The Vergecast

Allison Johnson and Dominic Preston from The Verge share their insights on the innovative smartphone designs showcased at Mobile World Congress 2025, including bold camera concepts and AI integration. Kevin Rose and Justin Mezzell discuss reviving Digg, highlighting the role of AI in creating more engaging social networks while reminiscing about its influential past. They explore how modern tech can foster better community interactions, blending nostalgia with innovative strategies for user engagement.

The discussion kicks off with the latest updates on Apple’s new iPads and MacBook Air, featuring insights on the M3 chip. The hosts humorously dissect the tech market and Apple’s marketing strategies. They also reflect on the nostalgic return of Dig and the decline of Skype post-Microsoft acquisition. Plus, there's chatter about tariffs affecting consumer prices, including a deep dive into the state of video conferencing tools. Finally, the innovative trend of smartphone accessories for photography captures the imagination as the tech landscape evolves.

Nirav Patel, CEO of Framework, discusses their latest upgradable products, like the Laptop 12, emphasizing sustainability in tech. John Gruber, renowned writer, dives into Amazon's recent control of the James Bond franchise, pondering its future and the risks of creative dilution. The duo tackles the complexities of modern filmmaking while considering the evolution of iconic characters. They also explore smart glasses as an innovative alternative to traditional monitors, questioning their practicality and user experience.

David Imel, co-host of the Waveform Podcast, joins the discussion to explore Amazon's AI-powered Alexa Plus. The conversation highlights its smart capabilities for everyday tasks like ride bookings. They also dive into the competitive landscape of AI voice assistants, touching on user adoption challenges. Additionally, the latest camera innovations, including Sigma's minimalist BF model, bring a quirky flair to the tech talk. Finally, the lightning round critiques changes in social media platforms and their impact on user experience.

Transportation reporter Andy Hawkins shares insights on the current shift in the electric vehicle industry, spotlighting the slowing pace of EV production and the renewed interest in robotaxis. He discusses why legacy automakers are struggling to adapt, especially against the backdrop of rising competition from Chinese manufacturers. Meanwhile, Evan Prodromou reveals updates on the ActivityPub protocol and the evolution of the fediverse, discussing platforms like Mastodon and Bluesky, and sharing thoughts on the future of decentralized social networking.

Lauren Feiner, a technology journalist focused on tech and politics, joins the discussion about the iPhone 16E, described as an unusual but compelling budget option. The hosts explore the demise of the Humane AI Pin, the latest in AI gadgets, and Amazon Chime's closure. In a lively lightning round, they cover topics like Trump, Musk, and the chaotic intersection of Dogecoin and government. Their banter brings humor to serious tech developments while highlighting the challenges within the industry.

Alex Heath, a tech journalist from The Verge specializing in Meta, discusses the company's shaky commitment to the metaverse and its surprising success in AI. He also reflects on the future of their hardware, including new headsets and smart glasses. Meanwhile, Chris Welch dives into Sonos's tumultuous year, marked by a disastrous app launch and leadership changes, as they attempt to reposition themselves in a competitive market. They explore the potential of Sonos's upcoming set-top box, Pinewood, amidst ongoing challenges.

Lauren Feiner, a policy reporter focusing on tech and government, joins to give insight into Elon Musk's surprising bid to buy OpenAI's nonprofit arm. She discusses how Musk manipulates government information into engaging yet perplexing content. The conversation also explores the future of DOGE, regulatory challenges in tech, and the public's changing perceptions of AI. They touch on everything from the chaotic landscape of AI ethics to Spotify's impact on how we consume media, proving that technology intertwines with every facet of our lives.

Join Kylie Robison, an AI reporter at The Verge renowned for her in-depth analysis, and Liz Lopato, tech reporter specializing in Elon Musk's ventures. They dive into ChatGPT's costly new features—Operator and deep research—and weigh their worth for users. The conversation shifts to Musk’s influence on Dogecoin and the government's inner workings. Both guests highlight the intertwining of AI and politics while sharing their mixed feelings about technology’s reliability and impact on research.

Dive into a whirlwind of tech and politics where Elon Musk's antics in government raise eyebrows and questions. Navigate the complex tariff landscape affecting businesses and consumer costs, all while the streaming wars heat up with lighthearted banter about Tubi and Fox's strategies. Explore the latest tech innovations like Sonos's new streaming box and OpenAI's logo refresh. Plus, enjoy humorous takes on marketing mishaps and the impact of misinformation. It's a rollercoaster of insights and giggles in the ever-evolving digital landscape!