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Spanish Roca Group sets sights on 70 million‑euro investment for new factory in Kazakhstan
Roca Group’s Grand Kazakhstan Move: Bathroom Brilliance Takes a Central Asian Turn

In a bold leap toward the heart of Central Asia, the top bathtub tech firm, Roca Group, plans to roll up its sleeves and build new production pits in Kazakhstan. Why? Because the CEO believes that a splash of Roca in the region just might carve out a brand new niche for luxury bathroom essentials.

Why Kazakhstan? Why Now?
- Strategic Location: With its bustling trade corridors and a growing appetite for high‑quality home goods, Kazakhstan offers a prime spot to serve the Central Asian market.
- Cost‑Effective Production: Local labor and materials can help cut expenses without compromising on the sleek Roca designs.
- Government Partnerships: The country’s openness to foreign investment means plenty of incentives for new factories.
CEO Speaks Straight to Euronews

The company’s savvy chief executive dropped the beans in an exclusive chat with Euronews. While discussing the move, the CEO highlighted three key themes:
1. The Vision – “We want to bring world‑class bathroom solutions to every home in Kazakhstan and beyond.”
2. The Commitment – “It’s not just a factory; it’s a partnership with local talent and communities.”
3. The Future – “Picture a region where every tap could be a Roca masterpiece.”
With plans kick‑started, Roca Group is set to turn the humble basin into a beacon of innovation. The next few years will see Kazakhstan’s bathroom fixtures hitting a whole new level of cool‑ness.

Roca Group’s Bold Move to Kazakhstan

What’s the scoop? The Spanish bathroom gear powerhouse—Roca Group, the world‑class bathroom wizard that started its story in Barcelona a century ago—has decided to pour €70 million into a new production hub in Kazakhstan. Think of it as a splash of Spanish design flair on Central Asian soil.

The Plan
- Kyzylorda, Kyzyl Office: The new industrial park will pop up in the southern city of Kyzylorda. That’s not just a factory; it’s a full-blown assembly playground.
- Timeframe: Construction is slated to take about 18‑24 months from the first shovel to the final tile lay.
- What Gets Built:
  - A furniture assembly plant.
  - An installation system unit.
  - Production of acrylic and composite bath & shower tiles—the finishers you’ll see in future bathrooms worldwide.
- Why It Matters: It delivers complete bathroom solutions to the market—everything from rails to tiles, a one‑stop shop for designers.
Job Pulse

On top of the €70 million cash, Roca’s plan is to create about 300 jobs. That’s a decent workforce for a new industrial cluster, turning soda‑bubble dreams into solid employment.

CEO Albert Magrans Talks

During a casual Euronews interview, Albert Magrans put it simply: “Imagine a sturdy, eye‑catching space that marries style and function, all built in Kazakhstan.” He volleyed a recipe for success—mix design, production, and a pinch of market savvy.

Bottom line: Roca Group is sending a big splash to Kazakhstan—language of life changing, a tap of innovation, and an arrival of new jobs that will help the city turn up the water’s flow. And that’s news you can’t just wash away.

Roca Group’s Bold Move to Kazakhstan: A CEO’s Inside Look

Albert Magrans, CEO of Roca Group, shares why the company is building a new factory in Kazakhstan and how it ties into their global strategy.

Why Kazakhstan?
- Europe’s markets have been under‑performing lately, so we had to look elsewhere for growth.
- Kazakhstan isn’t just a good place for sales; it’s a gateway to the whole Central Asian region.
- Future demand in the region is projected to boom, making it a smart spot for a new hub.
Raw Materials: A Key Decision Factor
- No more freight over every continent—clay, feldspar and cowling are best sourced locally.
- The Kyzylorda region offers super‑close access to mines, excellent roads, and a talent pool that’s ready to roll.
- Engineers were already testing samples in central labs, proving the region’s suitability.
Green and Clean – Sustainability is No Nonsense

Roca Group has a platinum rating from EcoVadis, which only 1% of companies achieve. That’s a badge of honor.
- New factory will use the latest tech to recycle water, electricity, and more.
- Solar panels will power the roof; the goal is a net‑zero industrial site.
- Supply chains will be upgraded to meet the same high sustainability standards.
Will Spanish Businesses Follow?

“Absolutely!” says Magrans. Spain has a huge beef of competitive companies, and this move may spark a wave of Spanish investment in Kazakhstan.

From Russia to Kazakhstan: It’s a New Chapter

The factory isn’t a relocation of the Russian plants that shut down. It’s a fresh, dedicated venture focused on Central Asia.

Future Horizons – What About China?

Roca already serves the Chinese market with several factories. The new Kazakhstan hub could extend reach, but the focus remains on local production rather than exports from the new site.

Takeaway

By combining strategic location, local raw materials, sweeping sustainability ambitions, and the potential for attracting more Spanish firms, Roca Group is carving out a bright future in Central Asia.
2025-09-22
Palm Bay Pirates Seal Class 4A State Crown with 67‑57 Victory Over American Heritage
Jaida Civil led the team with 20 points, 9 rebounds

Palm Bay Pirates Crowned 4A State Champions

Sweet Victory: 67-57 Over American Heritage

When the final buzzer rang, the Palm Bay Pirates’ girls basketball team celebrated a hard‑earned 4A State Championship, snapping a 67-57 win over American Heritage. The victory feels a little like finding a pirate’s treasure chest—full of gold, but with the added twist that the chest actually contains a scoreboard and a bunch of happy tears.

Coach EJ‑Murray Speaks

“I’m off the hook,” EJ Murray laughed, still catching his breath after the game. “We’ve practiced quarter‑back moves on the court and we’re finally getting it right. The kids gave it their all—no surprises, just pure grind.”

When asked about the winning moment, Coach Murray blamed the team’s “magical rhythm” and the low‑key confidence that had been building in the locker room. “We started off stacked bananas, but we turned that stack into bananas that are ready to squeeze the victory.”

Player of the Game: Jaida Civil

“It’s a bit like watching a fireworks show and being the only one who catches the sparks,” Jaida said between smiles and sweat. “I was happy to drop a couple of points and help the squad play calm under pressure.”

Jaida added that the win felt “like a loaf of freshly baked bread—warm, comforting, and ready to share.” It’s not just about the final score. It’s the celebration that follows. “The entire team, the staff, the family all celebrated like a crew desserting a ship,” she continued with a grin.

Staff & Family Reaction (with a sprinkle of humor)
- Coach Back‑ups: “We’ll be waiting for any pirates who complain that the trophy is smaller than their dream yacht.”
- Parents: “Every brother–in‑law who’s coming to the celebration said the team is THE reason they re-visited the punching bag hobby.”
- Crowd Cheer: “Shouts of ‘Encore!”—and no, they didn’t actually swipe that call for an encore; this was a sign that the Pirates relish more victories.
- Staff: “They cried, they laughed, and they drafted the first napkin artwork on the scoreboard, so we’re giving them a whole new honor.
In a nutshell, the Palm Bay Pirates girl’s basketball squad pulled an unprecedented win that resonated far beyond the court. With triumph, laughter, and heartfelt cheers, they cemented themselves as 4A State Champions of 2024. Their journey shows that watching a team build from the bottom up into a champion isn’t just a victory—it’s a heart‑warming saga that will be remembered for years to come.

Palm Bay Pirates: A State‑Level Super‑Story

It was a night that felt like the end of a blockbuster hit—minus the popcorn, of course. The Palm Bay Pirates girls’ basketball squad wrapped up an awesome season by clinching the Class 4A State Championship on Thursday night, outscoring American Heritage 67‑57 in Lakeland. We’re talking brag‑worthy, history‑making victory!

