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Showing posts from October, 2023

Tesla wins fatal Autopilot crash jury trial

A jury on Tuesday handed Tesla another win after siding with the automaker over allegations that its Autopilot advanced driver assistance system led to a death. The case, which was being tried in the Superior Court of California, County of Riverside, was filed by two passengers who survived a 2019 crash and alleged that Tesla […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/NeCBXya via IFTTT

SBF’s defense puts forth a 35-minute last-ditch effort to show his good will

Contrary to the picture prosecutors tried to paint, Bankman-Fried insisted that he was not involved in the day-to-day trading operations of Alameda or its “core operations.” © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/AZ7E0rq via IFTTT

Fortnite is the latest game to entice players with a portal to the past

There’s a massive appetite for nostalgia in entertainment right now, and one of gaming’s cultural juggernauts wants to cash in. Fortnite maker Epic Games announced Friday that the game’s next season would return to its original map from the multiplayer shooter’s very earliest days. Epic teased the return “back to Chapter 1” on its X […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/PtH1qCS via IFTTT

French soccer players back African mobile video network StarNews Mobile in $3M round

African mobile video network StarNews Mobile has secured $3 million in pre-Series A funding. StarNews offers African content creators a platform for monetizing their work through a subscription model. Currently, the service is available in six African countries, including Cameroon (where it started), Nigeria, Ghana, Congo, Benin and Ivory Coast. Founder and CEO Guy Kamgaing […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/jDtuMvK via IFTTT

Prosecution tries to paint Sam Bankman-Fried as a liar

The prosecution brought up a number of Bankman-Fried's statements, videos and interviews, both before and after he stepped down as CEO of FTX. © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/MuD2gkC via IFTTT

Google issues advisory for Pixels impacted by Android 14 storage bug

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Credit: Eric Zeman / Android Authority Google will fix the Android 14 storage bug on Pixel phones with an upcoming OTA update. It is also working on a way to restore lost data on affected devices. The company has advised users not to create or log into a secondary user profile on Pixels until the update is pushed out. Google has acknowledged a storage bug that cropped up on Pixel phones after the Android 14 update . The problem primarily affects Pixel 6 users who have multiple profiles set up on their phones. It restricts users from accessing the media storage on their devices, with no option but to factory reset their phones. Google is now taking cognizance of the issue and has posted a message on its community forums detailing what the company is doing about it. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/QCErWYV via IFTTT

Layoffs at VW’s Cariad further delay software launch in Porsche, Audi models

Volkswagen’s software unit Cariad will delay the launch of its new software architecture yet again as it deals with a large round of layoffs. Just three years after VW created Cariad, and only six months after an executive shakeup, the unit has planned to cut 2,000 jobs, German publication Manager Magazin reported over the weekend. […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/bZPtBmN via IFTTT

Posts with misinformation on X become ‘ineligible for revenue share’ says Musk

X posts that are corrected by Community Notes, the platform’s crowd-sourced fact-checking system, will become “ineligible for revenue share,” Elon Musk said Sunday. “The idea is to maximize the incentive for accuracy over sensationalism,” he wrote. The billionaire executive also noted that any attempts to “weaponize Community Notes to demonetize people will be immediately obvious, […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/AkjbB7i via IFTTT

I just can’t put down the Google Pixel Fold

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Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority Open. Close. Open. Close. The Google Pixel Fold is the world’s most expensive fidget toy in my hands. But I can’t help myself; it’s just addictive. Two weeks ago, the Android Authority team’s Pixel Fold made it to me. My first impressions were both better and worse than I expected. Based on the images I’d seen, I expected the Fold to feel cheaper, but the matte back and the all-around metal actually feel quite premium. But coming from the Pixel 7 Pro and the even more refined Pixel 8 Pro, the Fold looked and felt very clunky. Especially the inner display’s bezels. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/lYjy84s via IFTTT

Apple Journal is nice, but it’s no Journey or Day One alternative yet

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Credit: Dhruv Bhutani / Android Authority Opinion post by Dhruv Bhutani Apple’s announcement earlier this year that it was foraying into the journaling app ecosystem was not entirely surprising; mental health and wellness are increasingly central to the company’s software decisions. The introduction of Mindfulness capture in Watch OS 10 and iOS 17 is just one way Apple hopes you’ll begin logging your mental wellbeing. Coupled with all the health data, it is possible to draw a correlation between, say, an elevated heart rate and mental stress levels. However, as someone who has struggled with anxiety and depression most of my life, I can confirm that capturing your current state of mind is only one part of the equation. Journaling is an immensely personal activity that can help you relive moments or destress. Digital journaling makes it a lot more accessible. Journaling is an immensely personal act that lets you pour out your exact mental state — positive or negat

