The Vergecast Bring back the iBook, you cowards
203 snips
Nov 7, 2025 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.
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Prepare For AI Revenue Participation Demands
- Expect AI platforms to demand revenue participation from businesses whose transactions they mediate.
- Businesses should plan for negotiation or product redesign to avoid margin erosion.
Apple Bets Hardware Still Holds Power
- Apple is betting hardware ownership (the iPhone) still anchors user relationships even as models become central.
- Their custom Gemini deal reflects a bet that device control will limit commoditization of AI interfaces.
Producer Switched To Comet After Free Perplexity Pro
- Eric Gomez described switching his daily browser from Arc to Comet after scoring Perplexity Pro via an Xfinity promotion.
- He kept using Comet for faster Perplexity responses and accidentally renewed the subscription when it auto‑billed.