Asus Exits Smartphone Market, Clicks Communicator Emerges, and Stadia Bids Farewell
In the latest episode of the Pixelated podcast by 9to5Google, hosts Abner Li, Damien Wilde, and Will Sattelberg delve into significant shifts in the tech landscape. The discussion spans Asus’s departure from the smartphone industry, the emergence of the Clicks Communicator, and the final farewell to Google’s Stadia.
Asus’s Strategic Shift Away from Smartphones
Asus has announced an indefinite hiatus from producing Android smartphones, choosing to redirect its focus toward artificial intelligence initiatives. This decision marks a pivotal change for the company, which has been a notable player in the smartphone market. The hosts explore the implications of this move, considering how it reflects broader industry trends where companies are increasingly prioritizing AI development over traditional hardware ventures.
Envisioning the Post-Smartphone Era
The conversation transitions to a speculative discussion on the future of personal technology beyond smartphones. The hosts ponder potential innovations and devices that could redefine user interaction and connectivity. They consider the role of wearable technology, augmented reality, and other emerging fields that might shape the next generation of personal tech.
Introducing the Clicks Communicator and Digital Wellbeing
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the Clicks Communicator, a new device designed to promote digital detoxing. This minimalist gadget aims to reduce screen time and encourage users to disconnect from the constant barrage of notifications and digital distractions. The hosts discuss how such devices align with Google’s Digital Wellbeing tools, which are designed to help users manage their digital habits and foster a healthier relationship with technology.
Bidding Adieu to Google’s Stadia
The episode concludes with a heartfelt farewell to Google’s Stadia, the cloud gaming service that has officially ceased operations. The hosts reflect on Stadia’s journey, its impact on the gaming industry, and the lessons learned from its inception to its closure. They discuss the challenges faced by cloud gaming platforms and what Stadia’s end signifies for the future of gaming.
Podcast Details
Listeners can subscribe to the Pixelated podcast through various platforms, including YouTube Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Overcast. The episode is structured as follows:
– 00:00 – Introduction and discussion on Asus’s market exit
– 07:35 – Speculations on the future beyond smartphones
– 22:59 – Examination of the Clicks Communicator and digital detoxing
– 45:34 – Final thoughts on Stadia’s closure
Hosts
– Abner Li
– Damien Wilde
– Will Sattelberg
Further Reading
For more in-depth information, readers can explore the following articles:
– Asus Won’t Make Any New Android Phones in 2026, but It Might Not Be Done Yet
– The Clicks Communicator Might Not Be for Everyone, but It’s Definitely for Me
– Google Just Killed the Last of Stadia
Additional 9to5 Podcasts
Listeners interested in more tech discussions can check out other 9to5 podcasts:
– The Sideload
– 9to5Mac Happy Hour
– Electrek
– Space Explored
Feedback
The podcast team welcomes feedback and can be reached at [email protected]. Listeners are encouraged to leave comments on the podcast post or reach out to the producer directly.
About 9to5Google
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