Twitter alternatives — new and old — have found audiences willing to try out a newer social networks since Elon Musk took over the company in 2022. Mastodon, Bluesky, Spill and T2 are some of the social media platforms people are among them. So is Meta’s Threads platform. What is Threads? How do you create…
Category: Apps
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Meta, Social, social media, Threads
Threads tests adding ‘interests’ on profiles to connect users with topical discussions
Meta’s Threads has begun testing a new feature that would allow people to add their interests to their profile on the social network. Instead of only advertising to profile visitors the sort of topics you might post about, the new interests feature will also direct users to active conversations about the topic. The company thinks…
AI, Apps, gemini, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, google calendar
Google adds a Gemini panel to Calendar to help you manage your schedule
Google is testing a new AI-powered Gemini side panel within Google Calendar that lets users quickly and conversationally check their schedule, create an event, and look up event details. The feature is available as part of the tech giant’s early access testing program, Google Workspace Labs. You can access Gemini by clicking the “Ask Gemini”…
Apps, Collectible cards, CollX, Commerce, eBay, Global IT News, Global Security News, trading cards
CollX raises $10M to grow its card collection marketplace
CollX, a company offering an online trading card marketplace, has raised $10 million in Series A funding. The round was co-led by Austin-based Brand Foundry Ventures and Philadelphia-based 114 Ventures, both of which were previous investors in the company. Other investors such as Next Coast Ventures, FJ Labs, and Ben Franklin Technology Partners also participated…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Media & Entertainment, music, Spotify, streaming music
Spotify says it’s fixing the bug that caused Premium users to hear ads
Spotify has acknowledged an issue that’s causing some of its paid Premium subscribers to encounter ads when trying to play music. In an X post published on Thursday by Spotify’s customer service account, the company said it’s looking into the problem and linked to its Community website where the issue has been documented by users…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Reddit, Social, social media
Reddit adds new tools to help users contribute and connect across its platform
Reddit announced on Thursday it’s introducing a set of new tools to make it easier for users to participate on its platform. The features are designed to help users find communities, ensure their posts don’t break any rules, and understand how to contribute across the social network. Combined, the features are meant to enhance the…
AI, app store, Apple, Apps, Artificial Intelligence, Global IT News, Global Security News
Apple adds AI-powered app review summaries with iOS 18.4
As part of the iOS 18.4 software update, currently in public beta, Apple is introducing AI-powered summaries of App Store reviews. The new feature will leverage Apple Intelligence, the company’s built-in AI technology, to offer an overall summary based on the reviews others have left on the App Store. The review summaries will be generated…
AI, Apps, Artificial Intelligence, chatgpt search, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, Google Search, openai, Perplexity AI
Google Search’s new ‘AI Mode’ lets users ask complex, multi-part questions
Google is launching a new “AI Mode” experimental feature in Search that looks to take on popular services like Perplexity AI and OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search. The tech giant announced on Wednesday that the new mode is designed to allow users to ask complex, multi-part questions and follow-ups to dig deeper on a topic directly within…
Apps, Commerce, Europe, Global Security News, google dma, google dma duckduckgo, Government & Policy, In Brief
EU must ‘fully’ apply its market fairness rulebook on Google, search rivals urge
The European Union is once again being urged to expand its investigation of Google under the bloc’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The big aim of the EU’s flagship competition reform — which came into force last spring — was to level the digital playing field by forcing platform giants into fairer dealing with rivals and…
Andy Dunn, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, pie, Social
Andy Dunn’s new app Pie uses AI to help you make friends
“We’re a long way from pants,” Andy Dunn, founder of online fashion retailer Bonobos, told TechCrunch. Now, the former CEO is taking on a completely different challenge: He wants to help people make friends. Dunn’s newest venture, Pie, is a social app focused on bringing people together in real life. With an $11.5 million Series…
Android, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, Google Pixel, Scam detection
Google’s March Pixel Drop has AI-powered scam detection and live location sharing with friends
Google announced new software updates for the Pixel phones as part of its so-called Pixel Drop program for March. Pixel Watches and all Android devices are also receiving some new features. The most notable parts of the update include using AI to detect scams in messages and calls, better categorization in the screenshot app, menstrual…
App, Apps, bills, Commerce, ecommerce, Europe, Fundraising, Global Security News, splitwise, Venmo
Cino cracks bill-splitting at the moment of payment, raises seed round
While Venmo or Splitwise are effectively ‘debt collector’ tools, which require one person to pay a full bill and then request funds from others, neither have cracked bill-splitting at the moment of payment. European startup Cino, which has come up with just such a product, has now raised €3.5m in a Seed funding round led…
AI, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, google gemini
You can now talk to Google Gemini from your iPhone’s lock screen
