The “Copy-from-China” social media app Lemon8 has soared to the top of the US app store charts thanks to its unique and entertaining concept that has taken the digital world by storm. Friends can create and share posts or slideshows that can be customized to their liking. These creations can be saved to the app and shared on other social media networks.
Anthropic, a $5 billion four-year plan, is making a move to challenge the dominance of OpenAI. An impressive team and vast network of investors have gotten behind the goal of Anthropic to create an edge over OpenAI. A detailed pitch deck reveals an impressive business model that could make Anthropic a leading AI company in the near future.
VCs have flocked to resale platforms, funnelling $6 billion in funds last year following Etsy going public in 2015. This surge in interest and funds has been brought about by Gen Z and their commitment to providing sustainable shopping habits. Brian Schwarzbach of Cathay Innovation explores three major recommerce areas that have increased in VC funding with food for thought for those leading the charge in this expanding market.
TechCrunch+ is also offering a membership program, providing a chance for founders and startup teams (with a 15% discount when using ‘DC’ code) to stay ahead of the curve.
Standing out from the competition was the Indian Reserve Bank’s plans for New Umbrella Entity, a rival to the nation’s existing payment system. Much traction and attention was gained as firms and financial institutions put-in bids early in 2021 for the prospect of taking this on. However, although there were big plans, the Reserve Bank failed to find that something special to hook investors.
Last on the roundup is one of Apple’s somewhat quirky patents. The tiny iPod platform, that can play music, videos and books, is being proposed as an alternative to needing a smartphone or smartwatch. With its small size, it will be interesting to see how users work around the lack of size when reading books.
No matter, Apple’s forward-thinking is something to watch as we come towards the end of the week. Unabated by hindrances, the tech sphere continues to captivate us with a little something for everyone.
