Accidental Tech Podcast
582: Can’t Render, Fog It
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Apple shifts focus by canceling Apple Car project and exploring micro LED displays.
- Apple partners with Shutterstock for AI training image licensing.
- Introduction of 'Presto' iPhone updating machine for pre-installed OS updates.
- Engaging spatial personas in FaceTime for immersive virtual meetings.
- Tips on buying cars: use negotiation tactics, be assertive, and leverage timing for deals.
- Balancing consumer rights amidst tech companies' control and ownership challenges.
Deep dives
Micro LED Displays and Apple Car Project Cancellation
Apple lays off over 700 employees as they cancel the Apple Car project and reevaluate the development of micro LED displays. The layoffs are known after the company filed WARN notices in California, showcasing a strategic shift within Apple.
AI Training Image License with Shutterstock
Apple strikes a deal with Shutterstock to license millions of images for AI training, aiming to access curated images for AI technologies. The agreement is valued between $25 to $50 million and follows similar deals made by other tech giants like Meta, Google, and Amazon.
In-Box iPhone Updating Machine 'Presto'
Apple introduces 'Presto', an in-box iPhone updating machine that utilizes MagSafe and wireless technologies to apply updates to iPhones before unboxing. The device is being tested in the US and is expected to facilitate iPhones coming pre-installed with the latest OS version post-April.
Impressions of Spatial Personas and FaceTime Calls
Engaging in spatial persona FaceTime calls with Mike Hurley showcases the realism and disconcerting features of the technology. Despite minor issues like persona mouth movements, the experience is lauded for its immersive and realistic representations in virtual meetings.
Buying a Car: Tips for First-Time Buyers
When buying a car, consider using car purchasing services like CarMax for a hassle-free transaction or negotiate with multiple dealers via email for competitive pricing. Ensure you know the invoice price of the car and be prepared to walk away if needed. It's essential to be assertive during the negotiation process and don't be afraid to leave if the terms aren't favorable.
Dealership Negotiation Strategies
Research online tools like Car Edge and watch their free YouTube videos to learn negotiation tactics. Understand when to disclose information like payment method or trade-in during the negotiation process. Be prepared to resist pressure tactics and consider timing to leverage end-of-quarter deals or lease specials for cost savings.
Apple's Control Over Products After Sale
While concerns exist about companies like Apple exerting control over products post-sale, such as software restrictions, the impact on consumers' ownership may vary. Instances like photo scanning could raise privacy concerns, prompting clarification and reversal of policies. Maintaining consumer rights and transparency on device control is crucial.
Manufacturer's Influence on Product Usage
Manufacturers like John Deere's software restrictions on tractor repairs or HP limiting ink compatibility highlight challenges around product ownership. Apple's software control over app installations raises questions on consumer rights. Balancing ownership, usage restrictions, and privacy concerns is vital for consumer protection in an evolving tech landscape.
The Changing Landscape of Electric Vehicle Charging Networks
As the podcast delves into the realm of electric vehicle charging networks, a notable shift is observed in the reliability and accessibility of different charging stations. The discussion highlights the evolution in charging infrastructure, emphasizing the challenges faced by various networks like Electrify America and Tesla's Superchargers. The emerging trend of increasing crowding at charging stations, coupled with a decrease in the reliability of some stations, indicates a pressing need for improved infrastructure and more efficient charging methods to cater to the expanding user base of electric vehicles.
Implications of Tesla's Charging Network Openness
The podcast scrutinizes Tesla's strategic decision to open its charging network to other electric vehicle brands, potentially altering the competitive dynamics within the charging infrastructure industry. The move is analyzed in terms of its impact on Tesla owners' charging experience, as the influx of non-Tesla vehicles at Superchargers may lead to increased congestion and potential frustration for Tesla customers seeking reliable and available charging stations.
Rivian and the Future of Charging Networks
The podcast introduces Rivian's entry into the charging network landscape, highlighting its unique Adventure Charger and compatibility with Tesla Superchargers, providing Rivian owners with more charging options. The discussion sheds light on how the partnership between Rivian and Tesla reflects the evolving dynamics of the charging network industry and the potential challenges and benefits of collaboration between electric vehicle manufacturers to enhance charging infrastructure and support the growing EV market.
- Pre-show: SD-card failures
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- Follow-up:
- The “unpatchable” M-series exploit
- Explanatory video
- Hector Martin found the “chicken bit”
- DMP
- Y’all don’t read the show notes, huh? 😏
- An 🎵 accidental 🎵 rant about the state of podcasting today
- Would a M3-family chip really have no efficiency cores? (via Matthaus Woolard)
- Max Tech’s take on “M4 Ultra” rumors
- Reticle limits
- Apple laying off 700+ workers
- Apple 🤝🏻 Shutterstock
- Apple’s in-box iPhone “Presto” flashing machine
- The “unpatchable” M-series exploit
- Casey has tried Spatial Personas
- Upgrade #507: Differently Social
- Game Room (App Store link)
- Gucci (App Store link)
- Turok
- Ask ATP:
- How does one buy a car? (via Chandler Kent)
- What even is ownership, these days? (via Anonymous)
- Egghead Software
- SimCity copy protection (the red image on the right-hand side)
- Overton Window
- This article says Catalyst is abandoned; is it? (via Jonathan Sibley)
- Post-show: Rivian Bluetooth & Fast-Charging Sitrep
- Members-only ATP Overtime: Apple making robots? 🤖
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