Google Gemini users can now access the AI chatbot directly from the iPhone’s lock screen, thanks to an update released on Monday first spotted by 9to5Google. Users can now call up Gemini Live, Google’s relatively real time voice feature for its AI chatbot, before they unlock their phone by adding a Gemini widget to their…
Android, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, TC
Google Play update makes it easier to find Android apps with widgets
Google announced Monday a series of changes to its widgets system on Android that will make it easier for app developers to reach their users. Widgets, which offer at-a-glance views of an app’s most important information — like the day’s weather or upcoming meetings on your calendar — are a key aspect of Android home…
Alexis Ohanian, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Reddit, Social, TikTok
Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian joins Frank McCourt’s TikTok bid
Reddit co-founder and investor Alexis Ohanian has joined billionaire Frank McCourt’s bid to acquire TikTok as a strategic adviser specializing in social media, Reuters reports. “He has that broad portfolio of experience … of where social media was and, I think, a keen understanding of where it’s evolving,” McCourt told Reuters. “Where he can help…
Apps, evergreens, Global IT News, Global Security News, Government & Policy, social media, TikTok, TikTok Ban
What to know about TikTok’s uncertain future in the US and the people who want to buy it
TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, has been at the center of controversy in the U.S. for four years now due to concerns about user data potentially being accessed by the Chinese government. Just this past month, the app experienced a temporary outage in the U.S. that left millions of users in suspense before…
AI, ai agent, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Opera, Opera Browser
Opera announces a new agentic feature for its browser
Norway-based browser company Opera announced a new agent feature called Browser Operator as a feature preview. The Browser Operator feature, when released, will complete tasks for you on different websites, the company claims. In a demo video, the company showed the agent finding a right pair of socks from Walmart, tickets for a football match…
Apps, Exclusive, Global IT News, Global Security News, Transportation, Uber, uber for teens
Uber is piloting accounts for teenagers in India
Uber has started testing its teenagers-focused service, Uber for Teens, in India. © 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Netherlands, privacy, signal, Social
Signal is the number-one downloaded app in the Netherlands. But why?
Privacy-focused messaging app Signal has been flying high in the Dutch app stores this past month, sitting many days as the most downloaded free app on iOS and Android for all categories, per data from multiple app-tracking platforms such as Sensor Tower. The app has experienced surges in popularity through the years, often in response…
AI, Apple, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, siri, TC
Apple might not release a truly ‘modernized’ Siri until 2027
Apple is struggling to rebuild Siri for the age of generative AI, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who says the company might not release “a true modernized, conversational version of Siri” until iOS 20 comes out in 2027. That doesn’t mean there won’t be big Siri updates before then. A new version Siri will reportedly…
Apple, Apps, evergreens, Global IT News, Global Security News, ios 18, iPhone
How to get rid of the new Apple Mail redesign
There are three inevitabilities in life: death, taxes, and tech platforms making design changes that are universally disliked. The latest victim to this phenomenon is the Apple Mail app, which got a major redesign in iOS 18. This update is also rolling out on iPads and MacBooks. The new Apple Mail design separates emails into…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News
‘Uber for guns’ app Protector lets you hire armed body guards like you would an Uber — but does anyone need this?
In a TikTok video with over 3 million views, a woman in a fluffy, maximalist coat sits in the back seat of a luxury SUV, parked in the middle of a New York City street. Atop the 6-second video, a line of text reads, “our bodyguards got us matcha.” The camera zooms in on two…
AI, Apps, gemini, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, google sheets
Google Sheets gets a Gemini-powered upgrade to analyze data faster and create visuals
Google is giving Sheets a Gemini-powered upgrade that is designed to help users analyze data faster and turn spreadsheets into charts using AI. With this update, users can access Gemini’s capabilities to generate insights from their data, such as correlations, trends, outliers, and more. Users now can also generate advanced visualizations, like heatmaps, that they…
Apps, Bluesky, flashes, Global IT News, Global Security News, Instagram, Social
Bluesky-based Instagram alternative Flashes launches publicly
Instagram alternative Flashes publicly launched its Bluesky-based photo-sharing app on the App Store this week, gaining nearly 30,000 downloads in its first 24 hours. The app offers a classic Instagram-like experience, allowing users to upload up to four photos and videos of up to a minute in length. Built by Berlin-based developer Sebastian Vogelsang, Flashes…
AI, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Startups, TC, TC Sessions: AI, TechCrunch Sessions: AI
Last week to apply to speak at TechCrunch Sessions: AI
AI Leaders, ready to make an impact? Do you have game-changing insights that could shape the future of AI? Share your vision with 1,200 AI founders, investors, and industry pioneers at TechCrunch Sessions: AI on June 5 at Zellerbach Hall in UC Berkeley. Take the stage, lead the conversation, and drive the next wave of…
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Only 3 more days to save up to $325 at TechCrunch Sessions: AI
The AI revolution won’t wait — will you? Secure your seat at TechCrunch Sessions: AI before time runs out! You’ve got only three days left to save up to $325. The clock stops on March 2 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Don’t miss out on the lowest rates of the year! AI is transforming everything, and…
