January 24, 2025
Tech News
OpenAI’s AI chatbot platform, ChatGPT, experienced a significant outage recently, impacting user access across various platforms. The issue was acknowledged early in the morning, with OpenAI identifying the root cause shortly after. By mid-morning, the platform was back online, but OpenAI continues to monitor for any lingering issues. The API faced similar downtime but has since been resolved.
In a fresh development, OpenAI has launched Operator, an AI agent that autonomously performs tasks like making online reservations and bookings. Initially available to certain subscription users, Operator uses a special browser interface to complete these tasks while allowing user oversight. Although promising, users are warned of its limitations in managing complex interactions and require supervision for sensitive actions, which helps prevent potential mistakes.
Meanwhile, Tive is addressing the global supply chain’s visibility challenges by offering tracking devices linked to its cloud platform. Tive’s technology allows companies to monitor shipments in real-time, tracking location, temperature, and other factors. With over 900 customers across various industries, Tive is gaining traction, raising $40 million in a recent funding round to expand its workforce and product offerings.
In another development, Voyager Technologies has filed for a confidential IPO, aiming for a valuation between $2 billion and $3 billion. The Denver-based space tech company, founded in 2019, boasts substantial support from investors and has developed various propulsion technologies while forging partnerships to enhance its capabilities, including integrating AI from Palantir.
Lastly, Fundraise Up is transforming nonprofit donations through AI-enabled solutions, addressing the tech limitations faced by non-profit organizations. The platform allows nonprofits to create donation pages and provides insights to optimize fundraising efforts. Recently, Fundraise Up raised $70 million to enhance its offerings and expand its reach, reinforcing its position as a leader in the fundraising tech landscape.
Tech Explained
Outage – An outage refers to a period when a service is unavailable or dysfunctional, typically affecting system performance. In the context of ChatGPT, users faced issues accessing the platform due to technical difficulties that were resolved after a close monitoring period.
AI Agent – An AI agent is a software entity that can perform tasks on behalf of a user, often leveraging automation and artificial intelligence for decision-making and task execution. OpenAI’s Operator is an example of such an agent, designed to autonomously interact with web environments.
Real-time – Real-time systems provide immediate processing and feedback between inputs and outputs. Tive’s tracking devices operate in real-time, allowing businesses to monitor freight instantly, which is crucial for effective supply chain management.
IPO – An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is the process through which a private company can go public by offering its shares to the general public for the first time. Voyager Technologies is looking to undertake this process to access capital for growth while securing a substantial market valuation.
AI – Artificial intelligence involves the simulation of human intelligence in machines, programmed to think and learn like humans. Fundraise Up utilizes AI to optimize donation processes by personalizing donor interactions and enhancing the overall fundraising experience.
