From TechCrunch · 40 stories
Tesla Q2 2026 Sales Surge 25% Amid Market Rebound
Tesla delivered 480,126 vehicles in Q2 2026, marking a 25% year-over-year increase. The growth was driven predominantly by Model 3 and Model Y sales. This marks Tesla's first year-over-year growth in deliveries in two years, reversing the previous trend of declining sales.
Apple to Redesign Entry-Level MacBook Pro for Possible 2027 Launch
Apple reportedly plans a redesign for its entry-level MacBook Pro, possibly releasing in early 2027. The new model will maintain the 14-inch screen but adopt a design aligned with higher-end touch screen models. Apple is also developing new iPad Pro models, focusing on performance improvements and maintaining the current size range.
US Lifts Export Controls on Anthropic's AI Models Fable 5 and Mythos 5
The US government has lifted export restrictions on Anthropic's AI models, Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5, after negotiations ensured certain safety protocols. The initial bans were due to security concerns linked to potential model misuse. This change restores access to Fable 5 globally and Mythos 5 to select US organizations, addressing previous concerns. The case showcases the evolving regulatory landscape for AI models.
Sony to Halt Production of Physical PlayStation Discs by 2028
Sony announced plans to stop producing physical game discs for PlayStation from January 2028, shifting to a digital-only model. 85% of PS4 and PS5 sales are currently digital, driving this decision. Concerns arise over game preservation and consumer rights as digital formats eliminate physical ownership and resale opportunities.
Google Launches Faster AI Models for Image and Video: Nano Banana 2 Lite and Gemini Omni Flash
Google announced the launch of Nano Banana 2 Lite and Gemini Omni Flash, models designed to enhance multimedia processing efficiency. Nano Banana 2 Lite focuses on low-cost, fast image generation, while Omni Flash offers advanced video generation and editing. Available across Google platforms, these models aim to streamline creative workflows for developers and businesses using AI-generated content.
Realta Fusion generates electricity from fusion reaction, marking industry milestone
Realta Fusion conducted an experiment demonstrating electricity generation directly from its fusion device, WHAM, which successfully powered a lightbulb. This marks the first time a private company has publicly achieved this, potentially advancing the profitability of fusion power through higher energy efficiency.
Tesla Settles FSD Crash Lawsuit Amid Ongoing Federal Investigation
Tesla has settled a lawsuit concerning a fatal crash involving its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system while federal investigations into the system's safety continue. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is examining if FSD can adequately handle low visibility conditions, after several incidents, potentially affecting future Tesla recalls or regulations.
Russian hackers identified as responsible for $2.5B Jaguar Land Rover breach
A cyberattack on Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) last year has been traced to Russian hackers. The breach caused production delays and significant economic losses, prompting a £1.5 billion government bailout.
Meta Launches Pocket for AI-Generated Interactive Games
Meta released a new app called Pocket, which allows users to create and share AI-generated interactive mini-games. Following the acquisition of Gizmo's development team, this app uses AI prompts to let users generate "gizmos" that are shared socially. Pocket is available on iOS and Android but not yet widely accessible.
Meta Develops Cloud Service to Monetize AI Compute Capacity
Meta is reportedly developing a cloud infrastructure service called 'Meta Compute' to monetize its AI compute capacity, putting it in direct competition with cloud giants like AWS and Google Cloud. This strategic move aims to utilize Meta's significant investments in AI infrastructure and offset costs while potentially disrupting the cloud computing industry. It matters because it reflects a broader trend of tech companies leveraging their data center assets to generate additional revenue.
Apple's 'Hide My Email' Feature Reportedly Exposes Real Email Addresses
A critical vulnerability in Apple's 'Hide My Email' feature reportedly exposes real email addresses, compromising user anonymity. The bug was identified by EasyOptOuts' Tyler Murphy and remains unresolved despite being reported to Apple over a year ago. This issue affects iCloud+ users who rely on the feature for privacy.
Anthropic Releases Economical AI Model Claude Sonnet 5 for Enhanced Agentic Tasks
Anthropic has unveiled Claude Sonnet 5, an advanced AI model designed for agentic capabilities, available on AWS. This model provides substantial improvements in planning, tool use, and coding over previous versions at a lower cost, aiming to compete with top-tier AI models.
