Tesla's robotaxi reality check

Key takeaways

Always have a backup strategy involving multiple locations for your data: local, cloud, and physical storage.
Tesla's Robotaxi launch raises questions about the company's current capabilities and the state of autonomous vehicle technology.
MVNOs provide a valuable service to consumers, offering competitive prices and specialized features not provided by major carriers.
Managing smartphone storage effectively can improve device performance and prolong its usability.

Summary

Backup Strategies and Storage Solutions

The episode opens with host David Pierce discussing his annual data backup routine. He emphasizes the importance of having files stored in three places: within the app being used (like notes or photos), in cloud storage (using services like Google Drive or Dropbox), and on physical drives. He highlights his method of downloading various files, including photos and notes, as an easy way to ensure all data is backed up without complication.

Tesla's Robotaxi Launch

Listeners are introduced to a discussion with Andy Hawkins about Tesla's recent, understated launch of its Robotaxi service. Hawkins explains that while Tesla cars operated without drivers in Austin, the launch felt more like a beta test rather than a public rollout. He provides insights into the app experience for users and the presence of safety monitors, emphasizing that Tesla's approach differs from established players like Waymo. The conversation reflects on Tesla's evolving position in the autonomous vehicle landscape, including challenges surrounding safety, regulatory environments, and public perception.

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)

Allison Johnson joins the podcast to explain the rise of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and why they offer valuable alternatives to traditional wireless carriers. Johnson describes MVNOs as cost-effective sources of mobile service, highlighting the various competitive advantages they provide, including affordable pricing and flexibility for low credit users. The conversation dives into specific MVNOs like Boost Mobile and Mint Mobile, dissecting their branding strategies and unique market approaches, as well as recent trends that may signal a shift in consumer behavior towards these services.

Smartphone Storage Management

In the final segment, the show responds to listener questions about optimizing storage on iPhones. David shares practical advice for freeing up space, including utilizing Google Photos for backup, activating iCloud storage management, and deleting large or duplicative files. Through a detailed walkthrough, listeners are guided on how to effectively manage their photo libraries and enhance device performance, all while expressing frustration at Apple's limited solutions for photo management.

Show notes

Tesla is famous for throwing caution to the wind in the name of rolling out cool technology, so it was somewhat surprising to see its robotaxi service launch over the weekend in somewhat muted fashion. The Verge's Andy Hawkins joins the show to explain what, exactly, Elon Musk and co. launched, and what it says about the state of the self-driving revolution. After that, The Verge's Allison Johnson takes us through the history of MVNOs, and why they might just be the best deal in wireless carriers. We talk about Trump Mobile, Ryan Reynolds, e-SIMs, and what it would mean to make it easier to switch service. Finally, we answer a question from the Vergecast Hotline about how to free up storage on your iPhone. It's harder than it should be, but hopefully easier than you think.