AI, Apps, Biotech & Health, Climate, Crypto, Disrupt 2025, Enterprise, Fintech, Fundraising, Global IT News, Global Security News, Media & Entertainment, Space, Startups, TC, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, Transportation, Venture
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Final 24 hours to save up to $1,130
The early bird gets the worm and time is running out! You have less than 24 hours left to save up to $1,130 when purchasing passes to TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. If you want massive savings on Disrupt 2025 individual passes and up to 30% on group tickets, secure your low ticket rate today. These offers…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Microsoft, Skype, Social, teams
Microsoft hangs up on Skype: service to shut down May 5, 2025
After kickstarting the market for making calls over the internet 23 years ago, Skype is closing down. Microsoft, which acquired the messaging and calling app 14 years ago, said it will be retiring it from active duty on May 5 to double down on Teams. Skype users have 10 weeks to decide what they want…
AI, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, In Brief, Meta, meta ai
Meta is reportedly planning a standalone AI chatbot app
Meta reportedly plans to release a standalone app for its AI assistant, Meta AI, in a bid to better compete with AI-powered chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini. According to CNBC, Meta could launch a standalone Meta AI app as soon as the company’s next fiscal quarter (April-June). Meta AI is currently only available…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Mark Zuckerberg, Meta, Social
Meta fires around 20 employees for leaking confidential information
Meta has fired “roughly” 20 employees for leaking confidential information, The Verge reports. “We tell employees when they join the company, and we offer periodic reminders, that it is against our policies to leak internal information, no matter the intent,” Meta told the publication. “We recently conducted an investigation that resulted in roughly 20 employees…
Apps, content creators, creator economy, Global IT News, Global Security News, Twitch
Twitch is letting more streamers access its monetization tools
Twitch CEO Dan Clancy published an open letter on Thursday outlining the platform’s plans for 2025, which include upcoming features, updates to the mobile experience, as well as a significant change to its monetization policy. Of note, Clancy revealed that Twitch is opening up subscriptions and “Bits,” the virtual items that viewers buy to cheer…
app store, Apple, Apps, developers, family, Global IT News, Global Security News, kids, parents, privacy, TC
Apple introduces new child safety initiatives, including an age verification system for apps
Apple on Thursday announced a range of new initiatives designed to help parents and developers create a safer experience for kids and teens using Apple devices. In addition to easier setup of child accounts, parents will now be able to share information about their kids’ ages, which can then be accessed by app developers to…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Instagram, Instagram Reels, Meta, Social
Meta fixes error that exposed Instagram users to graphic and violent content
Meta has fixed an error that caused some users to see a flood of graphic and violent videos in their Instagram Reels feed. The fix comes after some users saw horrific and violent content despite having Instagram’s “Sensitive Content Control” enabled. “We have fixed an error that caused some users to see content in their…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Social, TikTok, YouTube
In challenge to YouTube, TikTok revamps its desktop platform
In a bid to take on YouTube, TikTok is revamping its desktop platform with the addition of several new features. The company announced on Thursday that its web-based experience features a new modular layout, refreshed For You feed, a new Explore tab, immersive full-screen LIVE gaming streaming, and a floating player. The social network’s new…
AI, Apps, Climate, Crypto, Fintech, Fundraising, Gadgets, Global IT News, Global Security News, Media & Entertainment, robotics, Space, Startups, StrictlyVC, StrictlyVC SF, TC, TechCrunch All Stage 2025, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, TechCrunch Sessions: AI, Venture
2025 TechCrunch Events Calendar
For two decades, TechCrunch has provided a front row view to the future of technology, shaping conversations that matter and spotlighting the next big things before they break — both on the page and in person at our world-renowned events. This year, as we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we’re launching our most ambitious events calendar…
Apps, Commerce, eBay, ecommerce, Global IT News, Global Security News
eBay makes it easier to find fast-shipping items and local listings
eBay announced on Thursday that it has updated its platform to help buyers find fast-shipping items and local listings, thanks to changes to Search item cards and additional usage of AI. The company is making it easier to identify items with fast delivery, as search item cards now display delivery range estimates for all fast…
AI, Apps, Crypto, Disrupt 2025, Enterprise, Fintech, Global IT News, Global Security News, Security, Space, Startups, TC, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, Transportation, Venture
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Just 2 days left to save up to $1,130
Clock’s ticking! You’ve got just 48 hours left to lock in your spot at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 and save up to $1,130 on individual ticket types or 30% on group tickets. Don’t wait — secure your pass now before prices go up on February 28 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Disrupt 2025 takes place on October…
AI, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Startups, TC Sessions: AI, TechCrunch Sessions: AI
