Tech in 2025: who's in and who's out
The Vergecast
Deep Dive
Why are the big tech CEOs unlikely to change by the end of 2025?
The CEOs of Apple, Google, Amazon, and Meta are likely to remain the same because their personal relationships with political figures, particularly Donald Trump, are crucial for navigating regulatory risks. Changing CEOs could disrupt these relationships and expose the companies to more regulatory scrutiny.
Why might NVIDIA become the most valuable company in the world by 2025?
NVIDIA could become the most valuable company due to its dominance in AI chip production. Even if the AI bubble bursts, there may be a lag before demand for chips drops, allowing NVIDIA to maintain its lead and generate significant revenue from AI-related products.
Why might OpenAI transition to a for-profit company by 2025?
OpenAI is likely to become a for-profit company to capitalize on the AI boom and ensure financial sustainability. The pressure to monetize AI technologies will incentivize OpenAI to shift its business model quickly, despite potential legal challenges from Elon Musk.
Why might the government break up a big tech company by 2025?
The government is likely to break up a big tech company, with Google being the most probable candidate, due to antitrust concerns. The Trump administration, which has shown antipathy towards Google, could push for the separation of Google's ad tech business from its search operations.
Why might a major AI scandal shake society by 2025?
A significant AI scandal could occur due to the rapid adoption of AI technologies, particularly in areas like deepfake bullying or institutional failures. These issues could escalate to a crisis point, prompting widespread public outrage and regulatory action.
Why might one of the major streaming services shut down by 2025?
One of the major streaming services (Max, Paramount Plus, or Peacock) could shut down due to intense competition and the difficulty in maintaining subscriber growth. The streaming landscape is becoming increasingly saturated, making it hard for some services to remain viable.
Why might Grand Theft Auto 6 be a game-changer in 2025?
Grand Theft Auto 6 could revolutionize the gaming industry by becoming the most successful game in history. Its launch will likely be a major event, and its success could influence future game development, particularly in the realm of game-as-a-service models.
Why might foldable phones not go mainstream by 2025?
Foldable phones are unlikely to go mainstream by 2025 because Apple, the trendsetter in the industry, has not yet released a foldable device. Without Apple's influence, foldable phones will remain a niche product.
Why might Apple release a television by 2025?
Apple might release a television to expand its presence in the home market and integrate its services more deeply into consumers' lives. The TV could serve as a central hub for Apple's smart home ecosystem, offering a seamless experience across devices.
Why might Waymo's self-driving cars gain popularity by 2025?
Waymo's self-driving cars could gain popularity as they expand to more cities, particularly in regions like Austin and Phoenix. The technology is likely to have its moment in 2025, with more people experiencing and talking about it on social media.
- The panelists believe that the current CEOs will likely remain in their positions, primarily due to the perceived risk of regulatory issues if replaced.
- The discussion touches on the importance of these CEOs' relationships with the US President and how changing leadership might negatively impact their companies' regulatory standing.
- The CEOs' perceived ability to navigate political and regulatory landscapes is seen as a key factor in their continued leadership.
Shownotes Transcript