The Vergecast

Hayden Field, a tech reporter specializing in AI, teams up with Andy Hawkins, an automotive expert, to explore how BYD has outpaced Tesla in the EV market. They discuss BYD's strategic evolution, impressive design upgrades, and unique pricing strategies that make their vehicles desirable on a global scale. The conversation also touches on the implications of Chinese subsidies and their ambitious expansion plans, including a potential U.S. entry. Additionally, Hayden delves into the latest AI breakthroughs, including ChatGPT Health and the societal implications of these innovations.

Apple's new partnership with Google's Gemini AI could finally upgrade Siri, igniting a tech showdown between giants. Meanwhile, lawsuits are piling against Google over adtech practices, with multiple publishers, including Vox Media, joining the fight. As Meta pivots from VR to AI, the decline of Supernatural sparks a debate about the future of consumer VR. They also tackle the dark side of Grok on X, where deepfakes are causing havoc, and wrap up with the latest drama from media giants and a quirky look at the Trump Phone controversy.

This week, Sean Hollister, a Senior reporter at The Verge, reveals the innovative features of Lego’s Smart Brick, exploring its programmable behaviors and the concerns surrounding creativity. He discusses how this tech could redefine play while maintaining its charm. Joining him, Casey Newton, founder of Platformer, dives into his productivity rituals, highlighting the benefits of journaling and task management systems. They share insights on using AI as an assistant for creativity and organization, making productivity both effective and engaging.

Live from CES, the hosts explore the rapid evolution of gadgets and the challenges facing AI and robotics. They discuss the curious vibe of the show, highlight advances in experimental laptop designs, and critique the unclear use cases for AI-branded products. The conversation includes the potential of AR glasses for accessibility, the need for better interoperability standards in smart homes, and a reflection on how tech is integrating into home decor. The excitement culminates with their favorites from the show, including innovative TVs and mobility gadgets.

Technology enthusiasts will love the latest buzz from CES, which showcases an array of innovative robots, including LG's CLOiD and SwitchBot's humanoid models. The hosts critique the practicalities of these gadgets, expressing skepticism about their real-world applications. They also dive into the rise of art TVs, weighing aesthetics against technical specs. Smart home devices are flooding the market, with exciting new features like biometric unlocking. Plus, Lego introduces sensorized Smart Bricks, sparking creativity like never before!

Walt Mossberg, a longstanding tech columnist known for influencing mainstream technology coverage, joins the discussion on the iconic iPhone 4. They delve into its dramatic path to launch, from being lost in a bar to becoming a technological milestone. Topics include the introduction of FaceTime and its implications, the infamous Antennagate scandal, and the ensuing media frenzy. The podcast also reflects on Apple’s approach to secrecy, the iPhone 4's lasting legacy, and even debates what features from the past should be revived today.

Dylan Patel, the founder of SemiAnalysis and an AI infrastructure expert, joins the conversation to dissect the complex dynamics of the RAM market. He reveals how consolidation to three main suppliers—Micron, SK Hynix, and Samsung—has shaped current prices and availability. The discussion dives into the AI data-center boom's unprecedented demand for memory, its implications for consumers, and why new manufacturers are unlikely to emerge. Patel also explores the future of memory technology with insights on 3D DRAM and forecasts for price stabilization.

David Amell, a tech writer at Verge with a knack for wearables, joins the conversation to explore the fascinating journey of Google Glass. They share initial excitement and personal anecdotes about seeing the device in public. The discussion touches on its ambitious origins at Google X, infamous demos, and the rise of the 'glasshole' label amid privacy concerns. The guests reflect on lessons learned and whether Google Glass was ahead of its time, ultimately examining its transition from consumer failure to niche enterprise success.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr's eyebrow-raising testimony at Congress sparks a lively discussion about regulatory power and the absurdity of broadcasting distinctions. The hosts dive into the merging landscapes of YouTube and Netflix, analyzing their shifting roles and the future of streaming. They also critique streaming services' ad strategies and explore the latest tech moves like LG's unwelcome TV feature and Ford's pivot to hybrid vehicles. In the lightning round, they tackle everything from the metaverse to iRobot's antitrust hurdles, wrapping it all in wit and insight.

Join Joe Weisenthal, a Bloomberg markets reporter, as he dives into the fascinating world of prediction markets, exploring the blurry line between gambling and investing. He discusses why sports and elections draw betting interest and the societal implications of a betting-centric culture. Meanwhile, Hayden Field from The Verge unpacks the Model Context Protocol, a breakthrough in AI infrastructure, revealing its potential for transforming how AI functions. Together, they tackle everything from crypto's impact to the future of shopping in AI.