Tech Pulse: AI advances, big earnings and policy shifts

Welcome back to Tech Pulse — HousingWire‘s weekly series rounding up the latest in technology news, including tools, integrations and trends that impact mortgage and real estate.

Here’s what happened this week:

Zillow’s Follow Up Boss privacy policy changes spark industry debate

Zillow‘s updated privacy policy for Follow Up Boss has sparked debate among real estate agents. The policy introduces “mutual customer data,” allowing Zillow to engage with clients who have a Zillow account. Critics argue this could affect agent-client relationships, prompting some to consider switching CRMs. 

How real estate agents can embrace AI without losing humanity

Real estate professionals are leveraging AI to enhance their marketing, streamline operations and improve client services. Industry leaders stress the importance of ethical AI use and proper vendor vetting, while highlighting the technology’s potential to transform how agents work and interact with clients.

Intercontinental Exchange posts record Q3 earnings

Intercontinental Exchange Inc. reported record third-quarter earnings, driven by strong growth in its mortgage technology and data businesses. The company achieved a 24% increase in net income and a 3% rise in revenue, with significant contributions from its Encompass platform and AI-driven innovations. 

Real Brokerage reports strong Q3 results, previews major tech innovation

The Real Brokerage posted a 53% year-over-year revenue jump in Q3 2025 to $568.5 million, driven by higher transactions and agent growth. CEO Tamir Poleg teased a major tech reveal at the upcoming RISE conference. The company expanded AI automation, boosted retention, and grew its Real Wallet and mortgage operations.

PartnerOne to acquire Mortgage Cadence

PartnerOne announced its acquisition of Mortgage Cadence, aiming to enhance digital lending solutions. This move aligns with PartnerOne’s philosophy of investing in long-term growth and operational excellence, promising innovation in mortgage technology.  

Collov AI, Side partner on virtual staging tools for agents

Collov AI has partnered with Side, providing AI-powered staging tools to more than 500 boutique real estate companies. The collaboration aims to reduce staging time by 70% and costs by 90% for Side’s 3,700-plus agents, leveraging photorealistic design and video walkthrough capabilities. 

Xactus announces partnerships for income, employment verification efforts

Xactus has integrated Thomas & Co., Argyle and Plaid into its Xactus360 platform, offering lenders enhanced access to real-time income, employment and asset data. This move aims to improve verification accuracy and reduce costs.

Ocrolus adds automated conditioning to mortgage tools

Ocrolus has launched automated conditioning for mortgage lenders, streamlining the underwriting process and reducing compliance risks. This AI-powered feature accelerates loan processing by automating the identification and management of conditions, promising a faster and more reliable borrower experience.