Product & Design Pulse v36

Last week…

1. Figma Files Confidential IPO Paperwork

   Figma announced it has confidentially submitted an S-1 filing to the SEC, signaling its intention to go public. The design platform, widely used across tech and creative industries, has experienced rapid growth since its founding in 2012. Specific details about share pricing or a target IPO date have not yet been disclosed.

2. Google Considers Breaking Up Chrome and Search to Address Antitrust Concerns

   As part of its defense in an ongoing DOJ antitrust trial, Google has proposed splitting off Chrome and parts of its ad tech business to avoid harsher regulatory penalties. Internal documents show executives debating how best to restructure to preserve the company’s core search advertising revenue. The trial could dramatically reshape Google’s business structure depending on its outcome.

3. OpenAI’s New Reasoning AI Models May Hallucinate More

   A new study suggests that OpenAI’s latest AI models, which focus on improved reasoning abilities, might actually hallucinate incorrect information more frequently. Researchers found that while reasoning improved, factual accuracy sometimes dropped in complex tasks. This tradeoff raises questions about how to balance creativity, logic, and reliability in future AI development.

4. Google Loses Major Ad Tech Monopoly Trial

   Google has lost a key federal trial over its dominance in digital advertising, facing potential forced breakups of major parts of its ad tech stack. The court ruled that Google’s practices harmed competition and consumers by monopolizing online advertising. This decision could lead to major structural changes for Google’s lucrative ad business.

5. Meta’s Redactions in FTC Trial Reveal Industry Tensions with Apple and Google

   Court documents from Meta’s ongoing antitrust case reveal behind-the-scenes frustrations with Apple, Google, and Snap. Redacted communications show Meta executives accusing Apple of monopolistic practices and Google of unfair advantages. The disclosures offer a rare window into the simmering tensions among tech giants competing for dominance in advertising and platforms.

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