4 days left to save up to $325 at TechCrunch Sessions: AI
Don’t let the world of AI pass you by. You have just four days left to secure your spot at TechCrunch Sessions: AI and get savings of up to $325. But make sure to act fast — this offer ends on March 2 at 11:59 p.m. PT. There’s never been a better time to network…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Instagram, Meta, reels, Social, TikTok
Instagram may spin off Reels into a separate app
Meta is mulling launching a standalone app for short-form videos, The Information reported, citing an anonymous source who heard Instagram head Adam Mosseri talking about the project to staff. The project is reportedly code-named Project Ray that aims to improve recommendations for new users and existing users in the U.S., and feature more three-minute videos,…
AI, Apps, Enterprise, evergreens, gemini, Gemini Pro, generative ai, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, google gemini
Google Gemini: Everything you need to know about the generative AI models
Gemini is Google’s long-promised, next-gen generative AI model family. © 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Apps, Cybersecurity, encrypted chat apps, evergreens, Global IT News, Global Security News, open source, privacy, productivity, Security
These alternatives to popular apps can help reclaim your online life from billionaires and surveillance
Not every app or service wants to monetize your personal data. Here are some of our favorite alternatives to popular apps. © 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Apps, dating apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Hinge
Hinge launches a new feature for daters to privately share details with matches
Dating app Hinge launched a new feature called “Match Note” on Wednesday, allowing users to privately share information with matches that they haven’t shared publicly on their profile. Users can add a Match Note by going to their profile, similar to how they can add a text prompt. The note is always visible to new…
AI, Alexa, Amazon, Apps, Artificial Intelligence, Global IT News, Global Security News
Amazon’s new Alexa+ brings AI-powered ‘Explore’ and ‘Stories’ features for kids
As part of the reveal of Amazon’s new AI-powered Alexa+ assistant, the tech giant announced that it’s launching two new features designed for kids called “Explore with Alexa” and “Stories with Alexa.” The features, which leverage Alexa’s new AI capabilities, will be available to Amazon Kids+ subscribers. The company demonstrated the new features at a…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, privacy, Search
Google makes it easier to delete personal info from Search results
Google announced on Wednesday that it’s updating its “Results about you” tool to make it easier for users to protect and remove their personal information from Search results. The company says it’s improved the sign-up process and simplified requesting removals directly from Google Search. The tool can be used to proactively monitor and delete things…
AI, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Startups, TC, TC Sessions: AI, TechCrunch Sessions: AI, Venture
5 days left — save over $300 to TechCrunch Sessions: AI
The hub of AI awaits — don’t miss out! You have 5 more days to secure your spot at TechCrunch Sessions: AI with savings of up to $325. This offer ends on March 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT. As AI continues to be the biggest topic of conversation in the tech world, TechCrunch has you…
AI, Apps, Biotech & Health, Climate, Crypto, Disrupt 2025, Fintech, Global IT News, Global Security News, Security, Space, Startups, TC, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, Transportation, Venture
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: 3 days left to save up to $1,130 on passes
Tick-tock! The last three days to save up to $1,130 to TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 are winding down! Get your tickets today for massive savings on Disrupt 2025 individual passes and up to 30% on group tickets. These offers end February 28 at 11:59 p.m. PT, so don’t miss out on major savings of the year.…
Apps, Fundraising, Glance, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, Lockscreen
Lock screen platform Glance launches AI-powered shopping experience, gets fresh backing from Google
Lock screen platform Glance announced today that it is launching a new generative AI-based shopping experience. It will suggest different outfits on a user’s personalized avatar. The company is partnering with Google to use the company’s Gemini models and Vertex AI to deploy the experience. Separately, the company also got fresh backing from Google —…
AI, Apps, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Audible, audiobooks, ElevenLabs, Global IT News, Global Security News
ElevenLabs now lets authors create and publish audiobooks on its own platform
Voice AI company ElevenLabs is now letting authors publish AI-generated audiobooks on its own Reader app, TechCrunch has learned and the company confirmed. The announcement comes days after the company partnered with Spotify for AI-narrated audiobooks. ElevenLabs, which raised a $180 million mega-round last month, started inviting authors to try out their publishing program through…
AI, Anthropic, Apps, Claude, Enterprise, evergreens, Explainer, generative ai, Global IT News, Global Security News
Claude: Everything you need to know about Anthropic’s AI
Anthropic, one of the world’s largest AI vendors, has a powerful family of generative AI models called Claude. These models can perform a range of tasks, from captioning images and writing emails to solving math and coding challenges. With Anthropic’s model ecosystem growing so quickly, it can be tough to keep track of which Claude…
AI, Apps, chatbot, ChatGPT, Enterprise, evergreens, generative ai, Global IT News, Global Security News, gpt store, gtps, openai
How much does ChatGPT cost? Everything you need to know about OpenAI’s pricing plans
OpenAI offers an array of plans for ChatGPT, both paid and free. © 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, macOS
