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Category: Tech News

  • Pocket Closure: Discover the Best Read-it-Later

    Pocket Closure: Discover the Best Read-it-Later

    Pocket’s End: Find Your Next Read-it-Later App

    Pocket Shutting Down? Top Read-it-Later Alternatives

    Mozilla announced that it will shut down the popular read-it-later app, Pocket, on July 8, 2025. After this date, users will no longer be able to save new content to the app. From July 8 through October 8, Pocket will operate in an export-only mode, allowing users to retrieve and save their previously stored articles, highlights, notes, and archives before the service is fully shut down. The Economic Times

    If you’re searching for alternatives, consider the following options:

    • Instapaper: A long-standing favorite offering a clean reading experience with features like full-text search and Kindle integration.
    • Raindrop.io: A versatile tool that combines bookmarking with read-it-later capabilities, supporting various formats and collaborative features.
    • Matter: An iOS-exclusive app focusing on a distraction-free reading environment, ideal for long-form content.
    • Wallabag: An open-source, self–hostable solution for tech-savvy users, allowing extensive customization through rule-based tagging.
    • Recall: An AI-powered read-it-later app that offers intelligent organization and advanced knowledge management features.

    Each of these alternatives offers unique features to cater to different reading habits and preferences. Explore them to find the one that best fits your needs.

    Top Alternatives to Pocket

    Here are some excellent alternatives that offer similar or even enhanced features compared to Pocket:

    1. Instapaper

    Instapaper is a clean and simple read-it-later service. Many consider it a direct competitor to Pocket, focusing on readability and ease of use. You can save articles, highlight text, and take notes. Check out Instapaper for distraction-free reading.

    • Clean interface
    • Text highlighting
    • Note-taking capabilities

    2. Matter

    Matter stands out with its focus on newsletters and social media content. It also allows you to highlight, annotate, and share your favorite passages. Matter focuses on building a community around reading. Discover Matter’s features today.

    • Newsletter integration
    • Social media saving
    • Community features

    3. Raindrop.io

    Raindrop.io is not just a read-it-later app; it’s a full-fledged bookmark manager. It allows you to organize your saved links with tags and collections, making it perfect for research and organization. Explore Raindrop.io to keep everything tidy.

    • Bookmark management
    • Tagging and collections
    • Organization tools

    4. Evernote Web Clipper

    While Evernote is primarily a note-taking app, its Web Clipper extension works as a great read-it-later tool. You can clip articles and save them directly into your Evernote notebooks for easy access. Learn more about Evernote Web Clipper for seamless saving.

    • Integration with Evernote
    • Note-taking within articles
    • Organization within notebooks

    5. Omnivore

    Omnivore is an open-source, privacy-focused read-it-later solution. This allows you to self-host your instance, giving you complete control over your data. Explore Omnivore for secure reading.

    • Open-source
    • Privacy-focused
    • Self-hosting option
  • Starship’s Test Flight: SpaceX Launch Ends in Spin

    Starship’s Test Flight: SpaceX Launch Ends in Spin

    SpaceX’s Starship Test Flight: Launch and Unexpected Spin

    SpaceX recently conducted the ninth test flight of its Starship prototype. The launch aimed to gather critical data on the vehicle’s performance, but the flight concluded with an unexpected spin during descent.

    The Launch Phase

    The Starship took off successfully, initiating its ascent into the upper atmosphere. Engineers monitored every aspect of the initial flight phase, collecting data on engine performance and aerodynamic behavior. SpaceX aimed to achieve key milestones, building on insights from previous test flights. They hoped to improve their understanding of the vehicle’s capabilities.

    The Descent and Spin

    As the Starship began its descent, an unexpected issue arose. The vehicle entered a spin, deviating from its planned trajectory. Engineers are currently analyzing the data to determine the cause of the spin and to prevent similar occurrences in future flights. Failures like these are part of an iterative process, refining the design through real-world testing. SpaceX consistently emphasizes the value of learning from both successes and setbacks.

    Analyzing the Data

    SpaceX engineers are meticulously reviewing telemetry data from the flight. This analysis is crucial for identifying potential design flaws or operational issues that contributed to the spin. They focus on control surfaces, engine gimbaling, and overall stability during atmospheric re-entry. The data review informs necessary adjustments to future Starship iterations, advancing the development program. SpaceX is committed to rigorous testing and data analysis to achieve a reliable and reusable space transportation system. For more insights into SpaceX’s mission, you can visit the SpaceX official website.

