This Week in Startups

TWiST News: Subscription Economics, Density's Waffle, and The Cost of AV Fleets | E2027

Oct 17, 2024

01:05:01

Snipd AI

Andrew Farah, Founder and CEO of Density, shares insights on optimizing space utilization with their new product, 'Waffle', which enhances real-time occupancy tracking in various environments. He discusses the impact of recent FTC regulations on subscription models, balancing consumer rights and business ethics. The conversation dives into the environmental implications of building operations and urban planning through accurate data. Lastly, they touch on advancements in autonomous vehicles and nuclear energy partnerships, shaping future city landscapes.

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Quick takeaways

The FTC's new subscription rules highlight the tension between consumer rights to unsubscribe and the financial impact on subscription-based businesses.

Density's new 'Waffle' product enhances space management by using wireless sensors to monitor occupancy levels without complex installations.

The resurgence of nuclear energy, driven by tech companies, marks a significant shift towards sustainable energy solutions amidst rising environmental concerns.

Deep dives

Impact of New Subscription Rules

Recent developments in subscription business models have sparked discussion about their implications for both consumers and companies. The introduction of new regulations by the FTC has raised questions about the balance between consumer rights to unsubscribe and the revenue impacts on companies operating in subscription models. While companies can benefit from insights gained when customers choose to unsubscribe, there is also an inherent risk in employing 'dark patterns' that may trick users into staying subscribed against their will. Finding alternative subscription terms, such as annual prepaid plans, can create fairer practices while providing revenue stability for businesses.

Intro

3min

Navigating Subscription Models: Consumer Rights and Business Ethics

3min

Exploring Healthcare, Venture Capital, and Innovative Products

3min

Innovating Space Utilization with Waffle

12min

Optimizing Facilities for Environmental Sustainability

3min

Navigating Intelligent Devices and User Privacy

12min

Exploring Sales Potential and Startup Challenges

4min

RoboTaxi Dynamics and Nuclear Innovations

22min

Urban Farming and the Pursuit of Happiness

3min

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Timestamps:

(0:00) Jason and Alex kick off the show

(2:06) FTC's new subscription rules and impact

(6:58) Fundrise - Sign up today at https://www.fundrise.com/twist

(8:16) Density's mission and "Waffle" product announcement

(16:02) Real-time wayfinding and utilization tracking

(22:45) Brave - Download today at https://brave.com/twist to browse faster, search privately and so much more

(23:59) Data's impact on city planning and operations

(27:12) Sensor costs and impact on adoption

(32:24) Unit economics and adoption curves

(39:13) OpenPhone - Get 20% off your first six months at https://www.openphone.com/twist⁠

(40:22) Robotaxi fleet modeling project