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627: Do Not Use, Do Not Turn Off

Software engineers increasingly rely on AI to debug code, while Apple faces scrutiny over potential Chinese RAM deals.

626: Unprecedented Weirdness

The hosts analyze Apple’s significant hardware price hikes driven by surging memory and storage costs for AI centers.

625: Road to the Apple II: Computer Faire (Part 4)

Apple turns the 1977 West Coast Computer Faire into a defining moment by masking product defects and betting on design.

624: The Memory Guys

John Turnus is reshaping Apple by finally giving the industrial design team the attention and leadership they crave.

623: Road to the Apple II: A Complete Computer (Part 3)

The Apple II defined the personal computer by integrating display circuitry and color graphics into a sleek package.

622: It's Doing It!

Discussing the latest Apple developer tools, taking notes the old-fashioned way, and updates on the Kickstarter goals.

621: Road to the Apple II: The Partnership (Part 2)

As Steve Jobs and Wozniak refine the Apple II, friction over ownership and credit sparks a life-changing confrontation.

620: Sweating the Details

Apple is shifting focus from big design overhauls to refining performance and polishing long-standing user pain points.

619: Road to the Apple II: Apple for Sale (Part 1)

Before they built an empire, Steve Jobs tried to sell Apple for a fraction of its future value to a shady competitor.

618: The WWDC Keynote Draft 2026

Predicting the biggest announcements at Apple's upcoming developer conference with our annual keynote draft.

617: Image Playgrounds Is My Roman Empire

The hosts discuss the nuance of browser window management, the allure of legacy hardware, and upcoming AI writing tools.

616: Outmoded But Not Vintage

In this episode of Upgrade, Jason Snell is joined by Stephen Hackett to explore the complexities of older technology and the evolving landscape of Apple. The duo dives into the nostalgia and technical realities of maintaining vintage Macs, while also analyzing the implications of binned chips and the current state of Apple artificial intelligence. Following this technical deep dive, the focus shifts to a compelling historical narrative. Jason welcomes author Geoffrey Cain to discuss his book, Steve Jobs In Exile. Together, they examine the turbulent period following Jobs’s departure from Apple, shedding light on the lesser-known challenges and strategic pivots that defined the darkest chapter of his professional career. Listeners can expect a blend of hardware enthusiasm and historical insight, offering a comprehensive look at both the machines that shaped the industry and the man behind the revolution.

615: But in Citrus!

In this episode of Upgrade, hosts Myke Hurley and Jason Snell dive into the latest developments in the Apple ecosystem. The conversation kicks off with a look back at the branding choices for the Ultra and Neo product lines, questioning how these names impact consumer perception. The hosts then transition into a deep dive regarding Apple’s long-term processor manufacturing strategy, analyzing how shifts in silicon production could influence the company’s hardware roadmap. Finally, the pair explores the rumors surrounding future AirPods equipped with built-in cameras, speculating on the potential use cases for such a device and whether the technology offers practical value for the average user. Listeners can expect a thoughtful, speculative analysis of where Apple is headed next and how these emerging technologies might integrate into their daily digital lives.

614: $100 Billion Is the Floor

In this episode of Upgrade, the hosts dive deep into Apple’s latest record-breaking financial results to analyze what these massive figures mean for the company’s long-term strategy. By reading between the lines, they explore how this immense capital will shape future product development and potential acquisitions as the company enters the Ternus era. The discussion expands beyond balance sheets to address the branding confusion surrounding the Ultra product line and the potential for burnout among high-level leadership, specifically focusing on the pressure facing Johny Srouji. Additionally, the episode covers the cultural impact of Formula 1’s recent expansion into the United States. Listeners can expect a thoughtful blend of technical business analysis and pop culture commentary, providing a comprehensive look at the current trajectory of one of the world's most influential technology companies.

