Non-AI Startups: Challenges Ahead in Securing VC Funding

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    <h2>AI Takes Center Stage in Startup Investment: A Look at 2025 Trends</h2>

    <p id="speakable-summary" class="wp-block-paragraph">New PitchBook data reveals that artificial intelligence is set to transform startup investment, with 2025 projected to be the first year where AI surpasses 50% of all venture capital funding.</p>

    <h3>Venture Capital Surge: AI's Dominance in 2025</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">According to PitchBook, venture capitalists have invested $192.7 billion in AI this year, contributing to a total of $366.8 billion in the sector, as reported by <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-10-03/ai-is-dominating-2025-vc-investing-pulling-in-192-7-billion?embedded-checkout=true">Bloomberg</a>. In the latest quarter, AI constituted an impressive 62.7% of U.S. VC investments and 53.2% globally.</p>

    <h3>Major Players Commanding the Investment Landscape</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">A significant portion of funding is being directed toward prominent companies like Anthropic, which recently secured <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/09/02/anthropic-raises-13b-series-f-at-183b-valuation/">$13 billion in a Series F round</a> this September. However, the number of startups and venture funds successfully raising capital is at its lowest in years, with only 823 funds raised globally in 2025, compared to 4,430 in 2022.</p>

    <h3>The Bifurcation of the Investment Market</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Kyle Sanford, PitchBook’s Director of Research, shared insights with Bloomberg, noting the market's shift towards a bifurcated landscape: “You’re in AI, or you’re not,” and “you’re a big firm, or you’re not.”</p>
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This structured format enhances SEO and keeps the content engaging while providing a clear overview of the current trends in AI investment.

Sure! Here are five FAQs based on the premise "If you’re not an AI startup, good luck raising money from VCs":

FAQ 1: Why is it harder for non-AI startups to raise money from VCs?

Answer: Venture capitalists are currently very focused on artificial intelligence due to its immense growth potential and transformative capabilities. Non-AI startups may struggle to attract attention and funding simply because VCs are prioritizing AI-driven innovations that promise high returns on investment.

FAQ 2: What are VCs looking for in AI startups specifically?

Answer: VCs typically look for unique technology, innovative applications of AI, a scalable business model, and a strong team with expertise in AI. They also want to see a clear market need being addressed and the potential for significant market disruption.

FAQ 3: Can non-AI startups still attract funding?

Answer: Yes, non-AI startups can still secure funding, but they may need to demonstrate strong market traction, a robust business model, or innovative product solutions. Networking, building relationships, and showing potential for profitability can also help attract interest from VCs.

FAQ 4: What alternatives do non-AI startups have for raising capital?

Answer: Non-AI startups can explore various funding sources including angel investors, crowdfunding, grants, and strategic partnerships. They might also consider venture debt or incubator programs that cater to non-tech sectors.

FAQ 5: Should non-AI startups pivot to AI to attract funding?

Answer: While pivoting to incorporate AI can enhance appeal to investors, it’s crucial for startups to remain authentic to their core vision and strengths. If AI is not a natural fit for the business, pursuing it solely for funding may not be sustainable in the long run. It’s best to focus on areas of innovation that align with the startup’s mission.

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OpenAI Doubles Down on Personalized AI with Latest Acqui-Hire

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<h2>OpenAI Acquires Roi: A Strategic Move in Personal Finance AI</h2>

<p id="speakable-summary" class="wp-block-paragraph">OpenAI has acquired Roi, an AI-driven personal finance app, in a trend where only the CEO transitions to the acquiring company.</p>

<h3>CEO Sujith Vishwajith Announces Acquisition</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Sujith Vishwajith, co-founder and chief executive, revealed the acquisition on Friday. According to sources cited by TechCrunch, he is the only member transferring from Roi's four-person team to OpenAI. The transaction's financial details remain undisclosed, with operations set to cease and services to customers concluding on October 15.</p>

<h3>A New Wave of Acqui-hires by OpenAI</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This acquisition adds to OpenAI's series of acqui-hires in 2023, including the teams from Context.ai, Crossing Minds, and Alex. Each move reflects OpenAI's commitment to expanding its team and tech through targeted acquisitions.</p>

<h3>Potential of Roi's Technology in OpenAI</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Uncertainty looms over whether any of Roi's technologies will integrate into OpenAI or which department Vishwajith will join. Nonetheless, this acquisition supports OpenAI's vision for enhanced personalized and life management tools in AI products. Roi's team has already tackled the challenge of scaling personalized finance solutions, insights from which can be broadly applied.</p>

<h3>The Vision Behind Roi</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Founded in New York in 2022, Roi secured $3.6 million in early funding from notable investors such as Balaji Srinivasan and Spark Capital. The app aimed to consolidate users' financial footprints—covering stocks, cryptocurrencies, DeFi, real estate, and NFTs—into a single platform that monitored funds and offered actionable insights.</p>

<h3>Making Finance Accessible</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“Three years ago, we launched Roi to democratize investing through the most personalized financial experience possible,” Vishwajith expressed in a post on X. “We discovered that personalization isn't just the next frontier in finance, but in all software.”</p>

<h3>AI as a Personalized Financial Companion</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Beyond merely tracking trades, Roi provided users with a conversational AI companion that catered to their individual needs. Users could personalize interactions by sharing their professional backgrounds and preferred response styles.</p>

