DiscoverThe VergecastThe history of Roku and the fight over CarPlay
The history of Roku and the fight over CarPlay

The history of Roku and the fight over CarPlay

Update: 2024-07-30
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This episode of the Verge Cast begins with host David Pierce announcing his upcoming vacation and plans to experiment with new podcast formats. The team then dives into the concept of a rewatch podcast for tech, leading to the introduction of "Version History," a new segment dedicated to exploring the history of tech products. The episode focuses on the first Roku Netflix player, discussing its origins, development, and impact on the streaming industry. The hosts share their personal experiences with the device and analyze its significance in the evolution of streaming entertainment. The episode then transitions into a debate show, pitting CarPlay and Android Auto against the idea of automakers developing their own in-car software. The hosts present arguments for and against each approach, highlighting the pros and cons of each system. Finally, a listener calls in to seek advice on how to stop receiving spam and political text messages. David Pierce discusses the challenges of combating this issue and offers tips for reducing the number of unwanted texts.

Outlines

00:00:00
Tech History and Podcast Experimentation

David Pierce announces his upcoming vacation and plans to experiment with new podcast formats, including a rewatch podcast for tech called "Version History."

00:02:49
Version History: The First Roku

The episode delves into the history of the first Roku Netflix player, discussing its origins, development, and reception. The hosts share their personal experiences with the device and analyze its impact on the streaming industry.

00:31:49
CarPlay vs. Android Auto vs. Automakers

The Verge Cast hosts a debate show, pitting CarPlay and Android Auto against the idea of automakers developing their own in-car software. The hosts argue their respective cases, discussing the pros and cons of each approach.

00:55:54
Verge Cast Hotline: Spam Texts

A listener calls in to ask for advice on how to stop receiving spam and political text messages. David Pierce discusses the challenges of combating this issue and offers some tips for reducing the number of unwanted texts.

Keywords

CarPlay


CarPlay is a software platform developed by Apple that allows users to connect their iPhones to their car's infotainment system. It provides a user-friendly interface for accessing music, navigation, calls, and other apps.

Android Auto


Android Auto is a similar software platform developed by Google that allows users to connect their Android devices to their car's infotainment system. It offers a similar experience to CarPlay, with access to various apps and features.

Roku


Roku is a company that specializes in streaming media players and smart TVs. They are known for their user-friendly interface and wide selection of streaming services.

Netflix


Netflix is a popular streaming service that offers a vast library of movies, TV shows, and documentaries. It has revolutionized the way people consume entertainment.

Spam Text


Spam texts are unsolicited commercial messages sent to mobile devices. They often promote products, services, or scams.

Political Text


Political texts are messages sent by political campaigns or organizations to encourage voter turnout, solicit donations, or promote candidates.

Q&A

  • What are the main arguments for and against CarPlay and Android Auto?

    Supporters of CarPlay and Android Auto argue that they offer a familiar and consistent user experience across different car models, providing access to a wide range of apps and features. Critics argue that these systems are limited in functionality and that automakers should develop their own integrated software solutions.

  • How can I reduce the number of spam and political text messages I receive?

    While there is no guaranteed solution, you can try replying \"stop\" to legitimate business texts, reporting spam to your carrier, using spam-blocking apps, and filtering messages from unknown numbers. However, be cautious about replying to suspicious texts, as it may confirm your number is active and lead to more spam.

  • What is the legacy of the first Roku Netflix player?

    The first Roku Netflix player is significant for being the first mainstream streaming device, paving the way for the rise of the streaming industry. It demonstrated the potential of streaming video over the internet, even with limited bandwidth and a small catalog. While the device itself was limited, it laid the foundation for Roku's future success and the broader shift towards streaming entertainment.

Show Notes

Today on the flagship podcast of dedicated streaming hardware: 

We try out a couple of show formats we’ve been planning for a while. 

In Version History, we tell the story of the Roku Netflix Player, debate its legacy, and try to decide whether this thing belongs in the Version History Hall of Fame. 


After that, it’s time for debates. Nilay Patel and David Pierce yell at each other about who should own the screens in your car. Are CarPlay and Android Auto the answer, the solution to universally crappy automaker software?


Later, David answers a question from The Vergecast Hotline about political spam texts.


Email us at vergecast@theverge.com or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you.

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The history of Roku and the fight over CarPlay

The history of Roku and the fight over CarPlay

The Verge