The Vergecast

The team dives into the rocky debut of GPT-5, highlighting its incremental updates rather than the groundbreaking changes everyone expected. They share whimsical stories about their vibe coding projects, including recreating nostalgic games. The new segment, Corporate Shenanigans, humorously rates bizarre tech company antics, particularly Apple’s legal escapades. They also debate the pros and cons of smartwatches and reflect on the quirky nostalgia of AOL dial-up, while cautioning against overestimating chatbot intelligence.

Ken Fairbanks, CEO of Insteon Technologies, shares how he revived the smart lighting company after its bankruptcy, highlighting customer loyalty and the pitfalls of industry tariffs. His journey sheds light on what it takes to keep a company afloat in the evolving smart home space. Smart home expert Richard Gunther joins to answer listener questions about smart lighting, from moving setups to selecting the right devices. The duo explores the balance between traditional and modern smart home technologies, making the case for community-driven solutions.

Join Jake Kastrenakes, an Executive Editor at The Verge, who shares savvy tips for harnessing AI to enhance internet searches. Allison Johnson, a Senior Smartphone Reviewer, discusses how AI can simplify family calendars and bedtime routines. Esther Cohen, Director of Subscriptions, reveals her experience using ChatGPT for a big move from NYC to Miami Beach. Lastly, Travis Larchuk, a Producer, shares how Google Gemini aids him in managing tabletop role-playing games. Tune in for humor and insight on AI’s surprising benefits and limitations!

This week dives into OpenAI's launch of GPT-OSS and GPT-5, sparking debates about AI's ability to reduce misinformation. Tim Cook faces Apple's AI challenges and competition, hinting at possible acquisitions. The discussion also ventures into the controversial age verification regulations in the UK, highlighting privacy concerns and the complexities of enforcement. Additionally, there's a renewed focus on urgent topics in the Lightning Round, revealing the fast-paced nature of tech news and its implications for users.

Cassey Ho, a fitness YouTuber and founder of PopFlex Active, shares her experiences battling design theft in the fashion world. She unveils the rise of copycats in online shopping and the emotional toll it takes on creators. Cassey also discusses her journey with innovative designs, highlighting the process behind her unique activewear. The conversation touches on sustainability and the efforts of textile recycling initiatives like Fabscrap, showcasing a path towards a more ethical fashion industry.

Join reviewers Vee Song and Antonio G. Di Benedetto as they dive into Apple's Liquid Glass design and the quirks of its new operating systems. They share insights on the mixed user experience with features like the upgraded Spotlight and AI fitness coach in watchOS 26. Transportation editor Andy Hawkins discusses Tesla's recent financial woes, while Matthew Kang recounts his unique experience at the new Tesla Diner, connecting delicious meals with electric vehicle culture. They explore everything from parking logistics to innovative dining tech!

Join Fran Hoepfner, a news writer at Vulture, and Sarah Fackrell, a law professor, as they explore the shifting landscape of celebrity promotions and the legal implications of Schedule A lawsuits. Fran reveals how A-listers are navigating a fragmented media world, adapting their strategies for audience engagement. Sarah dives into the complexities of Schedule A lawsuits, highlighting the challenges faced by online sellers and the impact of intellectual property disputes. Together, they shed light on the intertwining dynamics of fame and legal trends in today's digital age.

Jen Pattison Tuohy, a smart home reviewer at The Verge, shares insights from her experience with the AI-powered Alexa Plus, highlighting its evolution and new capabilities. David Imel, co-host of Waveform, discusses the revival of compact cameras, focusing on Sony's RX1R III. The conversation takes a quirky turn as they explore Grok, an AI companion that raises questions about emotional connections with technology. They dive into the implications of AI in our homes and the fascinating intersections of nostalgia in photography.

Jason Valley, a visually impaired Verge reader, shares how AI smart glasses have transformed his daily life, boosting his independence and navigation skills. Mike Buckley, CEO of Be My Eyes, discusses the synergy between AI, smart glasses, and accessibility for the low-vision community. They explore the emotional benefits of reduced reliance on others and humorous AI mishaps. The conversation balances the innovative promise of technology with ethical considerations, emphasizing the need for thoughtful design in enhancing lives.

The latest Samsung foldables steal the show with their sleek designs, but the hosts don’t hold back on critiquing the Z Flip 7 FE. Exciting updates highlight major Big Tech shakeups, including leadership changes at Apple and Zuckerberg's ambitious AI plans. The conversation shifts to foldable phone practicality, questioning their real utility for everyday multitasking. Samsung's Galaxy Watch 8 shines with its new design, sparking debates about smartwatch innovation. And, of course, there's plenty of buzz around the THUNDER ROUND featuring pop culture tech news.