The Vergecast

GPT-5 is here, and it’s not going so well. This week on The Vergecast, Jake, Vee, and Hayden discuss the bumpy launch of OpenAI’s latest model and why GPT-5 isn’t as big of a leap as GPT-4. Then, everyone shares their vibe coding projects and the bumpy journey to making anything usable. After that, our newest segment: Corporate Shenanigans, where we rate the week in strange corporate moves on a scale from “actually serious” to “total joke.” Finally, the Thunder Round returns, new and improved, to discuss ditching your phone for a smartwatch, doctors relying too much on AI, AOL dial-up shutting down, the Pebble Time 2, and why you shouldn’t trust what AI chatbots say about themselves. Further reading: ChatGPT won’t remove old models without warning after GPT-5 backlash OpenAI will update GPT-5’s “personality” after user backlash ChatGPT is bringing back 4o as an option because people missed it Sam Altman shared more about what went wrong with those GPT-5 graphs OpenAI gives some employees a ‘special’ multimillion-dollar bonus Anthropic just made its latest move in the AI coding wars Anthropic’s Claude chatbot can now remember your past conversations Perplexity offers to buy Google Chrome for $34.5 billion Apple is suing Apple Cinemas Apple Cinemas responds to Apple lawsuit Apple returns blood oxygen monitoring to the latest Apple Watches Elon Musk says he’s suing Apple for rigging App Store rankings Ditching my phone for an LTE smartwatch was a humbling experience Here’s a look at the final Pebble Time 2 design  Some doctors got worse at detecting cancer after relying on AI Google’s healthcare AI made up a body part — what happens when doctors don’t notice? Chatbots aren’t telling you their secrets AOL is finally shutting down dial-up Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 August 2025

This week on The Vergecast, we enter the Jen-era of Hot Girl Vergecast Summer, with a deep dive into the business of the smart home. The Verge’s smart home reviewer, Jennifer Pattison Tuohy (aka Jen), chats with Ken Fairbanks, a longtime customer of Insteon who ended up buying the smart lighting company when it went into bankruptcy. Ken shares the story of how one of the original smart lighting protocols, founded in the post-X10 era when home automation moved from wired to wireless, floundered, and how he and a band of users brought it back from the dead. He dishes what he’s learned about how to keep the lights on — from customer loyalty and the value of subscriptions, to what tariffs are doing to the industry and how some hardware companies are just pyramid schemes. Then, in a special supersized (and we mean SUPER) Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11 or email [email protected]), Jen is joined by smart home expert Richard Gunther, co-host of The Smart Home Show, to tackle a bunch of your burning smart lighting questions. They answer everything from how to move your smart home to which Thread border router you should buy for your Matter setup. Plus, they run down their own smart lighting set-ups. Further reading: Insteon’s troubles are a smart home tale as old as time Insteon Raises the Curtain for the Next Act Someone turned Insteon’s lights back on Insteon customers turned Insteon’s lights back on Thread count: Ikea is stitching together a smarter home Smart switches or smart bulbs? How to choose the right smart lighting for your home Controller for HomeKit Philips Hue Play sync box and gradient lightstrip review: wholly unnecessary, totally delightful Taming Wi-Fi in the Smart Home: Leviton’s new smart light switches don’t require a neutral wire Every smart home device that works with Matter Aqara’s new seven-inch home control tablet can replace a light switch These smart lights could solve the kitchen cabinet problem Hue launches a pricey new sunrise lamp Smart string light showdown: Nanoleaf versus Lifx The best floodlight camera to buy right now How to move a smart home Moving a smart home - The Smart Home Show Living with the ghost of a smart home’s past Smart ceiling light showdown: Aqara T1M versus Nanoleaf Skylight Binding should be the next big thing for smart home devices Aqara adds support for 50 new Matter device types Flic is ready to control all your Matter devices Thread is Matter’s secret sauce for a better smart home Google Nest Thread border routers Google TV Streamer review: smarter than your average set-top box Google Nest Hub (2nd-gen) review: sleep on it Why Thread is Matter’s biggest problem right now The four changes in Thread 1.4 that could fix the protocol Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 August 2025

In this bonus episode of The Vergecast, Senior Reviewer Victoria Song sits down with a bunch of Verge staffers to talk about how they use AI tools in their everyday lives. Not all of it went smoothly — we definitely get into the ways these tools fall short — but we explore how AI can be used to help bedtime go more smoothly for parents, plan big cross-country moves, supplement your internet searches (always double-check!), and even vibe code an app for your next tabletop role-playing game. If you have any examples where AI was useful to you, we’d love to hear them. (For what it’s worth, we’d also love to hear stories where it spectacularly failed.) Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 August 2025

It’s a huge week in AI, with OpenAI releasing GPT-OSS and GPT-5, Grok getting deeply problematic again with its “spicy” video generator, and Tim Cook admitting that Apple may need to cut some deals. Then we talk the age gating of the internet and how you might soon need an ID card to get just about anywhere online. Finally, the Lightning Round gets re-rebranded. Adi Robertson and Alex Heath join the show to discuss. Further reading: GPT-5 is being released to all ChatGPT users OpenAI releases a free GPT model that can run on your laptop Why open-source AI became an American national priority Mark Zuckerberg promises you can trust him with superintelligent AI xAI’s new Grok image and video generator has a ‘spicy’ mode Grok’s ‘spicy’ video setting instantly made me Taylor Swift nude deepfakes I tested Grok’s Valentine sex chatbot and it (mostly) behaved Tim Cook says Apple ‘must’ figure out AI and ‘will make the investment to do it’ Tim Cook says Apple is ‘open to’ AI acquisitions Ready or not, age verification is rolling out across the internet The UK is now age-gating the internet The UK is slogging through an online age-gate apocalyps The UK’s new age-gating rules are easy to bypass Reddit and Discord’s UK age verification can be defeated by Death Stranding’s photo mode Reddit rolls out age verification in the UK to comply with new rules Five EU states to test age verification app to protect children The EU approach to age verification Commission presents guidelines and age verification app prototype for a safer online space for children Porn age-gating is the future of the internet, thanks to the Supreme Court The Supreme Court just upended internet law, and I have questions Florida Sues Huge Porn Sites Including XVideos and Bang Bros Over Age Verification Law  “Over the last two and a half years, 19 states – home to more than a third of Americans – have passed laws that require pornography websites to confirm a user’s age by checking a government-issued ID or scanning their face, among other methods.” Google is using AI age checks to lock down user accounts Today's Supreme Court Decision on Age Verification Tramples Free Speech and Undermines Privacy Age Verification Harms Users of All Ages Blocking Access to Harmful Content Will Not Protect Children Online, No Matter How Many Times UK Politicians Say So Zero Knowledge Proofs Alone Are Not a Digital ID Solution to Protecting User Privacy Age Verification in the European Union: The Commission's Age Verification App RFK Jr. pulls $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine contracts Epic just won its Google lawsuit again, and Android may never be the same Google has just two weeks to begin cracking open Android, it admits in emergency filing Instagram adds a reposts feed and rips off Snap Maps OpenAI charts crime OpenAI gets caught vibe graphing Nintendo raises the Switch 1 price from $299 to $339 Apple says Trump’s tariffs are adding another $1 billion to its costs Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 August 2025

This week on The Vergecast, guest host Mia Sato talks to YouTube fitness pioneer Cassey Ho (better known as Blogilates) about the well-oiled machine that is the dupe economy. Ho shares her experience creating her own line of athletic wear that sooner or later gets ripped off by countless copycats — and how she tries to fight back. Then, Mia brings an audio diary from a visit to Fabscrap, a textile recycling facility in Brooklyn, that is working to save fabric and other materials from the landfill. Fashion is a wasteful industry, not unlike tech — luckily, there are people like Fabscrap staff and volunteers who are working towards solutions. Finally, Victoria Song swings by to help answer a hotline question about how to make the high-tech Clueless closet a reality. If you have a question for us, call 866-VERGE11 or email [email protected]. Further reading How dupes turned online shopping upside down Lululemon sues Costco over viral alleged “dupes” The US finally acknowledges textile waste in new report Your stuff is actually worse now Ghana becomes dumping ground for the world’s unwanted used clothes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2025

It’s time. The public betas for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and more are finally out for everyone to try. Jake Kastrenakes, Vee Song, and Antonio G. Di Benedetto give their takes on Apple’s Liquid Glass design language after two months of living with it. Antonio shares his experiences with macOS and the upgraded Spotlight, and Vee dives into the ups and downs of watchOS’s AI fitness coach. Then, Andy Hawkins and Eater's Matthew Kang talk about Tesla’s rough quarter, the new Tesla Diner, and what Epic Bacon has to do with it all. Finally, the Thunder Round returns, and we all learn what Labubus are. Further reading: ⁠Apple releases public betas of its new software updates with Liquid Glass⁠ How to install the iOS 26 public beta The biggest changes coming to your iPhone with iOS 26 ⁠Liquid Glass is fine, I guess⁠ ⁠Apple’s Liquid Glass redesign is shaping up to be a snoozer on Macs⁠ You can actually multitask on an iPad now and it’s the best new feature in 15 years watchOS 26 preview: a subtler take on AI ⁠Apple launches $20 subscription service to protect your gadgets⁠ Tesla’s earnings hit a new low, with largest revenue drop in years Elon Musk finally admits the new, more affordable Tesla is just a stripped down Model Y Undeterred by limits, Elon Musk plots a big robotaxi expansion Everything Eater Editors Ate at the Tesla Diner in Los Angeles The Full Tesla Diner Menu, Revealed The Tesla Diner Will Track When Guests Are Nearby to Prepare Their Orders Inside the New Tesla Diner in Los Angeles Anti-Elon Musk protesters are coming for Tesla’s new diner Faraday Future is back with another wild EV that probably will never get made Amazon buys Bee AI Jake: AppleCare One is a good deal, but not for everyone Uber’s making it easier for women riders and drivers to find each other The frenzied, gamified chase for Labubus Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2025

