Techtober Recap: Apple, Google, and Rivian First Looks
The Busy Week of Techtober
Apple's October Event
The podcast starts by covering the latest Apple event, focusing heavily on the new MacBook Pros. Key takeaways include:
• Return of Ports: Apple brought back the SD card slot, HDMI, and MagSafe, which the hosts see as a necessary correction to previous design mistakes.
• The Notch: The controversial display notch was discussed. While not a favorite, the hosts acknowledge that it enables a 1080p camera and doesn't cut into video content.
• Silicon Upgrades: The M1 Pro and M1 Max chips offer massive GPU performance leaps, which the hosts hope will finally allow them to ditch their bulky "Travel iMac" workflow.
• Other Items: Brief touches on the AirPods 3 and the polarizing $19 polishing cloth.
Google Pixel 6 Reveal
The second section dives into the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro:
• Competitive Pricing: Marques and Andrew were pleasantly surprised by the $599 (Pixel 6) and $899 (Pro) price points.
• Differentiated Features: The Pro model adds a 120Hz curved display, an extra 4x telephoto camera, and more RAM.
• Magic Eraser: Discussed the new software feature that removes unwanted objects from photos, though the hosts remain skeptical about how it handles busy backgrounds compared to professional Content-Aware Fill tools.
Surface Duo 2 and Rivian R1T
• Surface Duo 2: The hosts note that while the hardware is more refined and actually functional for photography now, the software remains buggy and the overall form factor still feels like an awkward hybrid that struggles in everyday productivity.
• Rivian R1T: Marques calls this the most fun he has ever had in a truck. The electric pickup is highlighted for its maneuverability, rapid acceleration (0-60 in 3s), and the genius gear tunnel storage solution.
"I still think way too many people are excited for Cybertruck and don't know what they're getting themselves into... if you put a gun to my head right now and said Cybertruck or Rivian, I would honestly pick the Rivian."