Rumors: Amazon's New Echo Device | Crunch Report

TL;DR

The US Department of Justice is investigating Uber's gray ball program, Amazon is rumored to release an Echo device with a touchscreen, and Facebook has shut down its Oculus Story Studio.

Transcript

the US Department of Justice has opened an investigation into overuse of gray balling we get the first look at the rumor to be Amazon echo device and Facebook shuts down as VR filmmaking division it's Friday makes it and this is crunch report brought to you by the all-new all innovative BMW 5-series happy Cinco DeMayo let's get ready for the weeken... Read More

Key Insights

• 💬 Uber's gray ball program is under investigation by the US Department of Justice, potentially causing further complications for the company.
• 🫥 Amazon is rumored to be releasing a new Echo device with a touchscreen, expanding its product line.
• 😚 Facebook's decision to close down Oculus Story Studio signals a shift in focus towards supporting external content creators in the VR space.
• 🥺 The shutdown may impact around 50 employees, leading to potential job changes within Facebook.
• 👾 TechCrunch shows support for creators interested in making videos about lovable animals, offering desk space to those affected by the Oculus Story Studio closure.
• 👯 Rumors continue to generate interest and intrigue among people.
• 😀 Uber is facing various corporate issues in addition to the gray ball program investigation.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the US Department of Justice investigating regarding Uber?

The US Department of Justice is investigating Uber's gray ball program, which allowed the company to evade law enforcement and regulators. This investigation might reveal further details about the program and create more issues for Uber.

Q: What is the rumored Echo device from Amazon?

The rumored Echo device from Amazon is said to have a touchscreen and resembles an old iMac with a tilted display. It might feature a seven-inch display and improved speakers, with an official announcement expected later this month.

Q: Why did Facebook shut down its Oculus Story Studio?

Facebook decided to close down its Oculus Story Studio to focus on investing in outside groups that create VR content. The studio was in the process of producing its fourth film when the decision was made, impacting approximately 50 employees.

Q: What are the potential implications of Facebook's decision for its employees?

The employees affected by the shutdown of Oculus Story Studio will have the opportunity to apply for other positions within Facebook. However, if they are interested in creating VR content about cute animals, TechCrunch offers a potential space for them to continue their work.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The US Department of Justice has opened a criminal investigation into Uber's gray ball program, which helped the company avoid law enforcement officials and regulators.

• Amazon is rumored to be working on an Echo device with a touchscreen, featuring a seven-inch display and higher quality speakers.

• Facebook has decided to close down its Oculus Story Studio, impacting about 50 employees, and will now invest in outside groups creating VR content.