Down Round

On Down Round, we make many predictions. Almost all of them are correct. For this episode, we have used the power of AI to forensically audit a representative sample of episodes over the last year, with the goal of answering the question: just how right were we?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join a hilarious Shark Tank-style session where your startup pitches meet a panel of witty judges. Explore the amusing escapades of renting pools through Swimply and the chaotic logistics behind it. Dive into a quirky concept that mixes funeral planning with car negotiation tactics, blending humor with heartfelt discussions. Engage in lively debates about AI’s potential in improving relationship dynamics. Finally, discover the absurdities of food labeling standards and the hilarious costs tied to regulations, all in a playful and entertaining banter.

This is part two of our annual Xmas spectacular, and we continue to answer your questions. To hear the rest, sign up to premium: downround.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is part one of our annual Xmas spectacular, and we are answering your burning questions. Is AI a bust? Why is a company called AppLovin worth more than 100 billion dollars? Has Raph watched any movies in 2024? An insane prank. Subscribe for part 2, which is out now: downround.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apple's late entry into AI is generating buzz with features like writing tools and image generation, but there's skepticism about its impact. The discussion highlights Apple's strategic pivot and its response to competitors like ChatGPT. Humorous critiques emerge around AI image applications and the quirks of automated email sorting. A comparison of Apple and Microsoft's AI strategies reveals a landscape of competition and innovation. The future of tech models and subscription perks are also explored, prompting thoughts on what's next for Apple in the AI realm.

Cam Wilson, a Crikey reporter and associate editor, dives into Australia's new law banning social media for those under 16. He discusses the legislation's motivations tied to mental health and enforcement challenges, comparing it to global standards. The conversation raises ethical questions about protecting youth while balancing their digital rights. Cam humorously debates whether this ban will truly shield children or just push them towards unregulated platforms, tackling the complexities of age verification and privacy along the way.

This is a free preview of a premium episode. To subscribe to Down Round Premium and get access, head here. Crypto is back. The industry is excited by the forthcoming Trump presidency and what it means for their little online coins. Bitcoin just hit $100,000. But the mood is a little different this time. There's less pontification on the future of money and finance, less attempts at making art and culture, and a whole lot more brazen bag-pumping and sweaty gambling.  In this ep, we talk about the current crypto surge, and what it means for you and your family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The hosts hilariously navigate the ups and downs of crowdfunding, highlighting the 'silly season' that disrupts productivity. They explore the electrifying rise of Kickstarter, revealing both the dreams and harsh realities of failed projects. Cautionary tales of ambitious tech campaigns draw laughs and gasps, while the struggles of space simulators spark lively debate. In a lighthearted twist, they unveil an innovative podcast player proposal, showcasing the quirky side of funding challenges in the ever-evolving crowdfunding landscape.

The Justice Department is pushing for Google to sell Chrome, igniting a discussion on browser dynamics and digital privacy. The hosts humorously debate nootropics versus energy drinks while exploring Google's monopolistic grip on the market. They delve into the ARK browser's unique features and its rise and fall in popularity. Nostalgic reflections on early internet culture spark a conversation about the future of web browsers, especially with AI's growing influence on user experience.

The the wake of the US election and the increasingly weird vibe on X, there has been yet another exodus of users to the promised land of "any text-based timeline but Twitter". That means people are talking about Bluesky again. In this episode, we revisit the erstwhile decentralised social media platform and check in on its progress, asking the question on everyone's lips: does it have the juice? Also, prices of Down Round Premium are sensibly increasing in line with Australian PPP. But we're offering the current pricing for yearly subs for the next couple of weeks. Subscribe here.      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.