How Lego’s Smart Brick works

Jan 13, 2026 · Summarized Jan 13, 2026

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Key takeaways

The Lego Smart Brick is a revolutionary device that embodies creativity but may also raise questions about how technology impacts imaginative play.
Finding a productivity system that works for you is essential, and leveraging tools like journaling and task management can significantly enhance focus and effectiveness.
E-readers last a long time; while newer models offer improved features, it’s valid to stick with an older device if it serves your needs, highlighting the importance of products that endure.

Summary

CES and the Lego Smart Brick

The episode kicks off with David Pierce discussing the chaos of CES and the gadgets that are exhibited there, highlighting the Lego Smart Brick as a significant talking point of the show. Sean Hollister explains that the Smart Brick is not just an innovation, but an evolution in how Lego plays into creativity. The conversation explores whether this new technology enhances creativity or ultimately restricts it, delving into the functionalities of the Smart Brick and why it captured so much attention at CES.

Productivity Strategies with Casey Newton

In the latter part of the episode, Casey Newton joins the discussion to share his insights on productivity systems. He outlines his process of writing daily journal entries, created to help clear his mind and organize tasks. Casey also discusses the challenges of staying productive, especially as new productivity apps emerge, and how he has built a system that works for him. He also brings up his experiences with Cloud Code and emphasizes how AI and other tools can help individuals manage their tasks better.

The Evolution of E-Readers

The episode ends with a listener question regarding the longevity of e-readers, particularly questioning whether there are reasons to upgrade from a 10-year-old device. The hosts discuss how e-readers have improved over the years, particularly in screen quality, speed, and user experience, while also noting that for many, an older device remains perfectly functional. They underline the challenge companies face in making products that last longer, as the tech industry often pushes consumers to keep upgrading.

Show notes

January brings two things in Vergecast-land: CES, and New Years' Resolutions. We start this episode with a dive into the story of this year's biggest tech show, the Lego Smart Brick, which is either a clever way of thinking about creativity or the end of creativity as we know it. Sean Hollister explains how the Smart Brick works, and how Lego can make sure it ends the right way. Then, Platformer's Casey Newton discusses his productivity system, his adventures in Claude Code, and how you too can make yourself a little more productive this year — with or without AI.