Yahoo Autos Daily Crunch: Spotify says new AI DJ feature currently in beta testing has 'stunningly realistic voice'
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Helloooooo from team Daily Crunch! Haje is back from dealing with all sorts of little disasters, and Christine is still going strong. Let’s goooooo.
It’s still Black History Month, so for today’s feature, get yourself a TC+ subscription (use code DC for a discount), and read why our very own Dominic-Madori believes that for Black founders and investors, ringing Nasdaq’s opening bell symbolizes progress.
The TechCrunch Top 3
The beat goes on: Our music listening is getting way too smart for its own good. Spotify’s new feature, called “DJ,” is injecting some artificial intelligence into our music — because what doesn’t have AI powering it at this point — and claims to be so good at knowing what you want to listen to that you’ll have a personalized music experience every time you tap the DJ button. It will even give you commentary on what you’re listening to. Sarah has more.
United States for the win: Mary Ann spoke exclusively with Klarna’s co-founder and CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski and learned that the U.S. is now the payment giant’s largest market. She has the scoop on how the U.S. surpassed Europe.
Hey! You! Get into my car: Uber redesigned its app to create a more simplified and personalized experience for customers so you can see all the ride-hailing giant can offer. Rebecca walks us through the changes.
Startups and VC
Whatever you do, don’t miss our Wednesday Equity show — this week Natasha M interviewed Kaisa Snellman, an economic sociologist and an associate professor of organizational behavior and academic director of the INSEAD Gender Initiative, digging into how data shows that female check-writers alone aren’t enough to close the female fundraising gap.
A year after completing its special purpose acquisition with FirstMark Horizon Acquisition Corp. to go public, Starry Group Holdings, an internet service provider, said that it filed for bankruptcy in efforts to reduce its debt while maintaining customer and network operations in five cities, Christine reports.
And another few to keep you piqued:
Like video, but different: Scoot lands $12 million to inject customization into videoconferencing, reports Kyle.
Like sensitive data, but more secure: Ron reports that Metomic helps prevent employees from sharing sensitive data in SaaS apps.
Like the news, but Instagrammier: Instagram’s co-founders’ personalized news app Artifact launches to the public with new features, Sarah reports.
Like customer success, but more successful: Kyle writes that customer success platforms haven’t lost steam, exemplified by Vitally's $30 million round of financing.
Like branding you could go have a beer with: Tracksuit raises $5 million to make brand tracking more accessible, Rebecca reports.
Go long or go short? A VC reveals when it’s time to sell and how to maximize buyer interest
