Tech News Roundup
Apps
- Google: Google acquired Two Dots game developer Playdots for $192 million. The company spun out from Betaworks in 2014 and is known for games like Dots, Two Dots, and Dots & Co.
- Samsung: Samsung is bringing its promise of at least 3 Android updates to low-end phones, enhancing device customization for users.
- Robinhood: Robinhood raised $200 million more at a $11.2 billion valuation. The company has raised capital multiple times this year, including an initial $280 million round at an $8.3 billion valuation and a later $320 million addition that brought its valuation to $8.6 billion.
- Reface (formerly Reface): A pure tech app that powers AI-powered deep fake face-swapping technology. It is accessible for developers, though opinions on its impact remain divided.
Media & Entertainment
- TikTok: Meta has agreed to cut roughly 5% of its workforce based on performance as part of its efforts to adapt to changes in the company’s business strategy.
- Take-Two Interactive: Take-Two acquired Two Dots, a developer known for games like Dots, Two Dots, and Dots & Co.
Consumer News
- Sarah Perez: Sarah has worked as a reporter for TechCrunch since 2011 and previously covered I.T. across various industries.
- AI: OpenAI’s AI reasoning model is sometimes seen thinking in Chinese, though the reason remains unclear.
Funding & Acquisitions
- Meta: Meta announced its intention to cut roughly 5% of its workforce based on performance as part of its ongoing restructuring efforts.
- TikTok: TikTok users’ attempts to migrate to Chinese app RedNote are not going well, indicating challenges in adapting to a new platform.
Tech Innovations
- Apple & Israel: Apple acquired Israel-based AR and camera tech specialist Camerai. The deal was announced quietly between 2018 and 2019 but has now been discovered.
- Robinhood: Robinhood raised $200 million more at a $11.2 billion valuation, following prior funding rounds.
Global Tech Moves
- Samsung: Samsung is bringing its Android update promise to low-end phones globally, enhancing device customization options for users.
- Reface: A pure tech app powers AI deep fake face-swapping technology, accessible for developers but with uncertain impact.
This roundup highlights the latest developments across various sectors, from consumer media trends to significant tech acquisitions and funding rounds.
