## United Airlines Ventures Invests in Aerospace Startup Astro Mechanica

United Airlines' venture capital arm has announced an investment in **Astro Mechanica**, a startup focused on developing advanced airframe designs and propulsion systems for **supersonic aircraft**. This move signals a resurgence of industry interest in ultra-fast jets, potentially revolutionizing air travel.

![United Airlines planes at Newark International Airport](https://www.reuters.com/resizer/v2/GSV4I5TVDVNI7NK6X6JUIEUAZY.jpg?auth=a677194794d992f83e78a6f7b3af317917fb35bef4e89d6f79cd1969dec88ba0&width=6000&quality=80)

The investment comes amid efforts by the Trump administration to lift the long-standing ban on supersonic air transport over land, imposed in 1973. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is directed to repeal the supersonic speed limit, provided that aircraft do not produce audible sonic booms on the ground.

Commercial supersonic flights ended in 2003 with the retirement of the Concorde after 27 years of service. However, **environmental concerns** have been a significant hurdle, as supersonic aircraft typically burn more fuel per passenger than subsonic planes.

United Airlines has previously shown support for supersonic travel, having placed an order for 15 of Boom Supersonic's "Overture" aircraft in 2021. The exact size of the investment in Astro Mechanica was not disclosed by United Airlines Ventures.

United Airlines' venture capital arm said on Wednesday it has invested in aerospace startup Astro Mechanica, which develops airframe designs and propulsion systems for supersonic aircraft, signaling renewed industry interest in ultra-fast jets.

United Airlines Ventures Fuels Supersonic Dreams with Investment in Aerospace Startup Astro Mechanica

# Anthropic's Funding Triumph

Anthropic, the AI startup behind Claude and a key competitor to OpenAI, has just announced a massive **$13 billion funding round**, catapulting its post-money valuation to an astounding **$183 billion**. This news comes hot on the heels of the holiday weekend, marking a significant milestone in the AI industry.

## Explosive Growth Metrics

In less than nine months, from the start of 2025 to August, Anthropic's run-rate revenue skyrocketed from approximately **$1 billion to over $5 billion**. The company now boasts more than **300,000 business customers**, with its list of large accounts—those generating over $100,000 in run-rate revenue each—increasing sevenfold in the past year alone.

## Claude Code's Success

One of Anthropic's primary revenue drivers, **Claude Code**, has already generated more than **$500 million in run-rate revenue**. Since its full launch, usage has surged by more than tenfold in just three months, underscoring its rapid adoption and market impact.

## Investment Backing

The Series F round was led by prominent investors including **ICONIQ**, **Fidelity Management & Research Company**, and **Lightspeed Venture Partners**. Other participants included the Qatar Investment Authority, TPG, Altimeter, Blackstone, Coatue, General Catalyst, and more. Anthropic plans to use the funds to meet growing enterprise demand, deepen safety research, and support international expansion.

![Anthropic Logo](https://example.com/anthropic-logo.jpg) *Image: Anthropic's logo, symbolizing innovation in AI.*

Anthropic Soars to $183 Billion Valuation: Inside the AI Giant's Meteoric Rise

# Kite Secures $18 Million to Build AI Blockchain for Seamless Agent Interactions

In the bustling world of Silicon Valley, **AI and crypto** are the hottest trends, with startups racing to merge them since ChatGPT's debut in 2022. While results have been mixed, Kite stands out, backed by a major $18 million investment led by **PayPal Ventures** and **General Catalyst**. This Series A round, which includes participants like 8VC, Samsung Next, and Alumni Ventures, brings Kite's total funding to $33 million. The startup's CEO, Chi Zhang, has kept valuation details under wraps and hasn't specified if the raise involves equity or token warrants for a future cryptocurrency.

## The Vision for Automated Shopping

Kite, formerly known as Zettablock, aims to create a blockchain that enables **AI agents** to communicate directly, eliminating the need for human intermediaries. Imagine a future where you can shop through **ChatGPT** or other chatbots without leaving the app—no more browsing Amazon or Shopify stores manually. Zhang envisions this automated world, where AI agents from different platforms interact trustworthily, facilitated by a decentralized database.

