YouTube’s likeness-detection technology has officially launched

YouTube’s detection technology identifies and manages AI-generated content featuring the likeness of creators, such as their face and voice.

WhatsApp and Messenger add new warnings to help older people avoid online scams

WhatsApp will now warn users before sharing their screen with unknown contacts, and Messenger will flag suspicious messages using AI.

Apple alerts exploit developer that his iPhone was targeted with government spyware 

A developer at Trenchant, a leading Western spyware and zero-day maker, was suspected of leaking company tools and was fired. Weeks later, Apple notified him that his personal iPhone was targeted with spyware.

The full TechCrunch Disrupt Stage revealed: Where the future of tech breaks first

The Disrupt Stage, only at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, is where tech’s biggest bets get made, live and unfiltered. 

Aura introduces a $499 e-ink digital photo frame that lets you go cordless

Aura, founded by early Twitter employees, has launched the $499 Ink frame, its first 13-inch color e-paper photo frame. Using Spectra 6 e-ink technology, it offers a cordless design with up to three months of battery life and a subtle front light for better contrast.

Only 6 days until TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 kicks off in San Francisco and ticket rates increase 

Less than 6 days until TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 takes over San Francisco’s Moscone West! The countdown is on for the year’s biggest gathering of founders, investors, and innovators shaping the future of tech. Register here to save up to $444 on your pass, plus an additional 60% on your plus-ones.

Cards Against Humanity settles trespass lawsuit against SpaceX

The dispute centered on a plot of land along the Rio Grande River in Cameron County, Texas, that Cards Against Humanity purchased in 2017.

FTC removes Lina Khan-era posts about AI risks and open source

One post, authored by Khan’s staff, was published on January 3, 2025, with the title “AI and the Risk of Consumer Harm.” It noted that the FTC was “taking note of AI’s potential for real-world instances of harm — from incentivizing commercial surveillance to enabling fraud and impersonation to perpetuating illegal discrimination.” 

Trump DOE confirms it’s canceling over $700M in manufacturing grants

The Department of Energy said it was canceling grants to build new factories in places like Alabama and Kentucky. Three startups are affected.

Anthropic brings Claude Code to the web

Anthropic now lets developers spin up Claude Code agents, and manage them, from their web browser on desktop and mobile.