June 29, 2025
Tech News
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 is generating buzz as it approaches its event in San Francisco, scheduled for October 27–29. Among its highlights is a fireside chat featuring influential founders from 01 Advisors, who will share insights on building resilient startups in today’s tech landscape.
The trio includes Adam Bain, Dick Costolo, and David Fischer, all veterans of iconic companies like Twitter and Meta. Bain’s work transformed Twitter into a global business, while Costolo guided the company through monumental growth. Fischer’s strategic direction at Meta helped scale its ad revenue substantially, making contributions that will be invaluable at the upcoming talk.
In tandem with the tech industry’s evolution, a new video game, “Relooted,” has emerged from Johannesburg. It ingeniously uses its narrative to engage players in reclaiming African artefacts from colonial institutions. Developed by Nyamakop, the game prompts discussions on the implications of colonialism while enabling players to explore and reclaim their cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, in the gaming sector, Supercell plans to launch its beloved titles like Clash Royale on WeChat as mini games. This move aims to tap into the platform’s extensive user base and enhance player experiences through installation-free access, reflecting the growing trend of micro gaming in China’s rapidly expanding market.
In energy innovation, Redwood Materials is venturing into the energy storage sphere, focusing initially on powering AI data centers with repurposed EV batteries. By leveraging its vast collection of retired batteries, the company aims to generate substantial energy storage, presenting a sustainable solution for the growing demand in the tech sector.
Tech Explained
TechCrunch Disrupt – TechCrunch Disrupt is a prominent annual technology conference hosted by TechCrunch, where entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators converge to discuss trends, share knowledge, and showcase new technologies and startups that could shape the future of the industry.
Venture Capital – Venture capital refers to financial investments made into startups and small businesses with high growth potential. Funds are typically provided by venture capital firms in exchange for equity ownership, which allows these firms to benefit from the startup’s successful growth and eventual profitability.
Mini Games – Mini games are small, often casual games that can be played within a larger application, typically requiring minimal download and installation. They provide quick entertainment and are growing in popularity due to their accessibility and seamless integration with social platforms like WeChat.
Energy Storage – Energy storage refers to the capture of energy produced at one time for use at a later time. Technologies, such as batteries, store energy for later use, which is crucial for balancing energy supply and demand, especially with the rise of renewable energy sources.
EV Batteries – EV batteries are rechargeable batteries specifically designed to provide power to electric vehicles. These batteries are crucial for storing and releasing energy efficiently, influencing the performance and range of electric vehicles, and now, they are increasingly repurposed for energy storage solutions beyond automotive applications.
