Alaska Airlines rolls out high-tech bag tags | Microsoft unveils another social app for work

Alaska Airlines rolls out high-tech bag tags: In a bid to save time at the airport — and a lot of paper — the airline is launching a program offering electronic bag tags in the place of traditional peel-and-stick tags. The idea is to help travelers avoid yet another line. But the $70 tags won’t prevent a bag from being mishandled or help recover one that is lost. Read more. 

Will whistleblowers speak up? In a victory for worker-rights advocates, earlier this year Washington state outlawed most non-disclosure and non-disparagement agreements, which had become standard fare at many tech companies. But for potential whistleblowers — employees who observe or experience mistreatment and want to speak out, within a company or publicly — will the new law make a difference? The answer is complicated. 

Do you have room for another social network in your life? Microsoft is betting you do. The company unveiled a social app called Viva Engage, designed to enhance team-building in the new era of hybrid work. 

Microsoft in space: The tech giant is deepening partnerships to help boost its Azure Space business. 

Tech Moves: Zillow’s former longtime economist returns; GoFundMe hires Xbox co-founder; ex-Nike president joins Funko board; and more personnel changes. 

Related: Chris Sembroski, who went into orbit as part of a SpaceX mission crew, joined Blue Origin. 

Prime Video redesign: Amazon’s streaming platform is getting a new look.

Startup fundings: 

• Seattle startup Phaidra landed $25 million to build AI tools for industrial customers.

• Nexii, a Vancouver, B.C. startup selling a green alternative to concrete, raised $35 million.

• Oregon energy storage company Powin raised $135 million to expand globally.