Unity King

Gaming and Technology Blog

Category: Tech News

  • AI-Native Startups: Tanka CEO Talks Tech at TechCrunch

    AI-Native Startups: Tanka CEO Talks Tech at TechCrunch

    Tanka CEO Kisson Lin Discusses AI-Native Startups at TechCrunch Sessions

    TechCrunch Sessions: AI recently featured Tanka CEO Kisson Lin, where they explored the burgeoning world of AI-native startups. Lin shared his insights on what it takes to build and scale a successful company in today’s AI-driven landscape.

    Key Discussion Points

    The discussion covered various aspects of AI-native startups, including:

    • Defining AI-Native: Lin clarified what truly constitutes an AI-native company, emphasizing that it’s more than just integrating AI into existing processes. It’s about building a company from the ground up with AI at its core.
    • Challenges and Opportunities: The conversation addressed the unique challenges faced by AI startups, such as access to data, talent acquisition, and ethical considerations. It also highlighted the immense opportunities for disruption and innovation.
    • Building a Scalable AI Startup: Lin provided practical advice on how to build a scalable AI startup, including strategies for data management, model deployment, and continuous learning.

    Lin’s Expertise in AI

    Kisson Lin’s experience as the CEO of Tanka, a company focused on leveraging AI for [Mention Tanka’s specific AI focus, e.g., personalized learning], makes him a valuable voice in the AI startup ecosystem. His insights are particularly relevant for entrepreneurs and investors looking to navigate this rapidly evolving field.

  • Zoox Robotaxi Recall After Crash: Amazon Takes Action

    Zoox Robotaxi Recall After Crash: Amazon Takes Action

    Zoox Recalls Robotaxis Following Collision

    Zoox, the autonomous vehicle company owned by Amazon, has issued a recall of its robotaxi fleet. This action follows a recent incident where one of their vehicles was involved in a collision. The company is proactively addressing safety concerns to ensure the well-being of passengers and the public.

    Zoox, Amazon’s autonomous vehicle subsidiary, has issued a voluntary recall of 270 self-driving robotaxis following a minor collision in Las Vegas on April 8, 2025. The incident involved an unoccupied Zoox vehicle that misjudged a passenger car approaching from a perpendicular driveway, leading to a collision. The root cause was identified as a software flaw in the automated driving system, which resulted in overly confident predictions about other vehicles’ movements .​

    In response, Zoox paused its autonomous operations, conducted a thorough safety review, and implemented a software update between April 16 and 17 to address the issue. The company reported the voluntary recall to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on May 1, 2025 .​The Verge

    This proactive approach underscores Zoox’s commitment to safety and continuous improvement in the autonomous vehicle industry. The company emphasizes transparency and reliability as it advances its robotaxi technology .​

    For more detailed information on Zoox’s safety protocols and initiatives, you can visit their official safety page: https://zoox.com/safety.​.

    Details of the Robotaxi Incident

    Zoox’s Response and Recall Details

    Zoox is committed to prioritizing safety and has voluntarily initiated this recall to address potential risks. The company is working diligently to implement software updates and conduct thorough safety checks on all robotaxis in its fleet. Here’s what we know:

    • Software Updates: Zoox is rolling out comprehensive software updates designed to improve the vehicle’s awareness and decision-making capabilities.
    • Safety Enhancements: The company is also implementing hardware enhancements and improving sensor integration to enhance the overall safety profile of its robotaxis.

    Commitment to Autonomous Vehicle Safety

    Zoox, Amazon’s autonomous vehicle subsidiary, recently issued a voluntary recall of 270 driverless robotaxis following a minor collision in Las Vegas on April 8, 2025. The incident involved an unoccupied Zoox vehicle that misjudged the intentions of a passenger car approaching from a perpendicular driveway, leading to a collision. The root cause was identified as a software flaw in the automated driving system, which resulted in overly confident predictions about other vehicles’ movements .​Digital Trends+10AInvest+10Perplexity AI+10TechCrunch+3Reuters+3The Verge+3Self Drive News+5The Verge+5Reuters+5

    In response, Zoox promptly paused its autonomous operations, conducted a thorough safety review, and implemented a software update between April 16 and 17 to address the issue. The company reported the voluntary recall to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on May 1, 2025 .​Las Vegas Review-Journal+5The Verge+5Reuters+5

