Threads had a huge 2023, becoming the second most-downloaded iOS app. Its new head, Connor Hayes, wants users to open it first thing in the morning, not just when Instagram tells them to. The strategy involves going vertical by vertical, but monetization for creators is still a major question mark.
Finny, an AI-powered prospecting tool for financial advisors, just raised a $17 million Series A. The startup, founded by three 27-year-olds, is valued at $150 million and aims to automate the hunt for new clients. But can it really replace word-of-mouth?
Palona AI, founded by ex-Google and Meta vets, is pivoting from broad sales agents to a vertical AI operating system for restaurants. The launch of Palona Vision and Workflow highlights a crucial shift from thin AI wrappers to deep, multi-sensory systems that understand physical operations.
Google is testing a new AI assistant called “CC” that connects directly to your Gmail, Drive, and Calendar. The experimental tool is currently limited to paid AI subscribers in the US and Canada. It promises daily summaries and task management via email, raising immediate privacy questions.
Elon Musk has shifted his prediction for achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) from 2025 to 2026. This comes as his previous, highly-publicized forecast is set to expire in just a few weeks. His history of optimistic timelines and the convenient timing of his warnings raise serious questio
A Florida middle school went into a full “code red” lockdown after an AI system flagged a student’s clarinet as a weapon. School administrators blamed the student for holding the instrument “as if it were a weapon,” rather than the faulty technology. This follows a similar incident where AI mistook
Daniel Vávra of Warhorse Studios says the backlash against Larian for using AI is “hysteria.” He argues AI is an unavoidable tool that every developer is already using to speed up tedious work and manage skyrocketing game budgets.
Elon Musk is setting a near-term survival goal for his AI venture, xAI. He told employees that if the company makes it through the next 2-3 years, its rapid data center growth and massive funding access will let it triumph.
In a major move for European autonomy, drone leader Quantum Systems is acquiring ground vehicle software firm FERNRIDE. The deal follows Quantum’s recent €3 billion valuation and aims to create a unified, cross-domain unmanned ecosystem. It highlights Germany’s growing dominance in defense and indus
Google is bringing its Opal visual app builder directly into the Gemini web app. The tool lets users create custom AI-powered mini-apps, or “Gems,” by describing what they want. It’s part of the booming “vibe-coding” trend where AI handles the programming.
