Mon. 04/28 – The Prompt Engineer That Never Was…

Apr 28, 2025 22m

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Is Apple’s 20th Anniversary iPhone the reason they can’t quit China just yet? That Chinese AI Manus just raised a big round. Is Prompt Engineer the job title that never was? And what really goes on in those powerful, behind the scenes Silicon Valley group chats?

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Links:

Apple Begins Breaking Up Its AI Team With Robotics, Siri Changes (Bloomberg)
Why Trump can’t build iPhones in the US (FT)
The Future of Gadgets: Fewer Updates, More Subscriptions, Bigger Price Tags (WSJ)
Google is killing software support for early Nest Thermostats (The Verge)
Chinese AI Startup Manus Scores Funding at $500 Million Value (Bloomberg)
The Hottest AI Job of 2023 Is Already Obsolete (WSJ)
The group chats that changed America (Semafor)

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AI-Generated Summary

Apple's 20th Anniversary iPhone and Manufacturing Challenges

In light of the upcoming 20th anniversary of the iPhone, Apple continues to face challenges in its manufacturing strategy, particularly regarding its reliance on China. While Apple is ambitious in its plans to shift a greater portion of iPhone manufacturing to India, current capacities suggest that India will only meet about a third of US demand by the anniversary. Complicated tariff policies and the inherent complexity of the new anniversary devices, including a foldable model, pose significant hurdles. The extensive global supply chain—80% of Apple’s suppliers have ties to China—creates challenges that could delay moving major production out of the country.

Impact of Tariffs on Smaller Companies

While big tech companies are largely exempt from tariffs affecting imports from China, smaller businesses face significant financial burdens. Products with tariffs as high as 175% have led to price surges and potential shortages of essential electronic gadgets. As the expiration of the D Minimus Trade Exemption approaches, many smaller companies are bracing for immediate price hikes as they attempt to navigate through existing inventories and tariffs that threaten their margins.

Google's Nest Thermostat Support Changes

Google is ending support for older Nest Thermostat models, including the first two generations that helped launch the smart home revolution. This means that users will lose remote access features, potentially frustrating long-term customers. Google defends its decision by pointing out that unique European heating systems make it challenging to support those markets. However, the lack of software updates raises concerns about the longevity of smart home devices in general.

Chinese AI Startup Manus and Job Market Trends

The podcast highlights the recent funding success of Manus, a Chinese AI startup that has raised significant capital and aims to compete with established players like OpenAI. Meanwhile, the landscape of AI job roles is shifting; demand for prompt engineers is declining as AI technology evolves to become more user-friendly. Alternative roles reflecting the growing integration of AI across industries are becoming more prevalent.

Inside Silicon Valley Group Chats

Ben Smith discusses the rise of powerful group chats among insiders in Silicon Valley, which have become a key part of networking and information exchange. These chats have influenced significant events, including a recent bank run, highlighting the dangers of groupthink among powerful figures. The conversation reveals how these digital salons serve as a reflection of current ideals and controversies in American culture.