Cruise ceases robotaxi operations, the Apple Watch gets a new feature and Carta tries to head off bad press

Hello, ghouls and goblins, and welcome to this Halloween Weekend edition of Week in Review (WiR), TechCrunch’s weekly tech recap in newsletter form. For our U.S.-based readers (and this reporter), ’tis the time for mid-autumn merrymaking — time-tested traditions like jack-o’-lantern carving, costuming and apple picking. May we all make the most of it. In […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/TrwahcL via IFTTT

I shouldn’t need to pay a premium for an unlocked Samsung phone

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Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority Opinion post by C. Scott Brown On October 3, 2023, Samsung announced the Galaxy S23 FE . All its press materials said the phone costs $599 for the 128GB model. However, when the phone actually went up for sale at Samsung.com, the unlocked model didn’t cost $599 — it cost $629, a $30 increase. This was unusual, so we contacted Samsung about the discrepancy. In its response , the company pointed out that you can still get the phone from its online store for the $599 price — if you buy a carrier version over the unlocked model. It also told us that Amazon, Best Buy, and other retail partners still sell the unlocked model for $599 . The only exception here is buying the unlocked model directly from Samsung. However, the company did not explain why it made this change. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/OEm8vkp via IFTTT

The best translator Chrome extensions

Although there’s usually at least one website in your native language for any given thing, there can be plenty of exceptions — you might, for instance, have to go to a Japanese site to buy a rare Famicom game cartridge, or read a French article to find out what’s going on in a relative’s hometown. Whatever your translation needs, there’s almost certainly a Google Chrome extension for it. The best translator Chrome extensions You’ll probably only need one of these extensions — no points for guessing which one — but there can be reasons to consider alternatives, such as the ability to translate more than HTML text, or better results for specific languages. In any event, each of these options brings something different to the table. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/FmV03GP via IFTTT

TC+ Roundup: How to successfully buy another company

Good morning, and welcome to the end of another week! In an overall quiet year, the last few months have been pretty spicy when it comes to M&A activity: Atlassian bought Loom; Cisco bought Splunk; and Microsoft finally closed on its bid to buy Activision. Full TechCrunch+ articles are only available to members. Use discount […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/L0nwvUC via IFTTT

Declining MacBook sales has Apple considering a budget option, says Kuo

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority Apple is rumored to be working on a more affordable version of the MacBook that would compete with Chromebooks. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says the company is considering that option, but hasn’t decided yet. Making a cheaper MacBook may be a move to combat declining MacBook sales. In early September, it was reported that Apple may be working on a more affordable version of the MacBook. This cheaper MacBook model would be in direct competition with some of the best Chromebooks . Now Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo says the move may be motivated by declining MacBook sales. On X (formerly Twitter), Kuo states that Apple has seen a significant decline in MacBook sales in 2023. The analyst claims that Apple attributes the drop to the M2 chip, which only provides a small upgrade compared to the performance of the M1. He also suggests that the reason Apple is holding an event at the end of the month is to launch a much more powerful M3 serie

SBF testifying, bitcoin rises amid spot ETF speculation and Walmart’s web3 accelerator surfaces

It’s week four of the Sam Bankman-Fried trial…and he’s taking the stand today at 2 p.m. So keep an eye out for additional coverage.  © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/x1Fkr3w via IFTTT

Threads isn’t dead and it now has polls and GIFs too

Meta’s X rival, Instagram Threads, is copying a couple more X features today with the launch of support for polls and GIFs. The update comes in rapid succession to other releases for the new app, which have included support for a web version a (free) edit button, profile switching, likes, full-text search, a chronological feed, […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/LSW0cu6 via IFTTT

Apple Pay Later is now available to all users in the US

Apple is making Apple Pay Later available to all users in the United States, after initially releasing it to a limited number of users back in March. Apple Pay Later allows users to split the cost of an Apple Pay purchase into four equal payments over six weeks without interest or late fees. The company […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/Bj1lyQq via IFTTT

Raising without a deck is more common than you think

There are, in fact, people out there raising lots of capital without employing a deck at all. I was really intrigued to speak to two of them and learn how they did it. © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/CRzeZnx via IFTTT

SpaceX to launch European navigation satellites as EU launchers stall

SpaceX will launch four navigation satellites for the European Space Agency (ESA) amid ongoing delays with homegrown next-generation launch vehicles. The Wall Street Journal was the first to break the news. Earlier this summer, Politico reported that the European Commission was looking abroad for a launcher for the Galileo satellites, though at the time United […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/PH1h2JT via IFTTT

TC+ Roundup: Is European venture showing signs of recovery?