    Future Implications

    Despite the unexpected spin, the test flight provided valuable data. SpaceX incorporates these findings into its ongoing development program. Each test flight, regardless of outcome, moves the company closer to its goal of creating a fully reusable spacecraft. Starship represents a crucial component of SpaceX’s ambitious plans for lunar and Martian missions.

  • Humain Plans $10B Fund for Startup Investments

    Humain Plans $10B Fund for Startup Investments

    Humain’s $10B VC Fund to Back US, European, Asian Startups

    Humain is gearing up to launch a substantial $10 billion venture capital fund. The fund aims to fuel innovation by investing in promising startups across the United States, Europe, and Asia.

    Geographic Investment Focus

    The new fund demonstrates Humain’s commitment to fostering global technological advancements. With a focus on startups in the US, Europe, and Asia, Humain seeks to tap into diverse markets and support emerging tech hubs. This strategic geographic diversification allows them to access a broader range of innovative ideas and investment opportunities.

    Investment Sectors

    While specific investment sectors remain undisclosed, venture capital firms like Humain typically target high-growth industries. These could include:

    • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
    • Biotechnology
    • Clean Energy
    • Fintech
    • Software as a Service (SaaS)

    Impact on the Startup Ecosystem

    A $10 billion fund represents a significant injection of capital into the startup ecosystem. This funding can enable startups to:

    • Scale their operations
    • Expand their teams
    • Develop new products and services
    • Enter new markets

    The availability of such substantial funding can also attract other investors and further stimulate innovation. This ultimately drives economic growth and job creation.

    Future Outlook

    The launch of Humain’s $10 billion VC fund signals a strong belief in the potential of startups to shape the future. By providing capital and support, Humain aims to help these companies achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the world. As the fund deploys capital, it will be interesting to observe which startups and sectors receive the most attention and how these investments perform over time.

  • Neuralink Secures $600M, Valuation Soars to $9B

    Neuralink Secures $600M, Valuation Soars to $9B

    Neuralink Raises $600M at $9B Valuation

    Elon Musk’s Neuralink has successfully raised $600 million in a recent funding round, pushing the company’s valuation to a staggering $9 billion. This significant investment underscores the growing interest and confidence in Neuralink’s ambitious plans to develop brain-machine interfaces (BMIs). The company aims to revolutionize how we interact with technology and address neurological conditions.

    What’s Driving the Investment?

    Several factors contribute to the substantial valuation and investment in Neuralink:

    • Innovative Technology: Neuralink is pioneering the development of high-bandwidth BMIs. This technology has the potential to treat a wide range of neurological disorders and enhance human capabilities.
    • Visionary Leadership: Elon Musk’s involvement brings considerable attention and credibility to the company. His track record of innovation in other sectors like electric vehicles (Tesla) and space exploration (SpaceX) inspires confidence among investors.
    • Market Potential: The market for BMIs is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by advancements in neuroscience and the increasing prevalence of neurological diseases.

    Neuralink’s Goals and Progress

    Neuralink focuses on creating devices that can be implanted in the human brain to interface directly with neurons. The company is working towards several key goals:

    • Treating Neurological Disorders: One of Neuralink’s primary objectives is to develop therapies for conditions such as paralysis, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.
    • Enhancing Human Capabilities: Beyond medical applications, Neuralink envisions a future where BMIs can augment human intelligence, memory, and communication abilities.
    • Human Trials: Neuralink has been conducting animal trials and is working towards initiating human trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of its technology.

    Challenges and Future Outlook

    Despite the excitement surrounding Neuralink, the company faces significant challenges:

    • Regulatory Hurdles: Developing and deploying BMIs requires navigating complex regulatory frameworks and obtaining approval from agencies like the FDA.
    • Technological Complexity: Creating reliable and biocompatible brain implants is a technically demanding endeavor. Ensuring long-term safety and efficacy is paramount.
    • Ethical Considerations: The development of BMIs raises ethical concerns about privacy, autonomy, and the potential for misuse.

    The recent funding round provides Neuralink with the resources to address these challenges and accelerate its research and development efforts. As the company progresses towards human trials, the world will be watching closely to see the impact of its groundbreaking technology.

  • Instacart Names Chris Rogers CEO: Leadership Shift

    Instacart Names Chris Rogers CEO: Leadership Shift

    Instacart Appoints Chris Rogers as New CEO

    Instacart has announced a significant leadership change, appointing Chris Rogers, formerly the chief business officer, as its new Chief Executive Officer. This move signals a new chapter for the grocery delivery giant as it navigates the evolving landscape of e-commerce and consumer behavior.