## The Rise of AI Agents and Infrastructure Needs

AI agents are evolving from general-purpose models to specialized tools for tasks like coding or shopping. However, as Alan Du from PayPal Ventures notes, the infrastructure is still in its early stages. Kite is building the necessary backbone to make agents transformative, ensuring they can identify and trust each other through blockchain technology.

One of Kite's initial projects focuses on allowing users to purchase items directly via text in ChatGPT, integrating with platforms like Shopify. This innovation promises to redefine how we interact with AI, moving us into what Zhang calls the 'agentic era'.

![AI Blockchain Interaction](https://example.com/ai-blockchain-image.jpg) // Note: Placeholder image URL; actual implementation would use provided media if available.

The startup wants to make it easier for users, for example, to buy products straight through ChatGPT or other chatbots.

How Kite's AI Blockchain is Revolutionizing Shopping with ChatGPT and PayPal's Backing

# Plaud: The AI Notetaking Revolution

On a rainy July morning in Amsterdam, Nathan Xu clips a slim, memory stick-sized device to his shirt. With a click, this pill-shaped gadget—dubbed the **NotePin**—starts recording, transcribing, and summarizing conversations in real-time. Made by Xu's startup **Plaud**, it leverages AI tools like **ChatGPT** to turn up to 20 hours of recordings into searchable transcripts.

Since its 2023 launch, Plaud has sold over **1 million devices** to professionals like doctors, lawyers, and businesspeople, making it a front-runner in the wearable AI space. Unlike many competitors, Plaud is not only profitable but bootstrapped, with Xu and cofounder Charles Liu funding it through savings and a $1 million crowdfunding campaign. The company is on track for $250 million in annualized revenue, boasting margins comparable to Apple's.

## The Rise of Wearable AI

Plaud is part of a growing trend to move AI out of phones and onto the body. Competitors like Rabbit and Humane have stumbled, while investors pour $350 million into startups like Omi and Limitless. Big players are also entering: Amazon acquired Bee, and OpenAI spent $6.4 billion on Jony Ive's AI device startup. As AI notetaking becomes commonplace, etiquette around recording is shifting, with many assuming all meetings are captured.

## From Failure to Success

Xu's journey began after a banking career was upended by an innovation class. His first startup failed, draining his savings, but he found success as a venture capitalist, backing companies like Akulaku. In 2021, he spotted an opportunity in Shenzhen's hardware market, leading to the creation of Plaud. The pivot from a spy gadget (Izyrec) to a professional tool with AI integration via a Kickstarter campaign netted over $1 million in pre-orders.

## Challenges and Opportunities

Plaud faces ethical and legal hurdles, with strict laws on recording without consent. Xu emphasizes consent and positions Plaud as a productivity tool for business meetings. The company is expanding into healthcare with templates for patient consultations and a recent acquisition of a San Francisco-based software startup. Despite competition from giants like Microsoft and Apple, Xu believes wearable AI will surpass smartphones in popularity.

With a team split between Shenzhen and San Francisco, Plaud is positioning itself as an American company to navigate geopolitical tensions. Future plans include new device designs and enhancing AI capabilities to create a true "work companion."

Nathan Xu’s Plaud has sold more than 1 million AI recording devices that transcribe and summarize the busy days of doctors, lawyers and business people.

How This AI Notetaking Startup Is Profitable and Outpacing Giants Like Apple

## Unitree's Path to Public Listing

Hangzhou Unitree Technology Co., a leading Chinese robot developer, has announced plans to file for an initial public offering (IPO) on a Chinese stock exchange as early as next month. This move will provide investors with unprecedented insight into the **financial performance** of one of the country's most prominent tech innovators.

In a recent post on X, the company stated that it will submit the necessary documents between October and December, though the specific exchange was not disclosed. This follows a pre-listing application submitted in July, signaling strong momentum towards going public.

## Rise to Prominence and Financial Milestones

Unitree gained significant attention in February when its founder, Wang Xingxing, was photographed in the front row at a high-profile meeting hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping, alongside other top business leaders. Since then, Chinese robotics have captured global interest, with achievements ranging from marathon-running robots to securing major financing deals.

