TechCrunch Top 3

A consumer watchdog issued a warning about Google's AI agent shopping protocol — Google says she's wrong: A consumer economics watchdog says Google's new Universal Commerce Protocol is ripe for misuse where consumers could pay more for items. Google denies this. Read More

Doctors think AI has a place in healthcare — but maybe not as a chatbot: OpenAI and Anthropic have each launched healthcare-focused products over the last week. Read More

Microsoft announces glut of new data centers but says it won't let your electricity bill go up: The tech giant has pledged to be a "good neighbor" as it continues to invest in AI infrastructure throughout the country. Read More

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Afternoon Must-Reads

Apple launches 'Creator Studio' bundle of apps for $12.99 per month: The bundle includes access to Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Pixelmator Pro on Mac and iPad, as well as Motion, Compressor, and MainStage on Mac. Read More

Deepgram raises $130M at $1.3B valuation and buys a YC AI startup: Deepgram is raising its Series C round at a $1.3 billion valuation. Read More

Slackbot is an AI agent now: Salesforce unveils Slackbot, a new AI agent that allows users to complete tasks across multiple enterprise applications from Slack. Read More

Converge Bio raises $25M, backed by Bessemer and execs from Meta, OpenAI, Wiz: AI drug discovery startup Converge Bio raised $25 million in a Series A led by Bessemer Venture Partners, with additional backing from executives at Meta, OpenAI, and Wiz. Read More

New York governor clears path for robotaxis everywhere, with one notable exception: New York City will be a notable exclusion from proposed legislation to legalize commercial robotaxis across the state. Read More

You missed these chats from Disrupt:

Kindred talks home-swapping platform for travelers, Chef Robotics introduces AI into commercial kitchens, and Character.AI addresses chatbot safety with teens.

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Last but Not Least

India reportedly tells quick-commerce firms to drop 10-minute delivery promise: India's labor ministry is pushing the country's booming quick-commerce sector to prioritize the wellness and safety of its gig workers. Read More