TechCrunch Daily Crunch

Spotify is rolling out new features to make podcast discovery easier and more engaging for users. These updates include a personalized recommendation system and a fresh following feed. Meanwhile, Meta is eyeing new retail strategies to boost hardware sales, while Google Photos reveals a redesigned editor packed with cutting-edge AI tools. The tech landscape is shifting, emphasizing user experience and innovative features across various platforms.

YouTube is taking the lead in TV viewing, surpassing giants like Disney and Netflix, as highlighted by recent Nielsen data. The discussion also dives into WordPress's new AI team aimed at enhancing user experience. Additionally, WhatsApp has finally launched its highly anticipated iPad app, promising new features for users. The episode showcases the shifting dynamics in the tech and entertainment landscape, emphasizing innovation and competition.

Tesla's new trade-in program for Cybertrucks reveals a staggering depreciation, with values plummeting by up to 45%. The segment delves into the implications of these dramatic declines on resale values. Meanwhile, four former VW executives face consequences from a scandal that reshaped Europe's auto market, highlighting the ongoing shift towards electric vehicles. This discussion underscores the evolving landscape of automotive sales, where electric vehicles are gaining traction amid a backdrop of legal battles.

Discover the shocking revelations about the mysterious hacking group Careto, believed to be a covert operation by the Spanish government. Their advanced malware capabilities and targeting methods that focus on sensitive data are analyzed. Comparisons are drawn between Careto and other well-known government hacking entities like the NSA and CIA. Additionally, there's buzz around Digg founder Kevin Rose's interest in purchasing Pocket from Mozilla, adding an intriguing twist to the tech landscape.

Discover the fascinating journey of Throne, an AI-driven toilet startup revolutionizing gut health monitoring. The story is filled with chance encounters and fortuitous events that led to securing a $4 million seed round. Explore how the founders turned unique ideas into a compelling vision, capturing the attention of influential investors. Get ready for a blend of innovation and serendipity in the world of smart toilets!

Discover how Spotify is revolutionizing music discovery with its new hub for upcoming releases, offering tailored recommendations and pre-saving options. Dive into Amazon's innovative AI-driven audio summaries for products, making shopping more engaging. Meanwhile, TED steps up with TED Shorts, a new video feature to captivate users in the face of potential TikTok changes. This episode highlights exciting trends in shopping, learning, and startup innovations—all shaping the future of content consumption!

Google I/O 2025 showcased groundbreaking tech from the launch of Gemini Ultra, a revolutionary AI subscription service for video creation. Exciting new tools like the VO3 video generator and AI-powered design capabilities were unveiled. Innovations in app design and web browsing were also highlighted, including Stitch and Project Mariner. Plus, the Beam 3D Teleconferencing system promises to transform virtual meetings, enhanced further by real-time translation features in Google Meet.

Discover how the Microsoft Store is shaking things up by eliminating developer onboarding fees, making it easier for creators to publish their apps. Also, learn about the exciting launch of the Windows AI Foundry aimed at enhancing AI application development. The conversation shifts to recent funding triumphs, spotlighting a nuclear reactor startup that just secured $51.3 million and Moon Valley, a video creation platform attracting $53 million for its cutting-edge AI tools. Tech innovations are on the rise!

OpenAI has just launched Codex, an AI coding agent that enhances coding tasks within ChatGPT, unveiling exciting possibilities for developers. Meanwhile, Spotify faces backlash over public podcast play counts and is making adjustments to address creator concerns. The podcast also delves into the competitive landscape of podcasting compared to YouTube, and discusses ongoing legal issues between Epic Games and Apple. Finally, recent startup funding highlights showcase innovation with companies like Moon Valley making strides in the tech industry.

YouTube is rolling out ads at peak moments in videos to keep viewers engaged. Apple Maps is getting a snazzy update to impress users. TikTok introduces a meditation feature designed to help teens disconnect and sleep better. On the finance front, Sprinter Health is expanding quickly with $55 million in funding across 18 states. Acorns is also making waves by acquiring the investment gifting platform Early Bird, diversifying its services for customers.