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TechCrunch Daily Crunch

Watch Duty surpasses ChatGPT as top free app on App Store

Jan 9, 2025
The rise of the Watch Duty app has captivated gamers, now reigning as the top free app on the App Store. This is particularly noteworthy amid wildfire emergencies in Southern California. Meanwhile, the Mastodon CEO raises alarm over Meta's content moderation changes. The episode also dives into Elon Musk’s quirky AI chatbot Grok and its controversial features. Plus, catch up on the latest startup buzz, including H1’s acquisition of Ribbon and fresh funding news for OnPay.
08:08

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Quick takeaways

  • Watch Duty's rise as the top free app highlights the critical need for real-time information during wildfire crises to safeguard communities.
  • Mastodon CEO critiques Meta's moderation changes, emphasizing the potential dangers for marginalized groups amid evolving social media content policies.

Deep dives

The Rise of Watch Duty App

Watch Duty has recently become the top free app on Apple's App Store, surpassing others like the ChatGPT app, amidst raging wildfires in Southern California. This app is designed to track wildfires using real-time data sourced from firefighters, government reports, and monitoring volunteers, which makes it particularly valuable during crises. Unlike other fire tracking apps that rely solely on government alerts, Watch Duty aims to provide a more immediate response, helping users stay informed about nearby fires and evacuation orders. With over 70,000 people facing evacuation due to current fires, the utilization of this app proves essential for both residents and those concerned about loved ones in affected areas.

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