    Rogers’ Rise to the Top

    Chris Rogers’s promotion to CEO comes after a successful tenure as chief business officer. During this time, he spearheaded several key initiatives focused on expanding Instacart’s market presence and enhancing its partnerships with retailers. His deep understanding of the company’s operations and strategic vision makes him a natural fit for the role. Learn more about Instacart’s leadership on their official website.

    Strategic Vision for the Future

    As CEO, Rogers is expected to build on Instacart’s existing strengths while also exploring new avenues for growth. This includes leveraging technology to improve the customer experience, expanding into new markets, and strengthening relationships with retail partners. Industry analysts anticipate that Rogers will bring a renewed focus on innovation and efficiency to Instacart’s operations.

    The Evolving Grocery Delivery Market

    The grocery delivery market has experienced rapid growth in recent years, driven by changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Instacart has been at the forefront of this trend, connecting customers with a wide range of retailers and providing convenient delivery options. However, the market is becoming increasingly competitive, with new players entering the field and established companies expanding their online offerings. Rogers’ challenge will be to maintain Instacart’s leadership position in this dynamic environment. Find more insights on the grocery delivery market at Example Industry Report.

    Focus on Innovation and Partnerships

    Under Rogers’ leadership, Instacart is expected to prioritize innovation in areas such as personalized shopping experiences, faster delivery times, and enhanced product offerings. The company will also likely continue to forge strategic partnerships with retailers, technology providers, and other key players in the ecosystem. These partnerships will be crucial for expanding Instacart’s reach and enhancing its competitive advantage.

  • Samsung Eyes $100M Exo Investment: Medical Imaging

    Samsung Eyes $100M Exo Investment: Medical Imaging

    Samsung Considers $100M Investment in Exo

    Samsung is reportedly considering leading a $100 million investment round in Exo, a promising medical imaging startup. This move would signal Samsung’s growing interest in the healthcare technology sector and its commitment to innovation beyond consumer electronics.

    Exo’s Innovative Medical Imaging Technology

    Exo is developing handheld ultrasound devices and AI-powered diagnostic tools. Their technology aims to make medical imaging more accessible and affordable, potentially revolutionizing patient care. The company’s focus on point-of-care diagnostics aligns with the growing trend of personalized and proactive healthcare solutions.

    Potential Benefits for Samsung

    Investing in Exo could provide Samsung with several strategic advantages:

    • Access to cutting-edge technology: Exo’s innovations could be integrated into Samsung’s existing healthcare offerings, enhancing their competitiveness.
    • Expansion into a high-growth market: The medical imaging market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, offering substantial revenue opportunities.
    • Enhanced brand reputation: Supporting a company focused on improving healthcare can boost Samsung’s image as a socially responsible corporation.

    Implications for the Medical Imaging Industry

    Samsung’s potential investment could have a significant impact on the medical imaging industry:

    • Increased competition: With Samsung’s backing, Exo could challenge established players in the market.
    • Accelerated innovation: The influx of capital could allow Exo to accelerate its research and development efforts, leading to faster advancements in medical imaging technology.
    • Wider adoption of AI: Exo’s use of artificial intelligence in diagnostics could encourage other companies to explore similar applications.
  • AI Pioneer Secures$13M for Model Breakthrough

    AI Pioneer Secures$13M for Model Breakthrough

    Europe’s AI Leader Raises $13M to Revolutionize Models

    A leading AI researcher in Europe has secured $13 million in seed funding to tackle what they call the ‘holy grail’ of AI models. This significant investment underscores the growing confidence in European AI innovation and its potential to reshape the future of artificial intelligence.

    Matthias Niessner, a prominent AI researcher from the Technical University of Munich and co-founder of Synthesia, has launched SpAItial, a Munich-based startup. The company aims to develop spatial foundation models that can generate interactive, photorealistic 3D environments from simple text prompts or images. This approach represents a significant leap from current AI capabilities, moving beyond static images to immersive, navigable spaces. 360fashion.net

    The $13 million seed funding round, led by Earlybird Venture Capital, is notable for its size in the European AI startup landscape. Despite having only teaser demos, SpAItial‘s vision has attracted significant investor interest. The team includes AI veterans from Google and Meta, bringing substantial experience to the project. BitcoinWorld

    SpAItial‘s technology has potential applications across various industries, including gaming, film, CAD engineering, and robotics. By enabling the creation of realistic 3D environments from text descriptions, the company aims to make video game creation accessible to non-programmers and revolutionize digital content creation. Tech in Asia

    The Quest for the ‘Holy Grail’ of AI

    The researcher and their team aim to develop AI models that possess enhanced capabilities, efficiency, and adaptability. Their ambition reflects a broader trend in the AI community to move beyond current limitations and create truly intelligent systems. They are aiming to develop AI models that are far more efficient and capable than current ones.