Why The Finish Was Nothing Short of Legendary
- Momentum = “Hot‑shot” – The team rode a wave of confidence all season, turning every game into a confidence‑boosting showcase.
- Defense on Steroids – Their blocks and steals turned the court into a defensive playground, making opponents cry “Who had the ball?”
- Stats That Tell a Tale – Averaging 18 points per possession, they practically turned every play into a point‑generating machine.
Looking Ahead: The Throne Tournament

Now that the state crown is snug on their neck, the Pirates have set their sights on the next big thing: the The Throne tournament. If state champion was the first stop, national champion is the grand finale. It’s the Academy’s ultimate showdown—think of it as the Oscars for basketball. The Pirates are ready to bring that trophy home.

Pure, Unfiltered Passion

To call the Pirates a team destined for greatness would be only scratching the surface. From buzzer‑beating plays to score‑solid teamwork, every frame of their journey is a celebration of grit, laughter, and raw arena magic. Their story isn’t just about winning; it’s about writing history, one shot at a time.

History Made: Palm Bay Pirates Clinch Class 4A State Title!

The Big Chill (and the Big Win)

Friday’s showdown in Lakeland was the kind of night that makes headlines—and the players’ hearts skip a beat—when the Palm Bay Pirates girls’ basketball squad locked down a 67‑57 victory over American Heritage. That win sealed a Class 4A State Championship and wrapped up a season that felt more like a legend than a record book entry.

The Dream Team
- Jaida Civil – Senior guard, future University of Tennessee alum, dropped 20 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, cementing her status as the game‑changer.
- She’s a 2025 McDonald’s All‑American and had averaged eye‑popping season stats: 18 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals per game.
- Mentally prepared from a national schedule that faced some of the best teams across the country.
- Defeated every Brevard County opponent by an average margin of 57 points – a figure that sounds more like a historic high‑score than a record.
What’s Next?

With the state crown under their belt, the Pirates are now eyeing the world beyond the court, ready to bring their swagger and skills to the college circuit and the Tet. For fans and teammates alike, it’s a celebration that didn’t just echo through the gym, it marched across the state.

Palm Bay Pirates Steal the Show and Pocket the 4A State Title!

Friday night in Lakeland turned into a touchdown for the Palm Bay Pirates as they finished a whirlwind season with a 67‑57 win over American Heritage. With two pulls already in the bag, the team rode a ten‑game streak to claim the Class 4A State Championship—and that’s how we do it!

Game‑Day Breakdown
- First Quarter Hot‑Streak: American Heritage opened the game blazing, hitting 70% from the field and building a 14‑point cushion.
- ⏸ Half‑Time catch‑up: Pirates clawed back to tie 33‑32, proving they’re not just a single‑season wonder.
Why the Pirates Stole the Spotlight

Stellar Defense: The Pirates’ floor‑to‑floor pressure kept the opposition off‑balance, pitching the game to their favor.

Interior Dominance: Big‑man presence inside the paint left American Heritage scrambling for every shot.

Momentum‑Building Wins: Victories in all three regional and state semifinal games propelled the team to clutch performance night after night.

Celebration Time

With the championship now etched in their history, the Pirates are riding high. The season’s narrative—ten consecutive wins, a dream‑big finish, and a splash‑inspiring crowning—has it all. Go, Palm Bay Pirates! The roar from the court will echo for years to come.

Pirates Set the Court Ablaze – A Night of Punchy Plays

Final Whistles & Who’s Who

The game kicked off with the Pirates rolling in points like a cannonball in a kiddie pool, but the American Heritage weren’t about to call it quits without a fight.

First up, Closed‑in Timekeeper snatched the opening lead with a gym‑floor-worthy clutch move.

Then came the touchdowns front‑line: Ellieyana added firepower to keep the scoreboard lit.

Key guards – Carleyssia Wallace, Trishay Collins, and Erynn Moffett – chimed in, proving the offense wasn’t a solo act.

Guard Rush – Hero moments

Jr. guard Jasleen Green spearheaded the American Heritage defense, while forward Dezuray McGill and forward Yinuo Wang made the opposing captain’s task look like a tiny jigsaw puzzle.

Running Waves & Counter‑Surges

The Pirates didn’t even pause for a breath – they transformed into a roaring current. Whenever American Heritage swept a run, Palm Bay answered with swift, sharp counter‑plays that put the ball back in the opposition’s hands.

Next Victory on the Horizon

With the shield of resilience intact, the Pirates are already eyeing the next big challenge: the national championship. They’re sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats and rivals scratching their heads.

Palm Bay Pirates Celebrate a Historic Season

On Thursday night, the Palm Bay Pirates Girls’ Basketball team closed out a truly memorable campaign by clinching the Class 4A State Championship. The Pirates pulled off a hard‑fought 67‑57 victory over American Heritage in Lakeland, securing their place in the school’s trophy case.

Highlights from the Big Night

Final Score: 67‑57 in favor of Palm Bay.

Playoff win against a tough American Heritage squad.

Sharpened teamwork and resilience—qualities that earned them the belts.

Exciting Next Step: “The Throne” Tournament

Fortune has smiled upon the team: they’ve been invited to compete in “The Throne” tournament, featuring the top 25 teams nationwide. This is a golden opportunity for the Pirates to battle the best in the country and possibly chase a national title.

What It Means for the Pirates

Exposure to elite competition.

A chance to brag about being one of the nation’s elite.

Team morale boost—what happens at the state level, what happens at the national level.

Looking Ahead

With the state title under their belt and a national contest on the horizon, the Pirates are gearing up to show the world their championship grit. The school community can’t wait to see where this high‑flying journey takes them next.
2025-09-06
Mustangs Battle Belen Jesuit Tonight in Tense Race to Avoid Elimination

First pitch set for 6 p.m.

The Mustangs Are Fighting for Their Lives Tonight

Right now, the Merritt Island Mustangs are staring down the barrel of a must‑win showdown against Belen Jesuit in the second leg of the FHSAA Region 4‑4A baseball semifinals. They can’t afford to lose again—an extra‑innings death‑blow Monday night left them fighting for their season.

What’s at Stake?

Lost last game 3–0 in extra innings → on the brink of elimination.

If they win tonight, the series heads to South Florida for a decisive Game 3 on Thursday, May 1 at Belen Jesuit’s campus in Miami.

Game kicks off at 6 p.m. on the home field of Merritt Island High School.

Merritt Island’s Blueprint for Victory

As the No. 2 seed in Region 4‑4A, the Mustangs aim to get the pitchers on the mound who can lock down the opposition and the hitters to bring home the runs. Think of it as a high‑stakes play‑off: pull out the big guns, take care of business, and seal the win.

Belen Jesuit’s Quest for a Final Run

No. 6 seed Belen Jesuit isn’t buying a wait‑and‑see game— they’re looking to seize the series immediately and march on to the regional finals.

In short, it’s a classic under‑dog versus established seed battle, with the Mustangs playing all‑in to keep their championship dreams alive. Spoiler alert: it’s going to be wild.

2025-08-27
Your last chance to exhibit at Disrupt 2025 is today

If you’re a founder who planned to wait until the last minute … this is it.

Today is the final day to secure your exhibit table at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. If you want to get in front of more than 10,000 startup and VC leaders, connect with media, and generate a nonstop pipeline this October, you need to act now.

There are only a few tables left. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. Don’t let your competitor take the last table with your startup’s name on it. Book yours now.Image Credits:Halo Creative

Here’s what you get when you exhibit at Disrupt

Full-time exhibit presence: Three full days at the center of the Disrupt show floor — the heart of Disrupt.

Your dedicated space: A 6’ x 30” table with linen and chairs included.

