Even the CEOs of the world’s most powerful technology companies are not immune from issues during video conferences.

Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, Apple’s Tim Cook, and Google’s Sundar Pichai on Wednesday, July 29, testified – via small boxes on the screen – before the US House antitrust subcommittee. (READ: Lawmakers slam Big Tech as CEOs grilled at antitrust hearing)

Play Video

While they all have their own video-calling software, none of them were able to use it as they utilized Cisco’s Webex videoconferencing service, US Congress’ preference since the coronavirus pandemic began.

Bezos, who appeared in Congress for the first time, was first to deliver his opening remarks. But instead of his face occupying the screen while speaking, all boxes remained on screen, making it appear Bezos was speaking from a post-it or stamp. The staff immediately worked on the glitch after Bezos’ statement.

While audio was clear, there were slight delays in the early part, causing words to be out of sync with the big bosses’ lips.

For a time, the panel also took a 10-minute break to fix technical issues.

The videos were clear except for Bezos’, who had the poorest quality of all. You read that right: the world’s richest man, who has a video streaming service, suffers from poor video feed like we mortals do.

Twitter users also noticed it.

And what’s a long virtual meeting without food or drinks? Just look at Zuckerberg as he snacks while waiting for his turn to be grilled by lawmakers.

Screenshot

– Rappler.com