TechCrunch News Roundup: July 26, 2025
Welcome to your weekly tech update! Here’s a look at some of the most significant stories from TechCrunch this past week. From the future of transportation with autonomous vehicles to AI’s growing influence and major shifts in the semiconductor industry, there’s a lot happening.
Tesla’s Robotaxi Ambitions Face Roadblocks
Tesla is eager to launch its robotaxi service in San Francisco, but regulatory hurdles remain. Originally published on July 25, 2025, by Sean O’Kane and Kirsten Korosec (TechCrunch), the plan currently requires a human driver in the vehicle – a departure from previous testing in Austin. This change highlights the challenges of widespread autonomous vehicle deployment.
India Bans Streaming Apps
In a significant move impacting the streaming landscape, India has blocked 25 streaming services. Jagmeet Singh (TechCrunch) reported on July 25, 2025, that these services, despite often flying under the radar, collectively boast millions of viewers and subscribers. The ban stems from allegations of “obscene” content.
Focus on Value, Not Just TAM: Advice for Startups
Founders often get caught up in determining their Total Addressable Market (TAM). Index Ventures partner Jahanvi Sardana offers a refreshingly pragmatic perspective. Dominic-Madori Davis (TechCrunch) covered this on July 25, 2025, highlighting that many successful startups have emerged in markets that didn’t even *exist* when they started.
Intel Restructures with Network and Edge Group Spinoff
Intel is undergoing a strategic shift, spinning off its Network and Edge group. Rebecca Szkutak (TechCrunch) reported on July 25, 2025, that the independent company generated $5.8 billion in revenue in 2024, with Intel remaining a key investor. This move signifies a refocusing of Intel’s core business.
Meta Bolsters AI Leadership
The AI arms race continues, and Meta is making significant hires. Maxwell Zeff (TechCrunch) reported on July 25, 2025, that Shengjia Zhao, formerly of OpenAI, has been appointed as Chief Scientist of Meta’s AI superintelligence unit.
AI-Powered Referrals Surge
Artificial intelligence is dramatically changing how people discover content online. Sarah Perez (TechCrunch) wrote on July 25, 2025, that AI platforms generated over 1.13 billion referrals to the top 1,000 websites in June, a staggering 357% increase year-over-year.
A Cautionary Note: ChatGPT and Legal Confidentiality
Sam Altman has issued a warning regarding the use of ChatGPT for sensitive discussions. Sarah Perez (TechCrunch) reported on July 25, 2025, that there is currently no legal framework ensuring confidentiality when using the AI chatbot, particularly concerning therapy or legal advice.
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