Russell Brandom, a Reporter focusing on broadband, discusses a major study revealing the stark reality of U.S. internet access and costs, highlighting the dilemmas posed by monopolistic practices. Meanwhile, Alex Cranz, Managing Editor with expertise in e-readers, reflects on the Kindle's 15-year journey, examining its successes and missed opportunities for innovation. They delve into the limitations of current e-ink technology and the Kindle Scribe’s mixed reception as both a writing tool and e-reader, provoking thoughts about the future of digital reading.

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.

Alex MacCaw, founder of Reflect and remote work advocate from a sailboat, shares his unique challenges sailing the seas while staying productive. Thomas Ricker, the Verge's deputy editor, dives into his reviews of outdoor tech like the Jackery Solar Generator, essential for off-grid work. Russell Brandom discusses the evolving landscape of satellite internet through Starlink, revealing the complexities of rural connectivity. Together, they explore the freedom and tech of remote work, blended with adventure and the great outdoors.

Russell Brandom, Senior reporter at The Verge, shares his expertise on Apple's groundbreaking child abuse imagery detection system. He details how the technology works while balancing privacy concerns with safety measures. The conversation also dives into Google's Pixel 6 preview, highlighting the innovative Tensor chip and how it aims to challenge high-end competitors. With a mix of serious discussions and lighthearted commentary, they navigate pressing tech issues and the ethical implications of privacy in the digital age.

Russell Brandom, Policy editor, discusses Biden's tough stance on Facebook's misinformation and the nomination of Jonathan Kanter for the DOJ's antitrust division. Technology journalists Liz Lopato and Joey Roulette dive into Jeff Bezos' recent spaceflight and the fascination surrounding the billionaire space race. They explore Blue Origin's ambitions and how it stacks up against SpaceX. The conversation also touches on Verizon adopting Android Messages for RCS, enhancing mobile communication features and what that means for privacy and tech accountability.

Adi Robertson, a senior reporter at The Verge, Russell Brandom, the policy editor, and Casey Newton, a contributing editor and author, delve into the FTC's bold lawsuit against Facebook regarding its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp. They dissect the legal implications of antitrust scrutiny and the future of competition in tech. The discussion also touches on user experiences with intertwined messaging services, the growing public dissatisfaction with Facebook, and the broader impact of regulatory actions on the tech landscape.

Russell Brandom, a technology reporter for The Verge, dives into the unusual bipartisan lawsuit against Google spearheaded by Bill Barr and Elizabeth Warren. They discuss the allegations of Google's market dominance and the potential impact on innovation and competition. Brandom highlights the politically charged motivation behind the lawsuit, analyzing if it's a genuine regulatory effort or a pre-election strategy. The conversation reveals surprising alliances in tackling big tech monopolies and what this landmark case could mean for consumers.

Adi Robertson and Russell Brandom, both technology reporters at The Verge, dive into a significant congressional antitrust report scrutinizing Amazon, Facebook, Apple, and Google. They explore the implications of tech monopolies and the urgent need for regulatory reform. Dan Seifert joins to chat about Apple's upcoming iPhone reveal, discussing the buzz around new features and designs. The conversation wraps up with an engaging look at Google's ongoing legal battle with Oracle over copyright and fair use.

In this discussion, guest Russell Brandom, a Senior Reporter at The Verge specializing in security and technology, dives into the staggering implications of the recent Twitter hack affecting high-profile accounts. The team uncovers the absurdities of a Bitcoin scam that erupted from this breach and its impact on cybersecurity. They also tackle the potential U.S. ban on TikTok, driven by privacy concerns, highlighting the platform's political influence. Additionally, they critique NBC's new streaming service, Peacock, and its attempt to blend traditional TV with modern streaming.

Joining the discussion is Russell Brandom, a technology reporter with a focus on security and encryption. He dives into Apple's encryption controversy, analyzing the tension between user privacy and government requests for access. The chatter also reveals intriguing details about the hacking of Jeff Bezos's phone, shedding light on vulnerabilities in messaging apps. Additionally, the shift in Sonos's support for older products raises ethical questions about consumer rights and the lifecycle of tech devices, sparking thoughts on sustainability in the tech industry.