Summer blockbusters like the new Superman and Jurassic World movies may be doing great at the box office, but promoting them is more complicated than ever. The old celebrity playbook of magazine profiles, TV chat shows and press junkets isn’t enough in an era of audience fragmentation. Publicists now have to strategize which podcasts to make time for, and whether their clients will eat chicken on YouTube with Amelia Dimoldenberg or Sean Evans. This week on The Vergecast, guest host Mia Sato talks to Vulture’s Fran Hoepfner to break down the ever-changing new media circuit, whether you’re a beloved A-lister, a formerly-beloved A-lister, or an aspiring A-lister. Then, we take a deep dive with Sarah Fackrell into a controversial legal tactic brands are using to go after online sellers hawking everything from grumpy cat T-shirts to closet hooks. Finally, Victoria Song joins Mia to answer a Vergecast hotline from a listener wondering whether an AI translator will be able to keep up with his partner’s Colombian mother. If you’ve got a question for us, call 866-VERGE11 or e-mail [email protected]. Further reading: Box Office: ‘Superman’ Surpasses $400 Million Globally, ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ Nears $650 Million Milestone The Celebrity Press-Tour Road Map Fame and Frustration On the New Media Circuit Sydney woman who sold a cartoon cat T-shirt told to pay US$100,000 in Grumpy Cat copyright case How Does a Mom Get Slapped With a $250,000 Judgment Over $380 of Homemade Luke Combs Merch? Experts Cite ‘Cottage Industry’ of Mass Counterfeit Suits in Illinois A SAD Scheme of Abusive Intellectual Property Litigation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2025

Would you like Siri more if it had a face? This week on The Vergecast, we’re talking about AI assistants getting smarter… and uncomfortably personal. The Verge’s Jennifer Pattison Tuohy joins the show to talk about her early tests of Alexa Plus, which is finally AI-powered and a lot more capable. Jake shares his uncomfortable first interaction with Grok’s anime girlfriend. And Waveform cohost David Imel is here to talk about Sony’s RX1R III and other premium “compact” cameras. Finally, the THUNDER ROUND is back. New, improved, and still loud. Further reading: 24 hours with Alexa Plus: we cooked, we chatted, and it kinda lied to me Alexa Plus launches to “small number” of people More than a million people now have Alexa Plus Elon Musk’s AI bot adds a ridiculous anime companion with ‘NSFW’ mode I spent 24 hours flirting with Elon Musk’s AI girlfriend System prompt dump of xAI / Grok’s new AI anime girlfriend Elon Musk teases AI anime boyfriend based on Edward Cullen “We will, of course, have another character inspired by Mr. Darcy” xAI has open roles for building AI “waifus.” US government announces $200 million Grok contract a week after ‘MechaHitler’ incident Grok will no longer call itself Hitler or base its opinions on Elon Musk’s, promises xAI Sony’s pocket-sized RX1R camera returns with its first update in 10 years Original RX1R  RX1R II Google exec: ‘We’re going to be combining ChromeOS and Android’ Our biggest questions about ChromeOS and Android merging  Ikea goes all in on Matter/Thread Eric Migicovsky  Texts.com Google Nest subscription The next batch of emoji includes Bigfoot Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2025

On this episode of The Vergecast, we’re going to dive deep into why accessible design is universal design. First, guest host Victoria Song will chat with Jason Valley, a visually impaired Verge reader. Jason initially reached out to Victoria after her Live AI hands-on, challenging the notion that the feature was a “solution looking for a problem to solve.” Jason shares how the tech has helped him live a more independent life, what he’s hoping to see improve, and how the blind and low-vision community has enthusiastically embraced the technology. After that, Victoria sits down with Be My Eyes CEO Mike Buckley. Be My Eyes is an app that pairs blind and low-vision users with sighted volunteers to help them go about their day. Buckley gives his thoughts about how accessible tech design benefits everyone, why smart glasses and AI are a natural combo, and what challenges and opportunities in this space remain. And finally, we have features reporter Mia Sato on to answer a spicy question about smart glasses from the Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11 or email [email protected]). Specifically, do smart glasses belong in the bedroom? Further reading: Live AI on Meta’s smart glasses is a solution looking for a problem Meta’s smart glasses can now describe what you’re seeing in more detail The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses actually make the future look cool Be My Eyes AI offers GPT-4-powered support for blind Microsoft customers The principles of wearable etiquette Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2025

Summer phone season kicks off with Samsung’s latest launch. Jake, Vee, and Allison talk about Samsung’s new lineup of foldables, including the very thin new Z Fold 7 and Allison’s disdain for the Z Flip 7 FE. Vee has impressions of Samsung’s new Galaxy Watch 8 lineup and its squircle-y new redesign. Then, it’s time to talk Big Tech shakeups. Apple’s COO is leaving, Zuckerberg is buying himself an AI dream team, X’s CEO is out — and its chatbot Grok is on a rampage. Finally, big things are in store for the Lightning Round… which shall henceforth be known as the THUNDER ROUND. Lots to talk about, including Lorde’s CD problems, Apple’s Liquid Glass changes, and HBO Max finally becoming HBO Max again. Further reading: Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025: Everything announced at the July event Galaxy Z Fold 7 hands-on: Samsung finally made the foldables we’ve been asking for  Samsung cuts price of its foldables with the Z Flip 7 FE Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 series hands-on: squircle squad Samsung seems to have leaked its own trifold phone design Samsung says its trifold phone should launch ‘this year’ Samsung snuck a trifold tease into (January) Unpacked One of Tim Cook’s possible successors is leaving Apple Sabih Khan Apple’s design team will report to Tim Cook A close look at who could succeed Tim Cook Mark Zuckerberg announces his AI ‘superintelligence’ super-group Meta is paying $14 billion to catch up in the AI race Meta’s ‘superintelligence’ hiring spree adds an AI leader from Apple Pay packages of up to $300 million over four years Meta is trying to win the AI race with money — but not everyone can be bought X CEO Linda Yaccarino is stepping down after two years X’s CEO is out after failing at basically everything she claimed she wanted Threads is catching up to X on mobile X has a new head of product Elon Musk’s xAI buys Elon Musk’s X for $33 billion on paper xAI updated Grok to be more ‘politically incorrect’ Grok stops posting text after flood of antisemitism and Hitler praise “In other posts it referred to itself as “MechaHitler”. Musk makes grand promises about Grok 4 in the wake of a Nazi chatbot meltdown Adobe’s new camera app is making me rethink phone photography Ikea’s latest speaker lamp ditches Sonos for Spotify and inexpensive Bluetooth Ikea ditches Zigbee for Thread going all in on Matter smart homes Perplexity launches Comet web browser OpenAI’s next big launch could be an AI web browser E Ink is turning the laptop touchpad into an e-reader for AI apps Lorde’s new CD is so transparent that stereos can’t even read it I tried playing Lorde’s new CD Appeals court strikes down ‘click-to-cancel’ rule Nothing’s ‘first true flagship’ phone plays it a little safe Adding calendar events with a screenshot is AI at its finest The government’s Apple antitrust lawsuit is still on Apple just added more frost to its Liquid Glass design Apple’s second-generation Vision Pro might launch this year Nvidia briefly became the first $4 trillion company on Wednesday The makers of Cameo just launched... a birthday-tracking app? Nintendo is ending its cost-saving Switch game vouchers HBO Max is officially HBO Max again Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2025

On this episode of The Vergecast, we kick off Hot Girl Vergecast Summer with a classic Vergecast segment: the mic test. Guest host Victoria Song is joined by Vergecast producers Andru Marino and Erick Gomez to see how the Nothing Headphone 1, Sony WH-1000XM6, Apple AirPods Max, and Bose QuietComfort Ultra hold up against what’s possibly the noisiest street in Brooklyn. After that, Victoria is joined by Ladder CEO Greg Stewart to talk about what it takes to build a successful strength training app — especially for people just starting out. As it turns out, it’s quite challenging, between curating playlists, accommodating users’ different access to equipment, skill levels, and preferences for coaching styles. (And maybe, some occasional beef with Peloton?) Lastly, we answer a question from the Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11 or email [email protected]) about AI fitness summaries, whether people actually like them, what’s frustrating about them, and what scenarios they might actually be useful for. Want to learn more about the topics in this episode? Here are some handy dandy links for your reference: Nothing Headphone 1 review Sony WH-1000XM6 hands-on Apple AirPods Max review Bose QuietComfort Ultra review A lazy person’s guide to getting into shape Ladder isn’t done trolling Peloton The unbearable obviousness of AI fitness summaries Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

One way to think about the tech industry is just as a series of people trying to build stuff they saw in movies and on TV. Some of that tech is great, some of it is deeply dystopian, and most of it would make the world a very different place if it suddenly existed. In this episode, a bunch of us try to figure out which tech we actually want to use. David is joined by The Verge’s Allison Johnson, Jennifer Pattison-Tuohy, Mia Sato, and Victoria Song — aka the hosts of Hot Girl Vergecast Summer — to draft their way through the movie, show, and game tech they’d want to make real. Some of the picks you’ll expect, and some we bet has never crossed your mind. And some big-name tech goes undrafted! Once you've finished the show, make sure you take the poll and tell us who won: https://forms.gle/Q1wFhpzCdM3B5bqj9 Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

It's already the heat of summer, and the news keeps coming. Nilay, David, and Jake start the show with a bunch of tech news, including the latest on Tesla's robotaxi launch, some updates on the Trump Phone, new devices from Fairphone and Unihertz, and Meta's shifting strategy for face computers. After that, The Verge's Adi Roberston joins the show to talk about two important AI lawsuits that were both decided this week — one involving Anthropic and the other involving Meta — and what this particular battle means for who will win the AI war. Finally, in the lightning round, it's time for another round of Brendan Carr is a Dummy, some huge news in the HDMI world, and the end of the Blue Screen of Death. Further reading: Tesla’s robotaxis are operating in a regulatory vacuum  Here’s a running list of all of Tesla’s robotaxi mishaps so far The Trump Phone no longer promises it’s made in America  The smaller Fairphone 6 introduces swappable accessories The Titan 2 is a modern BlackBerry with 5G, Android, and two screens  A week in Xbox VR with Microsoft and Meta’s new $399 headset  Meta announces Oakley smart glasses that shoot 3K video  Anthropic wins a major fair use victory for AI — but it’s still in trouble for stealing books Meta’s AI copyright win comes with a warning about fair use Senate confirms Trump’s FCC pick, Olivia Trusty FCC Seeks Public Comments on Changing Broadcast Ownership Rules Trump’s FTC agrees to Omnicom merger — with a gift to X  Paramount Plus with Showtime is getting a rebrand  Paramount delays $35M settlement with Trump as media giant fears bribery backlash: sources The Paramount Risk in Settling Trump’s Lawsuit: ‘Bribery’? The HDMI 2.2 specification supports 16K video at 60Hz Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2025

