From TechCrunch · 40 stories
Android 17 introduces Motion Assist to reduce motion sickness in vehicles
Google is rolling out Motion Assist, a new feature in Android 17, designed to mitigate motion sickness when using a phone in a moving vehicle. This feature uses the device's sensors to display moving dots on the screen, synchronizing with vehicle motion to counteract sensory discrepancies that cause nausea.
Plaud Launches Plaud One AI Earbuds with eSIM-Enabled Case for Standalone Recording
Plaud has released the Plaud One Explorer Edition, AI-enabled earbuds available for preorder at $250. These earbuds and their charging case can record and transcribe conversations, integrating with the Plaud Agent to generate work products like emails and documents, and feature built-in 4G connectivity for standalone operation.
Cursor Launches Origin, a Code Hosting and Collaboration Platform
Cursor has launched Origin, a new code hosting and collaboration platform available in early beta for paid plan users. Origin provides repositories, pull requests, code browsing, and GitHub synchronization, aiming to integrate code management with Cursor's AI agent capabilities.
California Governor Vetoes Smart Glasses Privacy Bill SB-1130
California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed SB-1130, a bill that would have banned secret recording with smart glasses in private business areas and mandated recording indicators on wearables. Newsom cited broad language in the bill, stating it could lead to unintended consequences for widely used devices.
Oura's $2.2B IPO primarily benefits existing shareholders, not for new fundraising
Smart ring maker Oura is seeking to raise up to $2.2 billion in its upcoming IPO, but the majority of the proceeds, approximately two-thirds, are allocated to existing shareholders rather than for company fundraising. This IPO structure allows early investors, particularly Forerunner Ventures, to exit their stakes and covers Oura's tax obligations related to employee share grants.
BMW Reveals i3 50 xDrive Details: 468-Mile Range, $62,850 Starting Price, Q1 2027 Launch
BMW has released further specifications for its revamped i3 50 xDrive electric sedan, including a confirmed EPA-estimated range of 468 miles and a starting price of $62,850. The vehicle is scheduled for release in the first quarter of 2027, providing more clarity on its market positioning and performance capabilities.
XREAL Aura Android XR glasses receive over 10,000 reservations, early-bird deal ends
XREAL announced that its Aura Android XR glasses have surpassed 10,000 reservations since June, indicating demand for the upcoming device. The early-bird reservation deal, which offered a $199 credit for a $99 deposit, has concluded, though $199 deposits are still available.
Amazon Introduces Kindle Click Bluetooth Remote and Page-Turn-Cover for E-readers
Amazon has launched new accessories for its Kindle e-readers, including the Kindle Click, a $34.99 Bluetooth remote for page turning, and the Page-Turn-Cover, a cover with physical buttons. The Kindle Click is compatible with all new Kindle devices and models from 2024 onwards, while the Page-Turn-Cover works with Signature Edition Kindles featuring pogo pins. These accessories provide alternative methods for navigating pages without touching the e-reader screen.
Amazon streamlines Fire TV lineup, introduces new Fire TV Stick 4K with USB power
Amazon has reduced its Fire TV streaming device lineup from five models to four, eliminating the Fire TV Stick 4K Select and Fire TV Stick 4K Plus. This change accompanies the release of a new Fire TV Stick 4K, priced at $59.99, which can draw power directly from a TV's USB port and includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3. A redesigned remote control with improved ergonomics and tactile buttons also accompanies the new device.
Google rebrands experimental AI tool CC as a family and group organizer
Google has relaunched its experimental AI offering, CC, as an agentic AI platform designed to help families and groups with organization. This new iteration allows up to six family members to share information, manage tasks, and handle logistics through a dedicated Google account, shared calendar, and task list.
Operation Bluebird Launches "Twitter.now" Social Network, Citing X's Abandonment of Name
Operation Bluebird has launched a new social media network called Twitter.now, asserting that Elon Musk's X Corporation abandoned the "Twitter" name and intellectual property. This launch follows a tentative court ruling suggesting X may have relinquished claims over the word "tweet" and the Twitter bird logo.
Google Releases Special Edition Pokémon Sleep Fitbit Air for $129
Google has launched a special edition Fitbit Air, inspired by the Pokémon Sleep game, featuring a "Sleepy Blue" colorway and a sleeping Pikachu print. Available for preorder at $129 in the US and Japan, the device ships on September 15th and integrates with the Pokémon Sleep app to track sleep data, coinciding with Pokémon's 30th anniversary.
