The Download: carbon removal factories’ funding cuts, and AI toys
This is today’s edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what’s going on in the world of technology. The Trump administration may cut funding for two major direct-air capture plants The US Department of Energy appears poised to terminate funding for a pair of large carbon-sucking factories that were originally set…
Opera launches its AI-centric Neon browser
Neon will write code snippets, includes an agent that will do tasks for you, and handles repeatable prompts.
Notion Capital raises $130M growth fund to tackle Europe’s follow-on gap
The growth fund is nearly twice the size of its previous one.
How to Maximize Savings During Prime Big Deal Days
On October 7–8, Amazon Business customers get exclusive savings and rewards. Here’s how to make the most of the day.
A Fintech Startup Founder Was Just Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Defrauding JPMorgan Out of $175 Million
JPMorgan discovered that Charlie Javice had made up millions of fake users.
California Governor Newsom signs landmark AI safety bill SB 53
SB 53 requires large AI labs – including OpenAI, Anthropic, Meta, and Google DeepMind – to be transparent about safety protocols. It also ensures whistleblower protections for employees at those companies.
She’s an Actor About to Be Signed By a Talent Agency. She’s Also AI.
The creators of Tilly Norwood, an “AI actress,” think she can be the “next Natalie Portman.”
Frank founder Charlie Javice sentenced to 7 years in prison for defrauding JPMorgan Chase
The fintech startup had been acquired by JPMorgan Chase in 2021 for $175 million. The bank later accused Frank of lying about its customer base.
AI recruiter Alex raises $17M to automate initial job interviews
The Y Combinator startup, raised a Series A led by Peak XV Partners.
Facebook adds fan challenges, custom badges for creators
These updates show us that Meta wants fans to take Facebook more seriously as a place to engage with creators.