<h3>Engagement through Customization</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a relatable example shared by Roi, a user requested, “Talk to me like I’m a Gen-Z kid with brain rot. Use as few words as possible and roast me as much as you want.” The AI's playful response addressed the user's portfolio status, showcasing Roi's approach to creating engaging, personalized interactions.</p>

<h3>Software that Evolves with Its Users</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Roi's philosophy emphasizes that software should adapt, learn, and communicate in human-like manners that resonate with users. As articulated by the Roi team, “The products we use daily won’t remain static; they'll become adaptive, deeply personal companions that understand, learn from, and evolve alongside us.”</p>

<h3>OpenAI's Synergy with Roi's Vision</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This vision aligns well with OpenAI's ongoing consumer initiatives, including personalized news offerings through Pulse, an AI-powered TikTok competitor called Sora, and the Instant Checkout feature for seamless shopping within ChatGPT.</p>

<h3>Strengthening OpenAI's Consumer App Strategy</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">This acquisition comes as OpenAI strengthens its consumer applications team, directed by former Instacart CEO Fidji Simo. It signals a clear intent not just to serve as an API provider but to create its own user-facing applications. Roi’s technology and talent could seamlessly integrate into these developments, enhancing adaptability.</p>

<h3>A Legacy of User Behavior Optimization</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Vishwajith, alongside his co-founder Chip Davis, previously worked at Airbnb, where they honed the skills necessary for optimizing user behavior to increase revenue. A minor adjustment of just 25 lines of code resulted in over $10 million in additional revenue, showcasing their expertise.</p>

<h3>OpenAI's Drive for Revenue Growth</h3>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As OpenAI continues to invest billions into data centers and infrastructure to power its models, generating significant revenue through consumer applications has become increasingly vital.</p>

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This rewritten article includes an engaging main headline and informative subheadlines, formatted for SEO and readability.

Sure! Here are five FAQs with answers about OpenAI’s latest acqui-hire and its focus on personalized consumer AI:

FAQ 1: What is the significance of OpenAI’s latest acqui-hire?

Answer: OpenAI’s latest acqui-hire signifies a strategic move to enhance its capabilities in personalized consumer AI. By integrating new talent and expertise, OpenAI aims to develop more tailored and effective AI solutions for individual users, improving user experience and engagement.

FAQ 2: How will this acqui-hire impact OpenAI’s existing products?

Answer: The acqui-hire is expected to enhance existing products by introducing more sophisticated algorithms and user-centric features. This could lead to improved interaction, better customization options, and overall advancements in how users engage with OpenAI’s technology.

FAQ 3: What types of personalized AI solutions can we expect from OpenAI?

Answer: Users can anticipate a range of personalized AI solutions, such as personalized recommendations, adaptive learning systems, customized content delivery, and more intuitive user interfaces that cater to individual preferences and behaviors.

FAQ 4: How does OpenAI plan to ensure user privacy with these personalized AI offerings?

Answer: OpenAI is committed to prioritizing user privacy by implementing robust data protection measures. This includes anonymizing user data, providing clear privacy policies, and giving users control over their data preferences to ensure a secure and transparent experience.

FAQ 5: When can consumers expect to see these new personalized AI features?

Answer: While specific timelines have not been disclosed, OpenAI aims to roll out these personalized features incrementally over the coming months. Users can stay updated by following OpenAI’s announcements and product updates for the latest information on new features and innovations.

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After Nine Years of Hard Work, Replit Discovers Its Market—Can It Maintain Its Momentum?

Replit’s Remarkable Journey to a $3 Billion Valuation

While AI coding startups like Cursor are securing impressive funding in just a few years, Replit’s journey to a $3 billion valuation has been anything but simple. For CEO Amjad Masad, who has been dedicated to democratizing programming since 2009, this is a saga of perseverance through failed business models and tough decisions, including a drastic reduction in workforce last year.

Funding Breakthrough Amidst Struggles

Earlier this month, the Bay Area-based company secured a $250 million funding round led by Prysm Capital, nearly tripling its valuation from 2023. This achievement follows unprecedented revenue growth, soaring from just $2.8 million last year to an impressive $150 million in annualized revenue within a year. For Masad, this moment embodies more than just financial success; it represents the culmination of a 16-year journey.

Mission to Create a Billion Programmers

“Our mission has always been the same,” Masad shared in a recent episode of TechCrunch’s StrictlyVC Download podcast. “Initially, we aimed to make programming more accessible, but then we upped our goal: we want to create a billion programmers.”

A Background Rooted in Accessibility

Masad’s journey began in 2012 after his open-source coding project gained recognition, even catching the eye of the New York Times. His role as an early engineer at Codecademy in 2009 ignited his passion for making programming accessible, sparking what would become the MOOC revolution.

Challenges on the Path to Success

Replit was founded in 2016, but the ensuing eight years were plagued by challenges in finding product-market fit. Masad recalls reaching $2.83 million in annual recurring revenue back in 2021, but then stagnating for several years.

Despite their innovative strides, including developing a sophisticated cloud-based infrastructure for collaborative coding, the company struggled with revenue growth. By last year, Masad found himself having to make the tough decision to cut the workforce by 50% due to unsustainable financial measures.

The Game-Changing Product Launch

A turning point came last fall with the launch of Replit Agent, which Masad claims is “the first agent-based coding experience in the world.” This innovation not only writes code but also debugs and deploys it, serving as a genuine software engineering partner.

