Engadget Podcast: Surface Pro 12-inch and a chat with (Google) X’s Astro Teller

Engadget - May 9th, 2025

This week, Microsoft has unveiled its latest foray into the world of smaller hardware with the introduction of the new 12-inch Surface Pro and the 13-inch Surface Laptop, powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus chips. Engadget's Devindra Hardawar and Igor Bonifacic discuss the key compromises Microsoft had to make in designing these devices, balancing reduced weight and size with potentially less processing power. The episode also touches on exciting tech rumors, including whispers about Half-Life 3 and leaked images suggesting a collaboration between Microsoft and ASUS on an Xbox handheld device.

Beyond hardware, the podcast episode covers a range of significant tech industry developments. These include OpenAI's restructuring to form a hostile takeover-proof public benefit corporation, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's controversial decision to shut down the Energy Star Program. Additionally, there is discussion around a cyber incident involving Telemessage, a communication app used by Trump administration officials. These stories underscore ongoing shifts in technology, corporate strategies, and environmental policy, highlighting the broader implications for consumers and stakeholders in these sectors.

Qualcomm Microsoft Open Ai Epa Asus Surface Pro Half Life 3 Snapdragon X Plus Xbox Handheld Energy Star Program Telemessage Astro Teller Google X

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.2

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The story effectively covers a range of current tech topics, providing listeners with an engaging overview of new hardware releases, industry rumors, and speculative developments. Its strengths lie in its timeliness and clarity, with a conversational tone that is accessible to a broad audience. However, the story's reliance on speculative content and the podcast format limits its accuracy and transparency, as it lacks detailed source attribution and verification for some claims. While it engages tech enthusiasts and provides insights into emerging trends, its broader impact and potential for controversy are limited. Overall, the story offers a well-rounded yet speculative look at the tech landscape, suitable for those interested in staying informed about industry developments.

Accuracy

The story provides several factual claims, such as the introduction of the new 12-inch Surface Pro and 13-inch Surface Laptop, attributed to Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus chips. These claims are well-supported by available sources, indicating a high level of accuracy. However, certain speculative elements, like the rumors about Half-Life 3 and the leaked Xbox handheld photos, require more evidence and verification from primary sources like Valve or Microsoft. The podcast format inherently limits detailed verification, which affects the precision of the claims made.

Balance

The story covers a range of tech-related topics, from new hardware releases to industry rumors, providing a broad perspective. However, it primarily reflects the viewpoints and discussions of the hosts, which may introduce some bias. The discussion on the compromises made for the new Surface devices could benefit from additional perspectives, such as consumer or industry expert opinions, to ensure a balanced view.

Clarity

The story is structured logically, with clear demarcations between different topics. The language used is accessible and engaging, typical of a podcast format. However, some speculative elements, such as rumors and leaks, could be more clearly distinguished from verified facts to enhance reader comprehension.

Source quality

The story relies on the credibility of Engadget's hosts and their discussions, but it lacks direct attribution to external sources or expert interviews. While the hosts are knowledgeable, the absence of diverse sources or direct quotes from industry insiders may limit the reliability and depth of the reporting. Engadget's reputation as a tech news outlet lends some credibility, but more source variety would enhance the overall quality.

Transparency

The podcast format provides limited transparency regarding the basis of the claims made. While the hosts discuss various topics, the lack of explicit context or methodology behind their statements could obscure the story's foundation. The article does not disclose potential conflicts of interest or the sources of specific information, which affects transparency.