WhatsApp Introduces Usernames for Privacy Amid Impersonation Concerns
WhatsApp is rolling out user-friendly usernames to enhance privacy, removing the need to disclose phone numbers. The feature aims to protect user identities; however, it raises concerns about possible impersonation, especially in India.
Cloudflare to Block Mixed-Use AI Web Crawlers by 2026
Cloudflare will block mixed-use web crawlers from accessing ad-supported sites starting September 15, 2026. This policy aims to give website owners more control over how AI companies use their content, potentially affecting AI models' access to web data.
Blue Origin Investigates New Glenn Rocket Explosion, Aims for 2023 Return
Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket exploded on the launch pad in May, halting operations and investigations are ongoing. The company is analyzing data to determine the cause, with aims to resume launches this year, crucial for NASA's Artemis Program. The incident may delay important lunar missions.
DHS Investigates Cyber Breach on Homeland Security Information Network
The Department of Homeland Security is investigating a recent cyberattack on the Homeland Security Information Network (HSIN). The breach, suspected to occur between late May and early June, affected both HSIN servers and a SharePoint system, key for information sharing among government entities. The attack raises concerns over national security and vulnerabilities in government cybersecurity infrastructure.
Anthropic Unveils Claude Science With NVIDIA Integration for Scientific Workflows
Anthropic has launched Claude Science, an AI workbench integrating NVIDIA's BioNeMo Agent Toolkit, enhancing workflow management for scientists. This tool allows natural language interactions and connects to scientific databases without introducing new AI models, focusing on efficiency in computational research.
US Government Restricts Release of OpenAI's GPT-5.6 Amid Security Measures
The U.S. government is influencing the release of OpenAI's GPT-5.6 models, limiting their availability to select customers. This supervisory approach poses challenges for AI labs, potentially slowing innovation and affecting financial performance. Enhanced cybersecurity measures aim to prevent misuse.
Startup Battlefield Australia Closes Applications on July 6, 2026
Applications for Startup Battlefield Australia, a TechCrunch event, close on July 6, 2026. The event allows startups from Australia and New Zealand to pitch to investors for prizes, including a spot at TechCrunch Disrupt. Previous participants have achieved significant funding and success, highlighting the event's impact.
Zuckerberg says Meta's AI development progress slower than expected
Mark Zuckerberg informed Meta staff that AI agent development has not progressed as anticipated, following significant layoffs and restructuring. The company has invested heavily in AI but has not yet seen the expected results from its efforts, despite projections for improvements in the upcoming months.
Private firms conduct complex orbital missions for U.S. Space Force
True Anomaly and Rocket Lab conducted a rendezvous mission for the U.S. Space Force, capturing imagery of satellites in orbit. This mission addresses reconnaissance challenges posed by rival nations in the growing space landscape.
Etched secures chip production with TSMC; seeks Arizona manufacturing support
Etched, a $5 billion semiconductor startup, announced its first chip production with TSMC. The company aims to overcome manufacturing challenges by potentially resourcing production to TSMC's Arizona facility as part of a strategy backed by investor Jack Selby.
IQM goes public via SPAC, cites uncertainty in quantum tech future
IQM, Europe's first public quantum company, went public via SPAC at a $1.9 billion valuation. The company cautioned that large-scale commercial adoption of quantum technology may never occur, affecting investor sentiment despite recent customer growth.
Google and Amazon report increasing emissions due to AI energy demands
Google and Amazon's latest sustainability reports reveal that carbon emissions rose 25% and 16%, respectively. Increased energy consumption related to AI technologies challenges their goals of achieving net-zero emissions.
Hopper to pay $35M FTC settlement over hidden fees allegations
Hopper has agreed to a $35 million settlement with the FTC due to allegations of misleading users with hidden fees. The settlement requires Hopper to clearly disclose all pricing, marking a significant step in regulating deceptive practices in the app industry.
Anthropic explores AI chip collaboration with Samsung
Anthropic is in discussions with Samsung to develop custom AI chips, building on earlier plans amid industry chip shortages. This move aligns with trends among AI companies seeking independence from Nvidia and enhancing their hardware capabilities.