Shifting Focus from Professional Developers

In January, Masad made the controversial decision to pivot away from professional developers as the core market. “Hacker News was really unhappy,” he admitted, but he moved forward to target non-technical users instead.

Impressive Revenue Growth and Market Validation

As of this summer, Replit’s revenue reportedly exceeded $150 million in annualized terms. Unlike many AI coding startups, Replit is profitable, with high margins on enterprise deals.

Recent reports highlighted that Replit placed third in Andreessen Horowitz’s AI Spending Report, surpassing other development tools and affirming its significant market position.

Challenges and Challenges in a Competitive Landscape

The road hasn’t been without its obstacles. A notable incident occurred when Replit’s AI agent inadvertently deleted a venture capitalist’s production database, leading to a swift and proactive response from Masad and his team to enhance safety measures.

Strong Financial Foundation and Future Plans

Despite facing existential threats from AI labs like Anthropic and OpenAI, Replit enjoys a robust financial cushion with a $350 million war chest from previous funding rounds. Masad’s focus now shifts towards scaling operations and accelerating product development, with an eye on potential acquisitions.

A Stoic Perspective on Success

Reflecting on the company’s rapid rise, Masad emphasizes the importance of being principled and forward-thinking. “This too shall pass,” he stated, acknowledging both their achievements and the possibility of future challenges.

Here are five FAQs with answers based on "After nine years of grinding, Replit finally found its market. Can it keep it?":

FAQ 1: What is Replit, and what services does it offer?

Answer: Replit is an online platform that allows users to write, compile, and execute code in various programming languages directly from their web browsers. It offers collaborative coding environments, educational tools for learning programming, and a community for sharing projects. Replit aims to make coding more accessible and user-friendly.

FAQ 2: How did Replit find its market after nine years?

Answer: After years of evolving its platform and listening to user feedback, Replit identified a strong demand for collaborative coding tools and educational resources. By focusing on these areas and optimizing user experience, it successfully carved out a niche in the developer and educational sectors.

FAQ 3: What challenges does Replit face in maintaining its market position?

Answer: Replit faces challenges including competition from other coding platforms, the need for continuous innovation to meet user expectations, and potential scalability issues as user demand increases. Additionally, capturing the interest of educational institutions and maintaining a strong community are ongoing priorities.

FAQ 4: How does Replit support educational institutions and learners?

Answer: Replit offers a range of features tailored for educators, such as classroom management tools, interactive coding assignments, and collaborative workspaces for students. It aims to provide an engaging and effective learning environment, making coding more approachable for beginners.

FAQ 5: What is Replit’s vision for the future?

Answer: Replit envisions expanding its platform to enhance collaboration and accessibility for developers and learners alike. The company aims to introduce new features, improve user experience, and strengthen its community, ensuring that it remains a leading choice for coding and learning in the digital age.

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OpenAI Employees Navigate the Company’s Social Media Initiative

OpenAI Launches Sora: A TikTok Rival Amid Mixed Reactions from Researchers

Several current and former OpenAI researchers are voicing their concerns regarding the company’s entry into social media with the Sora app. This TikTok-style platform showcases AI-generated videos, including deepfakes of Sam Altman. The debate centers around how this aligns with OpenAI’s nonprofit mission to advance AI for the benefit of humanity.

Voices of Concern: Researchers Share Their Thoughts

“AI-based feeds are scary,” expressed John Hallman, an OpenAI pretraining researcher, in a post on X. “I felt concerned when I first heard about Sora 2, but I believe the team did a commendable job creating a positive experience. We will strive to ensure AI serves humanity positively.”

A Mixed Bag of Reactions

Boaz Barak, an OpenAI researcher and Harvard professor, shared his feelings in a reply: “I feel both excitement and concern. While Sora 2 is technically impressive, it’s too early to say we’ve dodged the traps of other social media platforms and deepfakes.”

Rohan Pandey, a former OpenAI researcher, took the opportunity to promote his new startup, Periodic Labs, that focuses on creating AI for scientific discovery: “If you’re not interested in building the next AI TikTok, but want to foster AI advancements in fundamental science, consider joining us at Periodic Labs.”

The Tension Between Profit and Mission

The launch of Sora underscores a persistent tension for OpenAI, which is rapidly becoming the world’s fastest-growing consumer tech entity while also being an AI research organization with a noble nonprofit agenda. Some former employees argue that a consumer business can, in theory, support OpenAI’s mission by funding research and broadening access to AI technology.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, articulated this in a post on X, explaining the rationale behind investing resources in Sora:

“We fundamentally need capital to develop AI for science and remain focused on AGI in our research efforts. It’s also enjoyable to present innovative tech and products, making users smile while potentially offsetting our substantial computational costs.”

Altman emphasized the nuanced reality facing companies when weighing their missions with consumer interests:

What Does the Future Hold for OpenAI?

The key question remains: at what point does OpenAI’s consumer focus overshadow its nonprofit goals? How does the company make choices regarding lucrative opportunities that might contradict its mission?

This inquiry is particularly pressing as regulators closely monitor OpenAI’s transition to a for-profit model. California Attorney General Rob Bonta has expressed concerns about ensuring that the nonprofit’s safety mission stays prominent during this restructuring phase.

Critics have alleged that OpenAI’s mission serves as a mere branding tactic to attract talent from larger tech firms. Nevertheless, many insiders claim that this mission is why they chose to join the organization.

