TechCrunch Daily Crunch

Spotify introduces an exciting new feature that tracks how many times people listen to podcast episodes, aiming to enhance user engagement. Instacart launches Fizz, a fun app that makes ordering drinks and snacks for parties easier than ever. Meanwhile, Google unveils the advanced Gemini 2.5 Pro AI model. Innovative startups are shaking up news consumption with an AI-driven newsreader and a unique e-signature platform that offers free signatures. Plenty of buzz in the tech world this week!

OpenAI is keeping its nonprofit division in charge of its business, despite earlier ideas of going fully for-profit. Meanwhile, Google is venturing into the entertainment world with initiatives to promote technology in a positive light for younger audiences. YouTube is also introducing a unique couple's premium subscription tier, showcasing how tech giants are innovating to engage users and elevate their platforms.

Plus, Apple changes US App Store rules to let apps link to external payment systems. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Plus - Nvidia takes aim at Anthropic’s support of chip export controls; Google is reportedly showing ads in chats with some third-party AI chatbots Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Plus - Duolingo launches 148 courses created with AI after sharing plans to replace contractors with AI; Wikipedia says it will use AI, but not to replace human volunteers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Plus - Meta launches a stand-alone AI app to compete with ChatGPT; Yelp debuts AI voice agents for restaurants and service providers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Discover the latest upgrades in OpenAI's ChatGPT, now enhanced with unique online shopping features. Learn about Glacier, a startup revolutionizing waste management with robotic recycling technology. Dive into major tech news as Google gears up for an AI-focused event for Android updates. IBM makes waves with a commitment to invest $150 billion in U.S. tech to create jobs and reinforce its AI competitiveness. Stay informed on these groundbreaking developments in the tech world!

Explore the rapid growth of Google's AI search features and their rising user engagement. Dive into the challenges faced by a Canadian AI researcher navigating immigration hurdles. Discover an innovative EV startup backed by Bezos, debuting an analog pickup that takes a stand against Tesla. This startup's unique vehicle design allows for conversion between a two-seater pickup and a five-seater SUV, all while emphasizing affordability. Plus, learn about Manus AI's recent funding success aimed at expanding their international reach.

Discover Spotify's exciting expansion as it rolls out its AI playlist feature to 40 new markets, enhancing personalized music experiences. Dive into the thought-provoking study on 'model welfare,' where experts examine the moral implications of AI potentially experiencing distress. The discussion challenges the notion of AI emotions and showcases the current technological limits. Additionally, catch up on innovative startups like WindSurf, Repair Carbon, and Red Bear, pushing boundaries in AI coding, carbon capture, and fundraising.

YouTube is revamping its TV app with exciting features, including an AI-generated music station to enhance user experience. Meanwhile, the DOJ is examining Disney's acquisition of FuboTV, raising competition concerns in the streaming industry. On the tech front, Google's AI chatbot, Gemini, has skyrocketed to 350 million monthly users. Additionally, innovative startups like Superpower are pushing health management boundaries, while Cluely introduces an AI tool that stirs ethical debates about academic integrity.