Waymo is expanding its robotaxi service, while other companies are leveraging AI in different sectors, including energy and finance. Additionally, the social media platform Bluesky is rolling out a new feature, and YouTuber MrBeast has acquired a banking app. These developments highlight the diverse ways technology is evolving, according to recent reports.
Waymo, the Alphabet-owned company, removed human safety drivers from its autonomous test vehicles in Nashville, Tennessee, as it moves closer to launching a robotaxi service in the city, according to TechCrunch. The service is slated to launch this year in partnership with Lyft. Riders will initially hail rides directly through the Waymo app, with the option to use the Lyft app as the service expands. Lyft will handle fleet services, such as vehicle maintenance and charging infrastructure. Waymo currently operates commercial services in Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, Miami, and the San Francisco Bay Area, as reported by TechCrunch.
In the energy sector, London-based startup Tem secured $75 million in a Series B funding round led by Lightspeed Venture Partners, as reported by TechCrunch. Tem utilizes AI to optimize energy transactions, aiming to cut prices for its customers. The company has signed up over 2,600 business customers in the U.K., promising savings of up to 30% on their energy bills. The funding round values Tem at over $300 million, according to a source familiar with the deal. Tem plans to use the funds to further develop its AI-driven energy platform.
Meanwhile, the social network Bluesky is introducing drafts, a feature long requested by its users, according to TechCrunch. Users can access drafts by opening the new post flow and selecting the Drafts button. The company also plans to improve its algorithmic Discover feed, offer better recommendations, and make the app feel more real-time. Bluesky acknowledged it still needs to focus on the basics, according to the report.
In the financial sector, YouTuber Jimmy "MrBeast" Donaldson's Beast Industries acquired Step, a banking app designed for teens and young adults, as reported by The Verge. The acquisition follows Donaldson's announcement of plans to launch a new YouTube channel focused on personal finance and investing. Donaldson's main channel has 466 million subscribers.
These developments highlight the increasing influence of AI and technology across various industries. However, a study published in the Harvard Business Review suggests that companies may face burnout risks as they increasingly rely on AI to enhance productivity, as reported by TechCrunch. The study's findings indicate that the promise of AI saving workers from their jobs may not fully materialize, potentially leading to increased workloads and stress.
Discussion
AI Experts & Community
Be the first to comment