Good morning, and happy Tuesday! Today we’re looking at Q3 venture data coming out of Europe. Overall, European venture capital data is down sharply. But as my colleagues Anna Heim and Alex Wilhelm write, European venture is “down, but not out.” Full TechCrunch+ articles are only available to members. Use discount code TCPLUSROUNDUP to save […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/Z9elpgv via IFTTT

So how about another 20 IPOs?

One key area of private-market performance that we haven't yet given enough attention to is the matter of exits. © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/3SgUWsi via IFTTT

FCC aims to investigate the risk of AI-enhanced robocalls

As if robocalling wasn’t already enough of a problem, the advent of easily accessible, realistic AI-powered writing and synthetic voice could supercharge the practice. The FCC aims to preempt this by looking into how generated robocalls might fit under existing consumer protections. A Notice of Inquiry has been proposed by Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to be […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/mZ2oq54 via IFTTT

Feds expand Tesla investigation to include vehicle range, personal benefits

Tesla has the attention of the U.S. Department of Justice — again. Tesla has received requests for information, including subpoenas from the DOJ, the automaker disclosed Monday in a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing. The DOJ issued subpoenas related to perks, the advertised range of its EVs and personnel decisions, according to the filing. […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/GD9O5vj via IFTTT

Peak XV’s latest Surge batch is 77% AI and deeptech startups

AI and other deep technologies are the prevailing themes in the new early-stage cohort from Peak XV Partners, as the largest India and Southeast Asia-focused VC fund intensifies its search for opportunities in a sector garnering international frenzy. Ten out of 13 startups in the latest cohort of Surge, Peak XV’s powerfully influential early-stage program, […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/DWMjBpw via IFTTT

Rivian R1T is the first EV to win the longest off-road competition in the US

Motorsports and off-road competition isn’t the typical fodder over here at TechCrunch — unless, of course, there also happens to be a podium-winning team driving an all-electric 2023 Rivian R1T. The Rebelle Rally, the longest off-road map-and-compass rally in the United States, wrapped up Friday evening with a new EV milestone under its belt. This […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/b4Helxw via IFTTT

Tesla ‘digs its own grave with the Cybertruck,’ Convoy collapses and Rivian scores a win at Rebelle

Welcome back to The Station, your central hub for all past, present and future means of moving people and packages from Point A to Point B. © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/5qy4Shx via IFTTT

Why Monday.com decided to build its new database instead of buying one

When Monday.com faced the classic build vs. buy dilemma for a new database, it decided to build one, but with a decided twist. © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/5zSWgpT via IFTTT

Federal hydrogen hub program could give fuel a boost — or the boot

The federal government's approach to hydrogen is strikingly similar to the way it promoted biofuels a decade ago. That's not a good thing. © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/2DfvH4G via IFTTT

Is Plaid’s potential IPO a sign of fintech turning a corner?

Welcome back to The Interchange, where we take a look at the hottest fintech news of the previous week. If you want to receive The Interchange directly in your inbox every Sunday, head here to sign up! Unfortunately we can’t make it to Money20/20 next week. But we have no doubt that we’re going to […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/AzXlJFp via IFTTT

TAM/SAM/SOM is only for founders who think small

Welcome to Startups Weekly. Sign up here to get it in your inbox every Friday. For VCs, market size is crucial, because it becomes a proxy for how big a company could possibly get, which in turn is a measure of how big the return on investment could be. That only works in well-defined industries: […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/tv9OxHi via IFTTT

Microsoft would like to remind you that they are all-in on AI

In case you weren’t sure how Microsoft felt about AI, CEO Satya Nadella is here to tell you: they like it. They like it a lot. In the company’s annual report, he pens a letter to shareholders bigging up AI in every way. And it’s not hard to see why: He clearly believes this is […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/MZXViob via IFTTT