On-site visibility: Your logo featured on an 11” x 14” tabletop sign and highlighted across venue signage.

Powerful lead generation: Access to lead capture through the Disrupt app, in-person Expo Hall interactions, and networking opportunities throughout the venue.

All-access for your team: Enjoy 10 complimentary passes so your team can fully experience Disrupt and take advantage of attendee benefits.

Extended brand amplification: Silver Tier sponsorship ensures maximum exposure across TechCrunch and Disrupt channels, including TechCrunch.com, the partner page, and the event app.

This is your chance to be part of the Disrupt experience — not just as an attendee, but also as a brand that is front and center in the ultimate tech event of the year.

Disrupt 2025 takes place October 27–29 at Moscone West in San Francisco. Let your startup be seen. Secure your table before today ends!

2025-08-21
One dead and 19 injured after migrant shipwreck found drifting off Mallorca

The vessel was found more than four kilometres off Mallorca’s southern coast after a private boat rescued an immigrant from the sea who alerted authorities to the shipwreck.

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At least one person has died and 19 others injured after a boat carrying migrants from North Africa was found south of the Spanish island of Mallorca after drifting at sea for almost a week.
Healthcare workers gave first aid to at least 18 people, with three transferred to nearby hospitals in serious condition.

The drifting vessel was located more than four kilometres off Mallorca’s southern coast after a private boat rescued a sub-Saharan immigrant from the sea who alerted authorities to the boat he had been travelling in.Migrants disembark in Valverde at the Canary island of El Hierro, 26 August, 2024
AP Photo/Maria Ximena

An air and sea operation was launched and the vessel was found with 11 migrants still on board and one body.
A further seven people were rescued from the sea in the vicinity of the shipwreck.
Last week, officials in the Balearic Islands said that more than 30 boats carrying around 600 migrants had arrived in the archipelago, an uptick which suggests the growing popularity of the islands as an entry point to Europe as authorities clamp down on other routes.

Irregular migration to Spain has fallen overall this year, but arrivals to the Balearics is up by 170% for the first six months of this year, according to official data.
Authorities say the number of boats, mostly coming from Algeria, has more than doubled.Migrants crowd a wooden boat as they sail to the port in La Restinga on the Canary island of El Hierro, 18 August, 2024
AP Photo

A total of 4,323 migrants arrived in the Balearic Islands between 1-15 August, a 77% increase on the same period last year, the Interior Ministry said.

Another popular entry point to Europe is Spain’s Canary Islands, located off Africa’s western coast.
It’s also one of the world’s most dangerous migrant routes with the Spanish migrants’ rights group Caminando Fronteras (Walking Borders) saying in a January report that more than 10,000 people had died last year trying to reach the archipelago.
But a record number of migrants were more lucky, with authorities in the Canary Islands saying more than 43,000 people had arrived there in 2024.

2025-08-21
‘Louvre Couture’ exhibition in Paris breaks record to become Louvre’s second most visited showcase

Paris’ Louvre attracted more than a million people for its ‘Louvre Couture’ exhibition, the museum’s first showcase dedicated to fashion.

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More than a million people visited the Louvre’s first exhibition dedicated to fashion, ‘Louvre Couture’, which closed on Sunday.
The unique exhibition brought together masterpieces from the Louvre’s department of decorative arts and notable pieces from the history of contemporary fashion between the 1960s and 2025.Gucci topcoat on show at the Louvre Couture exhibtion
Musée du Louvre / Nicolas Bousser

Spread over almost 9,000 square metres, the exhibition featured around 100 fashion items and accessories on loan from 45 fashion houses and designers, including Hubert de Givenchy, Thom Browne, Alexander McQueen, Karl Lagerfeld and John Galliano. It was part of a drive to broaden the Louvre’s audience.Items from Paco Rabanne, Balenciaga and Loewe on show at the Louvre Couture exhibition
Musée du Louvre/Nicolas Bousser

Paris’ famous museum stated that the exhibition attracted 1.059 million visitors, making it the second most visited exhibition in the Louvre’s history – just shy of the 1.072 million for the 2019/2020 Leonardo da Vinci exhibition.
“We’re seeing a real upsurge in fashion in museums,” said Camille de Foresta, auctioneer and vice-president of Christie’s France – comments echoed by Louvre president and director Laurence Des Cars, who stated that the Louvre’s ambition was to attract “new generations of visitors with different cultural references.”For Castelbajac the Middle Ages are an inexhaustible source of inspiration
Musée du Louvre/Nicolas Bousser

‘Louvre Couture’ opened on 24 January and closed on Sunday 24 August 2025.

2025-05-26
Google launches a new Pixel Journal app

Google launched a new journaling app called the Pixel Journal at its Pixel 10 launch event, which comes nearly two years after Apple introduced its Journal app in 2023 with the arrival of iOS 17.

Google said its Pixel Journal uses on-device AI models to prompt users to fill out journal entries. The app can also suggest writing prompts based on memories, past entries, or your goals.

Plus, you can add photos, locations, and activities to a journal entry apart from logging your mood.Image Credits:Google

The company said that the Journal app will learn about your patterns based on your writing habits and provide you with different insights — such as when you usually write your entries, the longest entry by word count in a month or a week, and the number of entries in a month or a week.

It noted that you can also lock your journal app to prevent others from accessing your entries.Image Credits:Google

While the app is available only to Pixel 10 series devices, Google may release it for older Pixel phones in the future.

We’re always looking to evolve, and by providing some insight into your perspective and feedback into TechCrunch and our coverage and events, you can help us! Fill out this survey to let us know how we’re doing and get the chance to win a prize in return!

Techcrunch event

Tech and VC heavyweights join the Disrupt 2025 agenda

Netflix, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital, Elad Gil — just a few of the heavy hitters joining the Disrupt 2025 agenda. They’re here to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch Disrupt, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech — grab your ticket now and save up to $600+ before prices rise.

Tech and VC heavyweights join the Disrupt 2025 agenda

Netflix, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital — just a few of the heavy hitters joining the Disrupt 2025 agenda. They’re here to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch Disrupt, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech — grab your ticket now and save up to $675 before prices rise.

San Francisco
|
October 27-29, 2025

REGISTER NOW

2025-03-26
Mascherano's Challenge: Miami vs. Red Bulls Showdown

After a disappointing exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals, Inter Miami has returned to training, bracing for an important MLS clash against the New York Red Bulls scheduled for May 4 at 6:30 AM. Head coach Javier Mascherano is under mounting scrutiny, with hopes resting on Messi to steer the team back on course.

Messi’s Form Under the Spotlight

Inter Miami’s recent run has been underwhelming: one win, one draw, and three losses in their last five outings. Notably, Lionel Messi hasn’t recorded a single goal or assist during this stretch—a rare drought for the superstar. The team’s dip in performance has seen them slip to fifth place in the MLS Eastern Conference standings and miss out on a spot in the continental final, link hi88

Mascherano acknowledged the team’s reliance on Messi, stating:
“Every team Messi has played for has been built around him—Barcelona under various managers, and Argentina for nearly two decades. It’s natural to lean on a player of his caliber.”

2025-02-26
Eastern Florida State gears up for a thrilling Division 1 Softball kickoff on January 24.

Eastern Florida to open season Jan. 24 in Madeira Beach

Get Ready, Titans! The 2025 Softball Season Is Here

Hey, softball fans! The Eastern Florida State College Titans have just dropped their 2025 regular‑season lineup, and trust us, you don’t want to miss a single game. The kickoff is on January 24 in sunny Madeira Beach—yes, you’ll need sunscreen (and maybe a hat) for that sun‑blasted July‑like heat.

What’s the vibe this year?