Tesla is famous for throwing caution to the wind in the name of rolling out cool technology, so it was somewhat surprising to see its robotaxi service launch over the weekend in somewhat muted fashion. The Verge's Andy Hawkins joins the show to explain what, exactly, Elon Musk and co. launched, and what it says about the state of the self-driving revolution. After that, The Verge's Allison Johnson takes us through the history of MVNOs, and why they might just be the best deal in wireless carriers. We talk about Trump Mobile, Ryan Reynolds, e-SIMs, and what it would mean to make it easier to switch service. Finally, we answer a question from the Vergecast Hotline about how to free up storage on your iPhone. It's harder than it should be, but hopefully easier than you think. Further reading: Tesla’s robotaxi is live: here are some of the first reactions The Tesla Cybercab is a cool-looking prototype that needed to be much more than that Waymo says it will add 2,000 more robotaxis into 2026 How Donald Trump and Ryan Reynolds can easily sell you phone plans Trump Mobile is a bad deal How to clear up space on your iPhone when you’re running out of storage Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025

Starting a wireless carrier is easier than you might think. So is building a half-decent Android phone! But doing all the things Trump Mobile promises, at the price and on the schedule it says, seems awfully close to impossible. While Nilay's out, David and Jake chat with The Verge's Dominic Preston about what we know about Trump Mobile and the T1 Phone, why everyone wants to be a wireless carrier, and what it would actually take for this to work out. After that, David and Jake talk through some big news in the TV world, and the streaming takeover that appears to be happening faster all the time. Finally, in the lightning round, it's time for some brief FCC news, a check on the state of Siri, big questions about the ad-rich future of WhatsApp, a look at the new fediverse feed in Threads, and some thoughts on the Framework Laptop 12. Further reading: Trump Mobile launches $47 service and a gold phone  Who is really behind the Trump Mobile T1 phone?  Trump Mobile is a bad deal  What is the deal with the Trump Mobile T1 Phone?  What do Alabama, California, and Florida have in common? How Donald Trump and Ryan Reynolds can easily sell you phone plans  Even Klarna is launching a mobile phone service now SmartLess Mobile | Don't get outsmarted. Get SmartLess Mobile. Eric trump interview Trump is giving TikTok another ban extension  Vivo wants its new X200 Ultra smartphone to replace your camera  Streaming is eating cable and broadcast TV’s lunch. | The Verge From Nieman Lab: For the first time, social media overtakes TV as Americans’ top news source Max will show autoplaying video previews suggested by AI  Senate confirms Trump’s FCC pick, Olivia Trusty  Apple’s upgraded Siri might not arrive until next spring  WhatsApp is officially getting ads  WhatsApp’s rollout of ads will change the app forever  Signal says it won’t add AI or ads like WhatsApp. | The Verge Reddit will help advertisers turn ‘positive’ posts into ads  Senate passes GENIUS stablecoin bill in a win for the crypto industry  Threads is adding fediverse content and search to its feeds  Framework Laptop 12 review: plastic fantastic | The Verge Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2025

It's a small miracle that a bunch of us managed to get our heads out of Mario Kart World long enough to make a show about the Switch 2. But that's what we did! First, we chat with The Verge's Andrew Webster about his review, and why it feels like the Switch 2 is both everything we wanted and somehow still a little underwhelming. (Or at least just... whelming.) After that, The Verge's Ash Parrish tells us about her adventures traveling with the Switch 2, plus her recent time with the new Asus ROG Xbox Ally, and what she's learning about the future of consoles. Finally, The Verge's Sean Hollister helps us answer a question from the Vergecast Hotline all about console prices: why they keep going up, and whether they'll continue to be worth it. Further reading: Nintendo Switch 2 review: exactly good enough Nintendo says your bad Switch 2 battery life might be a bug Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller review: pro enough for me Mario Kart World review: the perfect Switch 2 launch game The Verge staff on the Switch 2: what we love and what we don’t Fortnite feels like a new game on the Switch 2 Xbox’s new handheld is a surprisingly comfortable way to play Gears of War Steam Deck, Switch, ROG: picking the perfect portable console Steam Deck OLED, ROG Ally and more: all the news about the handheld PC revolution Fortnite feels like a new game on the Switch 2 Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 June 2025

There's a lot of news this week, so today's episode turned into a whole bunch of lightning rounds. Nilay, David, and The Verge's Jake Kastrenakes talk through all the vibes and news at WWDC, and why F1 seemed to outshine everything else. We also talk about the Switch 2 launch, and the news this week that Microsoft and Asus are building Xbox handhelds in both clever and confusing ways. After that, we run through for a bunch of AI news, including the ongoing decline of Google traffic to the web, the new Dia browser, and Sam Altman's ideas about how much water ChatGPT uses. Finally, it's time for another edition of Brendan Carr is a Dummy, followed by the news of Warner Bros. Discovery breaking up, some very fast flash drives, and a new Meta messaging app. Further reading: Craig Federighi confirms Apple’s first attempt at an AI Siri wasn’t good enough Ars: Apple’s Craig Federighi on the long road to the iPad’s Mac-like multitasking Nintendo’s Switch 2 is the fastest-selling game console of all time  Nintendo says your bad Switch 2 battery life might be a bug Microsoft and Asus announce two Xbox Ally handhelds with new Xbox full-screen experience This is how Microsoft is combining Windows and Xbox for handheld PCs  Xbox’s new handheld is a surprisingly comfortable way to play Gears of War  Microsoft just teased its next-gen Xbox console, and nobody noticed The Nothing Phone 3 is coming to the US, and not in beta. HP reveals $24,999 hardware created just for Google Beam  Online publishers are facing a chatbot calamity.  Disney and Universal sue Midjourney for making AI ripoffs of their biggest characters  Taboola’s clickbaity chumbox is evolving into an AI chatbot  Alexa Plus now has a million users and could be coming to you this summer  Amazon is about to be flooded with AI-generated video ads Dia, the AI browser from the makers of Arc, is now available in beta  Sam Altman claims an average ChatGPT query uses ‘roughly one fifteenth of a teaspoon’ of water FCC’s last Democratic commissioner doesn’t know why Trump hasn’t fired her yet Republicans are barreling toward remaking the internet  Trump-fired FTC commissioner resigns.  Warner Bros. Discovery is splitting into two companies Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2025

Apple spent 90 minutes talking about the future of its software, and we're pretty sure only said the word "Siri" once. Nilay and David are joined by The Verge's Victoria Song and Allison Johnson, both of whom were with Nilay at the keynote, to talk about all the news of the day. They talk about the Liquid Glass design language, and why Apple decided to redesign all its software. They talk about Spotlight on the Mac, the new multitasking features on the iPad, the typing indicators on the iPhone, Workout Buddy on the Watch, personas on the Vision Pro, and everything else that Apple announced — or, in a few cases, pointedly didn't announce — on stage. We're just starting to try out some of this software, and it's all likely to change a lot before it hits your devices this fall. And we'll have lots of thoughts along the way. Further reading: Apple renames its operating systems  Apple’s new design language is Liquid Glass  Apple’s Liquid Glass redesign doesn’t look like much  Apple’s ChatGPT integration makes it easier to search for more context on images and shop for things they see. Apple Intelligence takes on language barriers in messages and phone calls.  Apple announces macOS Tahoe 26 with new design and revamped search features  Apple’s Spotlight upgrades in macOS Tahoe have power users in mind  Apple launches iPadOS 26 with a new look and way better multitasking  Apple announces watchOS 26 with a wrist flick gesture and AI ‘Workout Buddy’  Apple’s visionOS 26 adds PSVR2 controller support and spatial widgets  Apple’s AirPods update adds camera controls and more  Apple’s new Games app lets you challenge your friends Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 June 2025

Developer conference season is almost over, but we've got one show left to see: Apple's WWDC begins on Monday. Nilay, David, and Joanna Stern spend time going through both what they expect to see at the show, and why this year's WWDC might feel a bit different than in years past. Apple is in a tricky place with regulators, developers, and users alike, and has some genuine explaining to do. After that, they talk about the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, and David's surprisingly easy adventure to acquire one. We also have a bit of smart glasses and AI gadgets news to discuss, so we do that too. Then it's time for Brendan Carr is a Dummy, and an update on a couple of the interesting new fediverse projects launching this week. Further reading: Verge subscriptions are on sale 40 percent off American Society of Magazine Editors Announces National Magazine Awards 2025 Winners Apple ordered to keep web links in the App Store  Payment companies team up to help developers ditch App Store billing Apple could be adding camera controls and sleep detection to your AirPods Switch 2 launch: where to find restocks online and in-store  Look inside the Nintendo Switch 2 with the console’s first teardown  Mario Kart World’s designers had to rethink everything to make it open world  Nintendo is updating even more games for the Switch 2 Here’s what’s inside Meta’s experimental new smart glasses  Meta’s reportedly shopping for exclusive content on its upcoming VR headset  Meta reportedly sidelined ‘Quest 4’ designs for a goggles-like mixed-reality headset  FCC investigation looms over EchoStar’s missed interest payments and a new satellite  From Ars Technica: FCC Republican resigns, leaving agency with just two commissioners Jony Ive’s OpenAI device gets the Laurene Powell Jobs nod of approval  ChatGPT’s goal is to be a ‘super assistant’ for every part of your life  Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Help us plan for the future of The Vergecast by filling out a brief survey: voxmedia.com/survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 June 2025

We've talked many times on The Vergecast about the dream of the perfect charger. We call it The God Cable, and imagine it would charge everything, at full optimized speed, no matter what you plug in. Well, one company tried to make it – sort of. TwelveSouth founder Andrew Green joins the show to talk about how his company developed its newest product, the PowerCord, and why actually the God Cable might be both impossible and a bad idea. After that, The Verge's Tina Nguyen joins the show to talk about her experience at Bitcoin 2025 in Las Vegas, the rise of $TRUMP, and how crypto and the government became so intertwined. Finally, we answer a question from the Vergecast Hotline about AI agents, and the tasks we should (and shouldn't) offload to our chatbots. Further reading: The TwelveSouth PowerCord The Vergecast USB-C Holiday Spec-tacular Everything you need to know about switching to USB-C How a crypto bro shorted $TRUMP coin — and scored a dinner with the President Presidential seals, $100,000 watches, and a Marriott afterparty Trump’s media company says it’s buying $2.5 billion in Bitcoin The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Act will soon ramp up in Congress. Crypto funds seized by the government may go into a ‘digital Fort Knox’ Google’s future is Google googling OpenAI’s new Operator AI agent can do things on the web for you Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Fill out a brief survey and tell us what you want from The Vergecast: voxmedia.com/survey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 June 2025