SBF trial brings in FTX exec and experts, NY AG sues three crypto firms for fraud, Reddit kills blockchain program and FTC sues bankrupt Voyager

Welcome back to Chain Reaction. It’s week three of the Sam Bankman-Fried trial…how are you holding up? © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/Mm9PivI via IFTTT

Google takes aim at Duolingo with new English tutoring tool

Google’s gunning for Duolingo with a new Google Search feature designed to help people practice — and improve — their English speaking skills. Rolling out over the next few days for Search on Android devices in Argentina, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Mexico and Venezuela, with more countries and languages to come in the future, the new […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/wOCqVJv via IFTTT

Sony files patent that turns a PS5 controller into an earbuds charging case

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Credit: Oliver Cragg / Android Authority Sony has filed a patent for a new PS5 controller. The patent shows a controller that can store, pair, and charge earbuds. The charging slot could appear on the front, back, sides, top, or bottom of the device. With built-in speakers, a microphone, a touchpad, haptic triggers, and more, the DualSense is already a feature-rich controller. But Sony could be looking to pack in even more functionality by merging its next PS5 controller with an earbuds charging case. According to a patent filed by Sony, first spotted by GameRant , the company is looking into potentially giving its next controller the ability to store, pair, and charge earbuds. The DualSense successor would feature a charging case-like compartment in the back where you can place your earbuds and charge them. But that’s not the only way you would be able to power up the audio device. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/yuLeGpd via IFTTT

Chrome’s search bar now has smarter autocomplete, automatic typo fixes and more

Google is introducing five new updates to the Chrome address bar to make it easier to search the web, the tech giant announced on Wednesday. The changes include smarter autocompletion, automatic typo corrections, searches within bookmark folders, suggestions for popular sites and an improved visual layout. The Chrome address bar will now autocomplete URLs based […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/aydHbSF via IFTTT

A comprehensive list of 2023 tech layoffs

Last year’s techwide reckoning continues. The tech industry has seen more than 240,000 jobs lost in 2023, a total that’s already 50% higher than last year and growing. Earlier this year, mass workforce reductions were driven by the biggest names in tech like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Yahoo, Meta and Zoom. Startups across many sectors also […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/NFrL7Ia via IFTTT

Latin America’s Q3 2023 venture results show glimmers of light

While some Latin American data, sourced from Sling Hub and Distrito, illustrates certain positive trends, other data from the region points the other direction. © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/OYJqWvu via IFTTT

TC+ Roundup: How to capture market share in the era of AI

Good morning! We have lots of good stuff for you this Tuesday, so let’s dig right in. Up first, we surveyed six investors who are placing bets on AI. We wanted to know how startups should begin building tools for AI; whether startup-focused AI work is defensible; and how tech companies are thinking about monetization. […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/zNAw2xu via IFTTT

Snapdragon 8 Gen 3: What to expect from Qualcomm’s next flagship processor

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Credit: Robert Triggs / Android Authority Update, October 16, 2023 (1:51 PM ET): We have updated our Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 hub with a scheduled launch window for the next-gen chip. Although the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is already powering some absolutely brilliant smartphones , we can’t help but think ahead to what the next generation will have to offer. Qualcomm will undoubtedly have a new chipset to power 2024 flagship smartphones, tentatively dubbed the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/jD2QFKC via IFTTT

Netflix’s cloud gaming service begins tests in U.S.

Netflix is beginning to test its cloud gaming service in the U.S. after initially launching limited trials in Canada and the U.K. The service, an expansion on the company’s mobile gaming efforts which began in 2021, has seen the streamer picking up gaming studios and licensing titles from individual developers with the intention to make […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/k1RWcNx via IFTTT

Google Camera now has a new name to give you next level Pixel envy

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Credit: Adamya Sharma / Android Authority Google has changed the name of the Google Camera app. It is now called Pixel Camera to highlight the app’s exclusivity to Pixel phones. It’s no doubt that the Pixel flagships are some of the best photography phones you can buy. A large part of the success of Pixel phones as imaging devices is thanks to the Google Camera app , and the company wants you to know, now more than ever, that you can only find it on Pixel phones. Over the weekend, Google quietly remained Google Camera to Pixel Camera. Apart from the name change, the description of the Pixel Camera app also now highlights new features such as Cinematic Blur. There’s a separate section in there for Pixel 8 Pro exclusive camera features like 50MP high-res photos and Pro controls. The requirements for the app have also been reworked. The Play Store listing for Pixel Camera states that “the latest version of the app only works on Pixel devices running Android 14 and above