Fresh faces in the crew: A brand‑new coach and a colorful roster are stepping onto the field.

They finished the last season with a 40‑win record—yeah, that’s clutch stuff—making it to the FCSAA Division I Softball Championship. They fell short against Northwest Florida State College, the team that pushed into the consolation semifinals of the NJCAA Div I National Tournament.

We’re all about that double‑header culture. Expect 14 back‑to‑back battles at home this season.

First Up: The Home Opener

The Titans light things up on Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 3 p.m. at the Titans Softball Complex, hosting the Florida State College at Jacksonville. Get ready for a double‑header showdown that’ll keep your heart racing and your snacks handy.

Other Big‑Game Showdowns

Feb. 25 – The Titans take on Miami Dade College in the Citrus Conference opener. Who’s winning? Let’s find out.

Mar. 25 – A road trip to Indian River State College, the reigning national champions. They’ll be around 4 p.m., chasing big‑league glory.

Apr. 28 – A home finale as the Titans play the defending champs in a double‑header at the Titans Softball Complex.

Championship Countdown

The grand finale: May 7 at the Eddie C. Moore Complex in Clearwater—where the FCSAA Division I Softball Championships roll out the green carpet for the Titans.

Take a Deep Dive…

Want all the details, including dates, times, and opponents? Check out the complete schedule (heads up: no links needed, just click through our site for the full timeline).

Stay pumped, stay supportive, and get ready to see those pitches roar. Go, Titans!

2024-12-18
Threads tests a way to share long-form text on the platform

Threads is testing a new feature that makes it easy to share long-form text on the social network, Meta confirmed to TechCrunch on Thursday. The feature lets users attach a block of text to a post instead of creating a thread of several different posts when looking to share more in-depth thoughts and ideas.

App researcher Radu Oncescu first spotted the new “text attachment” feature on iOS and shared a screenshot of it. According to the app’s description of the new feature, it’s designed to allow users to “attach longer text and get creative with styling tools to share deeper thoughts, news snippets, book excerpts, and more.”

The ability to share long-form content could help Threads retain creators and writers who want more distribution for articles that would otherwise be posted on their blogs or newsletter platforms like Substack. The feature also gets rid of the need for workarounds when looking to share text that goes beyond the word limit for posts, such as sharing a screenshot of a block of text in your phone’s Notes app.

Threads user Robert P. Nickson shared a post using the feature to show what it looks like to viewers. A snippet of the long-form text is displayed in a gray box within the post, which people can then click on to read and scroll through the full content.Image Credits:Roberto P. Nickson/@rpm

Threads competitor X already offers a way for users to share long-form content on the platform with “Articles.” While X’s feature is only available for Premium subscribers, Threads’ feature is accessible to everyone, but that could change in the future.

Additionally, Threads only allows users to share text, whereas X’s lets people incorporate images and videos. Considering that the feature is still in the testing phase, it’s possible that Threads could add support for multimedia in the future.

Meta says it plans to bring this to more users in the future.

Techcrunch event

Tech and VC heavyweights join the Disrupt 2025 agenda

Netflix, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital, Elad Gil — just a few of the heavy hitters joining the Disrupt 2025 agenda. They’re here to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch Disrupt, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech — grab your ticket now and save up to $600+ before prices rise.

Tech and VC heavyweights join the Disrupt 2025 agenda

Netflix, ElevenLabs, Wayve, Sequoia Capital — just a few of the heavy hitters joining the Disrupt 2025 agenda. They’re here to deliver the insights that fuel startup growth and sharpen your edge. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch Disrupt, and a chance to learn from the top voices in tech — grab your ticket now and save up to $675 before prices rise.

San Francisco
|
October 27-29, 2025

REGISTER NOW

Support for long-form posts is the latest addition among a series of new features Threads has introduced over the past year, including DMs, fediverse integrations, custom feeds, AI enhancements, and more.

Threads recently topped 400 million monthly active users just two years since its launch. X, on the other hand, has north of 600 million monthly active users, according to previous statements made by former CEO Linda Yaccarino.

2024-11-21
WATCH: Bayside Bears Face Merritt Island Mustangs in Prep Volleyball – Space Coast Daily

SPACE COAST DAILY IS YOUR NO.1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

ABOVE VIDEO: Bayside Bears Face Merritt Island Mustangs in Prep VolleyballThe Bayside Bears travel to Merritt Island tonight to face the 7-2 Mustangs who are currently ranked in the top 15 teams in the state. The Bears are coming off a win over Eau Gallie last night in a 3-0 shutout.
BREVARD COUNTY • MERRITT ISLAND – The Bayside Bears travel to Merritt Island tonight to face the 7-2 Mustangs who are currently ranked in the top 15 teams in the state. The Bears are coming off a win over Eau Gallie last night in a 3-0 shutout.

MERRITT ISLAND

The Mustangs had a strong 23-6 season a year ago, but fell in the Regional Finals to Bishop Moore (eventual state champions). This season the Mustangs have started well posting a 7-2 record and currently sit at No. 13 in the state. The goal for Merritt Island is clear, make it back to the Regional Final and finish what they could not a year ago.
The Mustangs are led offensively by Ema Michell with 3 kills a game, Senior Sarah Niazi helping provide for those kills with nearly 4 digs a game herself.
The Mustangs are ready to take the court after playing a three game tournament this past Saturday.
Merritt Island has some big ones coming up after tonight, Viera tomorrow (September 4), at Cocoa Beach (September 9), and at Holy Trinity (September 15).

BAYSIDE

Bayside a year ago went 17-10 and made it to the Regional Finals. They were led by the 2024 breakfast of champions volleyball player of the year Jasmine Calton (now at Mercer). This team has been a rough stretch lately and wants to get a big win tonight over an ultra talented Merritt Island Mustangs squad. Currently at 4-7 the Bears are looking to turn their fortunes around.
Seniors for the Bears, Shamora Scott and JaNay McLin have been the key pieces on offense and defense respectively for Bayside. They also have a lot of younger talent on this team and will be needing contributions from the underclassmen as well.
After this quick road trip tonight the Bears will have a home stand facing Edgewood tomorrow 9/4, West Shore 9/8, and Martin County 9/9.

2024-10-22
EU's Operation Aspides says six crew recovered from ship sunk by Yemen's Houthis

Eternity C Gives a Surprise Twist to Monday Night!

The Scoop on the Incident

Greek‑owned Eternity C first hit an unexpected snag off the coast of Yemen during a calm Monday evening.

It’s a textbook example of how even the smoothest rides can take a sudden detour.

The ship’s name instantly turned from a catchy brand to headline fodder.

Maritime authorities are on high alert, trying to untangle the mystery behind the impact.

Why Every Seafarer (and Reader) Should Pay Attention

In the grand saga of global shipping, this minute yet juicy episode serves as a gentle reminder that the ocean’s moods can shift with just a wink—so next time you’re planning a trip, keep your eyes on the horizon and your ears open for the next turn of the tide!

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Six crew members have been found in the Red Sea after the Iran-backed Houthis attacked a Liberian-flagged cargo ship, killing at least three of them and wounding several others.
A European naval force said on Wednesday that 19 people who had been travelling on the Eternity C vessel were still missing.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the EU’s Operation Aspides confirmed that the ship’s crew consisted of 22 sailors and a security team of three.
The Yemeni rebels first targeted the Greek-owned ship on Monday evening, according to European and US officials.

Houthi Fury in the Red Sea

On a sunny July day, Houthi supporters shook the streets of Sanaa with chants that echoed like a banner announcing: “No US, no Israel, no problem.” Meanwhile, the quiet of the Red Sea turned into a roar of conflict.