    This proactive approach underscores Zoox’s commitment to safety and continuous improvement in the autonomous vehicle industry. The company emphasizes transparency and reliability as it advances its robotaxi technology .​Financial Times

    For more detailed information on Zoox’s safety protocols and initiatives, you can visit their official safety page: https://zoox.com/safety.​

  • Patreon App Accepts Web Payments After App Store Change

    Patreon App Accepts Web Payments After App Store Change

    Patreon App Now Accepts Web Payments

    Patreon’s app now supports web payments, a significant shift following changes in the U.S. App Store policies. This update allows creators to offer a more seamless payment experience to their patrons directly within the app.

    Background of the App Store Changes

    Recent policy adjustments within the U.S. App Store have enabled Patreon to integrate web-based payments into its iOS app, offering greater flexibility to app developers regarding payment options.​

    Background

    In April 2025, a U.S. court ruling in the Epic Games v. Apple case determined that Apple could no longer prevent developers from directing users to external payment methods or impose commissions on such transactions. This decision compelled Apple to revise its App Store guidelines, allowing apps to include links to alternative payment platforms without incurring Apple’s standard 30% commission. ​The VergeTechCrunch+1TechCrunch+1

    Patreon’s Response

    Following this ruling, Patreon released version 125.5.0 of its iOS app, introducing a web-based checkout option for U.S. users. This update enables patrons to subscribe to creators using various payment methods, including credit cards, Venmo, PayPal, and Apple Pay, directly through Patreon’s website. By facilitating payments outside of Apple’s in-app purchase system, creators can retain a larger portion of their earnings. ​

    Previously, Apple mandated that Patreon transition all creators to its in-app purchase system by November 2024, requiring a shift to subscription billing and subjecting transactions to Apple’s commission. However, the court’s decision has allowed Patreon to pause this transition, providing creators with more flexibility in their billing models. ​Home+1The Paypers+1

    Broader Implications

    Patreon’s integration of web payments reflects a broader shift in the app ecosystem, as developers seek alternatives to traditional in-app purchase systems. This change not only benefits creators by reducing fees but also offers patrons more diverse and potentially cost-effective payment options.​

    For more detailed information, you can refer to the following sources:

    Patreon: U.S. court rules that you no longer have to give Apple 30%

    TechCrunch: Patreon’s app can now accept web payments after U.S. App Store changes

    The Verge: Patreon’s iOS update allows creators to bypass in-app purchases

    How Web Payments Benefit Patreon Creators

    The integration of web payments brings several key advantages for Patreon creators:

    • Increased Patron Convenience: Patrons can now make payments directly through the Patreon app without navigating to an external website.
    • Simplified Payment Process: The streamlined process enhances the overall user experience, encouraging more consistent support from patrons.
    • Greater Control Over Transactions: Creators gain increased control and visibility over their transaction data.

    Implementing Web Payments in the App

    Patreon has proactively updated its iOS app to align with Apple’s App Store guidelines, ensuring continued availability on the platform. This update introduces significant changes to how payments are processed within the app, affecting both creators and supporters.​The Verge+1Patreon | News | Home+1

    Key Updates to Patreon’s iOS Payment System

    • Mandatory Use of Apple’s In-App Purchase System: Starting November 2024, Patreon is required to utilize Apple’s in-app purchase system for all new memberships and digital goods purchased through the iOS app. This change subjects these transactions to Apple’s 30% App Store fee. ​Patreon Help Center+9Patreon Help Center+9Patreon+9
    • Transition to Subscription Billing: Apple’s in-app purchase system supports only subscription billing. Consequently, creators using first-of-the-month or per-creation billing models must transition to subscription billing by November 2025 to continue offering memberships through the iOS app. ​Patreon Help Center+6Patreon Help Center+6Patreon Help Center+6
    • Pricing Adjustments to Offset Fees: To mitigate the impact of Apple’s commission, Patreon provides creators with options to adjust their pricing. Creators can choose to increase prices within the iOS app to cover the 30% fee or absorb the cost themselves, potentially reducing their earnings from iOS-based transactions. ​Patreon+8Patreon | News | Home+8The Verge+8
    • Impact on Existing Memberships: The 30% fee applies only to new memberships and purchases made through the iOS app after the implementation date. Existing memberships and those initiated on other platforms, such as Patreon’s website or Android app, remain unaffected. ​The Verge+6Patreon+6Patreon+6