Initial Impressions of Sora

Currently, the Sora app is in its infancy, just a day post-launch. However, its emergence signals a significant growth trajectory for OpenAI’s consumer offerings. Unlike ChatGPT, designed primarily for usefulness, Sora aims for entertainment as users create and share AI-generated clips. The app draws similarities to TikTok and Instagram Reels, platforms notorious for fostering addictive behaviors.

Despite its playful premise, OpenAI asserts a commitment to sidestep established pitfalls. In a blog post announcing Sora’s launch, the company emphasized its awareness of issues like doomscrolling and addiction. They aim for a user experience that focuses on creativity rather than excessive screen time, providing notifications for prolonged engagement and prioritizing showing content from known users.

This foundation appears stronger than Meta’s recent Vibes release — an AI-driven video feed that lacked sufficient safeguards. As noted by former OpenAI policy director Miles Brundage, there may be both positive and negative outcomes from AI video feeds, reminiscent of the chatbot era.

However, as Altman has acknowledged, the creation of addictive applications is often unintentional. The inherent incentives of managing a feed can lead developers down this path. OpenAI has previously experienced issues with sycophancy in ChatGPT, which was an unintended consequence of certain training methodologies.

In a June podcast, Altman elaborated on what he termed “the significant misalignment of social media.”

“One major fault of social media was that feed algorithms led to numerous unintentional negative societal impacts. These algorithms kept users engaged by promoting content they believed the users wanted at that moment but detracted from a balanced experience,” he explained.

The Road Ahead for Sora

Determining how well Sora aligns with user interests and OpenAI’s overarching mission will take time. Early users are already noticing engagement-driven features, such as dynamic emojis that pop up when liking a video, potentially designed to enhance user interaction.

The true challenge will be how OpenAI shapes Sora’s future. With AI increasingly dominating social media feeds, it is conceivable that AI-native platforms will soon find their place in the market. The real question remains: can OpenAI expand Sora without repeating the missteps of its predecessors?

Certainly! Here are five FAQs based on the topic of OpenAI’s social media efforts:

FAQ 1: Why is OpenAI increasing its presence on social media?

Answer: OpenAI aims to engage with a broader audience, share insights about artificial intelligence, and promote its research initiatives. Social media allows for real-time communication and helps demystify AI technologies.

FAQ 2: How does OpenAI ensure the responsible use of AI in its social media messaging?

Answer: OpenAI adheres to strict ethical guidelines and policies when sharing information on social media. This includes being transparent about the limitations of AI and promoting safe usage practices.

FAQ 3: What types of content can we expect from OpenAI’s social media channels?

Answer: Followers can expect a mix of content including research findings, educational resources, project updates, thought leadership articles, and community engagement initiatives aimed at fostering discussions about AI.

FAQ 4: How can the public engage with OpenAI on social media?

Answer: The public can engage by following OpenAI’s accounts, participating in discussions through comments and shares, and actively contributing to polls or Q&A sessions that OpenAI hosts.

FAQ 5: Will OpenAI address controversies or criticisms on its social media platforms?

Answer: Yes, OpenAI is committed to transparency and will address relevant controversies or criticisms in a professional and constructive manner to foster informed discussions around AI technologies.

Feel free to customize these FAQs further based on specific aspects you’d like to highlight!

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New Initiative Enhances AI Accessibility to Wikipedia Data

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  <h2>Wikimedia Deutschland Launches Groundbreaking Wikidata Embedding Project for AI Access</h2>

  <p id="speakable-summary" class="wp-block-paragraph">On Wednesday, Wikimedia Deutschland unveiled a new database aimed at enhancing the accessibility of Wikipedia's extensive knowledge for AI models.</p>

  <h3>What is the Wikidata Embedding Project?</h3>
  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Wikidata Embedding Project employs a vector-based semantic search, a cutting-edge technique that enables computers to better understand the meaning and relationships among words, utilizing nearly 120 million entries from Wikipedia and its sister platforms.</p>

  <h3>Enhancing AI Communication with the Model Context Protocol (MCP)</h3>
  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">This initiative also integrates support for the Model Context Protocol (MCP), a standard that optimizes communication between AI systems and data sources, making the wealth of data more accessible for natural language queries from large language models (LLMs).</p>

  <h3>Collaborative Efforts Behind the Project</h3>
  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Executed by Wikimedia’s German branch in partnership with Jina.AI, a neural search company, and DataStax, a real-time training-data firm owned by IBM, this project represents a significant step forward in AI data accessibility.</p>

  <h3>Advancements from Traditional Tools</h3>
  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Although Wikidata has provided machine-readable information from Wikimedia properties for years, previous tools were limited to keyword searches and SPARQL queries. The new system is designed to work more effectively with retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) systems, enabling AI models to incorporate verified knowledge from Wikipedia editors.</p>

  <h3>Semantic Context Makes Data More Valuable</h3>
  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The database is structured to deliver essential semantic context. For instance, querying the term <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q901">“scientist,”</a> yields lists of notable nuclear scientists and researchers from Bell Labs, alongside translations, images of scientists at work, and related concepts like “researcher” and “scholar.”</p>

  <h3>Public Access and Developer Engagement</h3>
  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The database is <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://wd-vectordb.toolforge.org">publicly accessible on Toolforge</a>. Additionally, Wikidata is hosting <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Event:Embedding_Project_Webinar">a webinar for developers</a> on October 9th to encourage engagement and exploration of the project.</p>