From a Quiet Journey to a Dramatic Downfall

Just as the cargo ship Eternity C drifted north toward the Suez Canal, drone swarms and armed men in small boats had other plans.

By midnight, the UK Maritime Trade Operations had scrambled “search and rescue” crews into the fray.

Initial reports? The vessel was gone – a dramatic, watery plunge into the sea.

Revenge Is a Dish Best Served at Sea

Only a day before, the same rebel forces had launched a missile strike on the Magic Seas. After rescuing its crew, the ship met the same watery fate just a week deeper.

Both incidents happened about 100 km southwest of Hodeida, a port that the Houthis control. It’s the Red Sea’s spine, and they’re knocking on those ribs with a vengeance.

US State Department Speaks Up

The US, standing on the sidelines of the Gaza war, has fired a clear shot in the dark:

“The United States condemns the unprovoked Houthi terror attack on the civilian cargo vessels MV Magic Seas and MV Eternity C in the Red Sea, which resulted in the tragic loss of three mariners, with many others injured, and the complete loss of the MV Magic Seas and its cargo,”

“These attacks demonstrate the ongoing threat that Iran-backed Houthi rebels pose to freedom of navigation and regional economic and maritime security,”

These assaults marked the first Houthi attacks on this critical maritime corridor since last year, triggered by Israel’s war in Gaza.

What’s Under The Hood?

Houthis claim the attacks were a response to Israel’s actions – a classic “you’re on our radar, we’ll rip your ships apart” approach.

They’re messing with big logistics, pulling the world’s supply chain into their own battlefield.

Until the next wave, sailors must keep their eyes on the horizon and their hearts close by.

So, from the streets of Sanaa to the depths of the Red Sea – the world watches as one rebellious faction tosses a rubber duck into an endless ocean of conflict.

2024-10-22
2025 National Signing Day: Jayvan Boggs, Cocoa Tigers 4‑Star WR, commits to Florida State

stats this year for Boggs: 76 receptions for 1,642 receiving yards, and 17 TDs

Jaw‑Dropping Invite: Jayvan Boggs Swaps UCF for FSU!

Big news that’s got the South Florida scene buzzing: 4‑star wide‑receiver sensation Jayvan Boggs, a lightning‑fast talent from Cocoa, Florida, has officially switched gears from the University of Central Florida to the Big Blue – Florida State University.

Why the Switch?

New coaching mojo: Last week, legendary ex‑UCF coach Gus Malzahn rolled in as Florida State’s offensive coordinator. Hog wild on the idea of revamping his corner‑back and rookie receivers with a score‑based offense, Boggs saw a fresh sprint faster than a cat in a blender.

Instant teamwork vibes: FSU’s high‑school‑friendly recruiting culture has hung up a temptation for a player with the city‑wide accolades he already flaunts.

Jayvan’s Career Highlights – Rated “Explosive”

Throughout his top‑down season, Jayvan racked up: 76 catches, 1,642 yards & 17 score‑touchdowns. The previous year he struck 86 receptions, 1,504 yards, and a jaw‑rocking 24 touchdowns. Those numbers? They’re basically the equivalent of a video‑game XP leaderboard!

Official Paper Trail

He signed a Letter of Intent with Florida State. Choices on the table? UCF, Ohio State, Florida – but the big blue ride was the only path that felt like a star‑studded adventure.

Rankings, Reputations & MVP Spirit

National Rank: 69 (All‑American superstar in the making?)

Top Wide Receiver: 12 in the U‑S

All‑Florida Prospect: 16 – basically the “pick the winning horse!” deal.

Next Big Stage: Rise to the State Championship

The Cocoa Tigers are heading to Sarasota this week to battle the undefeated Cardinal Mooney Cougars. The stakes are high – a chance to take a trip to the State Championship trophy floor. With Boggs on board, the “tiger pounce” tactics are going to hit the gold!?

2024-10-22
Palm Bay Pirates Girls Basketball Storms to Class 4A State Championship: 70-39 Victory Over Booker in Lakeland!

State Championship game set for Thursday, March 6

Palm Bay Girls’ Squad Shots for the 4A State Title!

Breaking News: The Palm Bay Pirates have plotted their way into the FHSAA 4A State Championship showdown. They’re about to dust off the same rivals who gave them a tough 41‑36 loss back in 2021— No. 2 seed American Heritage. Buckle up, Florida; the bubble is about to pop!

Season Recap: 17‑7 and Counting…

Record – 17 wins & 7 losses. A solid run that earned them the top seed.

Regional Dominance – They blew holes in their opponents, raking in a whopping 53‑point margin.

Final Four Finish – A superb 70‑39 victory over Booker’s Tornadoes in Lakeland sealed their State title berth.

What’s the Buzz?

This is no fluke. The Pirates are the team to beat in the state—2‑time champs, seasoned players, and a coach who can turn a shy kid into an NBA prospect. Their eyes? The championship ring, or at least a swaggering victory lap.

Why the Tension?

American Heritage stepped in the same lane in 2021 and left the Pirates scrambling. Now the Pirates have the chance to flip the script, reclaim dominance, and maybe even snag a trophy that’s still half-silvered in the locker room.

Game Plan Summary

Fast breaks and lightning drills.

Defense that says “stop me” to every incoming shot.

Team chemistry forged on the sidelines.

With all this fuel, the Palm Bay squad is ready to itch not just for victory but for drama. Could this be the moment the 4A State Championship history books get a fresh page?

Palm Bay Pirates Plot Revenge Against American Heritage!

Get ready, basketball fans—Palm Bay’s fierce girls squad is heading straight to the State Championship, and the showdown is already on the line: they’re going toe‑to‑toe with No. 2 American Heritage at 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 6.

Why This Face‑off Is Heating Up

History Check: Palm Bay’s last run to the finals was in 2021, where they went down by 5 points (41‑36) to the same opponent.

Second Time’s a Charm? They’re hoping for a different outcome, with the Pirates itching to turn that past sting into sweet victory.

Rematch Rip‑Vibes: It’s a repeat of the 2021 championship, but this year’s vibe is all about underdogs plus late‑game fireworks.

Targeted Goal: The crew’s burning question: Can the Pirates finally swing that reverse in their favor?

What’s on the Lines?

◾ Time: 5 p.m.

◾ Location: State Championship arena

◾ Opponent: No. 2 American Heritage (the same powerhouse that snagged the win in 2021)

Expectations & Excitement

It’s not just about points—it’s about pride, the thrill of rivalry, and a chance for the Pirates to finally flip the script.

Ready to witness a sneak past?

Stick around, bring your cheers, and watch the Palm Bay girls as they aim to take home the crown—rewrite history with a little swagger and a lot of heart!