    What This Funding Means

    This substantial seed funding will enable the team to:

    • Recruit top-tier AI talent.
    • Invest in cutting-edge computing infrastructure.
    • Accelerate their research and development efforts.

    The $13 million investment provides a significant boost, positioning the team to make meaningful strides in AI research and development.

    The European AI Landscape

    Europe is rapidly becoming a hub for AI innovation, with numerous startups and research institutions pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. This funding round highlights the increasing recognition of European expertise in the field. For example, initiatives supported by the European Commission aim to foster AI excellence and trust.

    The Future of AI Models

    The developments from this research could lead to breakthroughs in various fields, including:

    • Healthcare: More accurate diagnoses and personalized treatments.
    • Robotics: More adaptive and efficient robots for various industries.
    • Natural Language Processing: AI that understands and responds to human language with greater accuracy.
  • Arc Browser’s Future Sale or Open Source Shift?

    Arc Browser’s Future Sale or Open Source Shift?

    The Browser Company Considers Options for Arc Browser

    The Browser Company has stopped adding new features to its Arc browser. The team is now fully focused on its new AI-powered browser, Dia.

    CEO Josh Miller explained the shift. Arc, while innovative and popular, faced major hurdles. It was complex, sometimes unstable, and struggled to scale.

    Security issues also influenced the decision. Last year, hackers exploited a flaw that let them insert code using only a user’s ID. In response, the company expanded its security team from one to five engineers.

    Arc isn’t going away completely. It will still receive security patches and stay compatible with Chromium updates. However, it won’t be sold or open-sourced.

    Why not? Arc shares core technology with Dia. Releasing its code could expose sensitive architecture. Still, the company says it may open-source Arc one day—if it no longer poses a risk.wired.com

    The company’s new browser, Dia, is currently in alpha testing. Dia aims to be an AI-first browser, focusing on simplicity and user-friendly design. It is built on the same Arc Development Kit (ADK) that powered Arc, allowing for rapid prototyping and innovative features. However, this shared infrastructure complicates the possibility of open-sourcing Arc, as it would require revealing proprietary elements critical to Dia‘s development .PCWorldPCWorld

    While Arc’s future remains uncertain, The Browser Company continues to maintain it with security updates and bug fixes. The company has expressed interest in potentially open-sourcing Arc in the future, but only when it no longer poses risks to the company or its stakeholders .The Verge

    Strategic Pivot to AI

    The potential move signals a significant shift in strategy. The Browser Company seems to be prioritizing AI development, leading them to re-evaluate the future of Arc Browser. The company may believe that selling or open-sourcing Arc would allow them to concentrate resources and engineering talent on their AI initiatives.

    Possible Sale of Arc Browser

    Potential Sale of Arc Browser

    Selling Arc would involve transferring its ownership and development to another entity. This move could provide The Browser Company with capital to invest in Dia and allow the acquiring company to further develop Arc. Potential buyers might include larger tech firms aiming to expand their browser market share or smaller companies specializing in browser technology. However, a significant challenge is that Arc is built on the proprietary Arc Development Kit (ADK), which is also integral to Dia. This shared infrastructure complicates the possibility of a sale without exposing proprietary elements critical to both browsers .TechCrunch

    Open-Sourcing Arc Browser

    Open-sourcing Arc would allow developers worldwide to contribute to its development, potentially accelerating innovation. However, this option also faces hurdles due to the proprietary nature of the ADK. Open-sourcing Arc would effectively mean open-sourcing the ADK, which the company is reluctant to do at this stage. CEO Josh Miller has indicated that while open-sourcing Arc is not currently feasible, it might be considered in the future when it no longer poses risks to the company’s core assets .Mezha MediaThe Verge

    Current Status of Arc Browser

    Despite halting the development of new features, The Browser Company continues to maintain Arc by providing security updates and bug fixes. The browser remains compatible with Chromium updates, ensuring its usability for existing users. However, the company’s primary focus has shifted to Dia, which is currently in alpha testing and aims to offer a more streamlined, AI-integrated browsing experience .

