The Vergecast

Microsoft to acquire Activision for $68.7 billion / Google is building an AR headset / The 5G battle between the FAA, AT&T, Verizon, and airlines

Jan 21, 2022

Guests Ash Parrish, a Verge games reporter, shares insights into Microsoft's $68.7 billion acquisition of Activision and its potential game-changing impact on the industry. Alex Heath, a senior reporter at The Verge, discusses Google's ambitious plans for an AR headset amidst challenges. Russell Brandom, the policy editor, analyzes the contentious 5G rollout clashes between aviation and telecom giants. Together, they dive into antitrust issues, exploring how these developments influence the tech landscape.

01:19:20

Episode guests

Russell Brandom

Alex Heath

Ash Parrish

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

2min

Microsoft's Bold Acquisition and Government COVID Test Initiative

2min

Microsoft's Bold Acquisition of Activision Blizzard

2min

Activision Blizzard and Microsoft's Ambitious Deal

16min

Microsoft's Gaming Acquisition Gamble

8min

Navigating Acquisitions and Augmented Reality

5min

Google's Starline and the AR/VR Challenge

12min

Navigating the Future of Augmented Reality and 5G Technology

3min

Tensions Between 5G Rollout and Aviation Safety

15min

10.

Tech Giants Push Back Against Antitrust Legislation

2min

11.

Tech Giants and the Struggle for Fair Competition

8min

12.

Political Dynamics and Big Tech Engagement

2min

Verge editor-in-chief Nilay Patel talks with games reporter Ash Parrish and senior reporter Alex Heath about Microsoft acquiring Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion and Google building a new AR headset.

Policy editor Russell Brandom joins the show to discuss the battle between the FAA, AT&T, Verizon, and airlines over 5G and the antitrust bills in Congress this week.