Apple AirTags First Impressions

Tech News Roundup: April 22, 2021

This is a summary of the day’s key technology news, covering Apple’s new AirTags, updates from Google Fi and Facebook, and developments in the startup world. It’s your Daily Crunch for April 22, 2021.

Apple’s AirTags: Initial Assessment

Apple has introduced AirTags, a new product designed to compete with Tile and assist users in locating misplaced items. These devices utilize Bluetooth technology to signal their location to nearby devices running iOS 14.5 or a later version.

Initial testing by Matthew Panzarino indicated that locating an AirTag can require up to 30 seconds. However, once pinpointed, Apple’s directional guidance proved to be remarkably precise, accurate to within just a few inches.

Mr. Panzarino also had the opportunity to examine the new purple iPhone, expressing considerable enthusiasm for the device.

Updates from Tech Industry Leaders

Google Fi is celebrating its 6th anniversary with the launch of a new unlimited data plan. The “Simply Unlimited” plan is available starting at $60 per month for a single user.

During a recent Senate antitrust hearing, Apple faced questioning regarding its handling of fraudulent activity within the App Store. Concerns were raised about the company’s effectiveness in preventing subscription scams.

Facebook is currently testing new topic targeting options for its in-stream video advertisements. The platform reports that 2 billion users watch videos eligible for these ads each month.

Startup Funding and Venture Capital Activity

CoinSwitch Kuber, an Indian cryptocurrency startup, has received backing from Tiger Global, achieving a valuation exceeding $500 million. The platform caters to younger investors in India seeking to engage with cryptocurrencies.

Universal Hydrogen has secured $20.5 million in Series A funding to advance the development of hydrogen-powered aviation. The company is focused on creating hydrogen storage solutions and conversion kits for commercial aircraft.

Outlier.org, co-founded by a MasterClass creator, has raised $30 million to provide affordable, online college courses. Similar to MasterClass in its production quality, Outlier.org distinguishes itself by offering courses that grant students actual college credit.

Insights from Extra Crunch

Venture capitalists are adapting their due diligence processes to accommodate the accelerated pace of deal-making. The timeframe for evaluating startups and completing due diligence has been significantly compressed.

Several emerging applications for productivity infrastructure are gaining prominence in 2021. These include cloud communications, API platforms, low-code development tools, business process automation, and AI software development kits, all of which experienced substantial growth in 2020.

Outsourcing customer care can be a valuable strategy for startups aiming to deliver exceptional 24/7 support. While round-the-clock service may not be universally demanded, it is increasingly expected by clients.

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Additional News

Polaroid has unveiled a remarkably small new instant camera, the Polaroid Go, which the company claims is the world’s smallest analog instant camera.

Miriam Vogel of EqualAI argues that the Biden administration must prioritize AI development initiatives to ensure inclusivity. Unchecked, AI tools can inadvertently reinforce existing inequalities.

Alexa von Tobel will serve as a judge for the Startup Battlefield at Disrupt 2021. Applications are now being accepted for the Battlefield competition.

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