The Vergecast

The Samsung Galaxy Fold is causing quite a stir with its early breakage issues. Hosts share their personal experiences and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with using the device. They discuss how these problems impact consumer confidence and the future of folding technology. Shifting gears, they delve into the resolution of the lengthy legal battle between Apple and Qualcomm, unpacking its significance for the tech industry. The conversation also touches on gaming innovations in laptops and the evolving landscape of gaming technology.

Brad Bao, co-founder and executive chairman of Lime, dives into the electric scooter revolution transforming urban mobility. He shares insights on the rapid rise of scooters and Lime's journey to innovate urban transport. The conversation touches on safety measures and the technology enhancing user experience. Brad also discusses the sustainability challenges within the industry and the regulatory hurdles that impact operations. Lastly, explore the quirky trends in scooter naming and the importance of community engagement in shaping future mobility.

Discover the first stunning image of a black hole and the challenges facing Foxconn's empty innovation centers in Wisconsin. Delve into the struggles of smaller tech companies amid major market players. Hear about Netflix's streaming woes and the creeping nostalgia of cable pricing. Unpack the latest smartphone innovations and browser transitions, including Microsoft's switch to Chromium. From quirky tech debates to sensory-inclusive spaces, this discussion wraps up the intersection of innovation and real-world implications.

Jaron Lanier, a visionary in virtual reality and computer philosophy, joins Nilay Patel to discuss his optimistic view for the future. They delve into the manipulation economy, highlighting the importance of individuals taking control of their data. Lanier proposes the concept of a Mediator of Individual Data to empower users in the digital age. He critiques the roles of tech giants and emphasizes the potential of collectives to negotiate better terms. The conversation also touches on the intersection of creativity, economics, and the transformative potential of virtual reality.

Apple has canceled the AirPower project but launched AirPods 2, sparking a discussion on their next steps. Google’s pattern of canceling products also comes under scrutiny. Listeners will enjoy a playful segment on audio devices and insights into the struggles of content creators on platforms like YouTube. The hosts dive into new features in Android Q, smartphone innovations, and the ongoing rollout of 5G technology. There's a thoughtful reflection on societal norms shaped by personal assistants and the importance of elevating inclusivity in tech.

Peter Kafka, the Executive Editor at Recode Media, dives into Apple's ambitious streaming initiatives and their impact on the media landscape. He discusses the competing giants like Netflix and Disney, and whether Apple can truly navigate this saturated market. Kafka analyzes Apple News Plus, addressing the challenges traditional publishers face in the digital age. The conversation takes a humorous turn as they evaluate both successful and failed streaming platforms, while also considering the risks associated with celebrity branding in Apple's television content.

Chris Welch, The Verge's streaming services expert, dives into Apple’s latest announcements, from the sleek Apple Card to the game-changing Apple Arcade. He discusses the unique features of Apple’s credit card, raising concerns about privacy and consumer trust. Welch also explores the competitive landscape of Apple TV Plus, tackling its challenges against giants like Netflix and Hulu. Plus, the impact of Apple's subscription strategy on game developers and traditional media is laid bare, making for an insightful discussion on the future of digital services.

Shoshana Zuboff, renowned author of "The Age of Surveillance Capitalism," dives into the alarming reality of data collection and its profound impact on the economy and consumer behavior. She challenges the notion of data as the new oil, exploring how personal information is commodified. The conversation reveals how companies manipulate data to predict and even guide consumer actions. Zuboff emphasizes the urgent need for regulatory measures to protect individual rights against corporate exploitation and discusses the pervasive effects of surveillance capitalism on privacy.

The hosts dive into Apple's exciting new products, spotlighting the iPad mini's compact design and enhanced features of the iPad Air and AirPods. They also speculate on Apple's upcoming streaming service and its potential impact in a competitive market. The conversation shifts to Google's groundbreaking Stadia cloud gaming platform, discussing its impressive specs and what it means for traditional gaming. They even touch on quirky robotic therapy pets, blending tech advancements with humor.

Casey Newton, Silicon Valley editor and newsletter writer on social platforms, teams up with Alex Stamos, former chief security officer at Facebook, now at Stanford. They delve into Facebook's influence on democracy, tackling privacy versus safety in social media. The duo discusses Zuckerberg's move towards encrypted messaging and its impact on public discourse. They also address the mental health struggles of content moderators and the need for better support, while reflecting on the tech-media-government interplay highlighted during the 2016 elections.