Framous is a new Mac app for adding device frames to screenshots
A new Mac app called Framous launched on Tuesday, giving you the ability to add device frames around screenshots to make them look more professional. The helpful new tool can aid app developers, graphic designers, and even journalists who need to add an iPhone or Mac frame—also known as a mockup or template—to photos. This…
AI, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Poe, poe apps, quora
Quora’s Poe now lets users create and share custom AI-powered apps
Poe, Quora’s platform that brings together a number of AI models under one roof, has launched a new capability that lets users build visual interfaces — apps, essentially — on top of any combination of models. Called Poe Apps, the feature allows Poe users to describe the app they want to create in the new…
Apps, Bluesky, Browser, discord, Global IT News, Global Security News, Opera, Social
Opera integrates Bluesky, Slack, and Discord into its browser
Bluesky is getting added to the Opera web browser. On Tuesday, the Norway-based software maker announced the addition of the new social network alongside Slack and Discord, which will all be integrated into the browser’s sidebar alongside other messaging and communication services. Opera users have been able to customize their browsers with shortcuts to messaging…
AI, Apps, Fundraising, Global IT News, Global Security News
Sweden’s Lovable, an app-building AI platform, rakes in $15M after spectacular growth
Using generative AI to create software has been possibly the largest use case since it first appeared a couple years ago. But platforms like Cursor and Copilot are mostly confined to a world inhabited by trained engineers. Lovable, a Swedish AI startup, reached the front page of both Product Hunt and Hacker News last year…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Media & Entertainment, YouTube
YouTube is working to make ad slots less interruptive
YouTube announced it’s making changes to mid-roll ads to improve the viewing experience for users while also helping creators potentially earn more revenue. Starting May 12, the Google-owned platform is going to show fewer ads during moments that feel interruptive or may cause viewers to abandon the video — like in the middle of a…
Apple, Apps, Asia Pacific, china, Global Security News
Apple’s Developer service comes to China’s WeChat
As part of its efforts to further invest in the Chinese market, Apple announced this week that it’s bringing its Apple Developer service to China’s WeChat app. The service includes news, announcements, and other upcoming activities for members of the developer community, which have typically been offered via Apple’s website and its own Developer app.…
Apps, DoorDash, Global IT News, Global Security News, lawsuits
DoorDash to pay delivery workers nearly $17M for using tips to cover wages
DoorDash has agreed to pay $16.75 million to settle a lawsuit by New York’s attorney general that accused the delivery platform of pocketing workers’ tips to cover wages. The lawsuit alleged that between May 2017 and September 2019, DoorDash used customer tips to offset the base pay it had already guaranteed to workers, instead of…
Adobe, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, photoshop, Social
Adobe launches a Photoshop iPhone app
Adobe announced on Tuesday it’s bringing its popular design and editing software Photoshop to mobile, starting with iOS. The company plans to launch a Photoshop for Android app later this year. With the new Photoshop for iPhone app, users can access both free and paid features through a mobile-friendly design that’s accessible on the go.…
android auto antitrust ruling, Apps, cjeu android auto, Europe, Global Security News, italy android auto antitrust, Transportation
EU’s top court ruling on Android Auto antitrust referral could put interoperability requests in the fast lane
Europe’s top court has weighed in to clarify the rules around interoperability requirements on Big Tech in a referral on a case related to Google’s Android Auto platform. Back in 2021, the tech giant was hit with an €100 million antitrust fine by Italy’s competition authority for refusing to let a third-party electric car charging…
Apps, Automattic, Beeper, Global IT News, Global Security News, messaging platforms, TC, texts.com
Automattic-owned Beeper is releasing redesigned desktop and iOS apps
WordPress.com owner Automattic last year acquired the multi-service messaging app Beeper for $125 million and said it would merge it with Texts.com, an earlier acquisition in the same category. Now, Beeper is releasing the first set of redesigned apps for iOS and desktop in beta after the merger. In a blog post, Beeper said that…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, In Brief, TC, twitter/x
Even Elon Musk forgets that X isn’t Twitter sometimes
Do you sometimes refer to X by its old name, Twitter? That’s okay. Even Elon Musk, the man who changed Twitter’s name to X, still occasionally refers to the social media platform he runs as Twitter. “Twitter added far more features with fewer people,” said Musk in a post on X Monday. The owner of…
Apple, Apps, developers, Epic Games, Global IT News, Global Security News, phil schiller, TC
Apple exec Phil Schiller testifies that he raised concerns over App Store commissions on web-based sales
Apple Fellow Phil Schiller, the executive in charge of leading the App Store, testified in court on Monday that he had originally raised concerns about the 27% commission the iPhone maker planned to charge app developers on any purchases made outside the App Store. In addition to being a potential compliance risk, he suggested that…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Media & Entertainment, soundcloud, Spotify, TicketMaster
SoundCloud partners with TicketMaster to let artists list events
Music streamer SoundCloud announced a partnership with entertainment company Live Nation today, allowing artists on its platform to list Ticketmaster and Universe events on their profile in a customized way. The company said it would create more promotion opportunities for artists in the future in partnership with Ticketmaster through a new promotion program but didn’t…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, google drive