The Pixel 8 series supports display output over USB-C despite what Google says

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Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority The Pixel 8 series supports DisplayPort functionality on a hardware level. The feature is disabled in the phones’ software. You can root the devices to enable display output over USB-C. The Google Pixel 8 series is now confirmed to support DisplayPort Alternate Mode, also known as DP Alt Mode. That means the phones have a USB-C port capable of transferring DisplayPort signals and broadcasting video to external display devices over a USB-C connection. The findings were confirmed by Mishaal Rahman, who, with the help of a tester , shared a video showing a Pixel 8 Pro successfully connected to a display. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/zi9dTfQ via IFTTT

Asia emerges as a promising haven amid the crypto winter

Walking through Token2049, it was hard to tell that the crypto industry was going through a “winter” phase. The crypto conference held in Singapore in September attracted an unprecedented crowd of 20,000 attendees, filling the island state with an even greater number of blockchain enthusiasts who hopped in and out of the hundreds of side […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/8Fn7RAi via IFTTT

London’s not calling for Par Equity, as VC firm targets £100M at UK startups in the north

Any conversation centered on the U.K. tech scene often has a strong center of gravity around the south of the country — to many, “the U.K.” and “London” may as well be the same thing. A recent House of Commons Committee report on venture capital allocation pointed to “uneven levels of VC investment” across the […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/H1KyV3W via IFTTT

Should you buy a Google Pixel 8 or wait for the Samsung Galaxy S24?

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The Google Pixel 8 is now official. While the latest Pixel isn’t a massive departure from its predecessor , it does bring a more powerful Tensor processor and a few other improvements. Is it worth picking up, or should you wait for its biggest Android rival instead? Pixel 8 vs Galaxy S24: Performance and specs Google and Samsung might both run on Android and offer excellent photography experiences, but their approaches are fairly different. Below, we take a closer look at how they differ. Please note everything we know about the Samsung Galaxy S24 series right now is based on rumors, but thanks to a ton of leaks we have a pretty solid idea of how Samsung’s next flagship is shaping up. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/SrUIfV7 via IFTTT

The SBF trial continues, Atlassian acquires Loom, and OpenAI explores making its own chips

Happy Saturday, folks, and welcome to Week in Review (WiR), TechCrunch’s newsletter that covers the major stories in tech over the past several days. I feel inclined to begin this edition with a sobering note about the recent events in Israel and Gaza. It’s obviously impacted the tech ecosystem there, but from a purely humanistic […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/8wG3EKq via IFTTT

How roboticists are thinking about generative AI

[A version of this piece first appeared in TechCrunch’s robotics newsletter, Actuator. Subscribe here.] The topic of generative AI comes up frequently in my newsletter, Actuator. I admit that I was a bit hesitant to spend more time on the subject a few months back. Anyone who has been reporting on technology for as long […] © 2023 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/clJrapv via IFTTT

The best apps for Google Pixel 8: FlashDim, Google One, and more

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Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro  bring an improved camera experience, a faster SoC, and a whole host of improvements that will take your Android 14 experience to new heights. Whether you’ve already pre-ordered your Pixel 8 or are just curious, we’ve picked out the five best apps for Pixel 8 users.  ( ) from Android Authority https://ift.tt/gbkcyx6 via IFTTT

The Motorola Edge 2023 gets a $100 price drop just days after launch

The release of the Google Pixel 8 has somewhat overshadowed that of another Android phone this week, but that might be a good thing. With the Motorola Edge (2023) playing second fiddle in terms of hype since its launch on Monday, you can already save $100 on the device. Motorola Edge (2023) for $499.99 ($100 off) from Android Authority https://ift.tt/y7TfYcG via IFTTT

The best Google Pixel 8 Pro alternatives: 5 phones worth consider before you buy

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The Google Pixel 8 series is official! The two phones share features like an AI-powered Tensor G3 chipset, an impressive seven years of security and OS updates, and some new Pixel-exclusive software features. The Pixel 8 Pro is undoubtedly the more feature-packed device, though. It brings a sharper, brighter screen, a dedicated zoom camera, a bigger battery, and a few extra software features. Like the idea of a premium super flagship but want to know what else is on the market? We’ve got you covered with a look at the best Google Pixel 8 Pro alternatives. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/BCfJ571 via IFTTT