2024-06-19
All of the iPhone 17 models compared

Apple on Tuesday announced its iPhone 17 lineup, which consists of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. All four of the devices will be available to preorder on Friday and will be available on September 19.

iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air

Differential specs

Display:

iPhone 17: 6.3″ Super Retina XDR display

iPhone 17 Air: 6.5″ Super Retina XDR display

Size (L x W x H) and weight:

iPhone 17: 5.89 in. (149.6 mm) x 2.81 in. (71.5 mm) x 0.31 in. (7.95 mm); 6.24 oz (177 grams)

iPhone 17 Air: 6.15 in. (156.2 mm) x 2.94 in. (74.7 mm) x 0.22 in. (5.64 mm); 5.82 oz (165 grams)

Processor:

iPhone 17: A19 chip

iPhone 17 Air: A19 Pro chip

Rear camera:

iPhone 17: 48 MP Fusion Main, 48 MP Fusion Ultra Wide with .5x, 1x, 2x optical zoom options

iPhone 17 Air: 48 MP Fusion Main with 1x, 2x optical zoom options

Battery capacity:

iPhone 17: 3,692 mAh

iPhone 17 Air: 3,149 mAh

Resolution:

iPhone 17: 2,622 by 1,206 pixels (460 ppi)

iPhone 17 Air: 2,736 by 1,260 pixels (460 ppi)

Colors:

iPhone 17: black, lavender, mist blue, sage, and white

iPhone 17 Air: sky blue, light gold, cloud white, space black

Common specs

Front camera: 18 MP Center Stage front camera with dual capture

Charging: USB-C with support for USB 2

The iPhone will start at $799; the iPhone 17 Air starts at $999.

iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max

Differential specs

Display:

iPhone 17 Pro: 6.3″ Super Retina XDR display

iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.9″ Super Retina XDR display

Size (L x W x H) and weight:

iPhone 17 Pro: 5.91 in. (150 mm) x 2.83 in. (71.9 mm) x 0.34 in. (8.75 mm); 7.27 oz (206 grams)

iPhone 17 Pro Max: 6.43 in. (163.4 mm) x 3.07 in. (78.0 mm) x 0.34 in. (8.75 mm); 8.22 oz (233 grams)

Battery capacity:

iPhone 17 Pro: 4,262 mAh

iPhone 17 Pro Max: 5,088 mAh

Resolution:

iPhone 17 Pro: 2,622 by 1,206 pixels (460 ppi)

iPhone 17 Pro Max: 2,868 by 1,320 pixels (460 ppi)

Common specs

Processor: A19 Pro chip

Rear camera: 48 MP Fusion Main (ƒ/1.78 aperture), 48 MP Fusion Ultra Wide (ƒ/2.2 aperture), 48 MP Fusion Telephoto (ƒ/2.8 aperture) with .5x, 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x optical zoom options

Front camera: 18 MP Center Stage front camera, dual capture video

Charging: USB-C with USB 3 support

Colors: deep blue, cosmic orange, and silver

The iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,099, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max starts at $1,199.

2023-12-23
Future instability looms as tighter borders and aid cuts tighten the net on global migrants—UN chief warns】

Amy Pope’s comments come as European countries shift towards stricter migration policies, with more funding for expanded deportation efforts and for transit countries to deter migrants.

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The head of the United Nations migration agency warned on Thursday that Western nations risk creating greater instability by simultaneously tightening borders and reducing development aid to countries experiencing mass migration.
In an interview with the Associated Press, Director General of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, said that an approach focused solely on border enforcement without addressing causes of migration was “short-sighted” and could destabilise origin countries further.

“If you want to manage irregular migration, then you need to make investments in stabilising populations closer to where the migration begins,” Pope said.
“It is short-sighted to cut foreign assistance without identifying alternatives to make sure that populations are not on the move.”Amy Pope, Director General of the IOM, photographed in Rome, 10 July, 2025
AP Photo

Pope became the first woman to lead the IOM in 2023 after serving as a White House advisor on migration and homeland security under the Obama and Biden administrations.
She spoke to the AP at an international conference in Rome to support Ukrainian reconstruction.

Her comments come as European countries shift towards stricter migration policies, with more funding for expanded deportation efforts and for transit countries to deter migrants.
The Greek parliament was expected to adopt a proposal on Thursday to suspend asylum applications for all migrants traveling by sea from Libya, following a spike in arrivals.
Pope singled out Syria as a concern, cautioning that premature repatriation could prove counterproductive.

Related

Fact check: Which EU country returns the most irregular immigrants?Greece suspends asylum claims for migrants arriving by sea from North Africa, PM Mitsotakis says

“If Syrians go home too quickly and they’re facing further destabilisation, further conflict, if their children aren’t safe, if their homes are still destroyed and they have nowhere to go, that could actually backfire,” she said.
Pope noted that tougher US border policies have already created ripple effects throughout Latin America.
“We’re seeing a reversal of the flows. Not only are fewer people coming to the United States and Mexico border, more are actually heading south,” she said, raising concerns about capacity and support for countries along alternative migration routes including Panama, Costa Rica and other Central American nations.Migrants stand behind a fence inside a refugee camp in Kokkinotrimithia outside the capital Nicosia, 5 February, 2021
AP Photo

The IOM chief was supportive of Italy’s approach, which combines strict border measures with expanded legal migration channels.
Italy plans to provide nearly 500,000 permits for non-EU workers, starting in 2026 and staggered over three years, working with employers to identify labour needs.
“You can’t have enforcement on its own without addressing the pull factors that are encouraging migrants to come,” Pope said, calling Italy’s strategy an “experiment” worth watching.
“We encourage other governments to watch what’s happening in this space closely.”

2023-12-23
Fight Plastic at the Source: Reduce First, Recycle Second

Why the Plastic Storm Won’t Just Swirl Away

In 2021 the planet churned out more than 400 million tonnes of plastic – that’s twice the amount the world was making back in the early 2000s. And if we keep doing business as usual, we could be drowning in a three‑fold heap of plastic by 2060.

The Recycling Reality Check

Only 9 % of plastic waste gets recycled.

19 % is incinerated, usually smacking our air with toxic fumes.

The scary rest – almost 75 % – ends up in landfills or quietly creeping into rivers, lakes, and even our own bodies.

What That Means for Us

Every year, our lives become carpeted with single‑use bottles, snack wrappers, and those pesky “disposable” items that turn into entombed riches for future generations. The waste stream has turned into a messy buffet that the world isn’t prepared to serve.

Time to Turn the Page

Recycling alone isn’t enough. We need a big shift from “use and toss” to “care and create.” Think of this as steering a ship: the wheels need to turn faster than the storms.

Cut down on the plastic that’s made in the first place. Ask yourself if you really need that extra sleeve of paper.

Explore material alternatives. From bamboo to hemp, from algae‑based polymers to renewably sourced bioplastics.

Get folks involved. Community drives, upcycling contests, and the kind of grassroots moves that make big headlines.

Let’s be honest: the plastic problem is like a stubborn soap opera – it keeps looping. It’s time for a plot twist, and that twist starts with us choosing smarter, greener, and gentler options for the planet and for ourselves.”

Ubiquitous… and invisible waste

Plastic Pollution: The Tiny Threat That’s Everywhere

Why the Blame is on the Big Picture

Plastics are stubborn—depending on a material’s mix they can hang around for 20 to 500 years before finally going on a long nightly stroll to oblivion. Even when they break into smaller fragments, they leave behind micro‑tiny leftovers that are less than 5 millimeters across. Those tiny rebels don’t just disappear: they hitch rides to the seas, taproot in soils, splash into rivers, and even sneak into the bodies of fish and us.

Where the Micro‑Plastics Hide

Oceans: A black-banded highway for micro‑plastic highways.

Soils: The underground “plastic soup” that crops keep ingesting.

Rivers: A railing that carries them from inland to distant coasts.

Living Things: Fish, crabs, even newborn babies—because it’s all part of the food chain.

Micro‑Plastics in Our Everyday Life

Drinking water: More than a few milliliters of plastic in each glass.

Breast milk: Even the long‑sought natural nourishment is not immune.

Human blood: Scientists have detected these miniscule particles inside us.

Health Concerns: A Growing Alarm

In recent studies, scientists are sounding the alarm bells. The tiny particles can carry chemicals and toxins that might interfere with hormones, trigger inflammation, or spark unknown long‑term effects. As done research accumulates, the list of potential health risks grows louder.

What Can We Do?

While there’s no easy way out, we can reduce our plastic footprint, support recycling programs, and stay informed about new research. A little mindful consumption goes a long way—each plastic item we choose to not pick up at the store helps shrink the future plastic patchwork.