    These changes reflect Patreon’s commitment to complying with platform policies while striving to support creators’ revenue streams. By providing flexible pricing options and a clear transition plan, Patreon aims to minimize disruptions and maintain a sustainable environment for its community.​Patreon | News | Home+4The Verge+4The Verge+4

    For more detailed information on these updates, you can visit Patreon’s official announcement here: Patreon’s Update on iOS In-App Purchases.​Patreon+1Patreon+1

    Future Implications for App Developers

    Patreon’s integration of web-based payments within its iOS app marks a significant shift in the app ecosystem, setting a precedent for other developers seeking alternative payment methods. This development follows a U.S. court ruling in the Epic Games v. Apple case, which prohibits Apple from restricting developers from directing users to external payment platforms and collecting commissions on such transactions. ​Barron’s+5The Verge+5Home+5

    With the release of Patreon’s iOS app version 125.5.0, U.S.-based users can now subscribe to creators via a web-based checkout, utilizing payment options like Apple Pay, credit cards, Venmo, and PayPal. This approach allows creators to bypass Apple’s 30% commission, ensuring they retain a larger portion of their earnings. ​The Verge+3Home+3TechCrunch+3

    This move not only benefits creators and patrons but also exemplifies the potential for increased flexibility and innovation in the app ecosystem. By adopting alternative payment methods, developers can offer more competitive pricing and enhance user experience, challenging the traditional revenue models imposed by major app stores.​

    For more detailed information on Patreon’s implementation of web payments and its implications, you can refer to their official announcement here:

    TechCrunch.​

  • Agree.com Secures $7.2M to Revolutionize AI Contracts

    Agree.com Secures $7.2M to Revolutionize AI Contracts

    Agree.com Raises $7.2M to Take on Docusign and Bill.com with AI

    Agree.com recently announced a successful $7.2 million funding round, positioning itself as a strong competitor to established players like Docusign and Bill.com by leveraging the power of artificial intelligence. This funding aims to enhance its AI-driven contract management platform, promising to streamline and automate various aspects of contract lifecycle management.

    AI-Powered Contract Management

    Agree.com focuses on providing a smarter way to handle contracts. By integrating AI, the platform offers features like automated contract drafting, intelligent review, and risk assessment. The goal is to reduce manual effort, minimize errors, and accelerate the contract process. This approach addresses common pain points in businesses that heavily rely on efficient contract execution.

    Challenging Industry Giants

    With this funding, Agree.com is set to challenge industry giants such as Docusign, which dominates the e-signature market, and Bill.com, known for its automated bill payment solutions. Agree.com differentiates itself through its comprehensive AI-driven approach, which not only handles signatures but also provides in-depth contract analysis and management capabilities. This positions them as a more holistic solution for businesses seeking to optimize their contract workflows.

    Key Features and Benefits

    • Automated Contract Drafting: AI assists in generating contracts based on predefined templates and clauses, saving time and ensuring consistency.
    • Intelligent Review: The platform automatically reviews contracts for potential risks and inconsistencies, helping users make informed decisions.
    • Risk Assessment: Agree.com identifies and flags potential risks within contracts, enabling proactive risk management.
    • Streamlined Workflow: Automating contract-related tasks reduces manual effort and accelerates the overall process.

    Future Implications

    The successful funding round enables Agree.com to further develop its AI capabilities and expand its market reach. As more businesses look to automate and optimize their contract management processes, Agree.com’s AI-driven platform is well-positioned to meet this growing demand. Keep an eye on Agree.com as they innovate and disrupt the contract management landscape.

  • Cnaught Simplifies Carbon Credits for All Businesses

    Cnaught Simplifies Carbon Credits for All Businesses

    Cnaught: Making Carbon Credits Accessible

    Cnaught is on a mission to democratize access to carbon credits, aiming to make them readily available for businesses of all sizes. They’re tackling the complexities often associated with carbon offsetting, striving to offer straightforward and effective solutions for companies seeking to reduce their environmental impact. This initiative comes at a crucial time, as more businesses recognize the importance of sustainability and seek tangible ways to achieve their carbon reduction goals.

