Waveform: Tech, Studio Moves, and Quarantine Life

The New Normal: Quarantine Podcasting

In this episode, the hosts get together via VoIP to discuss life while social distancing. Despite the technical challenges and having to use home recording setups—including a Blue Yeti X and a Samsung G-Track Pro—the conversation covers the transition to working from home and the reality of moving studio equipment single-handedly.

Tech Frustrations & UI Wins

Amidst the isolation, the hosts shared their growing frustrations with inconsistent UX/UI designs in common tech platforms:
• Slow Cable Boxes: The UI of Verizon Fios on-demand is criticized for extreme lag.
• Twitter/Android Input Bugs: The annoyance of search autocomplete menus moving unexpectedly causing accidental clicks.
• Reddit Layouts: The preference for Old Reddit over the modern redesign, which some users find counterintuitive.

Product Spotlights

Apple Hardware Updates

• MacBook Air 2020: The hosts agree this is currently the standard recommendation for students and general users due to its price and improved keyboard.
• iPad Pro & Magic Keyboard: A discussion on the minor spec bump (A12Z Bionic) and the lack of official RAM specifications, which remains a classic Apple mystery.

Huawei, Samsung, & Tech Rumors

The conversation shifts to the Huawei P40 Pro, noting its incredible hardware—including 40W wireless charging—despite the lack of US market relevance due to the absence of Google services. Additionally, they discuss the transition to faster charging standards and the potential for the OnePlus 8 series to finally support robust wireless charging.

In-Memoriam & Future Tech

"Dark Sky is being acquired by Apple, and the Android app will be killed by July 1st, 2020."

The loss of Dark Sky is discussed as a major blow to the Android ecosystem, with the hosts mourning the loss of its hyper-local weather capabilities and debating potential alternatives like Carrot Weather.

Q&A: Branding & Supercars

In the final segment, the hosts imagine creative partnerships between tech giants and car manufacturers:
• Apple + Bentley: Combining high-end status with a clean aesthetic.
• Samsung + Ferrari: Focusing on aggressive, flashy performance.
• Google + Acura (NSX): A reliable, software-focused experience that prioritizes daily function over raw, loud status.