TechCrunch Industry News

Spotify announced on Wednesday that it will start paying podcast hosts who make popular videos on its streaming platform, as the company looks to take on YouTube’s dominance in the video podcast space. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

PayPal is launching a few features that let users in groups pool money with friends or family, to collectively pay for trips, travels, gifts, and anything else. The company is launching this feature in the U.S., Germany, the U.K., Italy, and Spain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Many feared that the 2024 election would be affected, and perhaps decided, by AI-generated disinformation. While there was some to be found, it was far less than anticipated. But don’t let that fool you: the disinfo threat is real — you’re just not the target. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The future of aircraft may look very similar to today’s superficially — but under the hood (or sitting next to the tailfins) they will likely be quite different. That’s the future NASA is hoping to nurture with five research awards worth $11.5 million. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Red Hat is making waves by acquiring Neural Magic, a startup that specializes in optimizing AI algorithms for everyday processors. This strategic move highlights a significant trend among major tech firms focused on improving AI infrastructure. The discussion delves into the implications this acquisition may have on the future of AI technology and accessibility, making it an exciting time for advancements in the industry.

A fierce AI chip race is underway among major cloud players. Google unleashes its Trillium chip, while Microsoft prepares to follow with Maia. Not to be outdone, Amazon showcases its trio of innovative chips: Trainium, Inferentia, and Graviton. Meanwhile, Amazon reveals a controversial $110 million grant program aimed at boosting AI research in academia. This initiative raises eyebrows about corporate influence on research independence. The stakes are high and the competition is heating up!

Standing desks may not be the health saviors we thought; prolonged standing can have its own risks. Trade restrictions hit hard as TSMC halts advanced chip shipments to China, reshaping the tech landscape. Meanwhile, Social Network X prepares to unleash a free version of its AI chatbot Grok, which could shake up the AI market significantly. Lastly, Encore emerges as an innovative search engine designed to streamline thrifting, promising to enhance how users find second-hand treasures online.

Ben Peters, the technical co-founder of 5AI, leads Cogna, a groundbreaking startup focused on AI-generated enterprise software. He discusses his journey from autonomous vehicles to creating AI that self-writes software. The conversation highlights Cogna's recent $15 million funding and explores how their innovative solutions can transform ERP systems. Peters also shares insights on the competitive landscape of enterprise AI, drawing parallels to his experiences in self-driving technology and the strategies that could shape the market's future.

What’s the secret to success? It isn’t any of the trends that so many founders in Silicon Valley subscribe to. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The PRESS Act would protect a journalist's sources, and gained unanimous bipartisan support when passed by the House in January. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices