# AI chip startup Etched defies skeptics; plus, Imagi raises $4.5M to help teach students how to vibe code

An episode of [TechCrunch Startup News](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/1145974783), 24 Jul 2026, 9:09.

Audio: https://mgln.ai/e/211/traffic.megaphone.fm/AIRWV7104555673.mp3

Etched, founded by three Harvard dropouts, has created new chips and memory components that speed up inference on any AI model -- no GPUs required, it says. Also, Imagi announced a $4.5 million seed round, with investors including Brighteye Ventures, Day One Capital, and artist Wil.i.am. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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