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Europe wants to stem the waste tide

EU’s Plastics Playbook: From Straws to Sea‑Savings

How the Union is Tackling the Plastic Problem

First off, the EU is on mission mode—backing down on the single‑use plastics that litter our daily lives. Here’s what they’re putting in motion:

Since 2021, the ban slams shut on the most common, easy‑swap items: plastic bags, straws, and cutlery. Picture a world where your take‑out doesn’t feel like a sorry case of trash.

New packaging rules are knocking out over‑packaging and turning boxes into recyclable champions. Think less plastic, more reusable, and a better chance of landing in the right recycle bin.

Micro‑plastic smacks down in cosmetics, detergents, and industrial goods via the REACH regulation. That shiny rinse‑off? It can’t be packed with invisible plastic bullets.

A draft on maritime transport gears up to stop industrial pellet leaks—protecting our seas from slick micro‑plastic mess.

And the Marine Strategy Framework Directive is getting a revamp to keep our oceans free of litter, chunky and micro.

Research Rallies: Bio‑Solutions in the Pipeline

Money flows into projects that are turning science into green alternatives:

SEALIVE—powered by Valencia’s ITENE research center—is hunting the next wave of biodegradable packaging.

R3pack pushes the envelope on replaceable, reusable packaging systems.

Profit‑Pouchy Plan: Whole Market Shift by 2030

The Brussels brass is willing to pay the price for reuse, aiming for a 100% reusable or recyclable packaging market in ten years. That means you can keep buying the same container—easily, happily—yet still reduce the plastic footprint.

Bottom Line

From banning bags to steering research towards eco‑friendly crates, the EU is turning the tide on plastic. All that time spent scrolling through endless grocery lists? It’ll soon get matched with a greener, plastic‑free future!

Towards an international treaty on plastics

EU Leads the Charge Against Plastic Pollution

Across the continents, the European Union is spearheading a pop‑quiz for the planet: a legally binding global treaty to put the plastic problem in its place.

Two Sides of the Same Plastic Coin

High‑Ambition Alliance – Over 100 countries, including the EU, Rwanda, Norway, and Peru, pushing for a full‑life‑cycle pact: from raw material extraction and manufacturing all the way to disposal.

Downstream‑Only Group – Big oil players and a handful of other nations want the treaty to focus mainly on waste management and recycling, leaving the production side off the agenda.

The Hot Topics That Sparked Debates

Sustainable Production & Consumption – How can we make plastics that don’t sabotage the planet?

Reforming Problematic Items – Tackling single‑use plastics that clog our beaches and garbage cans.

Reducing Hazardous Chemicals – A push to eliminate the most dangerous substances in plastic manufacturing.

Next Stop: Geneva

The forthcoming round of negotiations is slated for August 5–14, 2025 in the Swiss city of Geneva. All eyes will be on whether the high‑ambition alliance can convince the downstream group to broaden the treaty’s scope.

2023-11-25
Pronto's 10-minute house-help pitch sparked a 3.6x valuation jump in just 90 days

In 2025, the average urban Indian no longer needs to wait very long for much (except at government offices and in traffic): They simply have to order what they need from an app, and it’ll be delivered within minutes. The explosion of quick-commerce in the country has meant that millions of Indians are getting increasingly used to not having to wait for deliveries, or step out of their homes, as startups vie to make almost everything, from food and groceries to smartphones and gaming consoles, available within minutes.

It seems investors, too, don’t want to wait long: A budding startup out of New Delhi called Pronto, which lets users book and avail cleaning, laundry, and home services within 10 minutes, has tripled its valuation in less than 90 days.

It was only in May when Pronto raised a $2 million seed round at a $12.5 million valuation. The startup has now raised an $11 million Series A round at a post-money valuation of $45 million, co-led by General Catalyst and Glade Brook Capital. Existing investor Bain Capital Ventures also participated in this round.

The new funding comes in the wake of solid traction: Pronto claims its revenue has risen by nearly five times, founder and CEO Anjali Sardana told TechCrunch, since it came out of stealth barely three months ago.

The startup now has bookings numbering in the “four-digits” every day, and expects annual recurring revenue in the range of $750,000 to $1.5 million, Sardana said, though she declined to disclose exact figures.Pronto founder and CEO Anjali Sardana with workersImage Credits:Pronto

“It largely comes down to two things: one being momentum and the insane speed at which we were scaling, as well as just investors recognizing the quality of the team and how fast we were executing,” Sardana said, explaining what led investors to fund the Series A so soon after its seed round.

For investors, Sardana seems to be the primary reason they bet this early. “We were very impressed by Anjali,” said Rahul Garg, a partner at General Catalyst. “Given how young she is, given that she spent a lot of her time in the U.S. after she’s come to India, what she’s been able to achieve, the feedback from supply partners, the feedback from customers, her thought process, and how she wants to build and scale this business, we found it very inspiring.”

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Pronto is not the only startup connecting domestic workers with consumers. Lightspeed Venture Partners recently backed Snabbit, and IPO-bound Urban Company also offers a similar service.

Garg told TechCrunch that India has 180-190 million nuclear families who are potential customers for household services, and a semi-skilled and unskilled workforce of 35 million that could tap a $35 billion cumulative wage pool in this space.

“Whichever way you look at the market, this is large enough for multiple players to build an endurable business,” he said.

Expansion plans

Pronto now has six hubs in Gurugram, a satellite city of New Delhi, up from two in May. Each of these hubs serves customers within 1.5 miles.

The startup initially met 70% to 80% of demand from within 500 meters of households, as its first two hubs were located in densely populated residential areas. It has now set up hubs at intersections so its workers can reach multiple smaller, spread-out sectors quickly.Pronto AppImage Credits:Pronto

Pronto’s primary customers are working professionals, and it is seeing high demand. “Household help is very prevalent in India. And therefore, these are use cases where demand is quite concentrated, even in small catchment areas,” Garg said.

The startup now plans to expand both within Gurugram and into new markets, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, and other major cities, in the next 12-18 months.

Pronto has a headcount of 33 people and has around 750 workers signed up on its platform.

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2023-08-06
This app just raised $14M to take on the loneliness epidemic

One Friday evening, Alyx van der Vorm couldn’t stop thinking, “I should do something with someone.”

But she found herself alone once again on a Friday night, thinking about just heading to the gym. That was when she realized that trying to make plans with people these days is incredibly hard.

“Figuring out who’s around, texting, waiting, researching options … It felt absurd that staying home and watching a movie was one tap, but seeing a friend was ten steps,” van der Vorm said.

At 25 years old, van der Vorm is very much Generation Z, that overly connected demographic that somehow also self-reports as feeling overwhelmingly isolated and lonely. Van der Vorm studied computational neuroscience at Harvard University and later worked at a lab where she studied how social connections impact mental and physical health.

“The data is stark. Isolation can be as physically damaging as things we universally agree are bad for us,” she said. “That gave me the confidence that working on friendship isn’t ‘soft.’ It’s a real health problem.”

So in 2020, van der Vorm started working on Clyx, a social platform that helps users find community events to join. Five years later, the app today has 50,000 active users buying tickets for events, and more than 200,000 users browsing events. The company has now raised $14 million in a Series A round led by Blitzscaling Ventures, with participation from other investors, including Iqram Magdon-Ismail, the co-founder of Venmo, and F1-driver-turned-investor Nico Rosberg. Alyx van der Vorm.Image Credits:Alyx der Vorm

Clyx itself is quite simple: It pulls event data from sites such as Ticketmaster and TikTok and shows its users events in their cities that they can sign up for. It also offers suggestions for places to try, and users can upload their contacts to the app to see which events their friends are going to.

