Connected

Episodes
558: A Podcast Drive-Thru
This episode dives into the latest macOS and iOS beta releases, discussing the controversial Finder icon change and the broader implementation of the new Liquid Glass UI. The hosts explore the challenges for third-party apps in adopting this design language and changes to key UI elements like search bars and lock screen widgets. They also share listener feedback on WWDC coverage and reflect on the evolving social experience of attending the event at Apple Park.
557: From a Place of Passion
This episode features Federico Battici discussing his recent interview with Craig Federighi on iPadOS multitasking, the challenges of balancing diverse user needs, and the technical effort behind the new windowing system. Mike Hurley also shares his experience starting a personal blog, 'The Enthusiast,' detailing his motivations, process, and the tools he uses, including relying on AI for editing. The hosts touch on minor Apple UI changes, Apple Music Replay, and celebrate Connected Pro's fifth anniversary.
556: The Last Thing You Touch
The Connected crew reacts to WWDC 2025, diving deep into the new Mac-like windowing system for iPadOS 26 and its implications. They also cover Apple Intelligence announcements, the controversial new 'Liquid Glass' design language, and the end of Intel Mac support for macOS. The episode culminates with the hosts scoring their prediction games, The Rickies and Flexies, highlighting correct calls and unexpected outcomes.
555: The Rickies (June 2025)
554: It Was Felty
This episode delves into the surprise launch of WhatsApp on iPad and discusses Apple's self-service repair program and Apple Watch battery health. The hosts then provide an exclusive preview of Sky, an AI assistant app from the creators of Workflow and Shortcuts, exploring its features, capabilities, and the challenges of building reliable AI tools. The conversation shifts to Apple's recent moves in gaming and critiques their strategy, before wrapping up with anticipation and pre-order tales for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
553: We Have Jony Ive at Home
This episode covers major AI news, including the surprise announcement that Jony Ive is joining OpenAI to form a new company, IO, focusing on AI hardware and software. The hosts discuss the implications for Apple and the tech landscape, reflecting on Ive's legacy and past hardware failures. They also recap Google I/O 2024, highlighting new Gemini features like agentic capabilities, visual intelligence, personalized context, Google Beam, and Android XR, while also pointing out Google's overlapping product strategy and confusing AI subscription tiers.
552: Stage Manager Could Never
The Connected podcast discusses Google's response to reports of declining Safari search traffic, the implications of recent App Store commission changes for developers, and Apple's new accessibility features. It also covers Google's AI advancements, a deep dive into vibe coding, and the controversies surrounding an XAI data center in Memphis, offering a mix of tech analysis and societal impact.
551: Boost Your Truck Parts
In this episode, the hosts discuss Google accidentally leaking the new Android design, and follow up on learning resources and Skillshare recommendations. They also analyze the legal and cultural implications of the recent App Store ruling, Eddie Cue's comments about the iPhone's future, and the potential for AI search in Safari. They also discuss Apple's potential split iPhone release schedule and announce pocket notebooks.
550: Baby Jason Snell From 1886
In this episode, the hosts discuss Apple's poorly named camera settings, UniFi cameras, and the ethics of accepting gifts from weapon manufacturers. They delve into learning strategies, managing work-life balance with a secondary phone, and the latest Android redesign, as well as reviewing a new Apple webpage. The hosts also share personal anecdotes and reflections on curiosity, productivity, and technology's impact on daily life.
549: Lost Daddy Exclusivity
The Connected crew welcomes Mike back to discuss AI note-taking, the iPhone 17, and Apple Intelligence. They also dive into a discussion about Apple's tariffs and the EU fine against Apple. They explore the company's AI strategy, potential use of third-party LLMs, and a possible OS redesign, while also touching on industry news and personal experiences.
548: A Cozy Bunker
Federico and John discuss Apple's differential privacy, Vision Pro updates, and potential iPadOS 19 improvements. They also cover rumors about iOS 19 incorporating elements from VisionOS, alongside ads for Ecamm Live and ZocDoc. John shares his experiences with Mac gaming, and the duo explores system-level access on iPadOS and system wallpaper customizations.
547: The Leakies (April 2025)
Federico and Stephen discuss the latest tech news, including Thunderbolt 5 docks, iOS 19 rumors, and Federico's automation projects. They delve into potential iOS design changes, rank the likelihood of rumored features, and share experiences with the Vision Pro. The episode also covers website redesigns and the evolving landscape of automation, blending shortcuts, scripting, and AI.
546: Letting the Literal Light In
Federico and Stephen discuss a range of topics, including updates on Federico's herb garden, Apple rumors (MacBook Pro, iPad Pro), the iOS 19 "Solarium" codename and UI theories, and Apple's new health coaching project, raising concerns about AI in healthcare. They also answer listener questions, discuss software releases, and thank their sponsors. The episode explores the balance between innovation and privacy.
545: Initially, I Was Happy
In this episode, Stephen and Federico analyze iPhone rumors, discuss WWDC 2025, and explore the best earbuds for voice dictation. Federico shares his experiences with a Mac Mini server for automation, including triggering shortcuts from Android and using LLMs. They also delve into new workflows using AI and the benefits of talking out loud for brainstorming.
544: Myke's Nightmares
This episode covers a range of topics, starting with Stephen's power outage and moving into Vision Pro quirks, iPad app shortcomings compared to PWAs, and Apple's AI leadership changes. They also discuss the revival of Pebble watches, iPhone design leaks, and debate tech terminology, along with ads from sponsors.
543: Brought Into Equilibrium with a Reference Environment
Federico and Stephen discuss a wide range of topics, from listener feedback and merch sales to the Vision Pro as a night computer and rumors of a major Apple design overhaul influenced by VisionOS. They also explore Apple's potential dominance in AI hardware and consider the company's approach to AI software, making it a jam-packed episode.
542: face with tired
Stephen and Federico discuss the latest Apple announcements, including the new iPad Air, base model iPad, and MacBook Air. They delve into the specs, pricing, and target audiences for each device. They also cover the updated Mac Studio and the complexities surrounding the M3 Ultra chip, and wrap up with a round of The Jeremys, guessing the names of new emojis.
541: The Suspicious Shape of Spaghetti
Stephen and Federico discuss Apple's C1 modem, US iPhone prices, and the new Connected t-shirt line. Federico shares his experience upgrading to Wi-Fi 7, and Mary joins to review the Powerbeats Pro 2. The episode also covers iOS 18.4 beta features and includes sponsor messages.