It's a slowish news week ahead of some very busy news weeks, so of course Nilay and David start the show with a long discussion about party speakers. Eventually, they get into the news, beginning with some of the huge Apple redesigns planned for WWDC in June. For the first time in a long time, the stakes for Apple's software teams feel really high. After that, the hosts talk about Nilay's recent interview with Google CEO Sundar Pichai, and what the AI-ification of everything means for the future of the web. Finally, in the lightning round, it's time for another Brendan Carr is a Dummy, plus some talk about the Nintendo Switch 2, a bit of confusing tariff news, and more. Further reading: Graduation and prom season in full force, Alan sends a graduation procession with a party speaker on… her head? So so many softball and baseball games, Luis tips us to the Yankees Incredible at a dentist office from Oktawian Apple is reportedly going to rename all of its operating systems  Apple is ready to replace Game Center with a more Xbox-like gaming app  Get ready for Apple’s glassy operating systems overhaul. Nick Clegg says asking artists for use permission would ‘kill’ the AI industry The New York Times’ first generative AI deal is with Amazon The Browser Company explains why it stopped developing Arc The plan for nationwide fiber internet might be upended for Starlink FCC Commissioner Labels Trump Push to Chill Speech an ‘Administration-Wide Effort’ Carr's attack on Ergen looks gross Shut Down the Federal Communications Commission With the Switch, technology finally caught up to Nintendo  Nintendo’s bold new era is full of safe bets  The Nintendo Switch was an indie game haven, until it was overrun with slop  The Nintendo Switch 2 sure seems to work just fine with a USB mouse  There’s a Switch 2 unboxing video already. Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

After more than a month of testimony, the Meta antirust trial is beginning to slow down. The Google search remedies trial, meanwhile, is about to heat up again, with closing arguments coming soon. The Verge’s Lauren Feiner has been in the DC courthouse for all of it, and has finally emerged to tell us about what she’s seen, and learned, from two all-important monopoly trials. After that, The Verge’s Victoria Song tells us about her latest experience with Google’s smart glasses prototypes, what Google is doing differently from Meta and Apple, and what she thinks Jony Ive and OpenAI might be building. Finally, we answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline about what to do now that Mozilla is shutting down Pocket. FTC v. Meta: The antitrust battle over WhatsApp and Instagram Did WhatsApp really need Meta? Why the FTC argues Meta is a closer rival to MeWe than TikTok Instagram CEO testifies about competing with TikTok: ‘You’re either growing, or you’re slowly dying’ Android XR is getting stylish partners in Warby Parker, Gentle Monster Xreal teases Project Aura smart glasses for Android XR We tried on Google’s prototype AI smart glasses Android XR and Project Moohan hands-on: Gemini is the killer app Mozilla is shutting down Pocket Raindrop.io Instapaper Matter Wallabag Readwise Reader Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

Bad news if you don't care about AI: this week was absolutely chock-full of AI news. First, Nilay, David, and The Verge's Alex Heath talk about the news that OpenAI and Jony Ive are teaming up to build... something. A gadget, for sure, maybe lots of gadgets. We don't know much, but we have a lot of thoughts, and a lot of questions. After that, the hosts talk through all the news at Google I/O, including what's new with Gemini, Google Search, Project Astra, Project Mariner, and the countless other ways Google is putting AI absolutely everywhere. Finally, in the lightning round, we buckle up for another round of Brendan Carr is a Dummy, talk through some late-breaking Apple gadget news, and marvel over the future of conference calls. Further reading: OpenAI is buying Jony Ive’s AI hardware company From The Wall Street Journal: What Sam Altman Told OpenAI About the Secret Device He’s Making With Jony Ive Details leak about Jony Ive’s new ‘screen-free’ OpenAI device  Jony Ive says Rabbit and Humane made bad products  The 15 biggest announcements at Google I/O 2025  Google launches AI Mode to everyone in the US, adds more features to AI Overviews Google’s 3D video calling tech is finally going to ship this year  Project Astra 2025: Google’s universal AI assistant is now smarter and more proactive  Google has a new tool just for making AI videos  Google reveals $250 per month ‘AI Ultra’ plan  Google Meet can translate what you say into other languages  Google’s Gemini AI is coming to Chrome  Google says its new image AI can actually spell  Google will let you ‘try on’ clothes with AI  Google is bringing an ‘Agent Mode’ to the Gemini app We tried on Google’s prototype AI smart glasses Microsoft CTO Kevin Scott on the birth of the agentic web  Microsoft’s plan to fix the web: letting every website run AI search for cheap Google rejected giving publishers more choice to opt out of AI Search  Google is stuffing even more ads into its AI results  Google’s Gemini AI is coming to Chrome  Google reveals $250 per month ‘AI Ultra’ plan  FCC Chairman Carr seeks to designate NBC equal time issue for hearing FCC approves Verizon’s $20 billion merger after it commits to ‘ending’ DEI Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

Kids these days, you know? They love the '90s, they want everything to be colorful and bold and bouncy, and they really, truly love Snapchat. And the tech world is listening. On this episode, The Verge's Allison Johnson joins to talk about her review of the new Razr Ultra, the new-look Android 16, and why she thinks we're getting ever closer to a true flip phone resurgence. (Also: why we're not quite there yet.) After that, The Verge's Alex Heath explains what's going on with Snapchat, and how it's possible that the app is more popular than ever but still can't figure out how to cash in. It all makes us wonder: is there a business in chat at all? Finally, we answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11 or email [email protected]!) about a possible outcome for Chrome after the Google search trial ends. Further reading: Motorola Razr Ultra (2025) review: looking sharp The best folding phones you can buy Android’s youthful new design language just dropped Snapchat scraps ‘simple’ redesign as it loses users in North America Zuckerberg offered to buy Snapchat for $6 billion. Evan Spiegel explains why Snap is betting on Spectacles Breaking down the DOJ’s plan to end Google’s search monopoly Why are companies lining up to buy Chrome? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

Names are hard — but they don't have to be this hard. Nilay, David, and The Verge's Jake Kastrenakes start the show with some personal news, before digging into the monumentally silly thinking behind Warner Bros. Discovery re-re-naming its streaming service HBO Max. After that, and some more streaming news, we turn our attention to the gadget news of the week, including the long-awaited release of CarPlay Ultra and the latest announcements from the Android team at Google. Finally, in the lightning round, it's time for Brendan Carr is a Dummy, some debate on the future of Airbnb, and a brief party speaker update. Because the mystery continues. Further reading: It’s not Max, it’s HBO Max  Max was an all-time bad rebrand How HBO’s creatives survived corporate chaos ESPN’s standalone streaming app launches this fall for $30 a month  Fox One streaming service will arrive just in time for football season  Netflix’s ad tier is growing really fast — and that means more ads Netflix is bringing back Star Search as a live show YouTube will stream an opening week NFL game for free  Peacock’s NBA coverage will add an overlay with live shot stats  Apple’s CarPlay Ultra is finally here, if you have a new Aston Martin Apple’s fancy new CarPlay will only work wirelessly Android 16 Material Three Expressive UI coming in beta this month  Google’s splashy new Android UI is coming in beta this month.  It’s Dieter! Warner Bros. is launching a cinematic universe for brands Here's How NBCU Is Integrating Brand Sponsors for SNL50 FCC threatens EchoStar licenses for spectrum that SpaceX wants to use Airbnb’s new app has all of your vacation extras in one place Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2025

The Verge's Will Poor recently came home from vacation and discovered he had an insect problem. More specifically, his Sonos speaker had an insect problem. Will brings us the story of what really happened there, and what he discovered about how the animal kingdom — and the electronics world — works. After that, The Verge's Andru Marino tells us about his research on all things AI podcasts. He tells us why people are so hooked on NotebookLM's Audio Overviews, where these generated shows fall short, and what all us human podcasters could learn from the bots. Finally, The Verge's Jennifer Pattison Tuohy helps us answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11 or email [email protected]!) all about smart lights. Which get complicated faster than you think. Further reading: Oh no, Google is turning everything into a podcast Google’s NotebookLM AI podcasts add ‘interactive’ mode for some Q-and-A Steven Johnson on Google, NotebookLM, and AI research A guide to getting started with smart lighting: When to use smart switches and smart bulbs Inovelli smart switches Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

Where will Meta, Apple, and Google be three years from now? It's starting to look like they might all be very different. Nilay, David, and The Verge's Richard Lawler start the show with Eddy Cue's testimony in the Google search trial, in which Cue argued that AI is taking over — and that Google should be allowed to keep paying Apple gobs of money. The hosts also chat about the latest in the Meta trials, and how the recent Apple ruling is already changing the App Store. Then, there are some gadgets to talk about: the panopticon-slash-killer-app coming for Meta's smart glasses, the new Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, and a lot of new iPhones. In the lightning round, we do another round of Brendan Carr is a Dummy, then talk about some new Netflix designs and the latest in our worldwide hunt for party speakers. Further reading: Eddy Cue is fighting to save Apple’s $20 billion paycheck from Google Apple’s Eddy Cue: ‘You may not need an iPhone 10 years from now’ Google searches are falling in Safari for the first time ever — probably because of AI Google's statement about Search traffic Apple is looking at adding Perplexity and other AI search engines to Safari Amazon now has a ‘Get book’ button in its iOS Kindle app Epic will use an EU account to bring Fortnite back to the US App Store Patreon’s iOS update allows creators to bypass in-app purchases Apple is trying to halt the App Store ruling. Apple files appeal to wrest back control of its App Store A new bill would force Apple to allow third-party app storesDOJ’s proposed Google changes would ‘deeply undermine user trust,’ search chief says Firefox could be doomed without Google search deal, says executive DOJ asks court to split up Google’s ad tech empire Threads was originally going to live inside the Instagram app | The Verge Instagram doesn’t want to be a ‘lean-back experience.’ | The Verge ‘TikTok is probably the fiercest competition that we have faced.’ | The Verge Instagram has spent up to $700 million in a year to lure creators. Mosseri calls the first version of Reels his ‘biggest mistake.’ | The Verge Meta’s new AI glasses could have a ‘super-sensing’ mode with facial recognition Apple is planning smart glasses with and without AR Apple ‘iPhone Air’ rumor suggests a bigger screen coming in 2027 Apple may stagger next year’s iPhones to make way for a foldable Microsoft’s smaller Surface Pro has a 12-inch display and starts at $799 Microsoft shrinks its Surface Laptop down to 13 inches, priced at $899 Microsoft’s new Surface devices ditch magnetic charging port for USB-C How Microsoft shrunk its Surface devices Policing News, Policing DEI: The FCC’s Shifting Priorities Erode Its Credibility OpenAI abandons plan to become a for-profit company Netflix is getting a big TV revamp Netflix will try a TikTok-like feed on its mobile app I put four robot lawnmowers through a brutal backyard battle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2025

