Famed technology journalist John C. Dvorak dies aged 80 - AppleInsider

What the report says

AppleInsider reported that John C. Dvorak, the long-running technology columnist, author, pundit and podcast host, has died at age 80. The report said he is survived by his wife, Mimi Dvorak. His death was first announced by the No Agenda podcast account on X, though AppleInsider noted that the post gave an incorrect age of 74.

According to AppleInsider, a subsequent No Agenda newsletter said Dvorak died Monday morning, July 20, 2026, and described his death as peaceful but sudden, with Mimi at his side. In the article, AppleInsider said the podcast, which Dvorak co-hosted with Adam Curry and used to critique mainstream media, plans to continue and invited donations in recognition of his legacy.

The report described Dvorak as a prominent and often provocative voice in personal technology coverage. Born in Los Angeles in 1946, he reportedly began by writing about wine before moving into technology journalism, contributing to major publications including PC Magazine and The New York Times during the 1980s and 1990s. AppleInsider said his columns were known for sparking debate, including critical takes on major products such as Apple’s iPad.

AppleInsider also noted that Dvorak wrote or co-wrote more than a dozen books, appeared early on CNET Central, hosted radio programs including NPR’s Technically Speaking, and co-developed a typing game in 1991. His death marks the loss of a familiar figure from the era when technology commentary helped shape public understanding of personal computing and the internet.