TechCrunch Startup News Jest is challenging the app store status quo; plus, Self-driving truck startup Einride raises $113M PIPE
Feb 26, 2026
A new messaging-game marketplace aims to bypass app stores by delivering instant, link-based web games through RCS and iOS 18 support. The startup touts rapid early traction, a novel revenue split for developers, and plans for international rollouts. A self-driving truck company announces an oversubscribed $113M PIPE ahead of a SPAC merger to fund global autonomous and electric deployments.
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Messaging Inbox As The New App Store
- Messaging inboxes can replace app stores as the primary mobile gaming distribution channel.
- Jest uses RCS and browser-launched games to let users tap a link in chat and play without visiting an app store, aiming at stickier engagement.
Higher Retention And Lower Acquisition Costs
- Jest reports much higher early retention and lower acquisition costs than traditional mobile apps.
- In four months of beta they saw over one million plays, 300,000 messages exchanged, and 30–60% lower user acquisition costs for partners.
90 10 Revenue Split And Network Monetization
- Jest offers a developer-first revenue split to challenge app store fees.
- The platform takes 10% while developers keep 90%, and a 70/20/10 revenue-sharing model splits gains between monetizers, acquirers, and Jest.