Writer debuts Palmyra X 004, an LLM for enterprise applications, saying it cost just $700K to train, using synthetic data; source: Writer is raising up to $200M (Hayden Field/CNBC)

Growth-stage fundraising is gaining momentum once more, but the dynamics have shifted significantly. At TechCrunch All Stage 2025 on July 15 in Boston, Cathy Gao, partner at Sapphire Ventures, will discuss the evolving landscape and share insights on how to succeed in today’s market, drawing from her experience backing breakout companies. Need More Context? 🔎

SpaceX's Starship rocket exploded during a ground test at its South Texas facility late Wednesday, marking another setback for a program that has faced three recent failures. The explosion, which occurred shortly after 11:00 PM local time, destroyed the upper stage intended for the next test flight and was felt by residents up to 30 miles away. Need More Context? 🔎

Threat actors with suspected Russian ties are exploiting Google’s application specific passwords feature in a social engineering campaign to access victims' emails, according to the Google Threat Intelligence Group and Citizen Lab. This targeted activity highlights the evolving tactics used in cyber threats against individuals and organizations. Need More Context? 🔎

Amazon-owned Zoox has launched its first facility for manufacturing fully autonomous robotaxis, with the potential to produce up to 10,000 vehicles annually once at full capacity. The innovative design eliminates traditional components like the steering wheel and pedals, emphasizing a driverless experience, as showcased in a recently released video by the California-based company. Need More Context? 🔎

While major sales events like Black Friday yield the best iPad deals, discounts are available throughout the year, particularly on the more affordable iPad models and newer versions like the iPad Pro and iPad Mini. The latest iPad models feature significant upgrades, and current deals include the 11th-gen iPad at $299 and the iPad Mini at $474, with the iPad Air starting at $499. Need More Context? 🔎

Austria's coalition government has approved a plan allowing police to monitor secure messaging services like WhatsApp to enhance security against militant attacks, addressing a significant gap in legal powers compared to allies like the US and UK. This initiative aims to deter potential terrorists, as demonstrated by the recent thwarting of a planned attack on a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna. Need More Context? 🔎