Week in Review (WiR): A Look at Tech’s Latest Happenings
Welcome back to another edition of the Week in Review (WiR), TechCrunch’s regular newsletter covering the top news in the tech industry. We’ve got a lot to cover, including Disney’s innovative VR treadmill, OpenAI’s “lazy” AI fix, and Apple’s new stolen device protection feature. Let’s dive in!
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News
Disney’s VR Treadmill
Disney has developed a one-of-a-kind treadmill-like system for VR using hundreds of small, round “tiles” that act as mini, omnidirectional treadmills. This could revolutionize the VR experience.
OpenAI’s GPT-4 Fix
After facing issues with its “lazy” GPT-4 models, OpenAI has rolled out a fix and launched new AI models for specific use cases, making AI more accessible and efficient than ever.
Apple’s Device Protection Feature
Apple has introduced a new stolen device protection feature that requires biometric authentication to access sensitive information like stored passwords and credit cards. This adds an extra layer of security for users.
Potential Vision Pro Apps
While Netflix has decided not to create a dedicated app for the Apple Vision Pro, other app makers like YouTube are following suit. We’ll have to wait and see how this trend plays out.
Analysis
Rabbit’s r1
AI startup Rabbit is on a mission to revolutionize the future of tech with its r1 device, which can do everything a regular smartphone can do using cutting-edge AI and natural language processing. It’s definitely one to watch.
Podcasts
Equity
The Equity crew discusses Plural VC’s new fund, Fantuan teaming up with Chowbus, Vroom’s exit from the car-selling business, and updates from Brex.
Found
On Found, Ben Goodwin, co-founder and CEO of gut-healthy soda brand Olipop, talks about his company’s success in the market and strategies for growth.
Chain Reaction
Anatoly Yakovenko, co-founder of Solana Labs, joins the Chain Reaction podcast to talk about his company’s mission to grow the ecosystem for Solana, a layer-1 blockchain.
TechCrunch+
TC+ subscribers get exclusive access to in-depth commentary, analysis, and surveys. If you’re not a subscriber yet, consider signing up. Here are some highlights from this week:
The Rise of Tech Layoffs
There has been a surge in staff cuts at tech startups in recent weeks, completely changing the narrative surrounding this year. Alex and Anna dive into the reasons behind this shift and what it means for the industry.
HPE’s Acquisition of Juniper Networks
HPE’s $14 billion purchase of Juniper Networks shocked the tech world. Ron and Alex analyze the potential of this deal and whether or not it’s a good move for both companies.
The State of Fintech
Fintech has been struggling lately, with companies like Brex cutting staff to reduce costs. But as Alex and Anna point out, this doesn’t necessarily mean the market for fintech products is suffering.
Bonus Round
Lamborghini’s Use of MIT Battery Tech
Lamborghini has recently licensed new organic battery technology from MIT that could revolutionize the industry and overcome the limitations of traditional lithium-ion batteries. A breakthrough worth watching.
