Nilay Patel

Joanna Stern, a technology columnist for The Wall Street Journal, and Nilay Patel, editor-in-chief of The Verge, dive deep into Apple’s WWDC 2025 announcements. They discuss Siri's evolution and the challenges it faces in a competitive landscape filled with new AI players. The duo also analyze Apple's innovative tools for developers, emphasizing the implications of new coding capabilities. Reflecting on Apple’s design evolution, they share insights on the balance between user familiarity and innovative features in devices like the iPhone.

Nilay Patel, a senior technology editor, and Joanna Stern, a tech columnist and BlackBerry enthusiast, dive into the fascinating history of BlackBerry Messenger (BBM). They discuss how BBM revolutionized mobile messaging, introducing features like real-time delivery and group chats back in 2005. The duo reflects on its cultural impact, cross-platform dilemmas, and the operational issues that led to its decline. With engaging anecdotes and sharp insights, they explore whether BBM could have thrived today and what modern apps might learn from its legacy.

Nilay Patel, Editor-in-chief of The Verge, is joined by Andy Hawkins, Verge's transportation editor, to discuss the complex interplay between politics and electric vehicles. They unravel how a potential second Trump term could hinder EV adoption yet paradoxically benefit Tesla. The duo explores Musk's political ties, the impact of tariffs on the auto industry, and the shifting landscape for traditional automakers versus emerging EV startups. It's a fascinating look at how technology, climate policy, and market dynamics intertwine in this rapidly evolving sector.

Nilay Patel, a technology journalist known for his insights on product design, and Victoria Song, a Verge contributor with a passion for consumer tech, dive into the intriguing history of Microsoft's Zune. They discuss how the Zune boasted unique features like Wi-Fi and music sharing, but ultimately faltered in the market. Listeners will enjoy tales of personal experiences with the device, its ambitious ecosystem strategy, and even the infamous leap-year bug. Patel and Song also ponder what could have been if the Zune were reimagined today.

Joanna Stern, a technology columnist known for her engaging consumer tech commentary, and Nilay Patel, a tech journalist with deep insights into messaging history, dive into the fascinating story of BlackBerry Messenger. They explore how BBM revolutionized texting with features like read receipts and group chats, its peak popularity, the cultural impact among users, and eventual decline as competitors arose. The duo also discusses missed opportunities and what BlackBerry could have done differently to maintain its relevance in the tech landscape.

Nilay Patel, a veteran technology writer, and Victoria Song, a tech journalist with a knack for user experiences, delve into Microsoft’s Zune. They explore how Zune boasted WiFi, an elegant UI, and social features but ultimately faltered against the iPod. The duo shares personal anecdotes about its quirky design and marketing while dissecting Zune's technical limitations, flawed software, and the impact of smartphones. They also ponder what could have turned the Zune into a success and its lasting cultural echoes.

Nilay Patel, a tech journalist with expertise in consumer software, and Sarah Jeong, a legal commentator focused on copyright, delve into the history of LimeWire and its impact on music sharing. They explore LimeWire's rise post-Napster and discuss key legal battles that transformed copyright law. The conversation touches on LimeWire's pivot attempts after court rulings, the music industry's reaction, and how the service's design contributed to its popularity among college students. Ultimately, they ponder LimeWire's legacy and what a reboot might look like today.

Nilay Patel, Editor-in-chief of The Verge, reveals how Barnes & Noble transformed from a struggling giant into a community hub and bright spot in retail. Brendan Ballou, author of "Plunder," discusses the dual role of private equity, highlighting both revitalization and ethical concerns in American industries. They dive into the lessons learned from failures like the Nook e-reader, emphasizing the importance of local engagement in today’s book market. The conversation uncovers the intricate dance between profit and genuine literary passion.

Nilay Patel, Editor-in-Chief of The Verge, dives into the profound impact of AI on pop culture. He discusses how AI-generated music and imagery are reshaping the entertainment landscape. The conversation explores the disruption of Google’s dominance in online search, the shift towards AI-driven functionalities, and how platforms like TikTok are transforming the consumption of culture. Patel emphasizes the need to embrace these changes while addressing concerns over creativity and content quality.

Nilay Patel, Editor-in-Chief of The Verge and host of the Decoder podcast, talks with Jon about Elon Musk’s newest and thorniest business venture: purchasing Twitter. In a recent article, “Welcome to Hell, Elon,” Patel describes the quandary that awaits the Tesla founder and argues that Musk has made a historic mistake. He joins Offline to talk Musks’ misguided free speech promises, the limits of technical solutions to political problems, and the hubris of an internet troll-turned-King Twit. For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.