Oslo startup Databutton raises $5.1M to make AI app development accessible
Oslo-based startup Databutton raised $5.1 million to further develop its no-code platform that enables anyone to build AI-powered apps and assistants without coding.
Key Facts & Points
- Databutton allows users to create interactive web apps using their own data or by connecting to Databutton's catalog of data sources, models, and integrations.
- The platform guides users through each step of building an AI app with instructions and an AI assistant developer.
- Since January 2022, Databutton's 5,200+ users have built nearly 6,400 web apps on the platform.
- The $5.1 million Seed round was led by Oslo's Skyfall Ventures and Helsinki's Maki.vc.
- Databutton will use the funding to bring its AI-assisted product to market and make AI app development accessible.
Slingshot App Lets You Quickly Share Photos With Friends
The new Slingshot app combines features from BeReal and Snapchat, allowing users to instantly take and share photos by "slinging" them to friends. It provides a playful way to capture candid moments.
Key Facts & Points
- Slingshot was created by Tommy Searle and his team after building several other consumer apps like Cutouts.
- The app's main feature is pulling down on the screen to reveal the camera. Releasing takes a photo that is instantly sent to friends.
- Received photos appear as bouncing bubbles that disappear after viewing, similar to Snapchat.
- Searle aims to appeal to high school and college students who want to quickly share moments.
TikTok Shop Launches In US, Providing New E-Commerce Features
TikTok has officially launched its e-commerce product TikTok Shop in the US, bringing features like a dedicated shop tab, live shopping, shoppable ads, and affiliate programs. The launch aims to leverage TikTok's popularity to connect brands with engaged customers.
Key Facts & Points
- After months of testing, TikTok Shop is now live in the US where TikTok has over 150 million users.
- New features include a shop tab, live shopping, shoppable ads, and affiliate programs for creators.
- TikTok provides logistics and checkout solutions for sellers under "Fulfilled by TikTok".
- The company has signed up over 200,000 sellers and 100,000 creators for its affiliate program.
Rich Countries' Slow Progress on Emissions Reduction
A new study finds that rich countries who have decoupled economic growth from carbon emissions will still take over 200 years to reach net zero emissions targets. Researchers argue these countries need to rapidly accelerate emissions reductions while transitioning to post-growth policies.
Key Facts & Points
- The UK was reducing emissions faster than other countries, but must cut 5 times faster by 2025 to meet 1.5C warming limit.
- Rich countries need to scale down high-carbon industries and reduce inequality to enable post-growth policies.
- Developing countries are increasing production without exceeding carbon budgets.
- Moving people from private cars to public transit is critical for emissions reductions.
