Tech Report: Walmart to use 3D printing for new stores as Rivian unveils AI push and Google settlement nears
Construction firm Alquist is preparing to 3D print more than a dozen new Walmart buildings, along with structures for several other major retailers.
(LILAMAX)- Construction firm Alquist is preparing to 3D print more than a dozen new Walmart buildings, along with structures for several other major retailers—marking what may be the largest commercial real estate rollout of 3D-printing technology to date. While the method has gained traction in homebuilding, commercial adoption has lagged due to the massive printers required for larger structures. Alquist’s new initiative signals a significant shift toward broader use of 3D printing in large-scale construction.
Meanwhile, electric vehicle maker Rivian is hosting its first-ever “Autonomy and AI Day” today. The event is designed to highlight the company’s in-house software and new technologies rolling out in upcoming vehicles. Rivian faces mounting pressure to demonstrate long-term growth potential amid a slowdown in EV sales.
Shares are up 33% this year, though still down nearly 80% from the company’s 2021 IPO.
In the streaming world, YouTube TV is launching slimmer subscription bundles, including a new sports-focused plan. The company says the restructuring aims to give viewers more control over what they pay for—offering general entertainment packages as well as genre-specific options like news or family programming. According to Nielsen, YouTube TV now holds the largest share of TV viewing in the U.S., surpassing Netflix, Disney, and traditional cable networks.
And millions of consumers may soon receive automatic payments from a sweeping $700 million Google settlement. The proposed agreement covers users who made purchases on the Google Play Store between August 16, 2016, and September 30, 2023.
Unlike many class-action payouts, most eligible consumers will not need to file a claim. Once the settlement receives final court approval next spring, payments will be sent automatically via PayPal or Venmo, using the email or phone number connected to each user’s Google Play account.
