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Tesla's ad spend on X has shrunk to almost nothing
TechCrunch· 2025-09-05 17:00
Advertising Expenditure - Tesla spent $400,000 on advertising on Elon Musk's social media platform X in 2024, but is projected to spend only $60,000 in 2025 unless there is a significant increase in advertising efforts [1][2] - In the first two months of 2025, Tesla spent $10,000 on X ads, compared to $200,000 spent during the same period in 2024 [2] Advertising Strategy - Tesla had not engaged in advertising until CEO Elon Musk responded to shareholder pressure in 2023, leading to ads appearing on Google and YouTube in late 2023 and early 2024 [3] Active Advertisements - As of February 2025, Tesla has around 700 active advertisements across Google's platforms, although it is unclear if spending has increased since then [4] Expenses Related to Musk's Companies - Tesla paid SpaceX approximately $800,000 for the use of a private jet in 2024, but only $40,000 through February 2025, indicating a potential reduction in this expense [5] - Tesla paid a security company owned by Musk $2.8 million in 2024, an increase from $2.4 million in 2023, with $500,000 paid through February 2025 [6] - The largest transaction between Musk's companies was xAI paying Tesla $198.3 million for Megapack battery storage products, with an additional $36.8 million paid through the first two months of 2025 [6] Related Business Activities - Tesla paid Kimbal Musk's drone company, Nova Sky Stories, $300,000 for a show at the automaker's "We, Robot" event in October 2024 [9]
Apple is holding its iPhone 17 event on September 9
TechCrunch· 2025-08-26 16:05
Group 1 - Apple is holding its iPhone 17 event on September 9, starting at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET at the Steve Jobs theatre in Cupertino [1] - The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to include one regular model and two Pro models, with a potential new iPhone 17 Air model that is 5.5 mm thick and features a 6.6-inch screen, making it 0.08 inches thinner than current models [2] - The base iPhone 17 is anticipated to have a larger 6.3-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, an upgrade from the previous 60Hz [2] Group 2 - Alongside the iPhones, Apple is likely to update the Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3, and SE 3, with the Apple Watch Ultra 3 featuring a bigger screen and faster charging [3] - The company may also announce AirPods Pro 3, which would include a more compact design, a new chip for improved noise cancellation and audio processing, and touch-sensitive controls [3]
Sony is increasing the price of the PlayStation 5 as new tariffs take hold
TechCrunch· 2025-08-20 18:02
Core Viewpoint - Sony is raising the prices of PlayStation 5 consoles by approximately $50 due to a challenging economic environment, which is linked to tariffs imposed by the U.S. government [2][3]. Price Changes - The new prices for the PlayStation 5 will be $549.99, $499.99 for the Digital Edition, and $749.99 for the Pro version, effective August 21 [2]. - Sony has previously raised prices for PlayStation consoles in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand in April, citing similar economic challenges [3]. Market Context - Other companies in the gaming industry are also adjusting their prices in response to the tariffs. Microsoft announced price increases of $80 to $100 for its consoles and some games [4]. - Nintendo has raised prices for certain accessories related to the new Nintendo Switch 2 but has not increased the console price itself [4].
Joby Aviation to buy Blade Air Mobility's ride-share business
TechCrunch· 2025-08-04 11:18
Core Viewpoint - Joby Aviation has agreed to acquire Blade Air Mobility's helicopter ride-share business for up to $125 million, which will enhance Joby's operational capabilities and market presence in urban air mobility [1][4]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - Joby is purchasing the Blade brand and its passenger business, which operates in the U.S. and Europe, while Blade's medical division will remain a separate entity [2][3]. - The acquisition provides Joby with immediate access to a network of 12 terminals in key markets, including dedicated lounges and terminal bases at major airports in New York City [2][3]. - Joby will hold back $35 million of the purchase price, contingent on Blade achieving specific performance milestones and retaining key employees [7]. Group 2: Strategic Importance - Joby views the acquisition as "strategically important" for launching its commercial operations in Dubai and facilitating a global rollout of its services [4]. - The integration of Joby's air taxi management software into Blade's passenger service is expected to enhance operational efficiency [4]. Group 3: Company Background - Joby Aviation, founded in 2009, has been developing electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for urban taxi services and is also exploring a defense-related business [5]. - Blade, established in 2014, operates a digital network for booking private helicopter rides and has seen significant growth, flying over 50,000 passengers in 2024 [3].