In June, Wang revealed that the company's annual revenue has surpassed **1 billion yuan (approximately $140 million)**, underscoring its rapid growth and market impact.

## Industry Context and Challenges

While widespread adoption of humanoid consumer robots is still in the future, companies like Unitree, along with Shenzhen-based Leju Robotics and UBTech Robotics Corp., are making strides in industrial applications. For instance, these robots are being used in electric vehicle factories for tasks such as moving boxes and sorting materials, highlighting their practical utility.

However, challenges remain. The CEO has acknowledged that **humanoid robots still lack advanced AI technology**, indicating areas for future development. Additionally, Unitree has emphasized its commitment to civil use of its products, distancing itself from military applications after videos surfaced showing its robot dogs in drills.

## Security and Transparency

In response to online reports about potential security vulnerabilities, Unitree confirmed that it has fixed issues in its Go1 dog robots, demonstrating a proactive approach to safety and reliability.

This IPO filing marks a significant step for Unitree, offering a glimpse into the burgeoning robotics industry in China and its potential for global influence.

Hangzhou Unitree Technology Co. said it will submit filings to list on a Chinese stock exchange as soon as next month, offering investors insight into the finances of one of the country’s most prominent robot developers.

Unitree Robotics: China's Robot Giant Set for IPO, Revealing Billion-Dollar Secrets

# U.S. and Indian VCs Unite in $1B+ Alliance to Fuel India's Deep Tech Startups

Eight major U.S. and Indian venture capital and private equity firms, including **Accel**, **Blume Ventures**, **Celesta Capital**, and **Premji Invest**, have launched the **India Deep Tech Investment Alliance**. This coalition pledges over **$1 billion** over the next decade to support India's deep tech ecosystem, aiming to strengthen U.S.-India tech ties and address funding gaps.

## Addressing Funding Concerns and Government Initiatives

The alliance responds to recent criticisms from Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, who slammed domestic startups for focusing on food delivery rather than innovation. Investors and founders countered that India lacks capital for deep tech ventures, highlighting the need for long-term private investment. This move aligns with the Indian government's approval of a **₹1 trillion (approximately $11 billion) Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) scheme**, designed to boost deep tech R&D and require local incorporation for incentives.

## How the Alliance Works

Members will commit private capital over 5-10 years to Indian-domiciled deep tech startups, focusing on early-stage investments from seed to Series B. In addition to funding, the alliance offers mentorship, network access, and support for portfolio companies expanding into the Indian market. The group includes firms like Gaja Capital, Ideaspring Capital, Tenacity Ventures, and Venture Catalysts, with plans for more firms and corporates to join.

An advisory committee with representatives from Accel, Premji Invest, and Venture Catalysts will coordinate efforts, ensuring shared objectives while preserving each fund's independence. Leadership will rotate, starting with Celesta Capital's managing partner Arun Kumar as the inaugural chair.

## Geopolitical Context and Strategic Focus

Despite recent trade tensions, including U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, the alliance bets on India as a hub for foundational technologies such as **AI, semiconductors, space, quantum computing, robotics, biotech, energy, and climate tech**. It aims to engage with the Indian government on policy and incentives, acting as a unified voice to prevent regulatory turmoil seen in the past.

## Potential Impact and Risks

This initiative could energize India's startup ecosystem, providing patient capital and support for breakthrough innovations. However, there's a risk if coordination falters, leaving promising companies underserved. As Anand Daniel of Accel stated, "Over the next decade, startups will build in India and export breakthrough solutions to the world."

Eight U.S. and Indian VC and PE giants are teaming up to fuel India's deep tech boom.

Massive $1B+ Alliance Forms to Supercharge India's Deep Tech Revolution

Every founder dreams of visibility, traction, and growth. With just **10 tables remaining** and only **5 days** to book one, the opportunity to make it happen at **TechCrunch Disrupt 2025** is slipping away fast.

If you've considered joining over 10,000 startup and VC leaders in San Francisco from October 27–29, now is the time to act. **Lock in your place on the Expo floor** where ideas, capital, and connections come together.