Ford increases wages at planned EV battery factories amid UAW strike

Ford and its joint venture partner SK On, will increase wages at two planned EV battery factories in Kentucky and Tennessee in an effort to assuage striking autoworkers. That offer might not be enough. The joint venture, known as BlueOval SK, said it’s offering higher wages for maintenance technicians and associate maintenance technicians, ranging from […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/cLw39RK via IFTTT

FTC sues bankrupt crypto company Voyager’s CEO over false FDIC insurance claims

After settling on Thursday with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), bankrupt crypto company Voyager is permanently banned from handling consumers’ assets. But the government agency also announced on Thursday that it’s suing Voyager’s former CEO, Stephen Ehrlich, for falsely claiming that users’ accounts were FDIC insured. When a bank or financial service is FDIC insured, […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/T7sKjty via IFTTT

OnePlus Open takes back seat to identical twin, to be announced hours later

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Credit: Roland Quandt/WinFuture OPPO Find N3 and OnePlus Open are the same exact foldable phone. OPPO plans on announcing the Find N3 on Thursday, October 19 at 2:30 a.m. ET. The OnePlus Open won’t be announced until Thursday, October 19 at 11:00 a.m. ET. The time is almost here for OnePlus to announce its first foldable phone. But before that happens, it looks like OPPO’s version of the same foldable will be announced hours ahead of the OnePlus Open . OPPO has announced that it will hold a live global launch event for the Find N3 and Find N3 Flip on Thursday, October 19. The event is set to kick off at 14:30 GMT+8, if you live in the US, that time converts to 2:30 a.m. ET. If you want to get up early (or stay up late) to watch the event live, you’ll be able to watch right here in the video below. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/7HMNiJt via IFTTT

Cruise opens robotaxi service in Houston

GM’s self-driving car subsidiary Cruise has opened its robotaxi service to users in Houston — an expansion that comes amid increasing criticism of the company’s operations in San Francisco, it’s first launch city. Cruise said it will operate seven days a week from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. in limited areas of sprawling Houston, including […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/ZxB5Fkz via IFTTT

Threads is rolling out an edit button, and it’s not locked behind a paywall

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced today that Threads, Instagram’s Twitter-like app, is rolling out an edit button. With this new feature, users will be able to edit a post for up to five minutes after it has been posted to the platform. Previously, you have had to delete a post and repost it when you […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/GNEdpQF via IFTTT

Character.AI introduces group chats where people and multiple AIs can talk to each other

Character.AI, the a16z-backed AI chatbot startup from ex-Google AI researchers, is out today with a new feature for its subscribers. The chatbot platform, which offers customizable AI companions with distinct personalities and tools to make your own, is now offering a group chat experience where users and their friends can chat with multiple AI characters […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/eGc5Y4B via IFTTT

You need a new laptop, and this LG Gram deal is hard to pass up

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority We’ve been meaning to talk to you about your laptop . Frankly, it’s looking a bit old. It takes too long to boot up, runs hot, and has some gunk under the keyboard that makes it a nightmare to type on. Isn’t it time for an upgrade? If you agree, have we got some good news for you: an LG gram deal on Amazon for its Big Deal Days event is simply too good to pass up! For a limited time, you can get a 15.6-inch LG Gram with an Intel Core i7 13th-gen processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of internal SSD storage for just $999. That’s a whopping $500 off its list price of $1,499! from Android Authority https://ift.tt/ksFzLjX via IFTTT

Anysphere raises $8M from OpenAI to build an AI-powered IDE

Anysphere, a startup building what it describes as an “AI-native” software development environment, called Cursor, today announced that it raised $8 million in seed funding led by OpenAI’s Startup Fund with participation from former GitHub CEO Nat Friedman, Dropbox co-founder Arash Ferdowsi and other angel investors. The new cash, which brings Anysphere’s total raised to […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/zids9ay via IFTTT

Prime deal: Save almost 50% on the new Beats Studio Pro!

