The Vergecast

AI agents are creeping into every corner of Windows, sparking debates on reliability and consumer backlash. Meanwhile, Google's Gemini 3 showcases ambitious multimodal capabilities, potentially reshaping search forever. The hosts unpack a significant ruling on Meta's monopoly status, emphasizing its implications for TikTok and the future of social media. They also explore the viability of Linux as an alternative for users wary of AI integration. Finally, a lightning round discussion covers domain name controversies and smart home advancements.

Cory Doctorow, a renowned author and technology activist, dives into the concept of 'enshittification,' explaining how platforms degrade user experience over time. He argues that fixing issues isn't about individual boycotts but rather requires systemic change through policy and organizing. The discussion touches on the need for regulatory reforms, local-first software solutions, and the influence of geopolitics on tech alternatives. Doctorow also highlights the potential for small apps to disrupt monopolies and enhance user data ownership.

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.

Joanna Stern, a senior columnist at The Wall Street Journal known for her insights on consumer tech and AI, joins the hosts to discuss the resurgence of Valve in the gaming console arena. They dive into Joanna's testing of the Neo humanoid robot, evaluating its kitchen capabilities and the current limits of robotics. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of smart home technology and the challenges of AI, provoking thoughts on whether its future will mirror the transformative nature of the App Store.

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, a smart-home reporter from The Verge, joins David for an engaging smart home makeover. They dissect room-by-room upgrades, tackling the challenges of merging Android and iOS devices. From recommending a Matter-compatible Bosch fridge and fun gadgets like the GE Profile Nugget Ice Maker to creating cozy lighting with Philips Hue in the living room, their synergy shines. Jen also shares tips for air quality in the bedroom and smart solutions for kids’ rooms, all while emphasizing practical and stylish choices for a connected home.

Joining the discussion are Allison Johnson, a tech journalist with insider experience at Amazon, and Sean O’Kane, a consumer hardware expert. They dive into the ambitious yet flawed Fire Phone, analyzing its features like the dynamic perspective and Firefly's shopping integration. The guests explore Jeff Bezos' vision, the awkward launch event, and why a premium strategy backfired. They also reflect on missed opportunities with Alexa and consider what a budget version could have achieved. Ultimately, they question if the Fire Phone could have succeeded under different circumstances.

Amazon is battling Perplexity over the future of AI-driven shopping. The hosts explore how browsers might change power dynamics online, and whether device interfaces will favor smartphones or AI models. Apple's rumored cheaper Mac raises discussions on the company's consumer laptop strategy, while nostalgia for the colorful iBook resurfaces. In a lightning round, they dive into YouTube's ambitions, cybersecurity plans, and a quirky game of sonic logos that highlights branding through sound.

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, a tech journalist and smart-home reviewer for The Verge, joins the conversation equipped with insights and solutions for your smart home dilemmas. She dives into why Apple lags behind in the smart home race and explains the pros and cons of popular smart devices, including faucets and smoke alarms. Discover essentials for starting a smart home on a budget and whether to stick to one ecosystem. Tune in for practical tips to navigate your tech frustrations!

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.

Delve into the fascinating realm of AI as Adobe revolutionizes creative tools with new features for Photoshop and Premiere Pro. Explore the implications of OpenAI's shift to for-profit and its partnership with Microsoft, including a tongue-in-cheek look at AGI verification. The conversation flows into the creator economy's precarious future amid the rush of AI-generated content on platforms like Meta and TikTok. Wrapping up, enjoy rapid discussions on Cybertruck recalls, the enigmatic Trump Phone, and the rise of ads in unexpected places.