The WiR also features a podcast discussion on topics such as a new Chinese AI model, Founders Fund's new partner, Connetic Ventures' use of AI models for unbiased entrepreneurship, and tech layoffs and inflation. Additionally, Maria Shen from Electric Capital was interviewed about the firm's $1 billion crypto funds. TechCrunch+ subscribers have access to in-depth analysis and commentary, including discussions on venture capital activity, Amazon's impact on brands, and the sustainability of ESG concerns among investors.
Key takeaways:
- A 19-year-old MIT dropout is developing hydrogen-powered platforms for the military, including unmanned aerial vehicles, munitions and hydrogen-generation systems.
- Dutch e-bike startup VanMoof has paused sales and is reportedly facing financial difficulties, with key executives leaving the company.
- Activists in San Francisco have been disabling Cruise and Waymo robotaxis by placing traffic cones on the vehicles' hoods.
- Instagram's text-based app, Threads, has reached 100 million sign-ups despite lacking features such as post search, direct messages and hashtags.