The Verge’s Victoria Song joins the show to talk about a new genre of gadget, which both she and David have been testing a lot: the AI-powered, always-on voice recorder. Vee shares what she’s learned from devices like Bee, and why it’s going to be so hard for AI to figure out what really matters in our lives. After that, The Verge’s Nathan Edwards and keyboard maker Ryan Norbauer tell the story of the Seneca, a $3,600 keyboard that Norbauer built to his own incredibly exacting specifications. They tell David about what it really takes to make a great keyboard, and why making one is worth the effort. Finally, in the lightning round (call 866-VERGE11 or email [email protected]!), we answer a couple of questions about the future of Chrome. Further reading: Bee review: I outsourced my memory to AI and all I got was fanfiction The Plaude NotePin is a great AI voice recorder, and it’s totally doomed Friend: a new digital companion for the AI age The Norbauer Seneca The $3,600 keyboard that’s optimized for joy. Why are companies lining up to buy Chrome? Sundar Pichai says the DOJ’s antitrust plan could kill Google Search Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

Everywhere you look, antitrust fights have the potential to reshape the tech industry. Nilay, David, and The Verge's Jake Kastrenakes start by digging into the latest ruling in the Apple / Epic trial, in which a furious judge rips open the App Store in a way Apple likely never saw coming. The way we pay for apps is about to change, and fast. After that, it's time for an update on the Google and Meta trials, as Google tries to preserve its search empire and Meta tries to make the case that basically every company on the web is its vicious competitor. Finally, in the lightning round, it's time for another installment of Brendan Carr is a Dummy, plus some notes on this week's Worldcoin launch and the strange new Meta AI app. Also: party speakers. Always party speakers. Further reading: A judge just blew up Apple’s control of the App Store ‘Cook chose poorly’: how Apple blew up its control over the App Store The future of the App Store depends on the difference between a ‘button’ and an ‘external link’ Apple must allow other forms of in-app purchase, rules judge in Epic v. Apple Apple exec ‘outright lied’ during Epic trial Apple confirms it will appeal the App Store order. Epic says Fortnite is coming back to iOS in the US Sundar Pichai says the DOJ’s antitrust plan could kill Google Search Google confirms it’s close to getting Gemini support on iPhones The TikTok ban is back in court — in Meta’s antitrust trial TikTok’s head of operations takes the stand. Reels isn’t Instagram’s ‘core’ experience. TikTok doesn’t compete with Meta for ‘personal social networking.’ TikTok’s legal entanglements collide. The TikTok ban makes another cameo. TikTok’s friends tab is not exactly a hit. TikTok and Reels are ‘indistinguishable.’ Are YouTube and Instagram the top competitors for TikTok?  TikTok predicted Instagram would redesign its app to focus on Reels. Meta prepared for a ‘flood in traffic’ ahead of the TikTok ban. Facebook execs worried Google would buy WhatsApp and make it ‘a cross-platform iMessage.’ Facebook worried most about Google or Apple buying WhatsApp. Google had a ‘long shot’ chance of becoming competitive in social with WhatsApp. Facebook exec worried about losing the business to mobile messaging apps. ‘I was really worried that this could become the end.’ ‘This shit is getting scary.’  WhatsApp showed ‘absolutely no signs of morphing’ into a social app. Facebook floated starting from scratch on messaging. Facebook didn’t know how it would make money from WhatsApp. Facebook didn’t fear WhatsApp becoming a social competitor. Meta releases AI app to compete with ChatGPT Brendan Carr congratulates himself Brendan Carr’s FCC is an anti-consumer, rights-trampling harassment machine Brendan Carr’s Bizarro World FCC Sam Altman-backed Worldcoin cryptocurrency launches in the US Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

Sometimes you want more tech in your life — and sometimes you want a lot less. This episode is all about less. First, Tim Stevens joins the show to talk about his story about the Slate Truck, an ultra-minimal electric vehicle that has almost no features to speak of and yet still promises to reinvent the way we think about cars. After that, Casey Johnston tells us about her journey in managing her screen time. She has tips for how to get the most problematic apps of your phone, is a big proponent of a factory reset, and has seen first-hand what happens when you look at your devices just a little less. Finally, we answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11 or email [email protected]!) about whether there's a MacBook Air equivalent in the Windows world. The answer surprised us, and it might surprise you too. Further reading: The $20,000 American-made electric pickup with no paint, no stereo, and no touchscreen Is this the antidote to America’s truck bloat problem? From TechCrunch: Inside the EV startup secretly backed by Jeff Bezos Around the Next Bend on Substack Slate is the American truck scene's Ctrl+Alt+Del moment From She's a Beast: The DIY Dumbphone Method Casey's book: A Physical Education Framework Laptop 13 (2025) review: getting better with age Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

Some weeks, it just feels like everything is up in the air all at the same time. Nilay and David are joined by The Verge’s Jake Kastrenakes to talk about all the unrest, starting with the ever-changing tariff rules that are making gadgets hard to price, hard to find, and hard to bet on going forward. (Maybe that’s why it seems everyone on Earth tried to pre-order a Switch 2 this week.) After that, the hosts catch up on the Meta and Google antitrust trials happening this week, and try to figure out who might be interested in the internet’s most popular browser. Finally, in the lightning round, we talk Brendan Carr (who is a dummy), the wood-backed Motorola Razr Ultra, and the 20th anniversary of YouTube. Further reading: Nintendo Switch 2 preorders were a total mess — at first Nintendo Switch 2 preorders are sold out everywhere GameStop’s Switch 2 preorders started poorly, too Auto industry tariffs are doing what now? 24 hours of White House confusion Did Tim Cook finagle a special tariff deal? Senator Warren wants to know The US hikes tariffs on solar products from Asia DHL halts international deliveries to US consumers worth over $800 Game Boy clone maker Anbernic suspends all shipments to US Ayn, like Anbernic, is pausing retro handheld shipments to the US. Perplexity wants to buy Chrome if Google has to sell it OpenAI tells judge it would buy Chrome from Google  Former DOJ antitrust chief says a Google break up will benefit the internet Instagram co-founder Kevin Systrom says Zuckerberg “saw us as a threat” Instagram launches its CapCut clone, Edits Threads adds more ads Former Google exec testifies about the company’s attempt to buy WhatsApp. Google’s antitrust trial begins with a fight over Chrome, money, and AI Google is paying Samsung an ‘enormous sum’ to preinstall Gemini Google reveals Gemini AI has 350 million monthly active users. Apple and Meta hit with the EU’s first DMA antitrust fines The EU isn’t happy with Apple’s tax on alternative app stores  Brendan Carr is a dummy From Puck: David Ellison’s Carr Trouble The Trump FCC’s Coercion Cartel Motorola’s new Razr Ultra brings the wood back panel back YouTube’s TV changes include a redesign and more multiview YouTube is everything and everything is YouTube 20 years ago, the first videos uploaded to YouTube were short and swee Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2025

If you’re heading on vacation this summer, you’re going to want to listen to this. The Verge’s Gaby del Valle joins the show to explain how worried you need to be about your digital data when you cross borders, and what you can do to protect yourself. Even if you don’t think you have anything to hide, a little precaution goes a long way. After that, Puck’s Matt Belloni joins the show to explain why Apple, Amazon, Google, and other tech companies continue to pour money into the streaming business, when it seems so far removed from what those companies do well. (Spoiler alert: it’s fun to be friends with Ben Stiller.) Finally, we answer a hotline question about the Google Pixel’s ascent to “best Android phone for people who just want a phone.”  Oh, also: thanks to everyone who voted for us in the Webby Awards! We’ll know soon whether we won, but however it shakes out, we’re so grateful to everyone who voted for us. Further reading: Is it safe to travel to the United States with your phone right now? DHS’s airport panopticon is getting people deported and detained Trump says he wants to deport US citizens to El Salvador Matt Belloni at Puck The Town podcast From Puck: How Long Can the Apple TV+ Experiment Sputter On? - Puck Google Pixel 9A review: a midrange phone done right Google Pixel 9 review: the phone that Android needs Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

We promise, this episode is only a little bit about header bidding. Nilay and David are joined by The Verge’s Alex Heath to talk about some big news in tech regulation: Google lost its ad-tech monopoly trial, which could reshape both Google and the internet altogether. And that’s not the only monopoly news! Meta’s trial also started this week, and Alex was there to see Mark Zuckerberg and others try to defend Instagram, WhatsApp, and the company as a whole. After all that, we talk about OpenAI’s plans to build a social network, and how this company seems to never run out of ambition. Finally, in the lightning round, it’s time for another round of Brendan Carr is a Dummy, and some news about viral cameras and the Switch 2. Which we’ll be yeeting into our homes as soon as possible Further reading: Google loses ad tech monopoly case FTC v. Meta live: the latest from the battle over Instagram and WhatsApp Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg defends Instagram purchase in antitrust trial Zuckerberg defends his empire during FTC antitrust trial Mark Zuckerberg suggested spinning off Instagram Mark Zuckerberg tells court that Meta made WhatsApp, Instagram better Mark Zuckerberg once suggested wiping all Facebook friends lists to boost usage Meta reportedly offered $1 billion to settle the FTC’s antitrust lawsuit. Zuckerberg defends his empire during FTC antitrust trial Google, Apple, and Snap aren’t happy about Meta’s poorly-redacted slides Meta’s antitrust trial slide redactions aren’t actually hiding anything OpenAI is building a social network OpenAI debuts its GPT-4.1 flagship AI model OpenAI might finally get better model names soon. OpenAI’s upgraded o3 model can use images when reasoning ChatGPT will now remember your old conversations OpenAI is reportedly considering a $3 billion deal to buy AI coding tool Windsurf. Netflix is testing a new OpenAI-powered search Brendan Carr on X The Media and Democracy Project on Bluesky Trump excludes smartphones, computers, chips from higher tariffs Smartphone tariffs are coming back in ‘a month or two,’ says Trump admin TSMC is unfazed by tariffs. Microsoft’s Phil Spencer: “I want to support Switch 2.” In pursuit of a viral, five-year-old compact camera Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

