Here’s a summary of the notable events in the tech world covered in the latest edition of TechCrunch’s Week in Review (WiR):
- Google’s AI Model Gemini: Google unveiled its new AI model, Gemini, claiming it can understand text, images, audio, and videos. However, Google faced criticism for faking a demo of Gemini and distributing offensive notebooks to Black Summit attendees.
- Anduril’s Roadrunner: Defense startup Anduril, co-founded by Palmer Luckey, revealed Roadrunner, a modular autonomous vertical take-off and landing air vehicle designed to counter aerial threats.
- 23andMe Hack Fallout: The fallout continues from the 23andMe hack, with the company initially disclosing that 14,000 customers were affected. However, it was later revealed that 6.9 million people had their data exposed.
- Grand Theft Auto VI Trailer: The Grand Theft Auto VI trailer garnered 85 million views in 22 hours, setting a record for YouTube views in 24 hours. The excitement for the game is significant, given the success of its predecessor, Grand Theft Auto V.
- Patient Records Leak: Security weaknesses in the DICOM standard used for storing medical images led to the exposure of patient records and health information on thousands of servers.
- Meta’s AI Image Generator: Meta launched Imagine with Meta AI, an AI-powered image generator allowing users to create images by describing them in natural language.
- Spotify Job Cuts: Spotify announced the elimination of 1,500 jobs, around 17% of its workforce, as part of its efforts to become more productive and efficient.
- TuSimple’s U.S. Exit: Self-driving truck startup TuSimple is exiting the U.S., laying off the majority of its U.S. workforce and selling assets after internal controversies and the loss of a critical partnership.
- ZestMoney Shutdown: Indian buy now, pay later startup ZestMoney is shutting down after unsuccessful attempts to find a buyer.
- TechCrunch Podcasts: The TechCrunch podcast lineup covers topics such as the creator economy, MasterClass, and the journey of David Pakman, managing partner at CoinFund.
- TechCrunch+ Highlights: TechCrunch+ subscribers gain access to in-depth commentary, analysis, and surveys. Featured pieces include insights into Bitcoin’s surge and the potential impact of consumer EV battery swapping.
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