The Vergecast Our hottest and coldest 2025 takes
84 snips
Dec 8, 2024 
In this lively discussion, guest Joanna Stern, a Wall Street Journal columnist and consumer tech expert, joins the hosts to share bold predictions for 2025. Topics include the potential acquisition of TikTok by Walmart and the fragmented future of social media. They debate the fate of smart home devices, tackling everything from algorithm control to the skepticism surrounding smart tech's trajectory. With humor and insight, they bounce ideas about AI advancements and the tech landscape's evolution, all while keeping an eye on who will score the most accurate predictions.
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Alexa's Wild Robot Surprise
- Neeli Patel's mom's Alexa played audio clips from "The Wild Robot" after setting timers.
- His mom was confused, but his daughter loved it, highlighting the challenge of universal design in ambient computing.
Walmart Acquires TikTok
- Neeli Patel predicts Walmart might buy TikTok due to limited options and Trump's deal-making tendencies.
- Other tech giants face antitrust concerns, and TikTok's primary function is now shopping.
AI Gadget Breakthrough
- David Pierce predicts a successful AI gadget will emerge in 2025.
- He suggests it could be new Meta glasses or AirPods, but not the Rabbit R2 or Humane AI Pin.