It's time, once again, to see what's what in the streaming wars. For the third year in a row, our hosts — this time Nilay, David, and The Verge's Jake Kastrenakes — have to build a roster of streaming options that will win awards, show 4K content, satisfy their live TV needs, and much more. First, the hosts decide who won last year's competition, and then they pick their favorites for 2025. Make sure you listen to the episode before you read this, but here are the results of the draft: Jake's picks: Cheap: Tubi Awards: Netflix 4K: Hulu Live: Instagram Live Niche: PBS Passport Content: LoFi Girl Wild Card: Kanopy Nilay's picks: Cheap: TikTok Awards: Max 4K: Disney Plus Live: Sunday Ticket Niche: Kaleidescape Content: CNBC Wild Card: F1 TV David's picks Cheap: Peacock Awards: Amazon Prime 4K: YouTube Premium Live: YouTube TV Niche: BritBox Content: Stranger Things season 5 Wild Card: Paramount Plus We want to know who you think won the draft! Email us at [email protected], or call The Vergecast Hotline at 866-VERGE11, and tell us all your thoughts. And if you want to catch up, you can check out our draft from 2024 and from 2023. A lot has changed, and nothing has. The Vergecast was nominated for a Webby, which means we can win a Webby People’s Voice Award and that’s voted online by you! So we’d love your support. You can vote at the link:https://bit.ly/3DXFgpN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

Welcome to tech in 2025, where everything's made up and the numbers don't matter. Nilay, David, and The Verge's Jake Kastrenakes start the show by running down the latest tariff news, the uncertain future facing tech companies of all sizes, and what we're learning so far about how they're responding. After that, the hosts talk about a big week in AI news, including Meta's sketchy benchmark numbers and the latest damning reporting about the future of Siri. Finally, in the lightning round, it's time for America's favorite podcast within a podcast, Brendan Carr is a Dummy, along with some news about the TikTok ban and the Pixel 9A. And then some more tariff numbers, because they just never stop. Further reading: The Vergecast was nominated for a Webby, which means we can win a Webby People’s Voice Award and that’s voted online by you! So we’d love your support. You can vote at the link:https://bit.ly/3DXFgpN Sony adds three new speakers to bass-boosted ULT Power Sound lineup Sony seemingly bakes tariff penalty into its new US TV pricing Samsung’s The Frame Pro was never going to be cheap — and it isn’t Trump’s tariffs are officially in effect, including 104 percent on China China retaliates with additional 50 percent tariff on US goods Trump announces a ‘90-day pause’ on tariffs outside of China Trump believes iPhones can be made in the US, says White House Get your screwdrivers ready. Apple quickly shipped 600 tons of iPhones to ‘beat’ the new tariffs Trump triples tariffs on low value packages from China and Hong Kong Some Shein and Temu ‘haul video’ creators are stocking up Shein’s supply chain uncertainties. Amazon is already changing its ultra-cheap Temu copycat Framework stops selling some of its cheapest laptops due to Trump tariffs Framework delays Laptop 12 orders in the US over tariffs  Framework will open US preorders for Laptop 12 after all: tomorrow, starting at $549. Framework raised prices and then un-raised them an hour later because of Trump Price hikes, idled factories, layoffs: how car companies are responding to Trump’s tariffs China will show fewer US films in response to tariffs Trump’s new tariffs leave small creators scrambling Arduboy creator says his tiny Game Boy won’t survive Trump’s tariff Trump’s latest tariffs may set the smart home industry back Nintendo boss on Switch 2 and tariffs: ‘we are actively assessing what the impact may be’ Trump’s tariffs ‘pause’ could help Nintendo ship more Switch 2s Musk calls Trump’s trade chief ‘dumber than a sack of bricks.’ We just declared a trade war with the world Meta gets caught gaming AI benchmarks with Llama 4 Siri in The Information Amazon plays catch-up with new Nova AI models to generate voices and video Shopify CEO says no new hires without proof AI can’t do the job  Most Americans don’t trust AI — or the people in charge of it Adobe is building AI agents for Photoshop and Premiere Pro Samsung is finally releasing Ballie, its rolling home robot Sam Altman and Jony Ive’s AI project could involve a screenless device. Trump Is Now Mandating His Cabinet/Loyalist Wear "Trump Golden Bust" Pins From Ars Technica: The speech police: Chairman Brendan Carr and the FCC’s news distortion policy From Variety: FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez Sounds Alarm Over Trump Administration’s ‘Absolute Pattern of Censorship and Control’ From the FCC: Spectrum Is Back—Again! FCC eyes major satellite rule revamp in spectrum-sharing shakeup Trump delays TikTok ban again Trump’s TikTok delay is ‘against the law’ top Senate Intelligence Democrat says The US told Apple to keep TikTok in the App Store. Instagram might finally release an iPad app Google Pixel 9A review: a midrange phone done right Pixel 9A hits stores, and it’s still $499. Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2025

Last week, The Verge's Ash Parrish got to play with the new Nintendo Switch 2. We got over our outrageous jealousy long enough to ask her all about it: what it's like to hold, how the screen looks, whether the mouse-control is any good, and much more. Ash gives us the good news, and the bad news, on everything we now know about the Switch 2. (We do talk about the price, but we recorded before the Trump administration launched its massive new tariff push — so you can consider the price even worse news than we thought.) After that, The Verge's Tom Warren joins the show to talk about Microsoft's 50th anniversary celebration, how the company has stayed so resilient for so long, and whether AI is really the next five-decade project for one of the world's biggest companies. Finally, we answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline (866-VERGE11, or email [email protected]!) about how you should change your shopping habits in a tariff-filled world. It's hard to know where we'll be in a few months, but it sure doesn't look like gadgets are getting any cheaper. Further reading: The Vergecast was nominated for a Webby, which means we can win a Webby People’s Voice Award and that’s voted online by you! So we’d love your support. You can vote at the link:https://bit.ly/3DXFgpN Nintendo Switch 2 hands-on: it’s all in the games All of the Nintendo Switch 2 news, hands-ons, and trailers Donkey Kong Bananza was best in show at the Switch 2 hands-on I’m not sold on the Switch 2’s mouse-like controls Microsoft turns 50 Why I’ve covered Microsoft for 25 years How Microsoft made it through 50 years Trump’s tariffs mean you’ll pay more for all gadgets Trump’s tariffs put the iPhone in a tough spot From The Wall Street Journal: Here’s the iPhone. Here’s the iPhone With Tariffs. New Star GP, the game The General Magic documentary Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

It's a Nintendo Switch 2. What could it cost, a thousand dollars? In this episode, Nilay, David, and The Verge's Richard Lawler talk through why we don't really know. But first, we talk about the Switch 2, and some of the reasons we're excited — and maybe just a little concerned — about Nintendo's new console. This is likely to be the most interesting device of the year, and we learned an awful lot more about it this week. We also talk about Microsoft's 50th anniversary, the fate of TikTok, and other gadget news. Then we get to tariffs, with the help of Tuneshine creator Tobias Butler, who explains how tariffs affect the way hardware companies do business — and how they're navigating the current uncertainty. After that, in the lightning round, it's time for a little Brendan Carr is a Dummy, followed by the latest on Tesla's sales numbers, Alexa Plus, and Coyote vs. Acme. Further reading:  The Vergecast was nominated for a Webby, which means we can win a Webby People’s Voice Award and that’s voted online by you! So we’d love your support. You can vote at the link:https://bit.ly/3DXFgpN The 50 best things Microsoft has ever made The Nintendo Switch 2 arrives on June 5th for $449.99 Nintendo Switch 2 hands-on: it’s all in the games Nvidia confirms the Nintendo Switch 2 has DLSS and real-time ray tracing Nintendo Switch 2 specs: 1080p 120Hz display, 4K dock, mouse mode, and more The Nintendo Switch 2 has a camera accessory for video chat Nintendo’s Switch 2 ‘C’ button is a Discord-like GameChat feature  Verge staffers react to the Nintendo Switch 2 Here’s everything Nintendo has revealed about the Switch 2’s Joy-Cons Nintendo’s Switch 2 preorder process has strict requirements to thwart scalpers ‘TikTok America,’ Amazon, and other rumors about who might buy TikTok From The New York Times: Trump Set to Meet With Top Aides to Decide TikTok’s Fate From Wired: The Founder of OnlyFans Wants to Buy TikTok Tuneshine – Your space, your music Donald Trump announces tariffs that could raise the price of almost everything you buy Reciprocal Tariff Calculations | United States Trade Representative Trump’s new tariff math looks a lot like ChatGPT’s These are the tariffs about to hit Apple. Chris Murphy’s Bluesky thread Trump’s tariffs are ‘a debacle of epic proportions’ for the auto industry T-Mobile closes Lumos deal after dropping DEI | The Verge E&C Democrats Launch Investigation into FCC Chairman Carr’s Repeated Attacks on the First Amendment Sony’s new Bravia lineup includes its ‘King of TV’ successor Tesla’s sales plummet 13 percent as Musk backlash grows Best printer 2025: just buy a Brother laser printer, the winner is clear, middle finger in the air Alexa Plus just launched in early access, but it’s missing some features Coyote vs. Acme is finally coming to theaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2025

