Runway, best known for its video-generating AI models, raises 8M

Runway releases an impressive new video-generating AI model

AI startup Runway on Monday released what it claims is one of the highest-fidelity AI-powered video generators yet. Called Gen-4, the tool is rolling out to the company’s individual and enterprise customers. Runway claims that it can generate consistent characters, locations, and objects across scenes, maintain “coherent world environments,” and regenerate elements from different perspectives…

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China Miéville says we shouldn’t blame science fiction for its bad readers

China Miéville says we shouldn’t blame science fiction for its bad readers

It’s been 25 years since China Miéville stepped into the literary spotlight with his novel “Perdido Street Station.” Combining elements of science fiction, fantasy, and horror, the novel introduced readers to the fantastically complex city of New Crobuzon, filled with insect-headed khepri, cactus-shaped cactacae, and terrifying slake moths that feed on their victims’ dreams. It…

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Amazon shakes up streaming leadership team

Amazon shakes up streaming leadership team

Amazon announced this week that Jennifer Salke is stepping down as the head of Amazon MGM Studios — a move that could indicate high-level dissatisfaction with the company’s streaming strategy over the past few years. To be clear, Salke’s boss Mike Hopkins (the head of Amazon MGM Studios and Prime Video) praised her work in…

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#TechCrunch has, yes, personal news!

#TechCrunch has, yes, personal news!

If you haven’t heard the news, TechCrunch has a shiny new home. After years under Yahoo’s ownership — which, in turn, is backed by Apollo Group — the brand is now in fresh hands. Its new parent company: Regent, a dynamic private equity firm with a diverse portfolio spanning media, retail, and manufacturing. Regent was…

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