Uber Adds Vaccine Booking

Tech News Roundup: April 28, 2021

Significant developments occurred across the tech landscape today, including new features from Uber, a laptop release by Samsung, and Zomato’s filing for an initial public offering. This summary details the key events.

Uber's New Features and Focus

Uber has introduced six new functionalities. Among these is a feature allowing users to schedule vaccine appointments at Walgreens and subsequently book a ride to the location.

Additional enhancements include a valet service for rental car returns, reserved rides at airports, and the convenience of food pickup during existing rides. According to CPO Sundeep Jain, these updates reflect the company’s primary objective over the past year: facilitating user mobility and access to services.

Updates from Tech Giants

Samsung has unveiled its latest flagship laptop line, the Galaxy Book Pro. These Windows-based devices aim to further integrate the productivity capabilities of Samsung’s PC and mobile ecosystems.

Facebook temporarily suppressed posts containing the hashtag “ResignModi” in India. A company spokesperson confirmed that these posts have since been reinstated.

Netflix has globally launched its ‘Play Something’ feature, previously known as Shuffle. This is designed to simplify content discovery for users experiencing decision fatigue.

Startup Funding and Acquisitions

Alchemy secured $80 million in funding, achieving a valuation of $505 million. The company positions itself as a foundational technology provider for the blockchain sector.

MessageBird expanded its capabilities through the acquisition of SparkPost for $600 million, utilizing an extension of its $800 million Series C funding round. This acquisition strengthens MessageBird’s presence in the U.S. market.

Splitwise raised $20 million in a Series A funding round. The company’s goal is to streamline expense sharing and alleviate financial stress in personal relationships.

Analysis and Insights

Zomato’s planned IPO in India has the potential to stimulate increased liquidity within the regional startup ecosystem.

The latest installment of “Dear Sophie” addresses current developments regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

Apex Group’s Georges Archibald contends that utilizing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) data can provide valuable insights for fund managers.

Other Notable News

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is scheduled to return to Las Vegas in 2022, with approximately 1,000 companies already committed to participation.

Entrepreneurs and investors in India are actively mobilizing resources to support the nation’s fight against COVID-19. Opportunities for public contribution are available.

Porsche is promoting the all-electric Taycan 4 Cross Turismo, a wagon variant offering a combination of practicality, performance, and a price point under $100,000.

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