TechCrunch Week in Review: News, AI, and More

This week’s TechCrunch Week in Review covers the latest tech news, including major announcements from Apple, OpenAI, and the world of robotics. We'll dive into the biggest stories, analyze industry trends, and highlight the most interesting developments in the world of tech.

OpenAI's New AI Model

OpenAI has unveiled its new AI model, o1, also known as Strawberry. This model is designed to excel in reasoning through math and science, and it can even fact-check itself by analyzing all parts of a query. The model is currently available through ChatGPT and OpenAI's API, with plans to make it accessible to all free users of ChatGPT in the future.

Apple's "It's Glowtime" Event

Apple held its "It's Glowtime" event this week, showcasing its latest lineup of iPhones, AirPods, and other devices. The iPhone 16 series features new camera control, an A18 chip, and AI integration with Apple Intelligence. The AirPods Pro 2 have been enhanced with the ability to function as clinical-grade hearing aids. If you missed the event live, TechCrunch has a comprehensive rundown of everything unveiled.

• iPhone 16 series with dedicated camera control and AI integration.
• AirPods Pro 2 with clinical-grade hearing aid functionality.
• Apple Intelligence enhancements across devices.

Oprah Winfrey's AI Special

Oprah Winfrey hosted an AI special featuring conversations with prominent figures in tech, including Bill Gates, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and tech influencer Marques Brownlee. While Altman's optimistic predictions about AI's capabilities generated some skepticism, the discussions highlighted a sense of caution and wariness regarding AI's potential impact on the world.

Figure 02: A Humanoid Robot Takes a Step

TechCrunch's Brian Heater got a firsthand look at Figure's new humanoid robot, Figure 02. The robot has undergone significant improvements, sporting a fresh design and the ability to walk. Figure 02 is a testament to the rapid advancements in robotics, and its capabilities are sure to make waves in the industry.

Cohost Shuts Down

Cohost, an aspiring competitor to X (formerly Twitter), is shutting down due to financial difficulties. Cohost differentiated itself by focusing on a chronological feed and a business model that didn't rely on advertising. Despite its unique approach, Cohost was unable to secure the necessary funding to sustain its operations.

Meta's AI Training Practices

Meta has acknowledged that it uses public posts from Facebook and Instagram to train its AI models. This revelation has raised concerns about data privacy and the potential for misuse of personal information. While Meta claims it only uses public data, many users are concerned about their data being scraped without their consent.

Uber Partners with Waymo for Robotaxis

Uber users in Austin and Atlanta can expect to hail Waymo robotaxis through the Uber app in early 2025 as part of an expanded partnership between the two companies. This integration will make robotaxi services more accessible and convenient for Uber users, accelerating the adoption of autonomous vehicles.

Bluesky Embraces Video

Bluesky, the decentralized social media platform, is introducing video capabilities to its platform. This move aims to enhance Bluesky's competitiveness against rivals like X and Instagram's Threads by providing a richer user experience. Users can now share videos of up to 60 seconds in length on Bluesky.

Seattle's Unlikely Tourist Destination

A damaged Cybertruck parked on a busy Seattle street became an unlikely tourist attraction, drawing crowds and even a makeshift memorial. The truck has since been removed, but its brief reign as a local landmark highlights the public's fascination with Tesla's electric vehicles and the unique appeal of the Cybertruck's design.

Robots Learning Dexterous Tasks

Google DeepMind researchers have developed a method for teaching robots to perform complex dexterous tasks, such as tying shoelaces, hanging a shirt, and even fixing other robots. This advancement could revolutionize robotics, making robots more capable and adaptable in real-world scenarios.

OpenAI's Soaring Valuation

OpenAI is reportedly in talks with investors to raise $6.5 billion at a valuation of $150 billion. This staggering valuation surpasses OpenAI's previous reported valuation of $86 billion and significantly exceeds any other AI startup currently in the market. The move indicates the immense potential investors see in OpenAI's technology and its future in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

More Trouble for Adam Neumann

Adam Neumann, the former WeWork CEO, faces further setbacks with his climate/crypto/carbon-credit startup Flowcarbon, which is reportedly refunding investors. The news suggests Flowcarbon's struggles to gain traction and raises questions about the sustainability of Neumann's ventures since his departure from WeWork.

AI on the VMAs Red Carpet

MTV partnered with Shopsense AI to allow users to find and purchase outfits similar to those worn by celebrities at the VMAs. By using a simple photo, fans can easily replicate their favorite red carpet looks. This integration of AI into the fashion industry showcases its potential to enhance shopping experiences and empower consumers with innovative tools.

Apple's AI Ambitions

Apple's "It's Glowtime" event featured a lot of talk about AI, but the features presented weren't perceived as groundbreaking or innovative. While Apple Intelligence has received updates, its lack of significant advancements raises questions about Apple's approach to AI development.

The Phone-Bomb Threat

Voice AI tools are making it easier for scammers to trick people into believing they are someone else, leading to increased phone-related scams. Security experts recommend avoiding answering unknown calls and relying on voicemail to protect yourself from these threats. The convenience of voice AI comes with a growing risk, requiring greater awareness and vigilance to prevent falling victim to scams.

Conclusion

This week's tech news highlights the rapid pace of innovation in AI, robotics, and mobile technology. From OpenAI's advancements to Apple's latest releases and the rise of autonomous vehicles, the industry is constantly evolving. As we navigate this dynamic landscape, it's crucial to stay informed, consider the implications of these developments, and embrace the opportunities and challenges they present.