February 10, 2025
Tech News
Rapyd Financial Network is on the hunt for $300 million in a new funding round, valuing the company at $3.5 billion, significantly down from its 2021 assessment of $9 billion. This valuation drop highlights a broader trend where many startups are now experiencing down rounds following inflated valuations during the funding frenzy of 2020-2021.
This situation underscores the current investment climate where flat or down rounds peaked, constituting 27% of all deals in the first nine months of 2024, as indicated by PitchBook.
In the world of consumer tech, the Google Pixel Watch 3 is now available with an exclusive $60 discount, offered to Verge readers. This 41mm smartwatch is priced at $289.99 with a promo code, adding to the excitement around wearable technology as fitness-centric features and seamless integration with Google services enhance user experience.
Additionally, Google’s innovative Pixel Watch 3 includes offline Google Maps, improved running capabilities, and longer battery life. Its features cater to those seeking advanced fitness tracking options while also enabling better control over Google devices, making it a strong contender in the smartwatch market.
Turning to entertainment, Disney Plus has launched a new animated series, Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, aimed at showcasing community-focused heroism. The series presents a fresh narrative incorporating diverse supporting characters while maintaining core Spider-Man ethos and classic story elements familiar to fans of the franchise.
The animated Spider-Man series rejuvenates the superhero genre by weaving contemporary social discourse into its narrative, highlighting themes of empathy within strained circumstances and the contrasting experiences of characters from different backgrounds.
Tech Explained
Funding Round – This term refers to a stage in the life of a startup where it seeks investment from venture capitalists or other investors. Companies often pursue multiple funding rounds to secure finances for growth, development, or acquisitions, which may result in fluctuations in valuation.
API – An Application Programming Interface (API) allows different software applications to communicate with each other. In the fintech space, APIs enable third-party developers to access financial services like payments and fraud protection, streamlining integration and fostering innovation across platforms.
Smartwatch – A smartwatch is a wearable device that resembles a traditional wristwatch but offers advanced functionalities like fitness tracking, smartphone notifications, and health monitoring. Modern smartwatches, such as the Google Pixel Watch 3, integrate features that enhance connectivity and health capabilities for users.
Animated Series – An animated series comprises stories told through moving pictures created by animation techniques. In the context of entertainment, these series, like Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, leverage visuals to engage audiences, often integrating humor and modern themes to resonate with viewers while retelling beloved character narratives.