613: I Know I Picked Too Many iPods

In this episode of Upgrade, Myke Hurley and Jason Snell reflect on the news of a significant leadership transition at Apple. The hosts explore the future of the company under the potential guidance of John Ternus, analyzing how this shift in top-level management might influence Apple’s strategic direction. They also examine the critical influence of Johny Srouji, discussing his role within the company’s complex ecosystem and his importance to Apple’s technological innovations. Beyond the corporate developments, the conversation takes a lighter turn as the hosts humorously speculate on why a book focused on Tim Cook’s tenure would be anything but a cookbook. Listeners can expect an insightful breakdown of internal leadership dynamics, a look at the personnel driving Apple’s product development, and a thoughtful discussion on the company's long-term evolution following these major organizational changes.

612: 'That Leader is John Ternus'

In this episode of Upgrade, the hosts dive into a major leadership shakeup at Apple, centered on the news that Tim Cook’s tenure as CEO is concluding. The discussion focuses on the recent promotions of John Ternus and Johny Srouji, analyzing what these executive shifts mean for the future direction of the company. With the transition of power being the primary catalyst, the hosts provide insights into the internal dynamics of Apple’s leadership team. To round out the show, the hosts conclude their ongoing Apple at 50 retrospective series with a unique and entertaining vibe-based draft. Listeners can expect a deep dive into the recent corporate announcements and a lighthearted, reflective look back at the historical milestones and culture that have defined the company over the last five decades.

611: Drain the Bin

In this episode of Upgrade, the hosts dive into the latest developments at Apple, starting with a speculative look at the potential supply challenges surrounding the long-rumored MacBook Neo. The conversation expands to evaluate Apple’s broader strategic approach toward smart glasses, weighing the company’s potential path in the wearable technology market. Listeners can also expect a deep dive into hardware updates as Jason shares his experience with a new ultra-wideband smart lock, offering practical insights into the current state of home automation. Furthermore, the hosts engage in a spirited debate regarding the future of the folding iPhone, exploring both the design possibilities and the potential naming conventions for such a device. It is a wide-ranging discussion that blends product analysis with forward-looking predictions, providing a comprehensive update for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of Apple technology.

610: We Hear You're Good at Computers

In this episode of Upgrade, the hosts dive into a series of significant updates within the Apple ecosystem. The conversation begins with a look at the status of the Mac Pro and the recent rollout of critical security updates for iOS 18. The duo also explores the latest details surrounding the highly anticipated revamp of Siri, offering their perspectives on how these changes might reshape the user experience. The second half of the show takes a more personal turn as the hosts step back from news analysis to reflect on their own histories with technology. They share their individual Apple origin stories, detailing the devices and moments that first sparked their interest in the brand. Listeners can expect an engaging mix of technical commentary and nostalgic reflection, perfect for anyone curious about the evolving landscape of Apple hardware and software.

609: The Origin of Apple

In this episode of Upgrade, hosts Jason and Myke explore the fascinating history behind the founding of Apple. They transport listeners back to the 1970s, setting the scene in the unique environment of the Santa Clara Valley suburbs. By examining the specific cultural and technological landscape of that era, the hosts provide insight into how this iconic company first took shape. The discussion highlights the distinct personalities and talents of the two co-founders, whose collaboration served as the catalyst for the brand’s inception. Furthermore, the episode uncovers the unexpected support and surprising figures who played pivotal roles during Apple’s early days. Listeners can expect a captivating narrative that moves beyond the common myths, offering a deeper look at the genuine ingenuity and circumstances that sparked a technological revolution.

608: Pop and Lock

In this episode of Upgrade, hosts Myke Hurley and Jason Snell dive into a mix of personal anecdotes and industry history. Myke kicks things off by sharing his recent experience as a contestant on Jeopardy!, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it is like to compete on the iconic game show. The conversation then shifts gears as Jason welcomes special guest David Pogue to discuss his latest book, Apple: The First 50 Years. Together, they explore the fascinating evolution of the tech giant, reflecting on its most significant milestones and the cultural impact the company has had over the last half-century. Whether you are interested in the inner workings of television game shows or the storied history of one of the world’s most influential technology brands, this episode provides a thoughtful and engaging discussion.