Podcast Summary: De 7

Host: Bert Rymen
Episode Date: January 14, 2026
Episode Title: Overheid spendeert record aan terugbetaling medicijnen | Wat na de AI-deal Apple-Google? | De populairste bedrijfswagen is ...

Overview

In this episode of De 7, Bert Rymen guides listeners through the seven essential news points to kick off their day. The main topics include:

• The Belgian government's record spending on pharmaceutical reimbursements
• The implications of the Apple-Google AI deal and its technological impact
• A look at the most popular company cars in Belgium

Rymen weaves expert opinions and current data to provide listeners with sharp insights into key business, technology, and lifestyle developments.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Record Spending on Pharmaceutical Reimbursements

• The Belgian government has significantly increased its expenditure to refund medicines, reaching a new record in December 2025.
• Discussion touches on the secrecy and complexity of pharma deals ("Langsford Geheim Pharma deals").
• Notable Quote:
  • "Slight the overhead zone Pharma deals. We will drill, baby, drill." (00:50)

2. The Apple-Google AI Deal: What’s Next?

• Apple has announced a major strategic shift, integrating advanced AI—dubbed "Apple Intelligence"—into its iPhones.
  • This marks a notable change for Apple, which typically emphasizes self-developed solutions ("Apple selfmartitentslacht om un huge met…").
• The partnership with Google introduces Gemini (Google's cutting-edge AI) to select Apple devices, raising questions about Apple’s historical ‘walled garden’ approach.
• Broader implications for the tech industry are addressed:
  • Apple's reliance on external innovations versus in-house development.
  • What this partnership signals for the future of AI integration in consumer tech.
• Notable Quotes:
  • "Introducing Apple intelligence. All of this goes beyond artificial intelligence, and it's the next big step for all." (01:30)
  • "The AI functions of Apple II Stellars was iPhone Sulebene kortwerde anhedra dor Gemini..." (01:50)
  • "For Google. Is it a positive verhal? They have announced Google Alphabet du hulangerumer de dominant in AI." (02:40)
• Debate on whether consumers will notice the technological leap and privacy considerations raised.

3. The Most Popular Company Car in Belgium

• The distinction between personal preference for brands such as BMW or Kia, and statistical data on actual fleet ordering.
• Highlights from the latest Arval report:
  • The Skoda Enyaq and Volvo EX30 are among the most frequently ordered vehicles for corporate fleets.
  • Kia’s growing market share in this segment; Tesla also ranks high, especially with models like the Model Y.
• Notable Quotes:
  • "The Maestrichorbettereswacher in Ostland and Kier the FA3, the Werth Vorrichjahr Wacker Besteldt Dande under Lysklasseekers as the BMW Ex? N, the Skoda Elrock, and the Campion Van Troor the Volvo Ax Dertech" (03:50)
• The evolving preferences in company car leasing, with emphasis on electric vehicles and new market entrants.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Pharma Spending:
  "Slight the overhead zone Pharma deals. We will drill baby drill." (00:50)
• On Apple’s AI ambitions:
  "Introducing Apple intelligence. All of this goes beyond artificial intelligence and it's the next big step for all." (01:30)
• On Tech Strategy:
  "Apple selfmartitentslacht om un huge met... de niedil the AI functions of Apple II Stellars was iPhone Sulebene..." (01:50)
• On Fleet Trends in Belgium:
  "The Skoda Elrock and the Campion Van Troor the Volvo Ax Dertech... Tesla Zagt, Forte? S and Yare were at the top 10." (04:15)

Important Timestamps

• 00:50 — Overview of government pharmaceutical reimbursements
• 01:30–02:40 — Discussion of Apple-Google AI deal and Apple Intelligence
• 03:50–04:30 — Breakdown of most popular company cars and data from the latest Arval report

Tone & Style

Bert Rymen maintains an efficient, businesslike, and slightly witty tone, peppered with succinct commentary and expert nods. The episode is fast-paced, geared towards delivering snapshot insights for a professional audience.

This summary captures the episode’s coverage of major economic, technological, and automotive trends, delivered in De 7’s trademark brisk and informative style.