    Democratizing Carbon Offsetting

    Cnaught understands that many businesses, particularly smaller ones, find the carbon credit market daunting. The platform aims to simplify the process, providing a user-friendly interface and clear information to help companies understand their carbon footprint and invest in meaningful offsetting projects. By lowering the barrier to entry, Cnaught empowers a broader range of businesses to participate in global carbon reduction efforts.

    Cnaught’s Approach

    • Simplified Platform: Offers an intuitive platform designed for ease of use.
    • Transparency: Provides clear and accessible information about carbon credit projects.
    • Scalability: Caters to businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large corporations.

    Cnaught’s user-centric approach emphasizes transparency and ease of use, ensuring that businesses can confidently invest in high-quality carbon credits that align with their sustainability objectives.

  • Cadillac Celestiq EV: A Great Comeback?

    Cadillac Celestiq EV: A Great Comeback?

    Can the Celestiq EV Make Cadillac Great Again?

    Cadillac, a name synonymous with American luxury, is betting big on its all-electric Celestiq. But can this groundbreaking EV truly revitalize the brand and propel it back to the forefront of the luxury car market? Let’s delve into what makes the Celestiq a potential game-changer.

    A Bold Statement in Design and Technology

    The Celestiq isn’t just another electric vehicle; it’s a statement. Cadillac has poured its heart and soul into crafting a vehicle that pushes the boundaries of design and incorporates cutting-edge technology. From its striking exterior lines to its handcrafted interior, the Celestiq exudes luxury and innovation.

    Key Features That Stand Out:

    • Ultium Platform: The Celestiq utilizes GM’s advanced Ultium platform, providing a flexible and powerful foundation for its electric powertrain.
    • Handcrafted Interior: Cadillac emphasizes meticulous craftsmanship, ensuring a luxurious and personalized experience for every owner.
    • Advanced Technology: Expect a plethora of advanced technologies, including a pillar-to-pillar display, Ultra Cruise driver-assistance system, and more.

    Challenges and Opportunities

    Despite its impressive features, the Celestiq faces challenges. The high price point limits its accessibility, and competition in the luxury EV market is fierce. However, the Celestiq also presents significant opportunities for Cadillac. If successful, it can redefine the brand’s image, attract a new generation of buyers, and establish Cadillac as a leader in electric luxury vehicles.

    Competition in the Luxury EV Market

    The luxury EV market is rapidly expanding, with established players like Tesla and emerging competitors vying for market share. Cadillac needs to differentiate the Celestiq through its unique blend of luxury, technology, and American heritage.

    The Future of Cadillac

    The Celestiq represents more than just a new model; it signifies a new direction for Cadillac. By embracing electrification and pushing the boundaries of luxury and technology, Cadillac aims to reclaim its position as a leader in the automotive industry. Whether the Celestiq can truly make Cadillac great again remains to be seen, but it certainly has the potential to be a transformative vehicle for the brand.

  • Uber Eats Expands to Turkey via Trendyol Go Deal

    Uber Eats Expands to Turkey via Trendyol Go Deal

    Uber Eats Enters Turkey with Trendyol Go Acquisition

    Uber Eats has officially expanded its reach into Turkey by acquiring Trendyol Go for a reported $700 million. This strategic move marks a significant development in the competitive landscape of food delivery services in Turkey.

    Strategic Acquisition Details

    The acquisition of Trendyol Go allows Uber Eats to immediately establish a strong presence in the Turkish market. Trendyol, a major e-commerce platform in Turkey, launched Trendyol Go to offer rapid delivery services, including food. This deal gives Uber Eats a ready-made infrastructure and customer base. You can learn more about Uber Eats’ global presence on their official website.

    Impact on the Turkish Market

    With Uber Eats now operating in Turkey, consumers will have more choices for food delivery. The increased competition could also drive innovation and better service quality among delivery platforms. This expansion aligns with Uber Eats’ broader strategy of growing its international footprint. The Turkish market represents a significant opportunity due to its large population and growing demand for online services.

    Future Prospects

    Industry analysts are watching closely to see how this acquisition will influence the delivery market in Turkey. Uber Eats’ global experience, combined with Trendyol Go’s existing operations, could create a dominant player. Further developments and strategic partnerships may arise as Uber Eats integrates Trendyol Go into its global network. Consider exploring Trendyol’s website to understand their market position prior to the acquisition.

