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Listen to articles handpicked by our editors, and stay updated on top technology news from TechCrunch.
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Jan 27, 2026 • 6min
Science fiction writers, Comic-Con say goodbye to AI; plus, ChatGPT is pulling answers from Elon Musk’s Grokipedia
Writers and creators are pushing back on generative AI, with new rules disqualifying AI-assisted fiction and Comic-Con banning AI-made art. Debate heats up over what counts as AI use in creative tools. Separately, AI models are citing content from Elon Musk’s Grokipedia, raising concerns about source quality and accuracy.

Jan 26, 2026 • 7min
What to know about Netflix’s landmark acquisition of Warner Bros.
A deep dive into Netflix’s blockbuster purchase of Warner Bros. assets and how the deal was structured. Discussion of why Warner Bros. Discovery pursued a sale and the competitive bidding that followed. Coverage of regulatory scrutiny, potential consumer impacts, and the industry and creator reactions. Notes on theatrical release plans, subscriber expectations, and the deal timeline.

Jan 26, 2026 • 8min
TikTok users freak out over app’s ‘immigration status’ collection — here’s what it means
A privacy alert in-app triggers user alarm over a mention of immigration status. The show breaks down which sensitive data categories the policy lists and why the wording is tied to state privacy laws. Lawyers explain why the disclosure predates ownership changes and how legal motives shape alarming language.

Jan 23, 2026 • 6min
Tesla discontinues Autopilot in bid to boost adoption of its FSD software; plus, GM will end Chevy Bolt EV production next year
Tesla drops the Autopilot name and pivots customers toward paid Full Self-Driving subscriptions, amid regulatory scrutiny in California. Pricing strategy shifts from a one-time fee to subscription plans. General Motors will wind down Chevy Bolt EV production and reshuffle factories as tariffs and tax-credit changes reshape EV manufacturing.

Jan 23, 2026 • 8min
Are AI agents ready for the workplace? A new benchmark raises doubts.; plus, Ring is adding a new content verification feature
New research reveals that leading AI models struggle with complex white-collar tasks like consulting and law, with many failing to meet essential benchmarks. The top performers, including Gemini 3 Flash and GPT-5.2, achieve only around 24% accuracy. Meanwhile, Ring is introducing a new feature that will detect any edits made to shared videos, enhancing transparency for users. However, limitations like encryption issues highlight the challenges of this verification method.

Jan 22, 2026 • 7min
Google DeepMind CEO ‘surprised’ OpenAI is rushing forward with ads in ChatGPT; plus Substack launched a TV app
Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, reveals there's no pressure to introduce ads in AI chatbots, contrasting with OpenAI's plans to test ads for non-subscribers. He raises concerns about trust in chatbot interactions. Meanwhile, Substack launches a TV app to compete with platforms like YouTube, diving into video and livestreaming. However, some writers worry about a shift from long-form content as the focus expands to video.

Jan 22, 2026 • 7min
An interactive AI-powered learning app for kids; plus, Apple is reportedly developing an AI wearable
Big tech and startups are exploring generative AI to create engaging software for children, with interactive learning experiences that go beyond text and voice. Sparkly, a new app, focuses on crucial skills like design and financial literacy, utilizing AI to serve up quick lessons and fun quizzes. Meanwhile, Apple's rumored AI wearable could debut by 2027, featuring innovative design and cutting-edge technology, entering a competitive market filled with ambitious projects. Will they succeed where others have stumbled?

Jan 21, 2026 • 8min
Zanskar thinks 1 TW of geothermal power is being overlooked; plus, consumers spent more on mobile apps than games in 2025
Zanskar has secured $115 million to explore geothermal resources in the U.S. West, advocating for its undervalued potential. Their innovative use of AI for locating sites has revived projects, showcasing the impact of supervised machine learning. Meanwhile, in 2025, mobile app spending has outpaced gaming, largely fueled by the surge in AI apps, with in-app purchases and downloads skyrocketing. Major players like Google and Microsoft are reshaping the AI app market, leading to dynamic shifts in consumer engagement.

9 snips
Jan 21, 2026 • 9min
Well, there goes the metaverse!
The podcast dives into Meta's retreat from the metaverse, highlighting significant layoffs and the shutdown of VR studios. It discusses Meta's costly gamble on VR, with losses topping $73 billion. There's a look at public apathy towards early metaverse products and declining headset sales. Additionally, the conversation shifts towards Meta's new focus on AI and Ray-Ban smart glasses, revealing a strategic pivot as consumer demand evolves. Safety concerns in Horizon Worlds and the unpopular high fees for creators are also explored.

Jan 20, 2026 • 7min
Netflix is rolling out a live voting feature; SpaceX didn’t properly inspect crane before collapse
Netflix is launching a global live voting feature, allowing viewers to influence shows like Star Search with real-time polling. This move enhances interactivity between TV and mobile devices, reshaping viewer experiences. Meanwhile, SpaceX faces significant fines from OSHA for serious safety violations, including failing to inspect a hydraulic crane before its collapse. The discussion highlights ongoing concerns about safety standards and injury rates at SpaceX, raising questions about their operational practices.