Google Drive users can now access and search transcripts for videos
After launching automatically generated captions for videos last year, Google Drive is now launching searchable video transcripts. Google announced that starting Monday, Drive users can now view and search transcripts for their videos. The new feature gets rid of the need to upload a video’s audio to a transcription service like Otter. Transcripts will appear…
AI, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Grok, grok 3, xAI
Grok 3 appears to be driving Grok usage to new heights
Elon Musk’s AI company, xAI, released Grok 3, its long-awaited flagship AI model, last week. Grok 3 powers the Grok chatbot apps for mobile and the web, as well as the Grok experience on the Musk-owned social network X. Given that there’s so much competition in the AI chatbot space these days, it wasn’t a…
AI, AI search, ai search engine, Apps, Comet, Global IT News, Global Security News, Perplexity, web browser
Perplexity teases a web browser called Comet
AI-powered search engine Perplexity says it’s building its own web browser. In a post on X on Monday, the company launched a signup list for the browser, which isn’t yet available. It’s unclear when it might be — or what the browser look like, even. But we do have a name: Comet. “Just like Perplexity…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Social, social media, TikTok
TikTok (with Douyin) becomes first app to reach $6B in annual consumer spending
TikTok, including its Chinese counterpart Douyin, in 2024 became the first non-game app to reach $6 billion in in-app purchase revenue in a year. According to a new report from app intelligence provider Sensor Tower, TikTok also generated a record high of $1.9 billion in gross in-app purchase (IAP) revenue in the fourth quarter of…
Apps, Fundraising, gen z, Global IT News, Global Security News, Goodwater Capital, photo sharing, Social
Yope is sparking GenZ (and VC) interest with an Instagram-like app for private groups
Photo and video apps targeting young adults with social hooks are a dime a dozen these days, so those that show traction with 18-twentysomethings tend to catch the attention of investors looking for the next Instagram or TikTok. In the latest example, photo-sharing app Yope, which lets you share still images to private groups, says…
AI, Apple, Apple Intelligence, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, ios 18
iOS 18.4 will bring Apple Intelligence-powered ‘Priority Notifications’
Apple on Friday released its first developer beta for iOS 18.4, which adds a new “Priority Notifications” feature, powered by Apple Intelligence. The addition aims to help users manage their notifications by prioritizing important alerts and minimizing distractions from less important ones. These priority notifications are displayed in a separate section on the phone’s Lock…
Apple, apple news, Apps, food, Global IT News, Global Security News, recipes
Apple takes on recipe apps with Apple News+ Food
Recipe app developers just got new competition. On Friday, Apple introduced a soon-to-launch feature for Apple News+ subscribers called Apple News+ Food, a new section that will allow users to search, discover, save, and easily cook recipes from dozens of existing News+ publishing partners. It’s set to roll out as part of iOS 18.4 and…
AI, Apple, Apple Intelligence, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Hardware, vision pro
The Vision Pro is getting Apple Intelligence in April
Apple Intelligence is heading to the Vision Pro, as part of an upcoming operating system update. Apple confirmed on Friday that its generative AI platform will arrive on the extended reality headset as part of VisionOS 2.4. A beta version of the software is currently available for developers. The public version is set for an…
AI, Apps, Biotech & Health, Fundraising, Global IT News, Global Security News, robotics, Startups, TC, TC Sessions: AI, TechCrunch Sessions: AI, Venture
Apply to Speak at TechCrunch Sessions: AI before the deadline
AI Innovators, seize your moment! Have insights that could inspire 1,200 AI founders, investors, and enthusiasts eager to advance the future of AI? Take center stage, influence the AI conversation, and exchange ideas at TechCrunch Sessions: AI on June 5 at UC Berkeley’s Zellerbach Hall. We’re gathering top AI visionaries from the startup world to…
AI, Apps, Biotech & Health, Crypto, Fintech, Fundraising, Global IT News, Global Security News, Space, Startups, TC, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, Transportation, Venture
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Lowest prices of the year end in 7 days
You read that headline correctly! The best deals for TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 tickets are about to end in just 7 days. Save up to $1,130 on individual passes and up to 30% on group tickets. Don’t wait — these offers end on February 28 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Join us in celebrating 20 years of…
Apps, Global Security News, North America, YouTube
YouTube reportedly launching new ‘premium lite’ tier soon
YouTube is close to announcing a new lower-priced “premium lite” version of its subscription service, Bloomberg reports. The new tier is expected to launch in the United States, Australia, Germany, and Thailand “soon.” The tier will give users access to YouTube’s library of podcasts and how-to clips without ads, Bloomberg notes. Premium lite will be…
Apps, community notes, Facebook, Global IT News, Global Security News, Instagram, Meta, Social, Threads
Meta starts accepting sign-ups for Community Notes on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads
Meta announced on Thursday that it’s now accepting sign-ups for its Community Notes program on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. The announcement follows Meta news last month that it’s going to end its third-party fact-checking program and is instead moving to a Community Notes model similar to the one at X. In a blog post, Meta…