  <h3>The Urgent Demand for Quality Data in AI Development</h3>
  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">As AI developers seek high-quality data sources for fine-tuning models, the training systems have become increasingly complex. Reliable data is critical, especially for applications requiring high accuracy. While some may overlook Wikipedia, its data remains more factual and structured compared to broad datasets like <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://commoncrawl.org/">Common Crawl</a>, a collection of web pages scraped from the internet.</p>

  <h3>The Cost of High-Quality Data in AI</h3>
  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">The pursuit of top-notch data can lead to significant costs for AI labs. Recently, Anthropic agreed to a $1.5 billion settlement over a lawsuit related to the use of authors' works as training material.</p>

  <h3>Wikidata's Commitment to Open Collaboration</h3>
  <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a statement, Wikidata AI project manager Philippe Saadé highlighted the project’s independence from major tech companies. “This Embedding Project launch shows that powerful AI doesn’t have to be controlled by a handful of companies,” Saadé conveyed. “It can be open, collaborative, and built to serve everyone.”</p>
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Feel free to integrate this structured HTML format into your website for optimal SEO and reader engagement!

Here are five FAQs regarding the new project that aims to make Wikipedia data more accessible to AI:

FAQ 1: What is the purpose of this new project?

Answer: The project aims to enhance the accessibility of Wikipedia data for artificial intelligence applications. By structuring and organizing this extensive dataset, the initiative intends to improve AI’s ability to understand, process, and utilize information from Wikipedia efficiently.

FAQ 2: How will this project affect AI development?

Answer: Improved access to Wikipedia data can streamline the training of AI models, allowing them to fetch reliable information quickly. This can lead to more accurate AI responses, better language understanding, and enhanced capabilities in various applications, such as chatbots and search engines.

FAQ 3: Who is involved in this project?

Answer: The project involves collaboration among researchers, developers, and organizations dedicated to advancing AI technology and open data access. This could include academic institutions, tech companies, and the Wikimedia Foundation, among others.

FAQ 4: Will this project change how information is presented on Wikipedia?

Answer: No, the project is focused on making the existing data more accessible for AI. It won’t alter how information is presented on Wikipedia, as the primary goal is to enhance AI’s ability to parse and utilize that information without modifying the source content.

FAQ 5: Where can I find more information about the project?

Answer: More information can usually be found on the project’s official website or through announcements from participating organizations, including updates on development progress, methodologies, and potential impacts on AI and open data communities.

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Opera Introduces AI-Powered Neon Browser

Opera Launches AI-Driven Browser Neon: A Leap Towards Agentic Browsing

Introducing Neon: The Future of Browsing

On Tuesday, Opera unveiled its revolutionary AI-focused browser, Neon, designed to empower users to create applications through intuitive AI prompts. This innovative browser also features a function called “cards,” which facilitates the creation of repeatable prompts. With Neon, Opera joins the ranks of companies like Perplexity and The Browser Company, all striving to redefine the browsing experience.

Exclusive Access and Subscription Model

Initially announced in May during a closed preview, Opera is now inviting select users to experience Neon for a subscription fee of $19.99 per month. This approach is aimed at early adopters poised to influence the future of agentic browsing.

Personalized AI Interaction with Neon

“We built Opera Neon for ourselves – and for everyone who relies on AI daily. Today, we’re inviting the first users to help us shape the evolution of agentic browsing,” stated Krystian Kolondra, EVP Browsers at Opera.

Key Features of Opera Neon

  • Conversational Chatbot: Engage with a straightforward chatbot for instant answers and assistance.
  • Neon Do: A powerful feature designed to complete tasks efficiently. For example, it can summarize a Substack blog and share the summary in a Slack channel, leveraging your browsing history to fetch relevant details.
  • Code Writing Capabilities: Neon can generate snippets of code, simplifying the process of creating visual reports with tables and charts.

Innovative Prompting with Cards

Similar to The Browser Company’s Dia, which offers a “Skills” feature for prompt invocation, Neon allows users to build repeatable prompts via cards. This approach is reminiscent of the IFTTT (If This Then That) concept, enabling users to combine actions like “pull-details” and “comparison-table” for seamless product comparisons across tabs. Users can create custom cards or utilize community-generated ones.

Task Management: A New Way to Organize Tabs

Neon introduces a tab organization system called Tasks, which encapsulates AI chats and tabs within focused workspaces. This feature merges elements of Tab Groups with the contextual capabilities of Arc Browser’s workspaces, enhancing productivity.

Real-World Applications: Can Neon Deliver?

In a recent demo, Opera showcased Neon’s ability to efficiently handle everyday tasks like ordering groceries. However, skepticism remains around whether these demos accurately reflect practical usage, placing the onus on Neon to validate its capabilities in real-world scenarios.

Positioning Against Competitors

With this launch, Opera is challenging competitors like Perplexity’s Comet and Dia, while major tech players like Google and Microsoft are also integrating AI features into their browsers. Unlike its rivals, Opera positions Neon as a premier choice for power users through its subscription model.

Here are five FAQs regarding Opera’s AI-centric Neon browser:

FAQ 1: What is the Opera Neon browser?

Answer: The Opera Neon browser is an innovative web browser developed by Opera that integrates AI features to enhance user experience. It offers a visually striking interface and introduces unique functionalities designed for efficient browsing and personalized content delivery.

FAQ 2: How does AI enhance the functionality of the Neon browser?