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The company has also built a compatibility engine that recommends people users can connect with at events. “So instead of walking into a room of strangers, you walk in already knowing, ‘Hey, Thomas is into the same things I am; we should connect,” van der Vorm said.

The app even nudges people to connect and reconnect, which van der Vorm says takes away “the awkward burden of reaching out cold,” or alleviates what some might perceive as the tedious task of nurturing a new friendship. Clyx also has a feature called Programs, essentially a series of events that leads people to hang out with the same group of people while at workshop sessions.

“That repetition is where acquaintances turn into real friends, and it’s been one of the most exciting things we’ve rolled out,” van der Vorm said.

“People do have friends,” she continued. “What they lack are friends who are nearby, free at the same time, and up for the same things. We remove the planning tax and nudge the right next step so the momentum doesn’t die after ‘we should hang soon.’”

Van der Vorm told TechCrunch she met her lead investors through personal connections, including through a chance meeting with a stranger at a coffee shop who connected her with an investor friend.

She met Magdon-Ismail after someone heard her give a talk at the Harvard Club and thought the two should meet. To hear van der Vorm speak of this, it seems to be a case of “right place, right time.”

“Simon Sinek was another,” she said. “Someone heard me speak about friendship, said I sounded just like him, and made the intro.”

Clyx is currently operating only in Miami and London, and van der Vorm aims to launch the app in New York this month and in Sao Paulo this year. The company is also investing heavily in product development, brand and cultural partnerships, and, of course, expanding its team.

Clyx isn’t the first app to try to help people get outside and meet new folk. Posh, Meetup, Dice, and even Eventbrite have done that for years; Bumble has an option to look for friends, and even Hinge is trying to get people to go outside more. But van der Vorm hopes Clyx can stand out.

“My dream is to create a world where it’s as easy to go out and spend time with your friends as it is to sit home and scroll,” she said. “And if that helps people feel happier, healthier, and like they truly belong somewhere — that’s the impact I want Clyx to have.”

2023-07-30
Greenpeace alarms over looming ecological disaster as oil tankers collide near Strait of Hormuz

Oil Spill Alert: Greenpeace Taps into the Sky

Sheer Size? About 1,500 Hectares of Trouble

Picture this: a massive splash of oil stretching out like a taillight across the sea, measured at roughly 1,500 hectares. Thanks to high‑resolution satellite imagery, Greenpeace has confirmed the extent of the spill that erupted from a recent crash.

What the Satellites Saw

Clear, unmistakable plume across open water

Stretching from the crash site all the way into distant horizons

Color contrast sharp enough to give the ocean a darker, oily sheen

Why This Matters

When we talk oil spills, size matters. A 1,500‑hectare footprint means

Major aquatic habitats potentially hit

Long‑term cleanup is set to be a colossal challenge

Local fishermen and marine life are bracing for a tidal wave of trouble

Greenpeace’s Take: “We’re on the Front… Literally”

Greenpeace’s spokesperson quipped, “We’re looking up, but it’s still a very down‑to‑earth issue.” The implied humor doesn’t mask their sincerity: the waters are in urgent need of attention, and the satellite evidence is key to mobilizing global support.

Sudden Double Disaster in the Gulf of Oman: Oil Tankers Collide, Fires Play Host

Picture This

Two colossal oil tankers—ADALYNN and Front Eagle—ran into each other just east of the globe’s most crucial oil chokepoint, the Strait of Hormuz. The collision sparked a blazing inferno that painted the Gulf of Oman with a roaring glow.

How the Scene Unfolded

Collision & Blaze: The giants hit on Tuesday, June 17, sending a dramatic burst of flames into the sky.

Swift Evacuation: UAE National Guard swooped in early and rescued all crew members—luckily no injuries.

No Casualties: Officials confirm that everyone survived the fiery chaos.

Satellite Insights: NASA’s Fire Information for Resource Management System pinpointed intense heat signatures right at the rendezvous spot.

Greenpeace’s Take

Greenpeace sounds alarms over the potential environmental nightmare, especially given the tactical importance of the Strait. They warn that a spill could wreak havoc on marine life and local ecosystems.

Why This Matters

The Strait of Hormuz is a leviathan artery of global oil trade, and a disaster here could ripple across economies and become a heavyweight environmental headline.

What’s Next?

Authorities are scrambling to contain the blaze and prevent any oil leakage. Environmental watchdogs are ready to watch closely.

How much oil are the tankers carrying?

Greenpeace Spots Massive Oil Plunge

Greenpeace said they sifted through satellite imagery—think of it as a high‑resolution crime scene—with a surprising discovery: a slick of oil that could stretch out to an eye‑catching 1,500 hectares away from the crash point.

Imagine a puff of black goo that could blanket a city-sized area.

It’s so large that even the biggest drones would need a GPS update to keep track.

And really, who hasn’t felt that “oh‑no” moment when a single spill feels like a giant ocean dive?

Oil Slick Alert! The 23‑Year‑Old Tanker That Stole the Spotlight

Picture this: a 23‑year‑old tanker named ADALYNN speeding through the Gulf of Oman when it met its doom in a collision that sent a massive splash of trouble into the sea. The ship came from what Greenpeace calls a Russian “shadow fleet”—a group of older vessels that skimp on safety—so the stakes weren’t just about a halted delivery truck on the road, but a huge chunk of crude oil almost making a grand entrance into marine life.

What’s the Damage?

70,000 tonnes of crude oil were at risk of spilling

Collision was among “one of many dangerous incidents” this year, according to Farah Al Hattab of Greenpeace’s Middle East and North Africa division

Alarm bells ring because “such oil spills endanger marine life.”

Who’s Talking?

The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure brushed their shoulders off the story, refusing to comment. Meanwhile, Greenpeace’s top water‑watching wizards were filled with indignation and warnings about the threat to unsuspecting fish and seabirds.

What Do We Take From This?

Even though the tanker was only a little over two decades old, its lack of modern safety measures made it an apex predator for a spill. The incident is a reminder that “older” isn’t the same as “safer.” and that a little too much oil in the sea can trigger blue‑water tragedies.

Takeaway

If you ever think “the sea is safe,” remember: these shadow fleet ships can bring them all to the brink in a sweep of a single crash.

Israel-Iran conflict raises shipping concerns

Shocking Turns in the Strait of Hormuz

Just when the world thought a dramatic standoff between Israel and Iran was about to dominate headlines, a sudden collision at the Strait of Hormuz threw the situation on its head.

What Really Happened?

Ambrey, the UK maritime security firm that monitored the incident, quickly ruled out any direct link to the recent airstrikes. “It’s unrelated,” they said, leaving many wondering why the fuss erupted at all.

The Strait’s Big Role in the Oil Chain

Stretched out like a giant artery, the Strait is the vital gateway to the Persian Gulf. Roughly 20 million barrels of oil sail through it every day in 2024, making up a staggering one‑fifth of the world’s oil traffic. That’s a lot of diesel and petrol in one tight corridor.

Oil Prices and the Ripple Effect

When Israel struck Iran on 13 June, oil prices kicked up like a roller coaster. The globe fretted over the possibility that Iran could throttle the waterway—think traffic jam on the planet’s most crucial highway. Shipping companies, in a bid to stay safe, started tightening their security protocols or even ditching the route completely.

New Report Highlights the Shift

Frontline, a huge publicly traded tanker company, announced that it will refuse any new contracts navigating the Gulf via the Strait.

Hundreds of vessels reported choppy navigation signals this weekend, forcing them to rely heavily on radar for guidance.

Some fleets have already altered their routes, opting for safer, longer detours.

So, while the headline drama was supposed to be an Israel‑Iran showdown, the real drama unfolded right after a seemingly unrelated collision in a waterway that is the lifeline of the global oil trade.

2023-07-30

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