TechCrunch Summary (2023-06-15 06AM)

Source: Blackbird lands $20M investment to expand its risk management tools

Summary
AI-powered risk intelligence startup Blackbird AI has raised $20m in a Series B funding round, led by Ten Eleven Ventures. Blackbird, which uses an algorithm to perform network analysis and cohort modelling to uncover disinformation, was founded in 2017. It originally developed software for the US Department of Defense to detect propaganda and influence campaigns online, and is now refocused on detecting cybersecurity threats, including those based on deepfakes.

Fact

👥 Blackbird’s accountability tools can help business leaders identify major influencers with regards to trending issues;

🧠 The firm can also identify the flow of toxic narratives such as hate speech, across media platforms and the internet;

🛡️ The software can be used by cybersecurity teams to detect and respond to cyber “information attacks” directed at them;

💰 Risk management software could be worth $86.53 billion by 2030, according to one estimate, creating a large market for companies with risk management offerings.

Source: Amazon’s ‘Hey Disney!’ voice assistant is now available

Summary
Amazon and Disney have launched Hey Disney! on most voice-activated Echo devices inside customers’ homes. The voice assistant has its own voice and personality, named “Disney Magical Companion”, and allows users to interact with over 20 Disney, Pixar and Star Wars characters. Hey Disney! includes thousands of custom interactions and “Play-Along Adventures”. Users must sign up for an annual subscription, costing $5.99 per year, to access the voice assistant.

Fact

🗣️ Hey Disney! is the first Alexa Custom Assistant to launch on Echo devices inside customers’ homes, with Disney customizing Alexa’s technology specifically for its brand.

🎭 Hey Disney! features over 20 characters across Disney, Pixar and Star Wars franchises, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto, Olaf, Moana, Dory, Mater, Chewbacca, R2-D2, Fozzie Bear and more.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Users can engage in “Play-Along Adventures” or interactive audio and visual experiences.

🖋️ There are hidden “Easter Eggs” built into the experience, which will surprise and delight customers.

📺 Hey Disney! doesn’t work on Fire Tablets, Fire TVs, Echo Show 15, 1st gen Echo and Echo Auto.

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