## Here's what awaits you at your exhibit table

- **Real investor exposure:** Expect foot traffic from top firms like Sequoia, a16z, General Catalyst, and Y Combinator. They roam the floor—make sure they stop at your table.
- **A powerful brand moment:** Your company will be featured as a partner on the event page and in the Disrupt app, extending your visibility beyond the booth.
- **Traction that sticks:** Many exhibitors leave with early customers, game-changing introductions, or unexpected media attention.
- **Built-in perks:** Each table includes 10 complimentary passes for your team, Silver Tier partner status, and more. **See all the perks of exhibiting here**.

Your competitors might already be preparing their booths. Don't let them steal your spotlight and high-quality leads.

![TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 no anniversary](https://techcrunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/TC25_Disrupt_General_Article_No-Anniversary-at-all_Headers_1920x1080.png?w=680)

**Book your table now** before it's taken by your competitor!

Only 5 days and 10 exhibit tables left to book at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. Shine the spotlight on your startup on October 27-29 in San Francisco. Book now.

Last Chance: Only 5 Days Left to Secure Your Spot at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 and Boost Your Startup!

OpenAI has released its most advanced speech-to-speech model yet, **gpt-realtime**, alongside the general availability of its **Realtime API** with new capabilities. This move aims to empower enterprises and developers to build production-ready voice agents, particularly for scenarios like customer support.

### Key Features and Implications

The Realtime API now supports **image inputs** and **remote MCP servers**, enhancing agent capabilities. A standout addition is **SIP telephony support**, which simplifies building applications for voice-over-phone situations. As Peter Bakkum, Member of Technical Staff at OpenAI, stated in the [announcement video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfBbmtMJhX0):

> We've added support for SIP telephony, which makes it much easier to build applications for voice-over-phone situations like customer support.

This development poses a significant threat to many conversational AI startups. Andreas Granig, CEO at Sipfront, highlighted in a [LinkedIn post](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/agranig_openai-just-sunk-half-of-the-voice-ai-activity-7367318851941793794-ccKs?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAB_MGuQB6bbmsMlLLNjrIhFAQlGGwLO5C-k) that startups relying on basic telephony interfaces without deep telco expertise are now at risk, as the voice interface for AI assistants has become a commodity.

### Advantages of the gpt-realtime Model

OpenAI designed gpt-realtime for real-world scenarios like customer support and academic tutoring. It enables AI agents to understand and produce audio without separate transcription, language, or voice models, leading to **faster responses** and better capture of subtleties like emotions (e.g., laughter or sighs). The model delivers more natural, high-quality audio and handles complex, multi-turn conversations effectively. Developers can adjust pace, tone, style, and even roleplay characters, and it excels with unclear audio and long alphanumeric strings, such as phone numbers.

### Cost and Control Considerations

Despite its benefits, the model comes with a high cost: $32 per 1M audio input tokens ($0.40 for cached tokens) and $64 per 1M audio output tokens. Alex Levin, CEO at Regal, noted that this is approximately four times higher than using a chained model (speech-to-text, LLM, text-to-speech). Additionally, there are concerns about limited control and observability compared to chained models, which allow for varying models, voices, and guardrails during conversations.

### Real-World Application: T-Mobile's Use Case

T-Mobile has been testing OpenAI's models for six months and recently started using gpt-realtime with the Realtime API, reporting huge improvements. Julianne Roberson, Director of AI at T-Mobile, demonstrated how the AI assistant guides customers through processes like device upgrades, handling unpredictable conversations, recognizing emotions, and managing multimodal inputs. This aligns with T-Mobile's goal to provide expert-level service everywhere with AI, potentially accelerating trends toward automated customer service.

CX Today covers Conversational AI news including AI Agents, Artificial Intelligence, Automation, Chatbots, Virtual Agent, Virtual Assistant and more.

United Airlines Ventures Fuels Supersonic Dreams with Investment in Aerospace Startup Astro Mechanica

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United Airlines Ventures Invests in Aerospace Startup Astro Mechanica

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