31 Mar 2026
1h 28m

Apple at 50: the good and the bad

Podcast cover

The Vergecast

This episode of The Vergecast commemorates Apple's 50th anniversary by assessing the company's current standing and future prospects. Jason Snell provides a report card on Apple, grading their hardware as exceptional due to chip design and manufacturing innovations, while software receives a more critical assessment, particularly regarding usability. The conversation explores Apple's design conservatism, its integrated ecosystem, and its complex role as both a brand and a corporation. Anil Dash discusses the implications of Apple's approach to video podcasts, emphasizing the importance of open standards and the potential risks of platform control. The hosts also discuss the potential of Apple Watch and foldable iPhones.

Outlines

Part 1: Apple at 50, Rankings

Part 2: Hardware, Software, Design

Part 3: Business, Brand, Future

Part 4: Podcasting, Open Standards

Part 5: Video, Platforms, Censorship

Part 6: Apple Watch, Lifestyle

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