David has a Light Phone III, and it's making him wonder a lot of things about technology. So The Verge's Allison Johnson joins the show to talk about the whole trend of minimalist smartphones, and to figure out which features a smartphone absolutely needs, and which ones we could all probably do without. After that, The Verge's Andy Hawkins takes us through a big weekend in the Tesla Takedown movement, what's happening with Elon Musk's car company, how automakers are responding to impending tariffs, and whether we're wrong to be excited about the new Nissan Leaf. Finally, The Verge's Jen Tuohy answers a question from the Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11, or email [email protected]!) about all-seeing cameras in our homes. Which mostly don't exist yet. Mostly. Further reading: Light Phone III review: everything in moderation There’s no perfect minimalist phone — yet One year with the Light Phone 2 We went to 10 anti-Tesla protests — and a couple counter protests, too ‘Tesla Takedown’ protesters planning ‘biggest day of action’ How Elon Musk turned the Tesla brand so toxic The Nissan Leaf lives on as a compact SUV with a Tesla charge port Ring’s latest security camera is a drone that flies around inside your house Project Astra is the future of AI at Google Alexa Plus arrives with promise but plenty of questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

In this episode, we do a Studio Ghibli-like rendition of The Vergecast. First, Nilay and David discuss some big news in the gadget world, from the mysteriously viral midrange Canon camera to the upgrades we're expecting out of Apple in the next few months. Plus, is it over for Amazon's Echo brand? After all that, The Verge's Kylie Robison joins the show to discuss everything happening at OpenAI: the company launched a new image generator inside of ChatGPT, and it immediately became both a huge hit and a big mess. (Par for the course with OpenAI, really.) Kylie also explains why Perplexity is probably not buying TikTok, no matter how much it might want to. Finally, in the lightning round, it's time for everyone's favorite segment, Brendan Carr Is a Dummy, followed by the latest on the Signal attack-planning chaos in the government, some news about Elon Musk pressuring Reddit CEO Steve Huffmann, and what's next for the car industry with huge tariffs looming. Oh, and a little bit of exciting e-bike news Further reading: From Meta: Bringing the Magic of Friends Back to Facebook Apple’s AirPods Max with USB-C will soon support lossless audio The Apple Watch may get cameras and Apple Intelligence Apple’s WWDC 2025 event starts June 9th Don’t expect an overhauled Messages app in iOS 19. Amazon tests renaming Echo smart speakers and smart displays to just ‘Alexa’  OpenAI reshuffles leadership as Sam Altman pivots to technical focus OpenAI upgrades image generation and rolls it out in ChatGPT and Sora ChatGPT’s new image generator is delayed for free users ChatGPT is turning everything into Studio Ghibli art  OpenAI says ‘our GPUs are melting’ as it limits ChatGPT image generation requests OpenAI expects to earn $12.7 billion in revenue this year. Microsoft adds ‘deep reasoning’ Copilot AI for research and data analysis Google says its new ‘reasoning’ Gemini AI models are the best ones yet Google is rolling out Gemini’s real-time AI video features Perplexity’s bid for TikTok continues Trump's FCC says it will start investigating Disney, too From Status: Sounding the Carr Alarm Trump officials leaked a military strike in a Signal group chat The Atlantic releases strike group chat messages And the Most Tortured Signal-Gate Backronym Award goes to… | The Verge Elon Musk pressured Reddit’s CEO on content moderation | The Verge Trump’s plans to save TikTok may fail to keep it online, Democrats warn Rivian spins out secret e-bike lab into a new company called Also BYD beats Tesla. Trump says he will impose a 25 percent tariff on imported vehicles Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2025

Some products are so successful they become snynonymous with their whole category — nobody asks for a facial tissue, they ask for a Kleenex, you know? Today's episode is, at least in part, about two of those products. First, The Verge's Jennifer Pattison Tuohy joins the show to chart the rise and fall of the Roomba, the robot vacuum that practically invented the category and yet seems to have been left behind. Can iRobot get its robot back on its feet? After that, Kobo CEO Michael Tamblyn discusses the state of e-readers, what it's like to always be "the best non-Amazon option," and what we all want from devices that aren't our smartphone. Finally, The Verge's Chris Welch helps us answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11, or email [email protected]!) about which TV you should buy in 2025. It's a complicated question, but there are answers. Further reading: From CNN: The secret military technology inside the household vacuum robot iRobot announces eight new robot vacuums iRobot tells investors its future is in doubt Will iRobot’s reinvention of the Roomba be at the expense of its history of innovation? Amazon wants to map your home, so it bought iRobot The death of the Amazon deal could mean goodbye iRobot iRobot’s founder is working on a new kind of home robot Michael Tamblyn's website Kobo announces its first color e-readers The best ereader to buy right now Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

Starlink is in the White House, Siri is still bad, Pebble is back, up is down, everything is chaos. In this episode, Nilay and David start the show by running through some big gadget news, from a Siri-related shakeup at Apple to the new Google Pixel 9A. After that, The Verge's Lauren Feiner talks us through some of the latest in tech regulation: Trump's illegal firings at the FTC, the confusing state of the TikTok ban, OpenAI and Google arguing their case for free-for-all AI, and more. Finally, in the lightning round, Nilay and David talk about the latest Tesla recall, the hugely popular book about Meta, some exciting ActivityPub news, and Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos gently zinging Apple TV Plus. Further reading: From Bloomberg: Apple Shuffles AI Executive Ranks in Bid to Turn Around Siri The first new Pebble smartwatches are coming later this year Europe is trying to get non-Apple smartwatches to work better with iPhones Google’s Pixel 9A gets a bigger screen and beefier water resistance Google briefly delays Pixel 9A release to investigate ‘component quality issue’  Huawei’s new flip phone is weirdly wide Nvidia says ‘the age of generalist robotics is here’ Nvidia’s cute ‘Digits’ AI desktop is coming this summer with a new name and a big brother Nvidia announces Blackwell Ultra GB300 and Vera Rubin, its next AI ‘superchips’ Musk’s Starlink gets deployed at the White House Federal rural broadband program loses head Oracle is reportedly in the lead to save TikTok from US ban A”high-level” deal to save TikTok can probably happen by the April 5th deadline, Vance says. Democratic FTC commissioners say they were ‘illegally fired’ by Trump Fired FTC commissioner warns of the ‘corrupting influence of billionaires’ Democratic FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks will resign this spring WBEZ, 12 other public media stations under investigation  CTIA Announces Ajit Pai as New CEO and President OpenAI and Google ask the government to let them train AI on content they don’t own Hundreds of celebrities warn against letting OpenAI and Google ‘freely exploit’ Hollywood Google Search charged with breaking EU antitrust rules DHS’s airport panopticon is getting people deported and detained Space science is under threat from the anti-DEI purge DOGE stranded USAID workers with laptops full of sensitive data They’re removing webpages about Black soldiers by adding ‘DEI’ to the URL. ‘Tesla Takedown’ protesters planning ‘biggest day of action’  Tesla recalls more than 46,000 Cybertrucks after trim starts falling off From NYMag: Elon Musk Has Become Too Toxic for YouTube ‘Careless People’ debuts at the top of the NYT best sellers list. Threads finally lets you set the following feed as default Ghost connects its newsletters to the open web Netflix’s CEO talks Apple TV, Amazon, and the NFL Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2025

Handheld gaming looks like the future — so why isn't it more popular? The Verge's Sean Hollister joins the show to talk about some new data about the handheld console market, what it says about the Steam Deck's dominance, whether the Switch 2 might change everything all over again, and why Sony and Microsoft don't appear to be in the game at all. After that, David reports on his trip to Florida to see TGL, the golf league aiming to bring the sport to new places and new fans, with the help of a truly enormous amount of technology. Finally, we answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline about iPads — and more specifically, one particularly good reason to upgrade to the Air or the Pro. Further reading: Three years later, the Steam Deck has dominated handheld PC gaming shipments Steam Deck OLED review: better, not faster Lenovo Legion Go S review: feels good, plays bad Asus ROG Ally X review: the best Windows gaming handheld by a mile MSI Claw review: an embarrassment A night at TGL, the would-be future of golf From ESPN: Inside the making of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy's TGL From Wired: Robotic Putting Greens. Mixed Reality. Loud Spectators. This Is Golf?! Apple iPad Air 2025 review: what the M3 upgrade really gets you Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

Big tech companies are forever making promises about the future. And you might (or might not) be surprised how often they don't come true. On this episode, Nilay and David start by discussing the good and bad of Apple's new iPads and Macs, before diving into the supposedly AI-powered, all-powerful Siri that is delayed indefinitely. Maybe this whole "AI will fix everything" plan wasn't such a good one. After that, The Verge's Andy Hawkins joins to discuss what's going on with Tesla: why sales are down, how the perception of the company has shifted as Elon Musk's job description has changed, and how it happened that President Trump did a Tesla sales pitch on the White House lawn. Everything's computer, you know? Finally, in the lighting round, the hosts discuss Brendan Carr's ongoing shenanigans, Jay Graber's sartorial burns, the future of Pokemon Go, and much more. Further reading: Apple is reportedly planning a design overhaul for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS Apple’s plans for a smart display suffer a Siri-related setback Apple adds Siri disclaimer to iPhone 16 pages. Apple pulled its iPhone 16 ad showing off the good Siri. ‘HomePad’ delayed to post-WWDC to ensure iOS 19 design consistency All this bad AI is wrecking a whole generation of gadgets Apple MacBook Air M4 review: a little more for a little less Apple Mac Studio (M3 Ultra) first look: a weekend with an $8,000 powerhouse Apple iPad Air 2025 review: what the M3 upgrade really gets you Is Tesla cooked? Trump says he’ll label attacks on Tesla locations as domestic terrorism The Tesla protests are getting bigger — and rowdier Trump hosts a Tesla ad at the White House. Everything's computer Tesla protests continue to escalate. Sonos has canceled its streaming video player Home Assistant makes it official. FCC chair asks if YouTube TV ‘discriminates against faith-based programming’ Brendan Carr on X: FCC chairman asks the public to list every regulation he should remove A Trump official has been moonlighting as a fashion influencer Pokémon Go developer Niantic to sell gaming business to Saudi group TikTok’s mood music will tell teens to ‘wind down’ after 10PM Bluesky CEO Jay Graber has a message for Zuck. Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 March 2025

In this episode, what's old is new again, and what's new is... AI again. The Verge's Allison Johnson and Dominic Preston join David to discuss their experience at Mobile World Congress 2025, where they saw the latest devices from Xiaomi, Samsung, Realme, and others — and found themselves confronted with some big, surprising new ideas about how our smartphones should look and work. After that, Kevin Rose and Justin Mezzell talk about the process of bringing Digg back, and how AI can improve the way social networks operate. Digg got a lot of things right two decades ago, and plans to do it all over again now. Finally, we answer a question about printers from the Vergecast Hotline (call 866-VERGE11 or email [email protected]!), with some help from Framework CEO Nirav Patel. Further reading: MWC 2025 was all about the odds and ends What if your phone’s camera was much, much bigger? You spin me right round, baby, right round. Xiaomi 15 Ultra review: ugly phone, beautiful camera Digg Reboot How Digg helped invent the social internet Digg is coming back, with founder Kevin Rose and Reddit’s Alexis Ohanian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