The Beats Studio Pro are the latest high-end headphones from Apple’s trendy line, and they’re also the best Beats offer of the Prime Big Deals Sale. While the sale is good and stock is available, you can save a massive $170 on the wireless headphones. Beats Studio Pro for $179.99 ($170 off) from Android Authority https://ift.tt/zp8iEL4 via IFTTT

Arctic Wolf acquires cybersecurity automation platform Revelstoke

Arctic Wolf, a cybersecurity company that’s raised hundreds of millions of dollars in debt and equity, today announced that it plans to acquire Revelstoke, a company developing a security orchestration, automation and response (SOAR) platform, for an undisclosed amount. In a blog post, Arctic Wolf chief product officer Dan Schiappa said that the acquisition would […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/cHPM7Eo via IFTTT

As misinfo circulates on X amid the Israel-Hamas war, reporters look to other platforms

In the wake of increasing misinformation related to the Israel-Hamas war now circulating on X, the app formerly known as Twitter, a number of journalists are building up their networks on rival platforms. The shift, though potentially small in terms of raw user numbers, could have an outsized impact on X, where power users create […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/O9cgqmh via IFTTT

Google will bring back useful Nest speaker function that Sonos took away

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Credit: Lily Katz / Android Authority Google has responded to the judge’s decision to overturn a ruling that favored home audio maker Sonos. Google claims that Sonos has been running a years-long, misleading campaign against features in Google Home devices and smart speakers. Google confirms it will bring back the ability to seamlessly group and integrate its smart speakers. A California judge recently threw out a $32.5 million jury verdict that ruled in favor of Sonos in an intellectual property dispute with Google. Google has now responded to the overturned ruling and confirmed it will bring back a Nest smart speaker feature it was forced to remove. In a blog post released today, Google says it was the victim of a “years-long, misleading campaign” led by Sonos against its Google Home and smart speaker features. The company then goes on to say: from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Aqej3Zz via IFTTT

Alameda Research’s ex-CEO Caroline Ellison testifies, claims SBF directed her to commit crimes

Caroline Ellison, the ex-CEO of Alameda Research, took the stand as the fifth witness for the prosecution in Sam Bankman-Fried’s six-week trial. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/aGmc2bN via IFTTT

TikTok now supports direct posting from AI-powered Adobe apps, CapCut, Twitch and more

TikTok today is introducing a new feature that will allow its users to post directly to the video platform from a range of popular editing apps, including Adobe’s AI-powered video editing software Premiere Pro, its AI creativity app Adobe Express, as well as others, including Twitch, SocialPilot, and ByteDance’s CapCut. The new offering, Direct Post, […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/j4hKsEL via IFTTT

Accel leads $21M investment in UK care home marketplace Lottie

The U.K. care home sector was pegged as £7.7 billion market in 2021, according to most recent estimates, yet capacity is shrinking at a time when the average age of the general population continues to grow. Throw into the mix a lack of transparency over pricing and service availability, and it’s clear that families looking […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/keDi062 via IFTTT

The HONOR Magic Vs2 is coming, will be thinner and lighter than V2

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Credit: Kris Carlon / Android Authority HONOR has announced that the Magic Vs2 foldable is coming this week. The new foldable is said to be thinner and lighter than the already svelte Magic V2. It’s believed that the new device could also be cheaper than its predecessor. HONOR made quite a splash back in July when it launched the HONOR Magic V2 foldable phone . The device delivered an ultra-thin, lightweight design that hadn’t been seen before on a book-style foldable. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/0Wp3g7V via IFTTT

Singapore’s tech subscription service Circular wants to keep devices out of the landfill

Circular, backed by Y Combinator, is a service that offers consumers in Singapore and Australia subscriptions to high-end electronics, like iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, iPad Pros and MacBook Pros. Not only does it want help people get devices at lower prices, but also keep them in circulation for as long as possible and out of the […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/EQIlRpt via IFTTT

World Bank’s IFC backs Indian insurtech startup Onsurity in $24M funding

Onsurity, an Indian startup that offers monthly subscription-based insurance solutions to micro, small and medium enterprises, startups and growing businesses, has raised $24 million in a funding round led by the World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC). The Series B round also saw the participation from existing investors Nexus Venture Partners and Quona Capital. With […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/whT8r2Y via IFTTT

Waymo-Zeekr robotaxi poised for US testing by end of 2023

Nearly two years after Waymo and Geely struck a deal to develop robotaxis for the U.S. market, we are seeing concrete progress in the collaboration. According to a job post posted on LinkedIn, Zeekr, the young electric car brand started by Chinese auto giant Geely, is hiring a logistics manager in the U.S. A spokesperson for […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/2YxHJXI via IFTTT