    Open-Sourcing Arc Browser

    Alternatively, open-sourcing Arc Browser would mean releasing the source code to the public. This would allow anyone to contribute to the development of the browser, potentially leading to new features and improvements driven by the community. Open-sourcing could also ensure the browser’s continued existence even if The Browser Company shifts its focus entirely to AI. By open-sourcing Arc Browser, the company would rely on the power of community-driven development to sustain and enhance the browser’s capabilities.

  • Tech Job Hunt: Why It’s Tougher Than You Think

    Tech Job Hunt: Why It’s Tougher Than You Think

    The Unexpected Challenge of Landing Your First Tech Job

    So, you’ve mastered your coding skills, built a killer portfolio, and you’re ready to conquer the tech world. But, the reality of landing that first tech job can often be a rude awakening. Many aspiring developers find the job search process significantly more challenging than they initially anticipated. Let’s explore why.

    The Sheer Volume of Competition

    The tech industry is booming, attracting talent from diverse backgrounds. This surge in aspiring developers leads to intense competition for entry-level positions. You’re not just competing with recent graduates but also with career changers and self-taught coders, and bootcamp grads.

    The Skills Gap Reality

    While you might possess the core technical skills, many entry-level roles demand a specific skillset that goes beyond basic coding knowledge. Employers often seek candidates with experience in particular frameworks, libraries, or tools. Staying updated with in-demand skills like Python, JavaScript, and cloud technologies like AWS or Azure is crucial. Consider exploring platforms like Coursera or Udemy to bridge any skill gaps.

    The Importance of Networking

    Often, it’s not just *what* you know, but *who* you know. Networking is an invaluable tool in the tech job search. Attending industry events, joining online communities like Stack Overflow, and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn can open doors to opportunities you might not find otherwise. Don’t underestimate the power of building relationships with people already working in the field.

    Crafting a Standout Resume and Portfolio

    Your resume and portfolio are your first impression. They need to effectively showcase your skills, experience, and passion for technology. Ensure your resume is tailored to each specific job application and highlights the skills most relevant to the role. A well-structured portfolio with diverse projects demonstrates your abilities and allows potential employers to see your work in action. Resources like freeCodeCamp can provide inspiration and project ideas.

    Mastering the Interview Process

    The technical interview is a hurdle many aspiring developers find daunting. Expect to be tested on your coding skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of fundamental computer science concepts. Practice coding challenges on platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank to sharpen your skills. Additionally, prepare to answer behavioral questions that assess your soft skills, teamwork abilities, and cultural fit.

    The Persistence Factor

    The job search can be a marathon, not a sprint. Rejection is a common part of the process. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Learn from each interview experience, refine your approach, and continue to improve your skills. Persistence and a positive attitude are key to eventually landing your dream tech job.

  • VW Execs Convicted: Auto Market Impact

    VW Execs Convicted: Auto Market Impact

    VW Execs Found Guilty: Transforming Europe’s Auto Market

    A recent trial concluded with the conviction of four Volkswagen (VW) executives, marking a pivotal moment that significantly altered the landscape of Europe’s automotive market. This case highlights the critical importance of ethical conduct and regulatory compliance within the industry.

    The Verdict and Its Ramifications

    The court’s decision to convict these VW executives sends a strong message about accountability. The trial exposed the extent of the company’s actions and their impact on consumers and the environment. This outcome is poised to reshape how automotive companies operate and innovate in the future.

    How the Trial Reshaped the Automotive Industry

    This trial had far-reaching consequences, fundamentally changing several aspects of the European automotive market:

    • Increased Scrutiny: Regulators now exercise greater oversight over vehicle emissions and performance claims.
    • Consumer Awareness: Consumers are more aware and critical of manufacturer practices, demanding transparency and honesty.
    • Technological Advancements: The push for cleaner and more efficient vehicles has accelerated, driving innovation in electric and hybrid technologies.
    • Legal and Ethical Standards: Companies are reevaluating their legal and ethical standards to prevent similar misconduct.

    Looking Ahead

    The fallout from this trial will continue to influence the automotive industry for years to come. Companies must prioritize ethical behavior, regulatory compliance, and sustainable practices to maintain consumer trust and ensure long-term success. Moving forward, transparency and accountability will be key to restoring faith in the automotive sector and fostering a culture of responsible innovation.