Tech News Roundup: March 3, 2021

Recent developments include Google’s commitment to privacy-focused advertising, Okta’s acquisition of Auth0, and significant funding for a startup developing “flying taxis.” This summarizes the key updates from today’s tech landscape.

Google Prioritizes User Privacy in Ad Targeting

Google has reaffirmed its dedication to privacy-friendly advertising methods. The company previously announced the eventual removal of support for third-party cookies in its Chrome browser.

Furthermore, Google declared it will refrain from creating alternative identifiers to track users across the web, and will not integrate such identifiers into its own products. This decision signifies a substantial shift in approach.

David Temkin of Google explained in a blog post that alternative tracking methods are unlikely to align with evolving consumer privacy expectations or withstand increasing regulatory scrutiny. He highlighted Google’s Federated Learning of Cohorts as a more sustainable solution.

Major Tech Company Updates

Okta has completed the acquisition of Auth0, a cloud identity startup, for a reported $6.5 billion. This acquisition expands Okta’s capabilities in cloud identity management for developers.

Netflix has launched ‘Fast Laughs,’ a new feature resembling TikTok, offering a feed of short, humorous video clips. Users can react, share, and add content to their watchlists directly from this feature.

Facebook’s Oversight Board has expressed some frustration with the limited options available to them, even before ruling on the ongoing ban of former President Trump. A board member noted the need for more nuanced decision-making capabilities.

Startup Funding and Venture Capital Activity

Volocopter, a startup focused on developing “flying taxis,” has secured an additional $241 million in funding. The company anticipates launching its service within the next two years.

Identiq, a startup specializing in privacy-focused fraud prevention, has raised $47 million in a Series A funding round. Their approach avoids sharing customer data with third parties, prioritizing user privacy.

CourseKey, experiencing 200% Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) growth in 2020, has raised $9 million to further digitize trade schools. The platform supports organizations training essential workers.

Insights from Extra Crunch

Eliminating specific words and phrases from your venture capital pitch deck can significantly improve its impact. Investors typically spend only around 170 seconds reviewing a pitch deck.

Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and creating a comprehensive handbook can streamline the onboarding process for remote employees. Current systems often lag behind the needs of a remote workforce.

An initial analysis of AppLovin’s IPO filing reveals a rapidly growing company that has successfully scaled its adjusted profit alongside revenue growth.

(Extra Crunch is a membership program designed to assist founders and startup teams. Sign-ups are available here.)

Additional News

Innovative cable technology may enable soft robots to transition into more rigid structures. This development represents a significant advancement in the field of soft robotics.

The latest “Dear Sophie” column addresses common questions regarding the H-1B visa process and E-3 premium processing. This resource provides guidance on immigration-related matters for tech professionals.

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