Tech News Roundup: April 15, 2021

A fresh perspective on our evolving planet is now available through Google Earth, while Facebook is experimenting with new tools for business discovery. Additionally, Autodesk has announced the acquisition of Upchain. This summarizes the key updates in today’s Daily Crunch.

Google Earth Receives Major Update

Google Earth has undergone its most significant update since 2017. The primary addition is a new time-lapse feature, compiling satellite imagery spanning the last 37 years into a dynamic 3D experience.

This feature isn’t merely visually appealing; it provides a powerful means of observing the effects of climate change on the Earth. Google Earth now includes guided tours focusing on areas like forest alteration, urban expansion, and rising temperatures.

Updates from Tech Giants

Facebook is initiating tests of new business discovery features within the US News Feed. Users will have the ability to interact with topics of interest found beneath posts and advertisements.

This interaction will allow users to explore related content originating from various businesses.

Autodesk has completed the acquisition of Upchain, a Toronto-based startup specializing in cloud-based product lifecycle management solutions.

Concerns regarding a potential ‘Instagram for Kids’ platform have prompted a petition from consumer groups and child development experts. The Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood spearheaded the letter urging Facebook to abandon the project.

Startup Funding and Venture Capital News

Polestar has secured $500 million in funding from external investors, reflecting the growth within the electric vehicle market. This marks the first external funding round for Volvo Car Group’s electric performance brand.

Brazilian e-commerce startup Olist has received $23 million in funding led by Goldman Sachs. Olist facilitates connections between small businesses and larger online marketplaces.

Substack has announced a $1 million initiative dedicated to supporting local journalists. The newsletter platform will provide funding to independent writers focused on local news coverage.

Extra Crunch Insights

Coinbase’s direct listing is reshaping the landscape for fintech and cryptocurrency startups. According to Alex Wilhelm, the company’s valuation exceeding $100 billion on its first trading day was a landmark event.

Cloud-first enterprise technology companies demonstrate substantial potential for reaching billion-dollar annual recurring revenue (ARR). Dharmesh Thakker of Battery Ventures highlights the emergence of a new class of these businesses.

Ensuring compliance with CCPA and GDPR is crucial for startups in 2021. Proactive implementation of robust data management practices is essential to avoid legal issues.

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Additional News

Billionaire Dan Gilbert, a Detroit native, advocates for the revitalization of his hometown. The Quicken Loans founder has invested at least $2.5 billion in restoring buildings within the city center.

The feasibility of a return for tech trade shows in 2021 remains uncertain. IFA plans a full-scale event in Berlin this September, while MWC has experienced cancellations from major exhibitors.

Garry Kasparov has launched a community-focused chess platform, Kasparovchess. The platform will allow renowned chess players to share expertise with players of all skill levels.

The Daily Crunch is TechCrunch’s daily compilation of the most significant stories. Subscribe here to receive it in your inbox around 3pm Pacific time.