Upgrade looks at how technology shapes our lives, from the devices in our hands and pockets to the streaming services that keep us entertained.

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Jason Snell

Six Colors

Myke Hurley

Relay Co-Founder
The Enthusiast

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    Audio editing by Jim Metzendorf.
    Video edition produced by Jamie Snell.
    Theme song composed and performed by Christopher Breen.

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    #599: Free... Although

    January 19th, 2026 · 95 minutes

    This week we're following up on what the Apple-Google AI hookup means and reacting to Apple's announcement of an oddly shaped creative apps bundle.

    This episode of Upgrade is sponsored by:

    • Sentry: Mobile crash reporting and app monitoring. New users get $100 in Sentry credits with code upgrade26.
    • Fitbod: Get stronger, faster with a fitness plan that fits you. Get 25% off your membership.
    • Squarespace: Save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code UPGRADE.

    Stream this episode

    Download: MP3 (110.78 MB)

    Links and Show Notes

    The Incomparable
    How Apple is Using Gemini to Give ChatGPT-Like Answers — The Information
    Apple to fine-tune Gemini independently, no Google branding on Siri, more - 9to5Mac
    Connected #586: Dashboard Confessions - Relay
    Pop-Tarts Bowl - Wikipedia
    MIT Mystery Hunt
    Daring Fireball: OpenAI Releases GPT-5.1, Along With Renamed and New Personalities
    Apple will pay billions for Gemini after OpenAI declined – 9to5mac
    Introducing Apple Creator Studio, an inspiring collection of creative apps - Apple
    Apple’s pro bundle makes sense, but making iWork freemium doesn’t – Six Colors
    Apple Creative Studio icons are 'unique' and not for all standalone purchase apps - 9to5Mac