Wisk Aero sued for alleged wrongful termination over safety concerns
Wisk Aero is facing a lawsuit from a former employee who claims she was fired after raising safety concerns. The individual, Briahna O'Neill, alleges that her termination followed her reports about reduced FAA-required software testing to meet a flight deadline.
Magnify Ventures raises $46.6M Fund II backed by Melinda Gates’ Pivotal Ventures
Magnify Ventures has successfully raised $46.6 million for its second fund, with investment from Pivotal Ventures, led by Melinda French Gates. The new fund will focus on companies in the care economy, targeting AI tools for households and fintech solutions for families.
TV Time app to shut down in 2026 as Whip Media pivots to AI
TV Time, a popular app for tracking TV shows, will shut down after July 15, 2026, due to unsustainable operating costs. The move reflects a broader trend where companies prioritize AI development over consumer apps, impacting user communities.
Lucid Motors CFO exits as new CEO implements leadership changes
Lucid Motors announced the departure of CFO Taoufiq Boussaid amid a leadership overhaul led by new CEO Silvio Napoli. The restructuring, including significant executive hires and job cuts, aims to align production with demand as the company struggles with low vehicle deliveries.
AWS and Microsoft Announce Major AI Deployment Initiatives with Billions in Investment
Amazon Web Services has launched a new $1 billion internal organization of forward-deployed engineers to assist companies in deploying AI solutions. Similarly, Microsoft announced a $2.5 billion investment in its new AI deployment company, Microsoft Frontier Company, backed by 6,000 experts. These initiatives reflect increased demand for AI integration support.
Rivian updates EV sales forecast, expects 65,000-70,000 deliveries in 2023
Rivian has raised its delivery forecast for 2023 from 62,000-67,000 to 65,000-70,000 vehicles. This revision comes despite challenges in the EV market and follows a strong Q2 performance, indicating optimism about their new R2 SUV.
Ben Guez Uses OpenClaw AI to Automate Dating Instagram Posts
Ben Guez employs OpenClaw and Claude AI to automate Instagram posts targeting women after soccer matches. This approach has resulted in over one million views and significant engagement in a short period, illustrating unconventional use of AI in online dating.
Bhavin Turakhia invests $30M in Neo, an AI-based workplace software alternative
Bhavin Turakhia has invested $30 million into Neo, an AI-driven enterprise software platform. The platform aims to integrate AI more deeply into daily workflows rather than as a separate tool, challenging existing providers like Microsoft and Google.
Bending Spoons IPO Surges; Acquires Beloved Brands for Revitalization
Bending Spoons, an Italian company known for acquiring established tech brands, went public with an $18 billion valuation. Its shares surged 40% on the first trading day, closing at $40.50 and valuing the company at $25.7 billion. By reviving and retaining acquired brands like Eventbrite and Meetup, the company differentiates itself from traditional private equity playbooks. This growth highlights its strategy of transforming legacy tech brands leveraging AI and tech advancements.
Ashton Kutcher departs Sound Ventures to form new VC firm with Morgan Beller
Ashton Kutcher is leaving Sound Ventures to launch a new venture capital firm with Morgan Beller. The new fund will target early-stage investments in AI infrastructure, energy, and deep tech startups, reflecting a shift in investment focus.
Together AI secures $800M Series C, valued at $8.3B
Together AI raised $800 million in Series C funding, reaching an $8.3 billion valuation. The investment reflects the growing demand for AI infrastructure and open-source solutions.
Lime raises $167 million in IPO, valued at $1.66 billion
Lime has raised $167 million in its IPO, marking its transition to a public company with a valuation of approximately $1.66 billion. This funding is crucial for addressing significant financial liabilities, as Lime navigates a challenging micromobility market.
Honda starts battery production for energy storage, shifts focus from EVs
Honda has commenced battery production for energy storage systems as it pivots from its EV strategy in the U.S. This shift responds to dwindling EV demand due to the cancellation of tax credits, marking Honda's entry into the expanding energy storage market, which is expected to triple by the decade's end.
Humble Robotics emerges in autonomous freight vehicle space with $24 million funding
Humble Robotics, founded by Eyal Cohen, has raised $24 million to develop fully autonomous freight haulers. The company marks a resurgence in interest and investment in autonomous vehicles, reminiscent of the 2016 hype cycle.