Amazon, amazon chime, Apps, Enterprise, Global IT News, Global Security News, Zoom
Amazon shuts down Chime, its Zoom alternative
Amazon Chime, the tech giant’s underwhelming alternative to Zoom and Google Meet, is shutting down for good. The company on Wednesday confirmed it will end support for Chime, including its Business Calling features, on Feb. 20, 2026. As part of this transition, Amazon stopped accepting new Chime accounts as of Feb. 19, 2025. From now…
ad partnerships, advertising, Apps, Creators, Global IT News, Global Security News, Social, social media
Instagram’s new ad format lets creators get paid for testimonials in comments
Instagram is introducing a new way for creators to work with brands to make money by recommending products. On Thursday, Meta introduced an addition to its Partnership Ads called Testimonials, which allows creators to get paid via written endorsements, shared as comments on the brand’s social media posts and advertisements. The new ad format is…
AI, AI narration, Apps, audiobooks, ElevenLabs, Global IT News, Global Security News, Spotify
Spotify partners with ElevenLabs to expand its library of AI-narrated audiobooks
On Thursday, Spotify announced that it now accepts audiobooks narrated using ElevenLabs’ AI voice technology. Given that ElevenLabs is currently among the most recognized AI audio providers, this new partnership is expected to boost the quantity of AI-narrated audiobooks on the platform. To upload an audiobook narrated by AI, authors need to download the file…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Social, Substack, TikTok, TikTok Ban
Substack now lets creators monetize videos and post them directly from its app
As TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain, Substack tries to lure creators to its platform by doubling down on video. The company announced on Wednesday that it’s now allowing creators to monetize their videos on the platform, and letting them publish video posts directly from the Substack app. Previously, creators have been able to…
Apps, Gaming, Global IT News, Global Security News, Social, Twitch
Twitch caps streamers’ storage at 100 hours of highlights and uploads
Twitch on Wednesday announced it will begin limiting streamers to 100 hours of highlights and uploads, and will delete content if a channel exceeds the limit. The company said it’s introducing the change because highlights haven’t been effective in driving discovery or engagement, and because storage is costly. The storage cap goes into effect on…
Amazon, Amazon Android App Store, Android, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News
Amazon is shutting down its app store on Android
Amazon will discontinue its app store for Android on August 20 this year. The company sent a notice to developers indicating that they will no longer be able to submit new apps to the store. The company said on a support page that it will also discontinue its Coins digital currency, which could be used…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, India, Transportation, Uber
Uber ditches commissions in favor of daily fees for rickshaw drivers in India
Uber has introduced daily fees for auto rickshaw drivers in India to move away from its typical commission-based model. © 2024 TechCrunch. All rights reserved. For personal use only.
AI, Apps, gemini, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google
Google pulls Gemini from main search app on iOS
Google is pulling its AI assistant Gemini from the main Google app for iOS devices. The move is meant to encourage users to download the standalone Gemini app instead, which would allow Google to more directly compete with other consumer-facing AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity. However, the change could also risk reducing Gemini’s…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google, google lens
Google brings a ‘Circle to Search’-like feature to iPhone users
Google on Wednesday is rolling out a new update that lets users search what’s on their screen via a simple gesture when browsing within the Google Chrome or Google Search app on iOS. The feature is similar to Android’s built-in “Circle to Search” feature which also lets users search what’s on their screen using a…
Apps, dms, Global Security News, Instagram, Messaging, messaging apps, Social, TC
Instagram upgrades DMs with music-sharing, message scheduling, translation and more
Instagram is upgrading its direct messages, also known as DMs, with a handful of new features that make its messaging system more competitive with alternatives, like Apple’s iMessage and other third-party apps. On Wednesday, Instagram users globally will gain access to tools to translate messages across 99 languages, tools to schedule and pin messages to…
Apps, Elon Musk, Global IT News, Global Security News, Social, Twitter
X in talks to raise money at a $44B valuation
Elon Musk’s X is in talks to raise money from investors at a $44 billion valuation, Bloomberg News reports. Musk purchased X, formerly known as Twitter, for the same price back in 2022. The news comes as Fidelity Investments marked down its Twitter stake back in December by around 70% from the 2022 sale price…
Apps, bumble, dating apps, DEADPOOL, Global IT News, Global Security News
Bumble sunsets acquired apps, Fruitz and Official, to cut costs
Bumble is discontinuing its two acquired apps, the dating and relationship apps Fruitz and Official. The move was shared during the company’s fourth-quarter earnings call. As explained by CEO Lidiane Jones during the call, the choice to discontinue Fruitz, a French dating app, and Official, an app designed to help couples strengthen their relationships, allows…
AI, Apps, email, email spam, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google Inbox, superhuman
Superhuman introduces AI-powered categorization to reduce spammy emails in your inbox
