Crypto Integration Speculated for X

CRYPTO
Crypto Integration Speculated for X

A recent leak of software code for Elon Musk’s X has fueled speculation that the anticipated X Money payment system may launch soon. The rumors follow X CEO Linda Yaccarino’s confirmation that X Money will debut in 2025.

X has already obtained money transmitter licenses in 39 states, but a leaked screenshot suggests the platform could launch without approval in all 50 states. The code snippet reads: “X Money is not available in your state,” sparking conversations about a potential phased rollout.

X Money will enable users to tip content creators, with speculation swirling about the integration of cryptocurrencies. Musk’s history with Bitcoin and Dogecoin has led industry insiders, like entrepreneur Alex Finn, to predict that crypto will play a significant role in X payments.

While X has not verified the code’s legitimacy, if accurate, the payment system would first launch in states where licenses are already secured.

TECH
$95M Payout for Siri Privacy Breach

Apple has agreed to a $95 million settlement to resolve a lawsuit accusing the company of using Siri to eavesdrop on users. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Oakland, California, alleged that Siri improperly activated to record conversations without the "Hey Siri" trigger and shared some recordings with advertisers for targeted marketing. The accusations challenged Apple’s long-standing commitment to customer privacy.

The settlement, which requires court approval, does not admit wrongdoing by Apple. If approved, it would allow eligible customers who owned Siri-equipped Apple devices between September 17, 2014, and the end of 2023 to claim up to $20 per device, limited to five devices per person. Lawyers estimate only 3-5% of eligible users will file claims.

The settlement amount is minor compared to Apple’s $705 billion in profits since 2014, but it underscores ongoing scrutiny of tech companies’ privacy practices. Legal fees could account for nearly $30 million of the settlement fund.

TECH
Musk Bets Big on FSD Launch

Tesla faces 2025 with a challenging agenda after its first-ever annual sales decline in 2024, a year that fell short of Elon Musk's bold promises. Tesla delivered 1.79 million vehicles in 2024, slightly below its 2023 record, despite incentives aimed at boosting demand. The disappointment has raised concerns about whether the company can meet its ambitious 20%-30% growth forecast for 2025.

To regain momentum, Tesla plans to refresh its product lineup, starting with the Model Y, its top-selling crossover. The Semi, a commercial big rig, is expected to finally enter mass production, while the long-awaited second-generation Roadster is set to debut after years of delays. Musk has also teased a low-cost entry model, projected to launch this year, although details remain scarce.

The biggest question mark is Musk's long-promised Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability. Despite years of delays, Musk claims unsupervised FSD will roll out in Texas in 2025, supported by Tesla's new AI training facility, the Cortex. Investors are banking on this breakthrough, especially with regulatory support expected from the pro-Tesla Trump administration.

Despite recent setbacks, Tesla remains a key player in the EV and AI markets. Analysts remain cautiously optimistic, but hitting 2025 targets will be critical to sustaining Tesla's lofty valuation.

DISCLAIMER: None of this is financial advice. This newsletter is strictly educational and is not investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and do your own research.