The Vergecast

Tom Warren, Senior Editor at The Verge and a gaming expert, joins the hosts to discuss the Xbox Series X, Series S, and PS5 reviews. They analyze the impressive gaming features like Quick Resume and the PS5's innovative controller design. The conversation also touches on the challenges of console availability amid the pandemic and the impact of storage limitations. Additionally, excitement builds around Apple's upcoming event featuring new Macs with ARM chips, highlighting how this transition could reshape user experiences and performance.

Adi Robertson, a Senior reporter at The Verge with expertise in tech policy, joins the discussion on how social media platforms are grappling with misinformation during the election. The team delves into Twitter and Facebook’s strategies to combat false claims, particularly from political figures. They analyze the effectiveness of content moderation and its repercussions on political discourse. Additionally, they touch on state legislation impacting technology, like Massachusetts' right to repair law, and discuss future challenges for content moderation.

Join Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit and a passionate advocate for the right to repair, alongside Kay-Kay Clapp, the company’s content director who brings teardowns to life. They dive deep into the complexities of the iPhone 12 teardown, tackling its design challenges and the environmental implications of repairability. Discussing the pressing need for legislation to support the right to repair, they share personal anecdotes and insights that empower consumers to push for sustainable tech practices. Refurbished tech also gets a spotlight, highlighting its value.

Adi Robertson, a technology reporter focused on social media and internet policy, shares insights from the recent congressional hearing on Section 230. The discussion reveals the chaotic confrontations between lawmakers and tech CEOs, highlighting the political undertones. Ashley Carman, known for exploring hardware startups, discusses how gadget makers are turning to QVC-like shopping channels amidst changing retail landscapes. Lastly, they review the Motorola Razr 2020, noting its 5G capabilities but critiquing its camera performance.

Join Joanna Stern, a savvy technology columnist from The Wall Street Journal, alongside Nilay Patel, as they dive deep into their reviews of the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro. They discuss exciting features like 5G and Dolby Vision, sharing their personal testing experiences. The trio debates the pros and cons of each model, particularly in camera capabilities and design. The conversation also touches on the evolution of wireless charging with MagSafe and the complexities of the current charging ecosystem, leaving listeners with insights into the future of tech.

Julia Alexander, a journalist at The Verge, discusses the downfall of Quibi, revealing the reasons behind its closure and the challenges in the streaming landscape. Adi Robertson dives into the U.S. government's antitrust charges against Google, highlighting the implications for the tech industry. Josh Dzieza investigates the troubled Foxconn factory in Wisconsin, exposing the gap between ambitious plans and reality. Together, they provide insights into tech failures and regulatory challenges that shape our digital world.

Daniel Bader, the Managing Editor of Android Central, and David Ruddock, Editor-in-Chief of Android Police, dive deep into the Google Pixel 5. They evaluate its strengths and weaknesses in a competitive smartphone market, highlighting camera performance and software integration. The guests discuss shifting consumer perceptions of Google amidst antitrust issues and reflect on the evolution of Android Central's reputation in tech journalism. The dynamic between enthusiastic existing users and indifferent potential buyers reveals interesting trends around mid-range devices.

Apple's recent event unveiled the iPhone 12 lineup, featuring stunning OLED displays and lightning-fast 5G capabilities. The iPhone 12 mini is touted as the world's smallest 5G phone. Exciting advancements in camera technology include Dolby Vision recording and LiDAR for low light. The new MagSafe charger promises faster wireless charging, but Apple’s decision to exclude traditional chargers has sparked debate. Additionally, the affordable HomePod mini enters the market, challenging competitors with its unique design and sound features.

In this engaging discussion, Marques Brownlee, a prominent technology reviewer and YouTuber known as MKBHD, shares his insights on the latest Samsung smartphones, from the S20 Ultra to the Z Fold 2 5G. He highlights how reviewing different tiers of phones is evolving and the impact of high-megapixel cameras on photography. The conversation also touches on the importance of transparent reviews and the challenges posed by pre-release models, as well as a comparison between Samsung and Motorola's flip phones and the dynamics of tech events in a digital age.

Adi Robertson and Russell Brandom, both technology reporters at The Verge, dive into a significant congressional antitrust report scrutinizing Amazon, Facebook, Apple, and Google. They explore the implications of tech monopolies and the urgent need for regulatory reform. Dan Seifert joins to chat about Apple's upcoming iPhone reveal, discussing the buzz around new features and designs. The conversation wraps up with an engaging look at Google's ongoing legal battle with Oracle over copyright and fair use.