Why the current tech backlash feels different

We’re back with another Decoder mailbag special. This time, we focused on feedback to Nilay’s “software brain” video essay, our ongoing coverage of AI and Big Tech backlash, surveillance, interviewing politicians ahead of the midterms, and more.

Remember: we really do read every email, so please keep sending us your feedback, and letting us know what you think of our coverage and how we can improve. 

Read the full interview transcript on The Verge.

Links: 

How to win — and lose — Decoder | Decoder Mailbag (2026)

Nilay answers your burning Decoder questions | Decoder Mailbag (2025)

Answering your biggest Decoder questions | Decoder Mailbag (2024)

Sundar Pichai on AI, search, and the future of the web | Decoder (2026)

The people do not yearn for automation | Decoder

Bluesky’s new CEO wants a big tent, not a bubble | Decoder

New York Governor Kathy Hochul thinks AI should be ‘less evil’ | Decoder

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