Alex Heath, a tech journalist from The Verge specializing in Meta, discusses the company's shaky commitment to the metaverse and its surprising success in AI. He also reflects on the future of their hardware, including new headsets and smart glasses. Meanwhile, Chris Welch dives into Sonos's tumultuous year, marked by a disastrous app launch and leadership changes, as they attempt to reposition themselves in a competitive market. They explore the potential of Sonos's upcoming set-top box, Pinewood, amidst ongoing challenges.

The Verge's Victoria Song joins the show to talk about her year of testing smart rings, and which of the many new options is the one you should buy. Then Chris Welch takes us through his testing of the new hearing health features for Apple's AirPods, including the surprisingly intense hearing test you can take right on your phone. Finally, Andrew Webster helps us answer a question on the Vergecast Hotline: why doesn't Apple buy Nintendo, and what would happen if it did?Further reading: We tested six smart rings, and there’s a clear winner Oura Ring 4 review: still on top — for now Apple’s AirPods Pro hearing health features are as good as they sound Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 could forever change how people access hearing aids Super Mario Run hands-on: like Mario, just simpler Microsoft’s Phil Spencer says acquiring Nintendo would be ‘a career moment’ Email us at vergecast@theverge.com or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Welch, a tech reporter at The Verge specializing in consumer electronics, dives into the heated legal battle between Sonos and Google. He shares insights on a judge's ruling against Sonos, frustrating the company and shaking its future in a competitive audio market. The conversation also touches on Sonos's resilience and commitment to smaller companies against Google's dominance. Additionally, they explore exciting advancements in mixed reality, the evolution of Threads as a competitor to X, and the implications of recent tech developments.

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, a smart home expert at The Verge, dives into the latest innovations in smart home technology, including advancements in smart locks and video doorbells. She discusses the impact of giants like Google and Apple on user experiences amid interoperability challenges. Chris Welch reviews cutting-edge earbuds, comparing sound quality and microphone performance in lively settings. They explore how these technologies transform home management and evolve with consumer needs, making everyday life both easier and more secure.

Chris Welch reviews the new Sonos Ace headphones, detailing their impressive sound quality and performance. He dives into features like noise cancelation, comparing them to competitors. Stacy Spikes, CEO of MoviePass, shares the gripping story of the company's rise and fall, exploring the pitfalls of corporate greed. Finally, Jennifer Pattison Tuohy answers a pressing question about smart home gadgets for renters, focusing on innovative solutions like smart locks that make home automation more accessible.

Victoria Song, a Google products expert, Allison Johnson, a consumer electronics specialist, and Chris Welch, a mobile tech analyst, dive into Google's latest gadget reveals. They discuss the exciting features of the Pixel 9, the upgraded Pixel Watch 3, and the promising Pixel Buds Pro 2. The trio explores quirks of folding phones and Google's shift from Chromecast to a new streaming device. With a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism, they also highlight innovations in AI and the evolving landscape of fitness tech.

In this engaging discussion, Makena Kelly, a Reporter at The Verge covering tech policy, dives into the complexities of a potential TikTok ban and its implications. Allison Johnson, also from The Verge, explores the evolving Android smartphone market, highlighting key players and innovations. Chris Welch tackles the world of consumer electronics, advocating that now is the perfect time to invest in an OLED TV. The trio brings insightful perspectives on privacy concerns, market dynamics, and the future of technology.

Adi Robertson, a staff writer at The Verge, dives into Meta's innovative VR prototypes, highlighting their ambition for high-resolution displays and the intersection of virtual and augmented reality. Chris Welch evaluates various wireless earbuds, revealing insights on call quality and microphone performance in real-world tests. Alex Cranz shares his vision of the perfect e-ink device, discussing potential features and advancements to transform the e-reading experience. Tune in for engaging tech discussions and imaginative device concepts!

In this engaging discussion, Chris Welch, a tech reporter with a knack for gadgets, and Will Poor, a producer with a focus on repair rights, explore the new iPad Pro featuring an OLED display. They debate whether the iPad can really replace a MacBook, breaking down its impressive capabilities while weighing user concerns. Additionally, they tackle Sonos' controversial new app and exciting product releases, and delve into the complexities of the right to repair movement, contrasting experiences between Apple Stores and independent techs.

Tom Warren, Senior Editor at The Verge and an expert on Microsoft, teams up with Chris Welch, Reviews Editor known for his tech insights. They dive into Microsoft's ambitious entry into the metaverse with 3D avatars and immersive meetings. The duo dissects the Beats Fit Pro, highlighting its sound quality and sporty design compared to AirPods. They also touch on Apple's software chief's strong stance against sideloading, raising questions about security and app management in the evolving digital marketplace.