tech

EliseAI chatbot for property managers

In today’s toptalks : EliseAI, the innovative startup behind AI-driven property management tools, has successfully raised $75 million in a Series D funding round, boosting its valuation to $1 billion. Co-founded by Minna Song and Tony Stoyanov in 2017, the New York City-based company is revolutionizing the rental industry with its suite of AI chatbots designed to streamline communication between landlords and tenants.

Song, who previously worked in real estate, recognized inefficiencies in tenant communication that often led to burnout among property management teams. This inspired the creation of EliseAI, which employs advanced AI chatbots to handle a range of tasks, including apartment tour scheduling, maintenance requests, lease renewals, and even delinquent payment reminders. These AI-powered tools are trained on proprietary data generated internally, ensuring high control and privacy standards.

EliseAI’s chatbots have proven to be a game-changer, increasing lease tour bookings by 125% and reducing overdue payments by 50%, according to the company’s data. However, the technology is not without its critics. Some users have noted that the chatbots can miss crucial details and fail to involve human managers when necessary. Despite these challenges, Song emphasizes that the AI continuously improves, aiming to enhance both operational efficiency and the renter experience.

Beyond its AI chatbots, EliseAI offers a comprehensive dashboard for property managers to monitor requests, generate reports, and track lease renewals. This dashboard is included with any of EliseAI’s AI modules, which are sold on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis.

EliseAI has gained significant traction in the U.S. rental market, boasting over 350 customers, including 70% of the top 50 rental housing operators. The company has focused on sustainable growth and efficient resource management, a strategy that has resonated with investors.

Sapphire Ventures led the latest funding round, with contributions from Point72 Private Investments, DivcoWest, Navitas Capital, and Koch Real Estate Investments. With this new infusion of capital, bringing total funds raised to $140 million, EliseAI plans to invest in hiring, AI research and development, product enhancement, and expanding its market presence.

Interestingly, EliseAI is now venturing into the healthcare sector with its newly launched HealthAI solution. This expansion leverages EliseAI’s existing technology to address administrative needs in healthcare, such as appointment scheduling and billing. While this is a competitive space, EliseAI’s entry into healthcare could signal significant growth opportunities.

Cathy Gao, a partner at Sapphire Ventures, has joined EliseAI’s board of directors, expressing confidence in the company’s potential to lead the AI revolution in both the housing and healthcare sectors.

As EliseAI continues to grow and innovate, it remains at the forefront of AI adoption in property management, with ambitious plans to transform other industries as well.

Business

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Arrested in France Amid Inquiry into App’s Moderation Issues

today in toptalks According to recent reports, Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, was arrested in France on August 24, 2024. This arrest is part of an inquiry into the messaging app’s lack of moderators. Following the arrest, Russian officials at the French embassy demanded consular access for Durov and the protection of his rights. However, the embassy stated that France has “avoided engagement” with Durov’s situation so far.

Media reports suggest that the absence of moderators on Telegram allowed a wide range of criminal activities to thrive. As a result, Durov was arrested as part of a preliminary police investigation. In response, Telegram’s official account on X labeled it “absurd” to hold a platform or its owner responsible for abuse occurring on the app.

Addressing the matter on X, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that Durov’s arrest was not a “political decision.” Macron reiterated that “France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication.” However, he stressed that in a state governed by the rule of law, these freedoms are protected within legal frameworks, both online and offline, to safeguard citizens and their basic rights.

What is Telegram?

Telegram is a messaging app similar to WhatsApp, Signal, and iMessage, facilitating communication between users. For many, it serves as a platform for friendly conversation. However, Telegram offers more social networking features than its competitors. For instance, its broadcast “channels” allow users to “follow” particular accounts, and group chats can accommodate as many participants as desired.

These channels resemble Facebook groups or old-school online forums rather than typical instant messaging services. They enable followers to comment on posts and engage in discussions with one another.

Why is the Indian Government Considering Banning Telegram?

Telegram has over 5 million registered users in India, yet its future in the country is uncertain. The Indian government is considering banning the app due to its alleged involvement in extortion and gambling activities. The Centre launched an investigation to probe these allegations, and the outcome will determine whether the messaging app will be banned in India.

The Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology are jointly investigating Telegram’s peer-to-peer communications. An official stated that the government is examining claims that the platform is being used for illegal activities, including gambling and extortion. Depending on the investigation’s results, the messaging service could face prohibition in India.

Telegram’s Role in the UGC-NEET Paper Leak

Telegram has previously faced criticism for facilitating the spread of false information and aiding criminal activities. Recently, the app came under fire during the UGC-NEET controversy, where leaks of the medical entrance exam paper were reportedly sold on the platform for INR 5,000 to INR 10,000.

Despite these challenges, Telegram maintains that it fully complies with Indian law. The company has appointed a chief compliance officer and a nodal officer and publishes compliance reports monthly. However, because Telegram lacks an office in India, the government has faced difficulties in engaging with the company.

In October 2023, the IT ministry sent letters to Telegram and other social media companies, requesting the removal of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from their platforms.