

The Vergecast
The Verge
The Vergecast is the flagship podcast from The Verge about small gadgets, Big Tech, and everything in between. Every Friday, hosts Nilay Patel and David Pierce hang out and make sense of the week’s most important technology news. And every Tuesday, David leads a selection of The Verge’s expert staffers in an exploration of how gadgets and software affect our lives – and which ones you should bring into yours.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 14, 2021 • 36min
Everyone will be able to clone their voice in the future
James Vincent, a Senior reporter at The Verge focusing on AI and machine learning, joins the discussion on the fascinating world of voice cloning. They dive into how advancements in technology allow for easy voice synthesis, revolutionizing fields like podcasting and advertising. The conversation touches on the ethical implications, including potential misuse and concerns over creative integrity. Vincent and his colleagues explore the innovative applications of this technology, striking a balance between its benefits and the possible risks tied to voice identity.

Sep 11, 2021 • 46min
Epic v. Apple judge rules that Apple must allow other forms of in-app purchases
Adi Robertson, a Technology journalist at The Verge and expert on the Epic v. Apple trial, joins the discussion on a landmark court ruling. The highlights include the judge's critical view of Apple's in-app purchase policies and the implications for developers regarding alternative payment methods. They delve into the challenges of defining monopolistic behavior and how this ruling may influence future app store regulations. The conversation also addresses Apple's security justifications and ongoing tensions with Epic Games, hinting at a lengthy legal saga ahead.

Sep 10, 2021 • 1h 28min
Facebook debuts Ray-Ban smart glasses / Apple’s iPhone 13 event will take place on September 14th / Amazon announces its first-ever lineup of smart TVs
In this engaging discussion, Alex Cranz and Alex Heath share insights on Facebook's Ray-Ban smart glasses, exploring their features, privacy concerns, and market reception. They dive into the excitement surrounding Apple's upcoming iPhone 13 launch, speculating on new camera tech and features. Amazon's debut of its smart TV lineup also sparks conversation about market competition and user experience. The duo discusses the broader implications of hardware challenges in tech, highlighting how these developments influence consumer habits and privacy perceptions.

Sep 3, 2021 • 1h 16min
Microsoft announces Surface event for Sept. 22nd / Apple concedes to let apps link to the web sign up / iPhone 13 could have satellite connectivity
Apple is revising its App Store policies, allowing developers like Netflix and Spotify to link directly to their websites. This comes amidst regulatory scrutiny and settlement talks. Meanwhile, excitement is building for Microsoft's upcoming Surface event, with rumors of a new device design. The iPhone 13 might feature satellite connectivity for emergencies, adding to the buzz surrounding Apple's latest innovations. As tech giants navigate legal changes and market demands, the future of app distribution and device compatibility remains in focus.

Aug 27, 2021 • 1h 30min
OnlyFans' back and forth on adult content ban / Tim Cook’s Apple, ten years later
The discussion kicks off with OnlyFans’ controversial flip-flop on banning adult content, shedding light on the pressures from financial partners. Then, the conversation shifts to a decade under Tim Cook's leadership at Apple, highlighting consumer anticipation for the upcoming iPhone 13 and changes in product innovation. The team also humorously tackles the complexities of vaccine branding, cryptocurrency challenges, and the evolving landscape of augmented reality. Expect a mix of tech insights and light-hearted banter throughout!

Aug 20, 2021 • 1h 37min
Google Pixel 5a review / Facebook's metaverse for work / Apple, Epic, and Google emails
The team digs into the Google Pixel 5a review, praising its affordability and battery life. They discuss Facebook's ambitious metaverse plans and the implications for remote work. A significant T-Mobile data breach shakes up concerns about data security for millions. The conversation shifts to the Apple vs. Epic lawsuit, revealing insights into tech competition. Intel's recent strides in gaming GPUs highlight the evolving landscape of hardware. All this tech chatter is seasoned with humor and personal anecdotes for an entertaining listen.

Aug 13, 2021 • 1h 39min
Samsung announces Galaxy Z Flip 3, Z Fold 3, Watch 4 and Buds 2 / Apple’s controversial new child protection features, explained
Adi Robertson, a Senior reporter at The Verge, dives into the controversy surrounding Apple's new child protection features. She discusses how these features aim to enhance safety yet raise significant privacy concerns. The conversation highlights issues like scanning iCloud photos and the balance between safety and encryption. Additionally, the hosts explore Samsung's innovative Galaxy Z Flip 3 and Z Fold 3, emphasizing their design advancements and the challenges posed by foldable technology in the smartphone market.

Aug 6, 2021 • 1h 33min
Pixel 6 preview / Apple reveals new efforts to fight child abuse imagery
Russell Brandom, Senior reporter at The Verge, shares his expertise on Apple's groundbreaking child abuse imagery detection system. He details how the technology works while balancing privacy concerns with safety measures. The conversation also dives into Google's Pixel 6 preview, highlighting the innovative Tensor chip and how it aims to challenge high-end competitors. With a mix of serious discussions and lighthearted commentary, they navigate pressing tech issues and the ethical implications of privacy in the digital age.

Jul 30, 2021 • 1h 15min
The summer Intel fell behind / earnings for Apple, Google, Samsung / Nothing's Ear 1 earbuds
Dive into the tech chaos! Major companies like Apple and Google show impressive earnings, while Intel struggles in the semiconductor race. The hosts explore the rise of Nothing's Ear 1 earbuds and the potential of Huawei's P50 smartphone. Get a glimpse at the shifting landscape of online advertising and the ongoing challenges in the telecommunications industry. With humor and insight, they tackle everything from foldable tech to the quirks of Kindle devices, keeping you entertained and informed about the latest in tech!

Jul 23, 2021 • 1h 23min
Verizon switches to Android Messages as default RCS / Jeff Bezos goes to space / Biden and Big Tech
Russell Brandom, Policy editor, discusses Biden's tough stance on Facebook's misinformation and the nomination of Jonathan Kanter for the DOJ's antitrust division. Technology journalists Liz Lopato and Joey Roulette dive into Jeff Bezos' recent spaceflight and the fascination surrounding the billionaire space race. They explore Blue Origin's ambitions and how it stacks up against SpaceX. The conversation also touches on Verizon adopting Android Messages for RCS, enhancing mobile communication features and what that means for privacy and tech accountability.