  • Spotify Episode Listens: See Podcast Popularity!

    Spotify Episode Listens: See Podcast Popularity!

    Spotify Shows Podcast Episode Listen Counts

    Spotify now displays the number of listens for individual podcast episodes, offering creators and listeners a new way to gauge popularity. This update provides valuable insights into which episodes resonate most with audiences.

    What This Means for Podcast Listeners

    Listeners can now see how many times people have tuned into a specific podcast episode. This feature allows you to quickly identify popular content. Knowing listen counts helps inform your listening choices. Use this as a social proof indicator to explore episodes that the community enjoys.

    Benefits for Podcast Creators

    For creators, this update is a game-changer. Seeing the number of listens on each episode offers direct feedback on content performance. Here’s how:

    • Content Strategy: Identify trending episodes and tailor future content to match audience preferences.
    • Engagement Insights: Understand which topics, guests, or formats resonate most with listeners.
    • Promotion: Highlight popular episodes to attract new listeners and boost overall engagement.

    How to Find Episode Listen Counts

    The listen count is visible directly on the episode page within the Spotify app. Simply navigate to the podcast and episode you’re interested in, and the number of listens will be displayed.

  • Instacart’s Fizz App: Drinks & Snacks for Parties

    Instacart’s Fizz App: Drinks & Snacks for Parties

    Instacart Launches Fizz: Party Drinks and Snacks Simplified

    Instacart expands its services with the launch of Fizz, a new app designed to streamline ordering drinks and snacks for parties and gatherings. This move caters to the growing demand for convenient event planning solutions.

    What is Fizz?

    Fizz focuses specifically on beverages and snack items. It aims to simplify the process of stocking up for parties. The app integrates with Instacart’s existing infrastructure. This provides users with access to a wide selection of products.

    Key Features of Fizz

    • Curated Selection: Fizz offers pre-selected bundles of drinks and snacks. This simplifies decision-making for users planning events.
    • Integration with Instacart: Users can easily add items from Fizz to their Instacart cart. This creates a seamless shopping experience.
    • Fast Delivery: Leveraging Instacart’s delivery network, Fizz ensures quick and reliable delivery of party essentials.

    Why Fizz?

    Instacart’s decision to launch Fizz reflects a strategic move to capture a larger share of the event planning market. By focusing on a specific niche, the company aims to provide a more tailored and convenient service for customers hosting parties. This targeted approach could attract new users who may not typically use Instacart for their regular grocery shopping.

  • US DOJ: Google Should Sell Ad Tech Products

    US DOJ: Google Should Sell Ad Tech Products

    US DOJ Pushes Google to Divest Ad Products

    The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is urging Google to sell off key components of its advertising technology (ad tech) business. This demand aims to address concerns about Google’s dominance in the digital advertising market and promote greater competition.

    What Products Are in Question?

    The DOJ’s focus reportedly centers on Google’s ad server, which publishers use to manage their ad inventory, and its ad exchange, which facilitates the buying and selling of ad space. Authorities believe that Google’s control over both these critical tools gives them an unfair advantage over competitors.

    Why the DOJ Is Taking Action

    The DOJ’s antitrust division has been investigating Google’s ad tech practices for several years. They are concerned that Google’s market power allows them to stifle competition, inflate advertising prices, and limit choices for publishers and advertisers alike. The argument is that Google’s ownership of both the supply-side (publisher tools) and demand-side (advertiser tools) of the ad market creates a conflict of interest. For detailed context, you can read more about antitrust law.

    Potential Impact of a Sale

    If Google were to sell its ad server and ad exchange, it could significantly reshape the digital advertising landscape. A divestiture could:

    • Increase Competition: Independent ownership of these tools could foster innovation and lead to more competitive pricing.
    • Empower Publishers: Publishers might have more control over their ad inventory and revenue streams.
    • Benefit Advertisers: Advertisers could potentially see more transparency and efficiency in ad buying.

    Google’s Response

    Google has defended its ad tech business, arguing that its tools benefit publishers and advertisers. They contend that the advertising market is highly competitive and that their products offer valuable services. Google likely will challenge the DOJ’s demands, setting the stage for a potentially lengthy legal battle. It is crucial to understand Google’s perspective on their advertising platform.