The Vergecast

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.

Joanna Stern, a Senior tech columnist known for her engaging consumer tech insights, joins the hosts to forecast bold predictions for 2026. They dive into the potential arrival of a foldable iPhone and discuss how the EV market might bounce back. Joanna warns about a likely major incident with Waymo that stirs debates on safety, while Nilay speculates on the fate of OpenAI, suggesting its potential collapse. The conversation also touches on the emergence of human-first creator platforms and the possible normalization of AI in everyday tech.

Charlie Harding, a music journalist and co-host of Switched On Pop, dives into the transformative impact of AI on Nashville's country music scene. He explains how AI tools like Suno are revolutionizing songwriting by turning voice memos into polished demos. Expect fascinating insights on AI's role in the creative process, the ethical dilemmas artists face, and even a live demo that turns a simple chorus into a full-fledged country jam. Harding argues that while AI benefits new songwriters, it raises questions for mid-tier creators about their place in an evolving industry.

Joining Nilay and David, Joanna Stern, a senior tech columnist at the Wall Street Journal, dives into a lively discussion about the standout tech moments of 2025. They dissect the successes and failures of products, including a surprising victory from Google Gemini and the disappointment of AI agents. The trio debates the impact of major policy moves on big tech and ruminates on the biggest AI-related scandals of the year. Expect lively opinions on gadget of the year and the buzzwords that should be buried!

Sari Azout, founder of Sublime, a personal library app focused on human-centered design, shares insights on the balance between AI and human creativity. She discusses the nuances of curation, emphasizing the need for intentional design over algorithmic feeds. Sari critiques overhyped AI narratives and describes how AI can enhance, but not replace, human judgment in creation. She also shares her experiences with using AI for brainstorming and workflow, advocating for mission-driven technology that enriches personal connections.

The hosts kick things off with their frustrations over TV tech, before diving into Samsung's innovative trifold phone. They explore big design changes at Apple and Meta, sparking a discussion on the future of smart glasses. A 'code red' declaration at OpenAI shifts focus back to ChatGPT as competition heats up with Google's Gemini. Debates ensue on whether current language models are sufficient for true intelligence, alongside insights on the need for practical product development over grand ambitions. They also highlight new trends in holiday gadgets and thermostat innovations.