Seattle’s ORCA transit system is set to enhance its services with a new feature that enables riders to pay fares through their credit cards or smartphones, eliminating the need for a dedicated ORCA card. This significant upgrade is aimed at improving user convenience and accessibility.
In other news, internal documents have surfaced detailing the evolving relationship between Microsoft and OpenAI. These files highlight how Microsoft transitioned from a peripheral role at OpenAI’s inception to gaining substantial influence over the AI lab, which has been pivotal in the generative AI landscape.
Meanwhile, Amazon is reportedly preparing for more layoffs, following a previous reduction of approximately 14,000 employees globally in October. Additionally, Meta is cutting 331 jobs in Washington state, primarily affecting its Reality Labs division, with the Redmond office facing the most significant impact.
In startup news, a Seattle company has successfully raised $1.2 million to democratize hedge fund investment strategies, while another local startup, Emerald Battery Labs, secured just under $1.1 million for its innovative salt-powered battery technology.