Live at SXSW 2026: Can They Convince Marques to Shoot 24fps? - Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast Recap

Podcast: Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast

Published: 2026-03-17

What Happened

The episode opens with a thorough examination of the Rivian R2 series, which is poised to challenge Tesla's Model Y with its competitive pricing and range. The R2 Performance model will debut in spring 2026 at $57.9k with a 330-mile range, while the R2 Premium and Standard are priced at $53.9k and $48k, respectively. However, the R2's muted color palette has left some potential buyers wanting bolder options.

Marques Brownlee and the team delve into the evolving landscape of autonomous vehicles, sharing experiences with Tesla RoboTaxi and Waymo. Despite general safety and convenience, David Amel highlights concerns about the consolidation of power within the industry. Meanwhile, Waymo's expansion into New York City, a notoriously complex environment for autonomous technology, marks a significant testing ground.

The podcast touches on Apple's delayed improvements to Siri, which will now integrate Google Gemini. Rumors about a foldable iPhone and a MacBook Ultra featuring a touchscreen, OLED, and Dynamic Island are also discussed, signaling Apple's aggressive push into new technology frontiers.

AI privacy concerns are brought to light with Meta's Ray-Ban partnership, underscoring the delicate balance between innovation and data security. Ellis's interest in experimenting with local LLMs during a plane ride reflects the growing curiosity around AI capabilities and their practical applications.

Marques Brownlee's transition from Pro Display XDRs to Studio Displays hints at shifting preferences in tech setups, while David Amel's contemplation of purchasing a Leica M7 camera highlights a nostalgic nod to traditional photography amidst a digital age. The audience interaction segment reveals niche tech interests, with film cameras topping the list followed by mechanical keyboards and Samsung Dex.

In the realm of content creation, the 'octopus analogy' illustrates the journey from multitasking to task delegation among creators, aiming for streamlined efficiency. Despite the rise of AI-generated content, the team believes that human-made content will retain its value due to the personal connection it offers.

Marques Brownlee's bet on the release of a $30,000 no-steering wheel CyberCab by the end of 2026 adds an intriguing layer to the ongoing discussions on future tech developments. The episode also touches on challenges in importing and testing foreign technology in the U.S., as observed during Marques's trip to China to explore the Xiaomi SU-7 electric car.

Key Insights

• Rivian's R2 series aims to compete directly with Tesla's Model Y, offering a more affordable entry with the R2 Standard priced at $48,000 and a range reaching up to 330 miles for the Performance model.
• Autonomous vehicle technology is expanding rapidly, with companies like Waymo testing in complex environments such as New York City, though concerns about industry consolidation remain.
• Apple's integration of Google Gemini into Siri and rumored innovations like a foldable iPhone and MacBook Ultra with advanced features suggest a robust technological evolution on the horizon.
• Despite the novelty of AI-generated content, the podcast team believes that human-created content will hold long-term value due to its inherent personal connection and authenticity.