David Pogue, American journalist and author
David Welch Pogue, born on March 9, 1963, stands as a distinguished American figure in the realms of technology and science, celebrated for his dual role as a prolific writer and engaging television presenter. With a career spanning decades, Pogue has demystified complex tech topics for millions, making him a trusted voice in an ever-evolving digital world. His distinctive blend of expertise, wit, and clear communication has earned him an Emmy Award, solidifying his status as a prominent media personality.

A Prolific Pen: Guiding the Tech-Curious

Pogue's literary journey began by simplifying the intimidating world of computing and beyond for a broad audience. He contributed to the immensely popular For Dummies series, co-writing an impressive seven books that covered diverse subjects from Macintosh computers to magic, opera, and even classical music. This early work showcased his talent for breaking down intricate topics into digestible, user-friendly formats, a hallmark of his writing style.

In 1999, Pogue took his passion for accessible how-to guides to the next level by launching his own publishing sensation: the Missing Manual series. This groundbreaking collection quickly became an essential resource, eventually encompassing more than 100 titles that provided comprehensive, jargon-free instructions for a vast array of Mac and Windows operating systems and applications. The series filled a critical gap, empowering countless users to navigate their technology with confidence.

Beyond his series work, David Pogue also authored other significant titles. In 2009, he released The World According to Twitter, a unique collaborative effort written with the input of approximately 500,000 of his Twitter followers – a truly pioneering example of crowd-sourced content. Later, his 2014 publication, Pogue's Basics, earned him a spot on The New York Times bestseller list, further cementing his reputation as an influential voice in consumer technology.

On Screen: An Emmy-Winning Communicator

Pogue’s engaging presence extends far beyond the printed page, captivating audiences through various television platforms. He is an Emmy-winning correspondent for CBS News Sunday Morning, where his reports often blend insightful tech analysis with his characteristic humor. His segments offer viewers clear, concise explanations of current technological trends and their societal impact.

His commitment to science communication is also evident through his extensive work with PBS. David Pogue has hosted an remarkable 18 Nova specials, bringing cutting-edge scientific discoveries and technological advancements into living rooms across the nation. Notable among these include NOVA ScienceNow, the intriguing Making Stuff series (which aired in 2011 and 2013), and the visually stunning Hunting the Elements in 2012. Through these programs, Pogue has inspired curiosity and understanding in millions, cementing his role as a leading science communicator.

From Print to Pixels: The New York Times and Yahoo! Tech Chapters

David Pogue maintained a long and impactful relationship with The New York Times. For 13 years, he served as a leading voice in consumer technology for the esteemed publication. However, on October 21, 2013, he announced a significant career pivot, departing the Times to join Yahoo!. His mission at Yahoo! was ambitious: to spearhead the creation of a brand-new consumer-technology website. This venture, dubbed Yahoo! Tech, officially launched with much anticipation at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show, where Pogue famously joined then-Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer on stage to "throw the on switch." This period marked a dynamic foray into the rapidly evolving landscape of online tech journalism.

Yet, the lure of his original journalistic home proved strong. On November 13, 2018, Pogue announced his return to The New York Times, rejoining as the writer of the "Crowdwise" feature for the "Smarter Living" section. This homecoming underscored his enduring connection to the publication and its readership, where he continues to offer practical wisdom and sharp insights into modern life and technology.

Acknowledging Excellence: The Emmy Awards Emcee

Since 2012, David Pogue has taken on another distinguished role: serving as the emcee for the annual National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Technical and Engineering Emmys ceremony in Las Vegas. This position highlights his respected standing within the television industry, recognizing his ability to command an audience while honoring the unsung heroes whose innovations drive broadcast technology forward.

Frequently Asked Questions About David Pogue

Who is David Pogue?

David Pogue is an Emmy-winning American technology and science writer, as well as a popular TV presenter. He is known for making complex technical subjects accessible and engaging to a wide audience.

What is David Pogue famous for?

Pogue is widely famous for his extensive work as a tech columnist for The New York Times, his role as a correspondent for CBS News Sunday Morning, hosting numerous Nova specials on PBS, and authoring the bestselling "Missing Manual" and "For Dummies" book series.

What books has David Pogue written?

He has authored or co-authored seven books in the "For Dummies" series, created and wrote the "Missing Manual" series (with over 100 titles), and published works like The World According to Twitter and the New York Times bestseller Pogue's Basics.

What is his connection to The New York Times?

David Pogue had a long tenure as a prominent technology writer for The New York Times for 13 years, left to join Yahoo! Tech, and later returned to the Times in 2018 to write the "Crowdwise" column for the "Smarter Living" section.

Has David Pogue won any awards?

Yes, David Pogue is an Emmy-winning correspondent for his work on CBS News Sunday Morning. He also serves as the emcee for the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Technical and Engineering Emmys.