technology
Threads adds new communities, tests badges for highly engaged members
Threads, which has more than 150 million daily active users, adds more communities to its platform. Source link
Lidar-maker Luminar files for bankruptcy
The filing marks the end of a tumultuous year full of layoffs, executive departures, and piling debts. Source link
Zoom brings its AI assistant to the web with access to free users
Zoom is allowing free users to try its AI assistant in limited capacity Source link
Netflix responds to concerns about WBD deal
Industry concerns over Netflix acquiring Warner Bros has led executives to address fears regarding jobs and theatrical releases. Source link
Facebook Messenger’s desktop app is no more
The app remains usable via the web, Facebook app, and through the mobile app for iOS and Android. Source link
Tesla starts testing robotaxis in Austin with no safety driver
It’s one of the last big steps before the company can truly claim it’s operating a robotaxi service, and start to take on Waymo. Source link
Snapchat rolls out its end-of-year Recaps
The Recap is a short video that offers a personalized look at highlights from Snaps, Stories, and Chats, showing how users connected and expressed themselves throughout the year. Source link
First Voyage raises $2.5M for its AI companion helps you build habits
First Voyage has raised $2.5 million in a seed funding round from a16z speed run, SignalFire, True Global, and other investors. Source link
Thea Energy previews Helios, its pixel-inspired fusion power plant
Thea Energy says that its planar-coil fusion power plant could be cheaper and easier to build thanks to AI-powered control software. Source link
Mirelo raises $41M from Index and a16z to solve AI video’s silent problem
Mirelo, a German startup that is building AI to add synced sound effects to videos, has raised a $41 million seed round led by Index Ventures and Andreessen Horowitz. Source link