI, already securing investment from Nvidia. Announced at Nvidia’s GTC conference, Florence aims to realize the potential of general-purpose robots. Joining as a technical founding member is Kamyar Ghasemipour, another DeepMind alumnus. Florence envisions a future where the cost of physical labor approaches zero. His departure aligns with a trend of DeepMind alumni founding innovative companies in the AI and robotics fields. Both Nvidia and Google have not commented on the developments.

Created at: March 19, 2025 6:30pm

Ghost Integrates with Fediverse, Expanding Social Reach

Ghost Integrates with Fediverse, Expanding Social Reach

Ghost, an open-source newsletter platform, has launched a beta feature connecting its service to the fediverse, enhancing user engagement. This integration, powered by ActivityPub, allows Ghost Pro subscribers to share blog posts across various federated networks like Mastodon and Threads. Users can now follow Ghost publishers and interact with their content through likes and replies. Additionally, Ghost introduced a social web reader to streamline content consumption. While still in development, this feature is expected to evolve in the upcoming Ghost 6.0 release, promising deeper integration with social profiles.

Created at: March 19, 2025 6:30pm

AI Safety Laws Must Anticipate Future Risks, Says New Report

AI Safety Laws Must Anticipate Future Risks, Says New Report

A California policy group co-led by AI pioneer Fei-Fei Li released a report urging lawmakers to consider unobserved AI risks when formulating regulations. The report calls for increased transparency from AI developers regarding safety tests and data practices. It emphasizes the need for third-party evaluations and whistleblower protections for employees in the AI sector. While it does not endorse specific legislation, it aligns with previous efforts to enhance AI safety, reflecting a growing consensus among experts on the necessity of proactive measures in AI governance. The final report is expected in June 2025.

Created at: March 19, 2025 6:30pm

Elon Musk's X Sees Valuation Surge Back to $44 Billion

Elon Musk's X Sees Valuation Surge Back to $44 Billion

Elon Musk's social media platform X has reportedly regained a valuation of $44 billion, as reported by the Financial Times. This comes after a previous estimation by Fidelity Investments, which pegged its worth below $10 billion last September. A separate Bloomberg report revealed that X raised nearly $1 billion from investors, valuing the company at approximately $32 billion. Despite revenue drops since Musk's acquisition, X reported adjusted earnings of $1.2 billion for 2024, matching pre-takeover figures. The contrasting valuations highlight significant financial recovery for the platform.

Created at: March 19, 2025 6:00pm

Telegram Surpasses 1 Billion Users, Durov Critiques WhatsApp

Telegram Surpasses 1 Billion Users, Durov Critiques WhatsApp

Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, announced that the messaging app has surpassed 1 billion active users, up from 950 million last year. The company also reported $547 million in profits for the previous year. Durov criticized WhatsApp as a 'cheap, watered-down imitation' of Telegram, claiming the rival has unsuccessfully tried to replicate its innovations. Meanwhile, Telegram has attracted crypto enthusiasts by integrating the TON blockchain and decentralized features. Durov recently returned to Dubai after resolving legal issues in France related to the platform's operations.

Created at: March 19, 2025 6:00pm

xAI Unveils New Image Generation API to Compete in the AI Space

xAI Unveils New Image Generation API to Compete in the AI Space

Elon Musk's xAI has launched an API that enables users to generate images from text prompts. Currently, the platform offers one model, 'grok-2-image-1212,' which can create up to 10 images per request at a cost of $0.07 each. This move positions xAI against competitors like Black Forest Labs and Ideogram, which have slightly different pricing models. The API currently lacks features for adjusting image quality or style, as prompts are modified by a chat model. xAI is also pursuing significant funding to enhance its offerings and expand its data center capabilities.

Created at: March 19, 2025 6:00pm

Dataminr Secures $85 Million to Propel Growth Amid Market Challenges

Dataminr Secures $85 Million to Propel Growth Amid Market Challenges

Dataminr, a leading data analytics firm, has announced an $85 million funding round to enhance its growth strategy despite recent layoffs affecting 20% of its workforce. The investment, led by security-focused VC NightDragon and HSBC, will support expansion into international markets and the development of new products. Dataminr, which serves notable clients like NATO and OpenAI, is approaching $200 million in annual recurring revenue. The company has previously raised a total of $1.1 billion in venture capital and debt, yet faces scrutiny over its surveillance practices.

Created at: March 19, 2025 5:30pm