Answer: AI in the Opera Neon browser helps with task automation, content recommendations, and improved browsing efficiency. It can intelligently suggest websites and resources based on user behavior, making navigation more intuitive and personalized.

FAQ 3: Is Opera Neon available on all devices?

Answer: As of now, Opera Neon is primarily available for desktop platforms. Opera is consistently working on updates and enhancements, so users can expect future versions for other devices in subsequent releases.

FAQ 4: What are the privacy features of the Opera Neon browser?

Answer: Opera Neon comes with built-in privacy features, including a free VPN, ad blocker, and enhanced tracking protection. These tools are designed to ensure that user data is kept private and secure while browsing.

FAQ 5: How can I download and install the Opera Neon browser?

Answer: Users can download the Opera Neon browser from the official Opera website. The installation process is straightforward; just follow the prompts after downloading the file suitable for your operating system.

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Manny Medina’s AI Agent Startup, Paid, Secures Impressive $21M Seed Funding for Results-Based Billing

Manny Medina’s New Venture Paid Secures $21.6 Million Seed Round

Manny Medina, the visionary behind the $4.4 billion sales automation platform Outreach, has captivated investors with his latest startup, Paid.

Successful Seed Round Boosts Company’s Valuation

Paid has successfully closed an oversubscribed $21.6 million seed funding round led by Lightspeed. Coupled with a €10 million pre-seed round raised in March, the London-based startup has accumulated a remarkable $33.3 million before even reaching its Series A stage. Sources indicate that Paid’s valuation now exceeds $100 million.

Innovative Approach in the AI Landscape

Emerging from stealth mode in March, Paid presents a unique contribution to the AI ecosystem. Rather than offering agents directly, the company empowers agent developers to charge clients based on the tangible value provided by their algorithms. This concept, often referred to as “results-based billing,” is gaining traction in the AI space.

A Revolutionary Pricing Model for AI

Medina emphasizes that Paid enables agent developers to monetize the margin savings delivered to their clients. This innovative pricing model marks a departure from traditional software fees, moving away from the per-user pricing structures prevalent in the SaaS era.

Why Traditional Payment Models Fall Short

The conventional per-user fees are ineffective as agent developers incur usage costs from both model providers and cloud services. Without a clearer pricing strategy, underlying financial pressures could lead to unsustainable business models, a challenge frequently faced by startups in the coding space.

Measuring Value in a Quiet AI Workforce

Medina notes that “if you’re a quiet agent, you don’t get paid.” Effective infrastructure is crucial for agents to be compensated for their contributions. As agents operate in the background, demonstrating their effectiveness becomes essential for securing their continued engagement.

The Risks of Traditional Billing and Market Hesitation

Adopting a monthly fee for a limited number of credits poses significant risk to agent developers. Many businesses hesitate to invest in AI solutions that yield minimal value. A recent MIT study revealed that approximately 95% of enterprise AI projects fail to produce tangible benefits, with only 5% making it to production.

Driving Engagement with Effective AI Solutions

Businesses are reluctant to pay for agents that generate more emails that often go unread.

Early Adoption and Success Stories

One of Paid’s initial clients is Artisan, a popular sales automation startup. Artisan’s CEO, Jaspar Carmichael-Jack, will be discussing these developments at TechCrunch Disrupt next month.

Paid is also gaining traction among SaaS companies eager to leverage agents for growth, having recently signed ERP vendor IFS as a client.

Lightspeed’s Confidence in Paid’s Vision

Alexander Schmitt from Lightspeed shared that the firm has invested over $2.5 billion in AI infrastructure and application layers over the past three years, observing firsthand the high failure rates of AI pilots. He believes the crux of the issue lies in the inability to attribute value to agents’ contributions.

A Unique Market Positioning with Future Potential

Schmitt perceives Paid as a distinctive player in the market, highlighting its innovative approach as unprecedented in the industry. As Paid’s model gains traction, increased competition in results-based billing for agents could stimulate a significant shift in how AI solutions are utilized.

New investor FUSE, along with existing investor EQT Ventures, also participated in this latest funding round.

Here are five FAQs regarding Manny Medina’s startup, Paid, which uses a results-based billing model and has recently raised $21 million in seed funding:

FAQ 1: What is Paid’s business model?

Answer: Paid operates on a results-based billing model, meaning clients only pay for tangible outcomes achieved through the services provided. This aligns the company’s incentives with the success of its clients, creating a win-win scenario.

FAQ 2: Who is the founder of Paid and what is their background?

Answer: Paid was founded by Manny Medina, an entrepreneur with a proven track record in the tech industry. Prior to launching Paid, Medina was involved in several successful startups and has expertise in leveraging AI for business solutions.

FAQ 3: How much funding has Paid recently raised?

Answer: Paid has successfully raised $21 million in seed funding, which will be used to enhance its technology, expand its team, and further develop its results-based services.

FAQ 4: What industries can benefit from Paid’s services?

Answer: Paid’s results-based billing approach can benefit various industries, particularly those that rely heavily on measurable outcomes, such as marketing, sales, and customer service. Its services can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different sectors.

FAQ 5: How does Paid ensure the quality of its results?

Answer: Paid employs robust analytical tools and AI technologies to track performance and outcomes effectively. By focusing on data-driven results, the company ensures it delivers value to clients while maintaining accountability for the services rendered.

