Google thinks SpaceX's Starship has to launch 1,800 times before space data centers get off the ground

Plus more of TechCrunch's top stories this afternoon

View this email online in your browser  October 01, 2026 TechCrunch Top 3 Google thinks SpaceX's Starship has to launch 1,800 times before space data centers get off the ground: Google launched its first advanced chip into orbit to pave the way for space data centers. Read More Opus 5.5 loves to tell you 'this matters' (and other AI writing tells): Opus 5.5’s biggest tell is the word “dependable,” which pops up 23 times more often than in human samples. Read More ChatGPT can now virtually try on clothes for you: OpenAI is rolling out new shopping features for ChatGPT that let users virtually try on clothing and accessories using their own photos and save products they like to a Favorites library. Read More A message from TechCrunch Events Get your Disrupt pass and get 50% off a second The Disrupt experience is better shared. Get one pass at regular price and a second at 50% off for a co-founder, partner, colleague, or peer. Make more connections, gain fresh insights, and discover the next wave of tech together. This offer ends when Disrupt begins Oct. 13 at 8 a.m. PT. Register now Afternoon Must-Reads The new Kindle ditches the raised bezel in a push toward a smaller, lighter e-reader: The new Kindle lineup features its lightest and thinnest designs yet, with a sleek, front-flush display that eliminates bezels for good. Read More Amazon introduces Kindle Click, a $35 remote for turning pages: The compact Bluetooth remote is designed to let readers turn pages without touching their Kindle. Read More Audible's new features let you explore book worlds — and use AI to talk to characters: Audible is rolling out new features that help listeners keep track of characters, explore places and imagery mentioned in books, and even interact with characters using generative AI. Read More California governor vetoes bill banning use of 'pervert glasses' to secretly record people: The California state bill would have penalized people who secretly recorded people in public with wearables equipped with cameras and microphones. Read More OpenAI cuts ties with 3 safety researchers, WSJ reports: OpenAI has parted ways with three safety researchers after an internal investigation found they mishandled sensitive company information, report says. Read More A message from TechCrunch Events Tomorrow is your last day to exhibit at Disrupt Don’t wait until the Expo Hall is full to wish you had a table. Book by tomorrow, Oct. 2 at 11:59 p.m. PT, and put your startup in front of 10,000+ founders, investors, and decisionmakers at Disrupt. Showcase your breakthrough, generate valuable leads, and connect with VCs. Your table could go to your competitor. Book now Last but Not Least Brian Chesky interview: AI agents need their own operating system: Brian Chesky on making Airbnb agent-friendly, the state of consumer AI, and why the world needs an AI-native operating system. Read More Check out some of our other newsletters: StrictlyVC TechCrunch Events TechCrunch Mobility Want to adjust your daily newsletter schedule? You can do it right here Got a tip? Get in touch securely. Want to advertise on TechCrunch? advertise@techcrunch.com Has this been forwarded to you? Click here to subscribe to this newsletter. Unsubscribe Member Center Privacy Policy Copyright © 2026 TechCrunch Media LLC 501 2nd Street, Suite 650, San Francisco, CA 94107