Apple's new gadgets this week were pretty minor updates, so of course we talk about them for a long time. Nilay and David are joined by The Verge's Jake Kastrenakes, and the three hosts discuss the latest iPad, iPad Air, MacBook Air, and Mac Studio. All three have... a lot of thoughts. After that, they run through some more tech news, including the Digg reboot, the end of Skype, VW's cheap new EV, and more. Finally, in the lightning round, they talk about the latest from DOGE and the Trump administration, Brendan Carr's latest assaults on free speech, and a smartphone that is mostly (but not entirely) a camera. Further reading: Apple iPad Air 2025: launch, price, and specs Apple refreshes the iPad but doesn’t add Apple Intelligence Apple announces MacBook Air with M4 chip and a price cut Our first look at Apple’s sky blue MacBook Air Apple launches new Mac Studios with M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips Behold the maxed out Mac Studio. Digg is coming back, with founder Kevin Rose and Reddit’s Alexis Ohanian Discord is reportedly exploring an IPO. Nothing’s Phone 3A and 3A Pro use AI to organize all your stuff The Volkswagen ID. EVERY1 is an affordable EV for the masses Volkswagen’s cheapest EV ever is the first to use Rivian software Microsoft is shutting down Skype in favor of Teams The Verge remembers Skype Big Tech is now slightly less silent on Trump’s tariffs Trump imposes tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China Car prices expected to increase by as much as $12,000 thanks to Trump’s tariffs Best Buy and Target CEOs say prices are about to go up because of tariffs What’s an import? Trump to Cabinet: Musk has no authority to fire workers FAA staff reportedly ordered to find funding for deal with Musk’s Starlink  Trump’s USCIS wants to review all prospective citizens’ social media accounts Senate votes to strip the CFPB of its power to regulate X MWC: FCC chair says U.S. will defend interests of its tech giants FCC’s Carr defends broadcast probes, slams social media ‘threat’ A camera for your cameraphone: Sony Cyber-shot QX10 and QX100 review Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a small update with a big periscope lens  Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 March 2025

On this episode, we're diving deep into new ideas about old things. First, Framework CEO Nirav Patel joins David and The Verge's Sean Hollister to talk about Framework's new Laptop 12 and Desktop, plus the company's plan to bring its upgradeable, repairable ethos to other gadgets. After that, Daring Fireball's John Gruber joins the show to talk about the future of James Bond, now that Amazon has complete creative control over the 007 franchise. Do we want to live in the James Bond Cinematic Universe? Finally, we answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline about using smart glasses to replace your computer monitor. Further reading: Framework wants to fix the budget laptop with its first touchscreen machine Mint and pink: a closer look at the backflipping Framework Laptop 12 Framework’s first tiny Desktop beautifully straddles the line between cute and badass Framework Desktop hands-on: a possible new direction for gaming desktops ‘We’re nowhere near done with Framework Laptop 16’ says Framework CEO Amazon now has creative control over the James Bond franchise Amazon buys MGM for $8.45 billion From David Smith: The Talk Show Bond Anthology From Daring Fireball: Amazon MGM Studios Takes Creative Control Over James Bond Franchise Xreal’s new glasses are a surprisingly good TV for your face The smart glasses era is here — I got a first look Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

AI will fix everything, right? In this episode, friend of The Verge (and Waveform co-host) David Imel joins Nilay and David to talk all about Alexa Plus, and the AI-powered voice assistant Amazon thinks can do everything from turn on your lights to order your friend an Uber. The hosts also talk about the other gadgets of the week, from the wild new Sigma BF camera to the boring iPhone 16E. Finally, in the lightning round, they talk about TikTok becoming YouTube and YouTube becoming TikTok and Instagram becoming YouTube and TikTok, plus the latest in Brendan Carr being a dummy and what's coming next from Automattic, DOGE, and everything. Further reading: Amazon Alexa Plus Event 2025: live updates and product announcements Amazon announces AI upgrade for Alexa Amazon’s Alexa Plus’ AI upgrades cost $19.99, but it’s free with Prime  Amazon is launching Alexa.com and new app for Alexa Plus  Alexa engagement continues to grow. Alexa Plus leaves behind Amazon’s earliest Echo devices Sigma’s BF is a minimalist full-frame camera with no memory card slot iPhone 16E review: Eh, it’s alright Framework’s first tiny Desktop beautifully straddles the line between cute and badass More than 1 billion people are now watching podcasts on YouTube every month Instagram’s Reels may get its own app From TechCrunch: In challenge to YouTube, TikTok revamps its desktop platform Someone flooded HUD HQ TVs with an AI-generated video of Trump and Musk. Bluesky banned this video Elon Musk claims federal employees have 48 hours to explain recent work or resign DOGE asks federal workers to justify their recent work or resign. Donald Trump and Elon Musk threaten to ‘semi-fire’ workers who don’t answer email Amy Gleason officially named as DOGE administrator Apple responds to tariff threat with a $500 billion US investment plan Trump shed some light on his meeting with Tim Cook. Starlink poised to take over $2.4 billion contract to overhaul air traffic control communication FCC to brief lawmakers on George Soros investigation in closed-door meeting FCC Chairman Brendan Carr Probes iHeartMedia Over How it Pays Musicians FCC Chair Brendan Carr taking first steps in eroding key legal protection enjoyed by Big Tech Automattic combines its Beeper and Texts.com messaging services Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2025

Robotaxis: in. EVs: Out? The Verge's Andy Hawkins joins the show to talk about the goings-on in the transportation industry, including the reasons car makers are slowing down on EV production (but not giving up entirely) and why suddenly everyone's back in on robotaxis. Then, The Social Web Foundation's Evan Prodromou tells us what's new with the fediverse. We talk about Bluesky, Threads, Mastodon, and the increasingly ambitious plans for the ActivityPub protocol. Finally, we talk through some feedback on last week's episode about the pricing of the iPhone 16E, and how the way you buy your phone changes the way you feel about its price. Further reading: EV truck maker Nikola goes bust Senate Republicans introduce bills to make EVs more expensive Volkswagen claims it’s actually making that $20,000 EV and will show it next month Ford lost $5 billion on EVs in 2024, teases new models Lyft eyes robotaxi launch in 2026 Uber to Austin: get ready for Waymo The fediverse, explained: Mastodon, Threads, and the open future of social networking Flipboard’s Surf app is a feed reader for the fediverse Tumblr’s fediverse integration might finally happen soon. The Social Web Foundation Apple launches the iPhone 16E Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

Lots of gadget news this week! David, Jake Kastrenakes, and Allison Johnson start by talking about the iPhone 16E, which is both the cheapest compelling iPhone in a long time and a deeply odd addition to Apple's phone lineup. They also discuss the end of the Humane AI Pin, the latest from the Rabbit R1, and whether AI gadgets are even going to be a thing. After that, it's time for the lightning round: David and Jake talk about Amazon Chime, Mira Murati's new startup, and the future of James Bond. Then, in a special DOGE lightning round, Lauren Feiner joins the show to discuss everything happening with Trump, Musk, DOGE, and the US government. Because there's a lot of it. Further reading: Apple launches the iPhone 16E 8 important things to know about the iPhone 16E The iPhone is done with home buttons — here’s why I’ll miss it Verge staffers react to the iPhone 16E: what we love and don’t love Apple no longer sells new iPhones with Lightning ports How the new iPhone 16E compares to the rest of Apple’s iPhone 16 lineup Apple’s first in-house iPhone modem is the C1 Oppo Find N5 review: the final evolution of foldables The world’s thinnest foldable phone doesn’t come cheap Humane is shutting down the AI Pin and selling its remnants to HP The Humane AI Pin never had a chance Rabbit shows off the AI agent it should have launched with Amazon’s revamped Alexa might launch over a month after its announcement event Microsoft announces quantum computing breakthrough with Majorana 1 chip A death knell for Chime Mira Murati launches rival to OpenAI called Thinking Machines Lab The New York Times adopts AI tools in the newsroom Amazon now has creative control over the James Bond franchise Spotify’s HiFi streaming could finally arrive this year Treasury inspector general will investigate DOGE payments access | The Verge Trump threatens 25 percent ‘and higher’ tariff on chips. Acer is the first to raise laptop prices because of Trump Trump issues an executive order claiming more oversight of independent agencies like the FTC and FCC. Trump administration cancels approval for NYC congestion pricing. DOGE’s alleged cost-cutting achievements included a few extra zeroes. A SpaceX team is being brought in to overhaul FAA’s air traffic control system Trump admin pulls hundreds of videos from CFPB’s YouTube channel DOGE can keep accessing government data for now, judge rules Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2025

This episode is all about companies in flux. First, we chat with The Verge's Alex Heath about all things Meta — whether the company is still serious about the metaverse, why its AI plans seem to be going so well, what "OG Facebook" really means, and what headsets to expect this year. After that, The Verge's Chris Welch takes us through the last year at Sonos, from the disastrous app launch to the pretty good headphones that were totally derailed by the disastrous app launch. Can the company get it together in order to launch its next big swing, a set-top box codenamed Pinewood? Finally, we answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline all about business cards. Because, yes, it's 2025, but sometimes you still need a place to put a business card. Further reading: Mark Zuckerberg tells Meta employees to ‘buckle up’ in internal meeting Meta says this is the make or break year for the metaverse Meta’s Ray-Bans smart glasses sold more than 1 million units last year Meta’s AR / VR hardware roadmap through 2027 Meta CTO says the company is working to ‘catch’ leakers Zuck wants to bring the “OG Facebook” back. The Sonos app fiasco: how a great audio brand nearly ruined its reputation Sonos CEO Patrick Spence steps down after disastrous app launch Sonos’ interim CEO hits all the right notes in first letter to employees Sonos Arc Ultra review: don’t call it a comeback (yet) Sonos Ace review: was it worth it? | The Verge After a bruising year, Sonos readies its next big thing: a streaming box Adobe Scan Email us at [email protected] or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025