The HackerNoon Newsletter: Weekly AI Startup Funding: October 20-25, 2025 (10/28/2025)

In today's edition of The Download, we explore the intriguing phenomenon known as the Mandela Effect, which has many people mistakenly recalling the Fruit of the Loom logo featuring a cornucopia. This phenomenon highlights how collective memories can sometimes diverge from reality. Additionally, there's exciting news about a potential vaccine for colds, which could revolutionize how we approach common illnesses. This matters because it not only sheds light on our perceptions but also hints at advancements in medical science that could improve our everyday health.

While humanoid robots have been stealing the spotlight lately, it's exciting to see a surge in non-humanoid robot startups also securing significant funding. These companies are innovating with designs that may not resemble humans but are equally important in advancing robotics technology. This trend highlights a broader interest in diverse robotic solutions, which could lead to breakthroughs in various industries, making our lives easier and more efficient.

The latest edition of the AWS open source newsletter highlights exciting new projects that enhance user experience on AWS. This issue features tools for managing CloudFormation stacks, a GUI for Amazon S3, and terminal interfaces for Amazon ECS. These resources are valuable for developers looking to streamline their workflows and improve efficiency in cloud management, making it an important read for anyone involved in AWS.

Helex has successfully raised $3.5 million in a seed funding round aimed at advancing gene therapies for kidney diseases. This funding is significant as it will enable the company to further develop innovative treatments that could potentially transform the lives of patients suffering from these conditions. With kidney diseases affecting millions globally, Helex's efforts could lead to groundbreaking advancements in medical science and patient care.

The latest HackerNoon newsletter emphasizes that artificial intelligence is not a job thief but rather a powerful tool for economic advancement. It highlights how AI can enhance productivity and create new job opportunities, reshaping the workforce for the better. This perspective is crucial as it encourages a more optimistic view of technology's role in our economy, suggesting that embracing AI can lead to innovation and growth.

Archy, a startup founded by former Uber employees, has successfully raised $20 million to enhance its AI-driven software platform designed for dental practices. This funding will allow Archy to expand its engineering and AI teams, streamlining operations in dental offices. This is significant as it highlights the growing intersection of technology and healthcare, promising to alleviate the administrative burdens faced by dental professionals and improve patient care.

Bill Gates recently shared his insights on climate technology, confidently asserting his role as a leading funder in the sector. During a media roundtable, he emphasized the importance of innovation in combating climate change and highlighted his commitment to supporting new companies in this field. Gates' involvement not only brings significant financial backing but also raises awareness about the urgent need for climate solutions, making his perspective crucial in the ongoing conversation about environmental sustainability.

Nvidia is ramping up its investment in artificial intelligence, having invested in 59 AI startups in 2025 alone, which is a significant increase from previous years. This surge includes 10 investments in just the last two months, highlighting Nvidia's commitment to leading the AI sector. This matters because such investments not only bolster Nvidia's position in the tech industry but also drive innovation and growth in the AI startup ecosystem.

Exciting news for iOS users! With the latest update, you can now transform your lock screen background into a stunning holographic display. This feature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your device but also allows for a more personalized experience. It's a fun way to showcase your style and make your phone stand out. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just looking to refresh your device's look, this new capability is sure to impress.

A new wave of indie games is making waves, featuring a supernatural detective mystery and an FMV terror experience that are definitely worth your attention. These games not only showcase innovative storytelling and unique gameplay mechanics but also highlight the creativity and passion of indie developers. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, these titles remind us of the exciting possibilities that come from independent creators.

Cloudflare has launched the open beta of its Data Platform, a managed solution designed for ingesting, storing, and querying analytical data tables using open standards like Apache Iceberg. This innovation is significant as it eliminates egress fees, making data management more accessible and cost-effective for businesses. By leveraging open standards, Cloudflare aims to enhance data interoperability and streamline analytics processes, which could greatly benefit organizations looking to optimize their data strategies.

Starting your journey in open source can be daunting, but it's also incredibly rewarding. This article shares a personal story of transitioning from a beginner to an active contributor, highlighting the importance of choosing the right project and making that first pull request. It serves as an encouraging guide for anyone looking to dive into the open source community, showing that with the right mindset and resources, anyone can make a meaningful impact.

The analysis of the political and economic conditions during the early Vedic period sheds light on the societal structures and governance of ancient India. Understanding these aspects is crucial as it provides insights into the foundations of Indian civilization and its evolution over time.

A new AirPods hack is making waves among frequent flyers, allowing users to easily find it in their iPhone settings. This feature is a game-changer, ensuring that you won't miss out on your favorite shows while traveling. With this simple adjustment, you can enjoy uninterrupted entertainment during your flights, making your travel experience much more enjoyable.