Ox Alpha Reasoning Model Released by Anonymous Third-Party Provider via OpenRouter
A new reasoning model named Ox Alpha, designed for coding and agentic work, has been released by an anonymous third-party provider through OpenRouter. The model is free, offers a 1M context window, and its prompts and completions are not used for training.
Instagram launches 'First Draft' feature to automatically trim Reels video clips
Instagram has introduced "First Draft," a new Reels-editing feature for its iPhone app that automatically trims video clips by removing pauses and highlighting key parts. This feature provides a starting point for users to create Reels, simplifying the initial editing process.
Instagram Updates Wordmark for the First Time in a Decade
Instagram has introduced a new wordmark, marking the first change to its text-only logo in ten years. Instagram head Adam Mosseri stated the update aims for a "cleaner and more modern" look, though some users have noted legibility issues, perceiving it as "Instagzam."
Delta Investigates Fake Wi-Fi Network Incident on Flight from Las Vegas
Delta Air Lines is investigating an incident on Flight 591 from Las Vegas to Atlanta where an unauthorized Wi-Fi network, allegedly created by a passenger, appeared mid-flight. The network, named "Delta WiFi Fast," reportedly spoofed the legitimate in-flight Wi-Fi and may have attempted to phish for credentials, leading pilots to alert air traffic control and temporarily disable the aircraft's Wi-Fi.
Light Unveils $299 Minimalist Flip Phone, the Light Flip, Launching in 2024
Light has announced the Light Flip, an affordable, minimalist flip phone priced at $299. Slated for early 2024 release, it combines retro design elements with modern features, excluding distracting apps to target users seeking simplicity. It retains tactile qualities, harking back to classic models like the Moto Razr.
HBO Max Introduces Vertical Video "Shorts" Feed and Conversational Search
HBO Max has launched "HBO Max Shorts," a vertical video feed featuring trailers, clips, and bonus content, initially for select iOS users in the US. This feature, which uses an AI tool and human editors to create personalized content based on watch history, aims to help users discover new shows and movies. Additionally, HBO Max is testing a conversational search experience for Android users in the US.
Adobe Tests AI Features in Project Indigo Camera App
Adobe's experimental Project Indigo camera app for iOS is testing new AI features, including photo critiques and editing suggestions. The updates, part of the AI Playground, include advanced object removal and style changes. This limited trial is available to a small group of users and aims to explore user interaction with AI-driven editing.
X Adjusts Algorithm to Prioritize Replies From Mutual Followers
X has updated its algorithm to prioritize replies from mutual followers, aiming to foster meaningful community interactions on the platform. This tweak addresses user feedback about random content visibility in replies, which previously led to unfamiliar discussions. The change intends to create more cohesive interest-based interactions among users.
Elon Musk Denies Reports of SpaceX Handheld AI Device Prototype
Elon Musk has denied reports that SpaceX is developing a handheld AI device, calling the claims "utterly false." Despite this, several outlets reported a prototype, allegedly shown to investors, that was thinner than an iPhone and featured technology from xAI. The reports have raised questions about SpaceX's potential in AI hardware and mobile services, but Musk's denial leaves the company's plans uncertain.
Middle Schoolers Use NPR Podcast Comment Sections as Social Media Alternative
Middle school students are using the comment sections of NPR podcasts, specifically "Wild Card," as a private chat space to avoid adult supervision on traditional social media platforms. This activity was discovered by NPR staff after noticing unusual comments, which were later identified as communications between young users seeking less-monitored online spaces.
CD Sales See Unexpected Rebound in First Half of 2026, RIAA Reports
CD sales revenue increased by 58.6% to $171.1 million in the first half of 2026, with unit sales up 45.7% to 17.5 million, according to the RIAA. This growth follows a decline in 2025 and indicates a broader trend of renewed interest in retro technology and physical media.
Reddit tests new audio and video post formats in select communities
Reddit is testing new audio and video post formats within select communities on its iOS and Android apps. This initiative allows users to consume Reddit content by listening or watching, similar to how Reddit content is re-shared on platforms like TikTok and Meta's Reels. The new formats will link back to the original text posts.
Google Play Integrates Venmo as a Payment Option for Apps, Games, and Subscriptions
Google Play has added Venmo as a payment option for purchases including apps, games, add-ons, and digital content. Users can now link their Venmo account to pay for subscriptions and in-app content using their Venmo balance or linked payment methods, expanding payment choices within Google's services, including YouTube.
Spotify Introduces 'User Notes' for Personalizing Playlist Tracks
Spotify has launched "User Notes," a new feature allowing users to add personal captions of up to 240 characters to individual songs within their playlists. This update aims to personalize the music experience by enabling users to record memories or context associated with tracks, and is available in select markets for users aged 16 and older on both free and Premium plans.