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Beware of Coworkers Who Generate AI-Driven ‘Workslop’

Unveiling “Workslop”: The Dangers of Low-Quality AI-Generated Content

A recent study by BetterUp Labs in partnership with the Stanford Social Media Lab introduces a concerning new term: “workslop.”

What is Workslop?

According to a revealing article published in the Harvard Business Review, workslop refers to “AI-generated work content that pretends to be high quality but lacks the substance needed to effectively complete a task.”

The Impact of Workslop on Organizations

Researchers from BetterUp Labs point to workslop as a significant factor behind the overwhelming 95% of organizations that have experimented with AI yet report seeing no return on their investment. They note that workslop can be “unhelpful, incomplete, or lack essential context,” leading to increased workloads for employees.

The Hidden Burden of Workslop

The researchers highlight the deeper issue of workslop by explaining, “Its insidious nature shifts the burden downstream, demanding that the recipient interpret, correct, or completely redo the work.”

Prevalence of Workslop Among Employees

In a survey conducted among 1,150 full-time U.S.-based employees, researchers found that 40% of respondents reported encountering workslop in the past month, underscoring the issue’s widespread nature.

How to Combat Workslop in the Workplace

To mitigate the effects of workslop, researchers recommend that workplace leaders “model purposeful and intentional AI use” and “establish clear guidelines for teams regarding acceptable practices.”

Here are five FAQs regarding the concept of "workslop" generated by AI:

FAQ 1: What is "workslop"?

Q: What does the term "workslop" refer to in the context of AI-generated content?
A: "Workslop" refers to low-quality or subpar output produced by AI tools, often lacking depth, accuracy, or relevance. This content can result from poor prompts or minimal human oversight.

FAQ 2: How can I identify AI-generated workslop in my team’s output?

Q: What are some signs that indicate a coworker’s work might be AI-generated "workslop"?
A: Look for generic responses, lack of specific detail, inconsistent style, and factual inaccuracies. Additionally, if the content feels overly formulaic or lacks a personal touch, it might be AI-generated.

FAQ 3: What are the risks of relying on AI-generated workslop?

Q: Why is it important to be cautious of AI-generated workslop in a professional setting?
A: Relying on workslop can lead to misleading information, decreased team productivity, and potential damage to an organization’s reputation. It may also undermine the value of human creativity and critical thinking.

FAQ 4: How can I improve the quality of AI-generated work?

Q: What steps can I take to ensure that AI-generated content is of higher quality?
A: Provide clear and specific prompts, review and edit the output for accuracy and relevancy, and combine AI-generated content with human insights. Collaboration with AI should enhance rather than replace human contribution.

FAQ 5: What should I do if I encounter workslop from a coworker?

Q: How should I address the issue if I notice a coworker consistently produces AI-generated workslop?
A: Approach the situation with constructive feedback. Encourage open discussions about the importance of quality in work and suggest resources for improving AI usage. Promote a culture of collaboration and learning to elevate overall standards.

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What’s Driving the Headlines on Massive AI Data Centers?

<div>
    <h2>Silicon Valley's AI Infrastructure Investment Surge: What You Need to Know</h2>

    <p id="speakable-summary" class="wp-block-paragraph">This week, Silicon Valley dominated the news with jaw-dropping investments in AI infrastructure.</p>

    <h3>Nvidia's Massive Commitment to OpenAI</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Nvidia announced plans to <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/09/22/nvidia-plans-to-invest-up-to-100b-in-openai/">invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI</a>. This investment marks a significant leap in AI capabilities, with the potential to reshape the industry landscape.</p>

    <h3>OpenAI's Expansion with New Data Centers</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In response, OpenAI revealed plans for <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/09/23/openai-is-building-five-new-stargate-data-centers-with-oracle-and-softbank/">five new Stargate AI data centers</a> in collaboration with Oracle and SoftBank, set to vastly increase their processing capacity over the coming years. To fund this ambitious project, Oracle disclosed it <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/09/24/oracle-is-reportedly-looking-to-raise-15b-in-corporate-bond-sale/">raised $18 billion in bonds</a>.</p>

    <h3>The Bigger Picture: A Race for AI Capability</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Individually, these deals are remarkable, but collectively, they illustrate Silicon Valley’s relentless drive to equip OpenAI with the necessary resources to train and deploy advanced versions of ChatGPT.</p>

    <h3>Deep Dive on AI Infrastructure Deals</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">On this week’s episode of <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/podcasts/equity/">Equity</a>, Anthony Ha and I (Max Zeff) explore the real implications behind these substantial AI infrastructure investments.</p>

    <p>
        <iframe loading="lazy" class="tcembed-iframe tcembed--megaphone wp-block-tc23-podcast-player__embed" height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless="" src="https://playlist.megaphone.fm?e=TCML4042279995"></iframe>
    </p>

    <h3>OpenAI's Innovative New Feature: Pulse</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">In a timely move, OpenAI launched <a target="_blank" href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/09/25/openai-launches-chatgpt-pulse-to-proactively-write-you-morning-briefs/">Pulse</a>, an intelligent feature in ChatGPT designed to deliver personalized morning briefings to users. This functionality operates independently, offering a morning news experience without user posts or advertisements—at least for now.</p>

    <h3>Capacity Challenges for OpenAI Users</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">While OpenAI aims to broaden access to these innovative features, they are currently constrained by server capacity. Presently, Pulse is exclusively available to Pro subscribers for $200 a month.</p>

