Episode Summary
Executive Summary: The episode centers on Vergecast’s reviews of Apple’s new iPad Pro and MacBook Air, arguing that the iPad Pro is powerful but constrained by iOS, especially for creative professionals and file-heavy workflows, while the refreshed MacBook Air is a welcome but overdue upgrade. The hosts debate Apple’s vision of the future of computing, questioning whether the iPad Pro can truly replace a laptop and noting that hardware gains outpace software flexibility.
Main Topics: iPad Pro as a "computer replacement" debate (Priority: 5/5): Eli argues the new iPad Pro is a remarkable device that still cannot replace a general-purpose computer because iOS limits common workflows and Apple overstates its capability. Creative workflows and file management (Priority: 5/5): The discussion focuses on how creative pros still need direct file access, external storage support, and desktop-class apps, which the iPad Pro does not fully provide. Hardware excellence vs software restrictions (Priority: 4/5): The iPad Pro’s display, processor, Face ID, USB-C, and build quality are praised, but the operating system remains the main bottleneck. MacBook Air refresh (Priority: 4/5): Dieter reviews the new MacBook Air and frames it as a substantial improvement over the old model, though still somewhat underpowered for its price compared with Windows alternatives. Apple’s pricing and product positioning (Priority: 4/5): The hosts discuss Apple’s premium pricing across devices and accessories, including a costly iPad Pro configuration and the MacBook Air’s place in Apple’s lineup. Future of computing and ARM transition (Priority: 3/5): The conversation speculates that Apple may need to move Macs to ARM soon, especially if the iPad Pro’s speed and Apple silicon continue to outclass Intel-based laptops.
Key Arguments: The iPad Pro is excellent hardware, but iOS 12 prevents it from being a true general-purpose computer. Apple is making stronger claims now that the iPad Pro is a full main device, so it should be judged against that claim rather than a vague future promise. Creative professionals still need direct file access, desktop-class apps, and robust browser support to use an iPad as their primary machine. The cheaper $329 iPad already handles most basic iPad tasks, making the Pro’s value hard to justify unless you need specific pro features like the keyboard connector or processor-intensive music production. USB-C helps convenience and portability, but without deeper software support it does not fundamentally change workflows on the iPad Pro. The new MacBook Air is a major improvement over the old model and finally gives Air users a modern screen, trackpad, and performance bump. Apple may be forced to bring ARM-class performance to Macs soon because the iPad Pro’s custom silicon sets a new expectation for laptop performance.
Data Points: iPad Pro top-end bundle price: about $2,300 - The review unit included the iPad Pro, Pencil, keyboard cover, and AirPods. iPad Pro review price (without AirPods): about $2,200 - Eli describes the full iPad Pro setup as a $2,200 'what’s-a-computer?' bundle. iPad Pencil price increase: $129 - The Apple Pencil is noted as being $30 more than the prior version. Base iPad price: $329 - The hosts repeatedly contrast the Pro with the lower-cost standard iPad. MacBook Air starting price: $1,200 - Used in comparison to the iPad Pro’s cost and flexibility. 11-inch iPad Pro price: $800 - Mentioned as a lower-cost Pro option that still offers strong hardware. MacBook Air last major processor revision: 2015 - Dieter notes the Air had been waiting years for a meaningful update. iPad Pro display refresh rate: 120 hertz - Referenced as part of the display’s standout quality for editing and scrolling. iPad Pro storage configuration: 1 terabyte - The review device included a terabyte of storage and LTE.
Pivotal Quotes: "I am just going to say it out loud. Like, I'm just going to say I don't like this. It literally prevents you from getting things done." — Eli: Eli summarizes his core criticism of the iPad Pro’s software limitations. "If you're the sort of person who goes into it with their eyes open, this is the best iPad that's ever been made." — Eli: Eli concedes the device excels as an iPad even while rejecting it as a laptop replacement. "I think it's time to stop pretending that, like, the future of computing looks like Apple's restrictions." — Eli: Eli argues Apple’s software model is too constrained for real general-purpose computing.
Implications: The episode suggests Apple’s hardware lead is no longer enough; software flexibility must improve for the iPad Pro to justify its price and ambitions. It also signals that the Mac may need Apple silicon sooner than expected to keep pace.
About The Vergecast
The Vergecast is the flagship podcast from The Verge about small gadgets, Big Tech, and everything in between. Every Friday, hosts Nilay Patel and David Pierce hang out and make sense of the week’s most important technology news. And every Tuesday, David leads a selection of The Verge’s expert staffers in an exploration of how gadgets and software affect our lives – and which ones you should bring into yours.