The Vergecast The internet really is a series of tubes
Apr 16, 2024
Join Josh Dzieza, a Verge reporter who investigated the undersea cable industry, as he reveals the hidden world that keeps our internet connected. He discusses the laborious process of laying and maintaining these vital cables. Tom Warren and Joanna Nelius dive into the competitive future of Arm chips in laptops, with Microsoft aiming to surpass Apple’s performance. Meanwhile, Alex Cranz answers listener inquiries about the latest in e-readers, spotlighting new Kobo devices and offering tips on the best e-readers available now.
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Combating Gadget Boredom
- David Pierce explains how he combats gadget boredom by modifying existing devices instead of buying new ones.
- He suggests changing cases, wallpapers, and watch faces to create a sense of novelty.
Undersea Cables
- The internet relies on a vast network of undersea cables, which are more fragile and crucial than most people realize.
- Josh Dzieza's reporting reveals a hidden industry responsible for maintaining these cables.
Internet's Physical Form
- Undersea cables are surprisingly tube-like, resembling garden hoses containing fiber optic cables.
- Lasers transmit data through these glass strands, connecting continents.