WhatsApp Privacy Backlash: Daily Crunch

WhatsApp has postponed the implementation of a debated privacy update, Apple is reportedly considering removing the Touch Bar from upcoming MacBooks, and Bumble has submitted its initial public offering (IPO) documents. This is your Daily Crunch for January 15, 2021.

Key news: WhatsApp addresses privacy concerns

Earlier in the month, WhatsApp informed its users about the need to approve the sharing of certain personal information—including phone numbers and location data—with its parent company, Facebook. The notification also stated that acceptance of these terms was required by February 8th for continued app usage.

This change resulted in potential legal challenges and prompted an inquiry by the Turkish government. The company has now decided to extend the enforcement date by three months.

“We will not suspend or delete any accounts on February 8th. We are also committed to providing further clarification regarding how privacy and security function within WhatsApp,” the company stated in a recent announcement. “We will then provide users with the opportunity to review the policy at their own convenience before new features become available on May 15th.”

Major technology companies

Uber is planning to separate Postmates’ delivery robotics division — Postmates X is actively seeking investment to operate as an independent entity.

Reports suggest Apple is developing new 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring MagSafe charging and Apple-designed processors — This development may signal the discontinuation of the Touch Bar.

Amazon has unveiled a new product enabling businesses to create customized Alexa assistants for automobiles, applications, and video games — This means future vehicles could potentially incorporate multiple Alexa integrations.

Startups, financing, and venture capital

Bumble has filed for an initial public offering — The company intends to list on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the ticker symbol “BMBL.”

Tracy Chou has launched Block Party to address online harassment and abusive behavior — Currently supporting Twitter, Block Party allows users to filter unwanted content.

Everlywell secured $75 million in funding from HealthQuest Capital, following a recent $175 million Series D investment round — Everlywell specializes in at-home testing kits for various health conditions, and introduced a COVID-19 home collection kit last year.

Insights and analysis from Extra Crunch

A guide to fundraising for a new venture capital or private equity fund in fifteen steps — Establishing a fund is straightforward; securing funding presents a greater challenge.

Observations from Top Hat’s series of acquisitions — The purchase of Fountainhead Press represents Top Hat’s third acquisition of a publishing company within the last year.

Twilio CEO Jeff Lawson emphasizes the importance of empowering developers — Key insights from Lawson’s book, “Ask Your Developer.”

(Extra Crunch is our subscription service dedicated to providing accessible information about startups. You can find more details and sign up here.)

Other news

Spending on video games rose by 27% in 2020 — According to the latest data from NPD, spending on gaming hardware, software, and accessories increased by 25% in December and 27% overall for the year.

The DOT assessed 11 alternatives to GPS and identified only one that performed reliably across different applications — The government aims to enhance redundancy and resilience within this critical sector.

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