We're in our Workslop Era

Top News

• When does work become Workslop? Research teams at Harvard and Stanford concluded that many workers are using AI tools to create “low-effort, passable looking work that ends up creating more work for their co-workers.” The teams dubbed these outputs “workslop,” and suggest that they may be the reason some companies are reporting small or non-existent productivity gains from adding AI tools to their internal processes. In a survey by Harvard Business Review, 40% of respondents report receiving “workslop” from a colleague in the past month, suggesting this may already be a major issue facing American companies.

• Microsoft experimenting with “microfluidics”: Anyone who’s used an old computer in the summer knows, when your system gets overheated, it’s essentially unusable. The same thing is true with massive AI datacenters; part of the reason they suck up SO MUCH POWER is the need to artificially keep their environments nice and cool. Now Bloomberg reports that Microsoft is seeking a novel solution, using a technology called microfluidics. It works by sending cooling fluid directly through tiny grooves that are etched into the microchips themselves. So far, the process is not only working, but shows potential for keeping chips cool even when they’re stacked directly on top of one another, allowing for potentially even more powerful chip stacks moving forward.

• Multiple announcements from Meta: It’s been a busy week at Mark Zuckerberg’s social startup. The WhatsApp team added built-in text translations for all iPhone and Android users; the system currently supports text in English, Spanish, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian and Arabic on Android, and 19 languages on iOS. In other app news, Facebook Dating got an AI-powered upgrade. Singles will now have access to a “Dating Assistant” chatbot which will help them find potential matches, along with a “Meet Cute” feature that pairs you up algorithmically. (‘80s-style “computer dating” has finally come full circle!) Finally, Axios reports that the company has launched a new political super PAC aimed at electing AI-friendly representatives at the local and state level. (The company has already been active in getting aligned candidates elected in its home state of California.)

TWiST 500

After taking a week off to explore the latest Y Combinator grads, a LOT of fresh TWiST 500 stories built up. So let’s tackle three more updates today from some of our fave startups.

Revolut: The finance app — one of just a handful of British entrants in the TWiST 500 — announced plans to invest $13 billion into its global operations, on the road to amassing 100 million+ users. That includes $4 billion in investment in the company’s native UK alone, with plans to add 1,000 new jobs for its newly-opened headquarters on London’s Canary Wharf. $1.2 billion more has been earmarked for Revolut’s Western European hub in France, with $500,000 en route to fund the company’s US operations. The company offers digital banking services through its app, with freemium and subscription-based versions available.

Stripe: Another fintech giant — among the most valuable companies in the entire TWiST 500 family — Stripe is reportedly in negotiations to repurchase shares from its venture capital backers at a valuation of $106.7 billion. Some investors previously gave Stripe grief for not going public when its valuation topped $95 billion back in 2021, so this will be a widely-appreciated shot of liquidity. It’s unclear at this point just how much stock Stripe plans to purchase, but one thing is clear… founders Patrick and John Collison remain in no immediate rush to go public.

1x: Finally, The Information tells us that humanoid robotics startup 1x is aiming to raise $1 billion at a $10 billion valuation, around 10x its value from this January. This obviously comes at a white-hot moment for humanoid robotics more generally, as Tesla, Figure, and other high profile US companies are relentlessly chasing the same goal while rival Chinese firms are going viral every other week with their latest innovations. – Lon

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This Week in Startups

E2182: We’re Alex-free this Monday, so Jason and Lon work their way through the day’s biggest tech and startup news. First up, did the Trump administration borrow and then super-size Jason’s H-1B visa proposal? It sure sounds like it. PLUS the latest on TikTok USA, the explosion of Scandinavian data centers, a new launch video for AI virtual assistant startup Howie, and much more.

E2181: Lovable CEO Anton Osika joins us for a blockbuster new TWiST, going deep on his journey developing the app that taught the world how to vibecode. Hear Anton discuss how people are using Lovable, how he balances accessibility with driving revenue, why Stockholm has become such a major tech hub, and much more. PLUS Alex and Jason check out Meta’s latest Ray Bans, Beehiiv’s team-up with Discord, and much more!

E2180: It’s a TWiST double-header as Jason and Alex welcome TWO guests currently blowing up on social media. First, Kaan Doğrusöz of Weave Robotics shows off his company’s Isaac robot, designed for laundry folding, which will actually be released to early adopters later on this year. Then, investor Eric Jackson swings by the show to talk about his investment in Opendoor, and why he thinks the beleaguered company could not only turn things around but become the next “100 bagger.” Plus the “End of Apprenticeship,” Jason’s “Bring Your Own Algorithm” pitch, and much more.

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Angel University is Back!

Jason and Mike Savino are hosting our next virtual Angel University workshop on Tuesday, October 7. Jason will share proven strategies he’s used to invest $200M+ in over 500 startups. Whether you’re new to angel investing or looking to sharpen your skills, this is your chance to learn directly from one of the most active angel investors in the world. Register now at angel.university!

Founder U is Coming to the MENA Region!

Our 12-week pre-accelerator—designed to help early-stage founders build and grow—kicks off this fall in Saudi Arabia. The first cohort launches in Riyadh on November 3rd, followed by in-person and virtual sessions throughout the program. Founders in MENA: this is your chance to turn your idea into a business and get world-class insights on building a successful startup. Apply today: https://mena.founder.university/

SF Live-Work Space Now Available

Need a flexible living and working environment in San Francisco? This thoughtfully designed loft-style residence at 787 Bryant St., the heart of the vibrant SOMA district and the city’s creative hub, is now available for rent or purchase. Check the listing for more details.

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