August 12, 2026

TechCrunch Top 3

Everything announced at Made by Google '26: Pixel 11, Pixel Watch 5, Pixel Tag, and tons of Gemini features: From the Pixel 11 series and a brand new competitor to Apple’s AirTag, here are all the announcements from the Made by Google 2026 event. Read More

Phoebe Gates and Sophia Kianni reportedly knew Phia was 'cookie stuffing' for months: Phia, the shopping startup co-founded by Phoebe Gates and Sophia Kianni, is once again under fire for its alleged business practices. Read More

Reservoir raises $8M to make water heaters that people — and the grid — will actually want: Reservoir has built an ultra-efficient water heater that can predict hot water demand, store energy, and detect plumbing leaks throughout a home. Read More

Afternoon Must-Reads

Google's new Pixel 11 Pro Fold offers a stronger build and brighter screens: The Pixel 11 Pro Fold will cost $1,899 Read More

OpenAI launches ChatGPT desktop app for Linux: OpenAI is finally bringing a dedicated ChatGPT desktop app to Linux operating systems. Read More

AI code-testing startup Blacksmith's valuation jumps almost 10x in less than a year: Blacksmith says revenue has grown more than tenfold over the past year. Read More

Uber surprised robotics company Serve by selling its entire stake: The divestiture comes as the two once-tight companies have started to diverge on the business side. Read More

Google's Pixel 11 lineup offer fewer hardware changes, but much more Gemini: Google Pixel 11 Series starts $100 costlier than the last year, but offers 256GB base storage Read More

Last but Not Least

FBI says cybercriminals are hacking into victims' online accounts to steal their intimate pictures: In a new alert, the FBI said cybercriminals are targeting adults and minors in an attempt to steal their personal and intimate pictures in extortion campaigns. Read More