European Digital insurtech startup Getsafe acquires Luko’s German portfolio, reaches 550,000 customers

Getsafe, a German-based digital insurtech startup, has acquired the German portfolio of Luko, a French insurtech startup that recently neared insolvency before agreeing to be acquired by British insurer Admiral Group in a transaction that didn’t include its German or Spanish operations. Getsafe is now present in four countries since its expansion into France. Luko’s own […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/3vEAIXg via IFTTT

Women and underrepresented founders aren’t going to wait for the VC industry to transform itself

You will only have one shot to impress your future financial backers — make sure you are confident and ready. from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/SQ2yfmi via IFTTT

Who has the best software update policy in the mobile world?

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Credit: Rita El Khoury / Android Authority Opinion post by Andrew Grush Historically, Android hasn’t had a stellar reputation regarding software updates. Thankfully, this situation has improved quite a bit over the last five years or so. In 2023, it is relatively common for Android flagships to receive at least a few years of OS updates and security patches, and even many budget phones receive at least one OS upgrade. Of course, not all manufacturers are equal in their commitment to software updates. Google and Samsung have been two of the main leaders in software support in the Android world. Still, neither has ever come close to Apple’s support prowess — until now. Google just announced a major change to its update policy that is extremely impressive, to say the least. The competition is certainly heating up, but who has the best software update policy in the mobile world? The answer isn’t so cut and dry. from Android Authority https://ift.tt/Lhxu9Xn via IFTTT

Have Google and Samsung just slain the flagship killers?

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Galaxy S23 FE Credit: Ryan Haines / Android Authority Opinion post by Robert Triggs “Flagship killer” feels like a bit of a throwback these days, but the allure of a powerhouse handset without the premium price tag remains as appealing as ever. If you’re in the market for an affordable flagship phone , the new Google Pixel 8 and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE will undoubtedly be at the top of your shortlist. Priced at $599 and $699, the two phones shave hundreds off the cost of entry compared to the premium Galaxy or iPhone series, yet they barely compromise the essential specifications. Both phones come equipped with great displays, solid camera setups, wireless charging, IP68 ratings , fast networking, and big batteries; essentially everything you’d want from a top-notch smartphone experience. That said, the phones trade down some aspects, such as older Gorilla Glass 5 protection and marginally weaker camera setups, to keep prices affordable compared to the top-end models. B

Google Pixel 6 Pro vs Pixel 8 Pro: What’s the difference and should you upgrade?

It’s increasingly common, it seems, to acknowledge that there isn’t as much reason to upgrade your smartphone these days as there was even a few years ago. Year-to-year changes have become incremental. The longer you wait, though, the more those changes can add up. So, if you’re weighing an upgrade from the Google Pixel 6 Pro to the new Pixel 8 Pro , is the leap justifiable? Google Pixel 6 Pro vs Google Pixel 8 Pro: At a glance from Android Authority https://ift.tt/QlFfWhV via IFTTT

Sam Altman backs teens’ startup, Google unveils the Pixel 8 and TikTok tests an ad-free tier

Hiya, folks, and welcome to Week in Review (WiR), TechCrunch’s digest of the past week in tech news. It’s TC’s column that highlights the major stories over the past few days, and — we humbly submit — it’s a darn useful resource for folks on the go. This week, we cover Sam Altman backing a […] from TechCrunch https://ift.tt/XixwLzu via IFTTT

iPhone 15 Pro review: Is Apple’s flagship Android alternative worth buying?

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Apple iPhone 15 Pro review: At a glance What is it? The iPhone 15 Pro is the smaller sibling to the gargantuan iPhone 15 Pro Max. Compressing Apple’s best mobile technology, including flagship processor and camera capabilities, into a more compact form factor is no mean feat, and the iPhone 15 Pro is the Cupertino company’s leading Android alternative. What is the price? The iPhone 15 Pro starts at $999 for the 128GB model and costs up to $1,499 for 1TB of storage. Where can you buy it? iPhone 15 Pro pre-orders started on September 15 and began shipping on September 22. The phone is available directly from Apple and all major carriers. How did we test it? I tested the Apple iPhone 15 Pro for five days. The review unit was purchased by Android Authority . Is it worth it? You’ll find a few interesting additions to the iPhone 15 Pro, like the Action Button and USB-C connectivity. However, they don’t move the needle much when lingering annoyances, like slow charging, remain u