    <div class="wp-block-techcrunch-inline-cta">
        <div class="inline-cta__wrapper">
            <p>Join Us at the Techcrunch Event</p>
            <div class="inline-cta__content">
                <p>
                    <span class="inline-cta__location">San Francisco</span>
                    <span class="inline-cta__separator">|</span>
                    <span class="inline-cta__date">October 27-29, 2025</span>
                </p>
            </div>
        </div>
    </div>

    <h3>The Big Question: Are These Investments Justified?</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the debate simmers, can features like Pulse truly justify the hundreds of billions being funneled into AI data centers? While Pulse is intriguing, the stakes are exceptionally high.</p>

    <h3>Stay Tuned for More Insights</h3>
    <p class="wp-block-paragraph">Tune into the full episode for an in-depth discussion on the monumental AI infrastructure investments shaping Silicon Valley, TikTok's ownership dilemmas, and the policy shifts affecting the biggest tech players.</p>

    <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><p></p></figure>
</div>

This revised version features optimized headlines for better SEO, ensuring clarity and engagement throughout the article.

Sure! Here are five FAQs with answers related to the topic "What’s behind the massive AI data center headlines?":

FAQ 1: What is driving the expansion of AI data centers?

Answer: The rapid growth in artificial intelligence applications, particularly in machine learning and deep learning, has led to an increasing demand for computing power. This expansion is driven by the need for large-scale processing of data, enabling more sophisticated AI models and faster training times.

FAQ 2: How do AI data centers differ from traditional data centers?

Answer: AI data centers are specifically designed to optimize the performance and efficiency of AI workloads. They typically employ specialized hardware, such as GPUs and TPUs, which are more capable of handling the high computational demands of AI tasks compared to traditional servers that often rely on standard CPUs.

FAQ 3: What are the environmental impacts of massive AI data centers?

Answer: The growth of AI data centers raises concerns about energy consumption and carbon footprint. These facilities require substantial amounts of electricity, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. However, many companies are exploring sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency, to mitigate these effects.

FAQ 4: Are there any challenges associated with the rapid development of AI data centers?

Answer: Yes, challenges include the need for significant capital investment, ensuring reliable cooling systems, managing high energy demands, and addressing security concerns. Additionally, there is a scarcity of skilled professionals in AI and data center management, complicating operational efficiency.

FAQ 5: What is the future outlook for AI data centers?

Answer: The future of AI data centers looks promising, with ongoing advancements in technology and architecture expected to further enhance capabilities. As AI continues to integrate into various industries, the demand for more efficient and powerful data centers will likely grow, leading to increased innovation in this space.

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Reinventing Within the Box: Aaron Levie’s Insights at Disrupt 2025

Unlocking Innovation: Aaron Levie at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

Join us at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, from October 27–29 at Moscone West, San Francisco, where Box CEO Aaron Levie will engage in a thought-provoking discussion on true innovation in public companies, the impact of AI on enterprise software, and the importance of questioning all ideas—including your own.


TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 with Aaron Levie

The Evolution of a Cloud Pioneer

Box emerged before “the cloud” became a household term, enduring through a sea of competitors who couldn’t scale effectively. As both a visionary founder and long-time CEO of a public company, Aaron Levie offers a unique perspective on navigating challenges and leveraging pivots in a fast-paced tech environment.

Why You Can’t Miss Aaron Levie’s Session

Aaron Levie has been a frontrunner in the cloud collaboration space long before it became mainstream, and he continues to raise the bar. This engaging fireside chat will deep-dive into the ingredients required for sustained success—encompassing product development, corporate culture, strategic initiatives, and the right mindset. Whether you’re a startup founder or managing a growing enterprise, you won’t want to miss this insightful session.

Join over 10,000 innovators, founders, and investors at Disrupt this October. Don’t miss out on savings of up to $668, available until September 26 at 11:59 p.m. PT—secure your spot today!


Disrupt 2024 Main Stage
Image Credits: Kimberly White / Getty Images

Sure! Here are five frequently asked questions (FAQs) with answers based on the theme of "Inside the Box: Aaron Levie on reinvention at Disrupt 2025":

FAQ 1: What is the main focus of Aaron Levie’s talk at Disrupt 2025?

Answer: Aaron Levie’s talk centers on the concept of reinvention in the business landscape. He discusses how companies can adapt to rapid changes in technology and market dynamics, emphasizing the importance of innovative thinking and staying ahead of the curve.

FAQ 2: How does Levie suggest companies approach reinvention?

Answer: Levie advocates for a mindset of continuous learning and experimentation. He encourages organizations to embrace failure as part of the process, fostering a culture where teams feel empowered to explore new ideas and pivot when necessary.

FAQ 3: What role does technology play in the reinvention process, according to Levie?

Answer: Technology is seen as a catalyst for reinvention in Levie’s perspective. He highlights how leveraging emerging technologies can streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive new business models, making it crucial for companies to integrate tech into their strategies.

FAQ 4: Can you summarize any key strategies Levie recommends for leaders in this era of change?

Answer: Levie suggests that leaders should focus on agility and adaptability. Key strategies include fostering collaboration across departments, embracing data-driven decision-making, and investing in employee development to build a resilient workforce capable of navigating change.

FAQ 5: What can attendees expect to take away from Levie’s presentation?

Answer: Attendees can expect to gain actionable insights into fostering a culture of innovation within their organizations. Levie’s experiences and examples will provide a framework for understanding how to successfully navigate the challenges of reinvention in today’s fast-paced business environment.

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