Tesla Refreshes, Smartphone Trends & Future Tech

The Tesla Model S and X Refresh

The most significant announcement in the tech world this week is the complete redesign of the Tesla Model S and X.

Key Vehicle Updates

• Simplicity and Integration: Tesla has finally transitioned the interior to a horizontal touchscreen, making it feel more integrated with the overall vehicle design.
• The Yoke Steering Wheel: The most controversial change is the new "yoke-style" steering wheel. It is essentially a squared-off, top-less wheel that resembles a fighter jet control, raising questions about its usability in tight maneuvers.
• Performance Specs: The lineup now includes a Plaid and a Plaid Plus version, with the latter boasting over 520 miles of range and a 0-60 mph time under 2 seconds, which is unprecedented for a production car.

The State of Small Smartphones

Following the underwhelming sales of the iPhone 12 mini (which accounted for only 6% of recent iPhone sales), the hosts discuss the future of compact flagship phones.

"Every year us tech people go, 'hey, make a small phone'... and then no one buys it."

• Market Realities: The demand for small "candy bar" phones appears to be a loud but extremely small niche.
• The Pivot: With Apple potentially stepping away from the mini form factor, manufacturers like Samsung might be the only ones left to fill this void.

LG's Smartphone Division Struggles

Internal memos suggest that LG is considering exiting the smartphone business after years of struggling to find a "cash cow" product.

• Legacy of Innovation: LG was a pioneer in mobile hardware, notably introducing the ultra-wide camera feature that is now standard across the industry.
• The Industry Cycle: The hosts reflect on the "fall from grace" of companies like HTC and wonder which smartphone titan might be the next to face extinction.

Professional Tech: Sony Xperia Pro and New MacBooks

Sony Xperia Pro

• This $2,500 device serves a very narrow professional niche, such as sports photographers needing immediate 5G transmission using millimeter wave technology.
• It functions as an HDMI input device, turning professional mirrorless cameras into live-streaming machines.

MacBook Pro Rumors

• New rumors suggest that the upcoming MacBook Pros may abandon the Touch Bar and reintroduce legacy ports like the SD card slot, marking a significant shift back to functional design over thinner aesthetics.