Friend AI pendant re-launches with speaker and increased price
The Friend AI wearable has been re-launched as version 2.0, now featuring a built-in speaker for verbal interaction and updated AI models. The device's price has increased from an initial $99 or $129 to $249, and a new $10 monthly subscription is required to retain conversation memory beyond 30 days.
Granola AI Note-Taking App Launches on Apple Watch for On-Wrist Recording
Granola, an AI-powered note-taking application, has released a new app for the Apple Watch. This allows users to record meetings and take notes directly from their wrist, providing an alternative to using smartphones or laptops for in-person conversations and syncing notes across devices.
Warner Bros. Sues Amazon for Allegedly Poaching HBO Employees
Warner Bros. Discovery has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, accusing it of inducing contracted employees to breach their employment agreements, specifically citing the case of former HBO Max EVP Pia Barlow. This legal action highlights disputes over talent acquisition practices in the entertainment industry, particularly concerning employees under existing contracts.
Xteink Launches Ultra-Portable X4 Pro E-Reader with Touchscreen and Light
Xteink has released the X4 Pro, an ultra-portable e-reader featuring a touchscreen and built-in front light. Priced at $99, it aims to improve usability over previous models, although it supports only DRM-free ebooks and includes limited software options. This update matters for fans of minimalistic, pocket-sized e-readers seeking enhanced features.
Apple Maps Ads to Bar Home Services, Limit Categories at Launch
Apple is introducing ads to its Maps app in the U.S. and Canada, imposing significant restrictions on certain categories like home services. This differs from Google, which allows more expansive local service ads. Apple aims to focus on local businesses with physical locations, enhancing the user experience by limiting certain ad categories.
X Unveils Video Editor to Combat Content Theft on iOS App
X has launched a new video editor in its iOS app to encourage original content creation over recycling viral clips. The tools include multi-language caption overlays and a green screen feature. This move aims to curb content theft often committed by top accounts.
AI Boom Dominates Climate Week Discussions, Raising Concerns About Sector Focus
AI's impact on climate tech, particularly the energy demands of data centers, was a major theme at New York Climate Week. This focus has led to increased funding for energy-related climate tech startups but also raised concerns about other climate sectors being overlooked.
Tinder launches 'Group Hangouts' feature for group-based dating activities
Tinder introduced "Group Hangouts," a new feature allowing groups of friends to discover and connect with other groups for shared activities. This expands on Tinder's previous group-oriented dating efforts, moving the platform towards more social, real-world interactions.
President Trump's AI Pledge Contains Misspelling of "United States"
A "Joint Commitment on Frontier Responsibilities" pledge, signed by President Donald Trump and AI leaders, misspelled "United States" as "Unites States." This error appeared directly under the President's signature on a photo shared to Truth Social, raising questions about the document's drafting process.
Google's Gemini App to Replace 'Gems' with 'Skills' Starting November 2026
Google's Gemini app will replace its "Gems" feature with "skills" starting November 17, 2026. This change allows for more accessible invocation of custom instructions and the use of multiple skills simultaneously within the Gemini conversational experience.
Family Offices Increase Direct Investments in AI Startups, Bypassing Traditional VC Funds
Family offices are increasingly investing directly in AI companies, often by purchasing existing shares or making direct deals, rather than through traditional venture capital funds. This shift is driven by the potential for rapid returns in AI and a desire for more control over investments, allowing them to target specific high-growth AI leaders.
AI could reduce software vulnerabilities, making government hacking tools less effective
Cryptography professor Matthew Green suggests that AI advancements in finding and patching software bugs could significantly reduce the number of vulnerabilities available for government hacking tools. This shift could disrupt the current balance where governments rely on purchasing exploits, potentially leading to renewed calls for backdoors in encrypted systems.
a16z identifies advantage for foreign founders in AI-driven startup landscape
Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) observes that foreign founders now have an advantage in the AI startup sector, leading the firm to increase its global investment efforts. This shift is attributed to a change in buying patterns from non-U.S. companies, which are now more willing to engage with and pay international startups for AI solutions.
Hyperscalers' Natural Gas Bet for AI Data Centers Faces Price Volatility Risk
A new report from energy research firm Noreva suggests that hyperscalers' investments in natural gas power plants for AI data centers could lead to significant price increases, potentially tripling in some U.S. regions. This forecast challenges the current stable outlook for natural gas futures and could substantially raise the operational costs for these data centers.