It has been more than two years since ChatGPT burst on the scene. Shortly after that, it seemed like almost every email app integrated AI-powered email writing and summaries. Some also introduced AI-powered search for you to sift through your inbox quickly. Superhuman is now using AI to try and tackle one of the primary…
AI, Apps, Enterprise, Funding, Fundraising, Global IT News, Global Security News, Guidde, Software, startup, Startups, training videos
Guidde taps AI to help create software training videos
Creating corporate training videos for software is a time-consuming ordeal, especially if you’re an organization with a lot of software licenses. Training videos can help get employees up to speed, but they’re a big lift. They often take entire teams to produce. Tel Aviv-based entrepreneur Yoav Einav thought there might be an alternative, cheaper way…
Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News
A former Etsy product manager built an AI-powered app for new parents
Career product manager Amanda DeLuca has launched a parenting management app, Riley, born out of her own experience with parental anxiety and feedback from other families. DeLuca, who previously at Google, Nerdwallet, and Eventbrite, in addition to Etsy, became pregnant three years ago. At the time, she and her husband, who is also a product…
app store, Apple, Apps, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google Play, Google Play Books, Media & Entertainment
Google Play Books purchases on iOS now skirt the App Store’s commission
Google has gained permission to sell its e-books and audiobooks directly to customers through its iOS app, Google Play Books. While iOS apps today can offer access to content previously purchased elsewhere, like e-books bought via a website, developers have to request a specific exception to link their iOS app’s users to the company’s own…
Apps, duolingo, Global IT News, Global Security News, TC
Duolingo ‘killed’ its mascot with a Cybertruck, and it’s going weirdly well
Duolingo’s mascot, Duo the owl, is dead. Okay, Duo isn’t really dead (we think), but the language learning app committed so hard to this bit that its CEO, Luis von Ahn, read a eulogy for this beloved green bird on TikTok. As any fiction author could probably tell you, killing everyone’s favorite character is not…
Apple, Apps, DSA, EU, Europe, Global Security News, Government & Policy, regulation
Apple purges apps without contact info from EU app store, as DSA deadline hits
A change requiring app developers to disclose their address, phone number, and email information to consumers has gone live on the App Store within the European Union. Apple on Tuesday announced it has removed any EU apps that haven’t yet complied with the Digital Services Act (DSA), a regulation that had added a requirement in…
Apps, Facebook, Facebook Live, Global IT News, Global Security News, livestreams, Social, Twitch, YouTube
Facebook now only stores live videos for 30 days, will delete old broadcasts
Facebook announced on Tuesday that live videos will now only be stored on the social network for 30 days, after which they will be deleted. Previously, these videos were stored indefinitely. The change goes into effect on Wednesday. All live videos that are currently older than 30 days will be removed from the platform as…
Amazon, Apps, Commerce, DEADPOOL, Global IT News, Global Security News
Amazon kills ‘Inspire,’ its TikTok-style feed for discovering products
Amazon is shutting down “Inspire,” its TikTok-like, short-form video and photo feed that was previously available in its mobile app. The feed allowed users to discover products and shop from content created by influencers, brands, and other customers. A company spokesperson confirmed the move to TechCrunch, saying “We regularly evaluate various features to better align…
AI, Apps, Enterprise, Global Security News, Lingo.dev, Y Combinator, yc
Lingo.dev is an app localization engine for developers
Monolinguists wanting to communicate with the global masses have never had it so easy. Trusty old Google Translate can convert the content of images, audio, and entire websites across hundreds of languages, while newer tools such as ChatGPT also serve as handy pocket translators. On the back end, DeepL and ElevenLabs have have reached lofty…
AI, Apps, Elon Musk, Global IT News, Global Security News, grok 3, xAI
Elon Musk’s AI company, xAI, releases its latest flagship model, Grok 3
Elon Musk’s AI company, xAI, released its latest flagship AI model, Grok 3, late Monday night, along with new capabilities in the Grok apps for iOS and the web. Grok, xAI’s answer to models like OpenAI’s GPT-4o and Google’s Gemini, can analyze images and respond to questions, and powers a number of features on Musk’s social network, X.…
Apps, evergreens, Global IT News, Global Security News, Government & Policy, social media, TikTok, TikTok Ban
What to know about TikTok’s uncertain future in the US and the people who want to buy it
TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, has been at the center of controversy in the U.S. for four years now due to concerns about user data potentially being accessed by the Chinese government. Just this past month, the app experienced a temporary outage in the U.S. that left millions of users in suspense before…
Apps, evergreens, Global IT News, Global Security News, Google Photos, photo storage, privacy
These Google Photos alternatives offer tons of storage options at a reasonable price
Google Photos is a great service for storing images across devices. But Google Drive and Gmail only offer 15GB of storage for free. Google Photos used to offer free unlimited storage of images, but that is not the case anymore. If you are looking for a better photo storage plan, different features, or just want…
Apps, DoorDash, Global IT News, Global Security News, TC, Transportation, Uber
Uber sues DoorDash, alleging anti-competitive tactics
Ride-share giant Uber filed a lawsuit Friday against DoorDash, accusing the delivery outfit of stifling competition by intimidating restaurant owners into exclusive deals. Uber alleges in the lawsuit, filed in Superior Court of California, that its chief rival bullied restaurants into only working with DoorDash. Uber claims that DoorDash, which holds the largest share of…