TechCrunch Daily Crunch

Exciting tech developments are on the horizon! YouTube is revamping its workforce with a voluntary exit program while restructuring into three teams. Meanwhile, Threads is enhancing user experience with new reply controls and filters for better conversation management. Most notably, NVIDIA is eyeing a hefty investment of up to $1 billion in Poolside, signaling a significant move in the tech investment landscape. Stay tuned for more updates on these pivotal shifts!

Nvidia has reached a staggering $5 trillion market cap, driven by the demand for its cutting-edge Blackwell chips and booming GPU needs in AI. Meanwhile, Bending Spoons is set to acquire AOL, which brings exciting questions about its brand future. In a surprising turn, GM announces significant layoffs at its EV and battery factories, reflecting a shift in its electric vehicle strategy. These stories highlight the ever-evolving tech landscape and its impact on major players.

Amazon is cutting 14,000 corporate jobs to streamline its operations and intensify its focus on AI and infrastructure. Meanwhile, Apple and Microsoft have both crossed the $4 trillion market cap threshold, with Microsoft's surge benefiting from its partnership with OpenAI. OpenAI has completed its for-profit recapitalization, establishing a new structure where a nonprofit foundation oversees a for-profit entity. Additionally, Access Grid has raised $4.4 million to innovate access control with a cloud-based key fob management system.

Amazon is reportedly planning to cut around 30,000 corporate jobs, raising concerns about the future of employment amid tech industry shifts. Meanwhile, Threads introduces an intriguing new feature called 'ghost posts,' allowing users to share content that disappears after 24 hours. Most notably, OpenAI reveals that over a million people engage with ChatGPT to discuss suicidal thoughts each week, highlighting the app's role in addressing serious mental health issues.

Rivian is in the spotlight for a $250 million settlement regarding alleged misleading practices tied to their R1 price hikes. A trademark dispute is heating up as Automattic files counterclaims against WP Engine, accusing them of deceptive marketing. Meanwhile, the Enhanced Games are shaking things up by exploring the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports, complete with million-dollar bounties and a vision for a telehealth business. It's a whirlwind of legal battles and bold innovations in the tech and sports arenas!

Microsoft is shaking things up with its new AI browser, boasting features like reasoning over tabs and customizable avatars. The fresh AI avatar, Myco, pays homage to Clippy while offering personalized interactions. Meanwhile, YouTube is making waves in the music industry, revealing it dished out over $8 billion to labels, publishers, and songwriters in just one year. That's a major boost for artists everywhere!

Tinder is stepping up security with a FaceCheck selfie verification to combat impersonation. Instagram is making things cooler for teens by offering custom app icons exclusively for them. Meanwhile, Amazon is trialing innovative AI smart glasses for delivery drivers, featuring hands-free navigation and real-time alerts. Plus, hear about significant funding rounds for startups like LangChain and Sesame, which are pushing the boundaries of AI and smart eyewear.

YouTube has launched a groundbreaking likeness detection technology, allowing creators to verify their identity and combat unauthorized AI imitations. X is exploring a new pay-per-use pricing model for its API, aiming to enhance developer accessibility. OpenAI introduces the ChatGPT Atlas, an innovative AI-powered browser that comes with advanced sidecar chatbot features—transforming how users interact online. These developments signal exciting shifts in content creation and tech usage.

A recent surge in Meta AI app downloads is attributed to the launch of its new Vibes video feed. The tool features captivating AI-generated short videos that have drawn in a wave of daily users. Meanwhile, a significant $3 billion deal between the U.S. and Australia aims to bolster critical mineral supplies for defense. Additionally, Spotify's latest feature allows users to follow their favorite venues, keeping them updated on upcoming concerts and events. It's an exciting time in the tech world with these innovative developments!

Meta is introducing new parental controls for its AI chats, allowing parents to block characters and monitor discussions, ensuring a safer environment for teens. Meanwhile, OpenAI has paused the Sora video generation of Martin Luther King Jr. due to concerns over disrespectful portrayals. In sports tech news, Apple has secured exclusive streaming rights for Formula One, committing $140-150 million annually. Tune in to learn about the latest in these fascinating tech developments!