TechLinked Podcast Summary
Episode: Intel Arc B770 / B780, Android 16 Features, AI Regulation + More!
Host: Linus Media Group
Release Date: May 15, 2025
In this episode of TechLinked, the Linus Media Group dives deep into the latest developments in technology and gaming culture. From Intel's anticipated GPU releases to Google's AI integrations, and from legislative moves on AI regulation to hardware launches, this episode covers a broad spectrum of topics that are shaping the tech landscape in 2025.
1. Intel Confirms Potential Release of ARC B770 GPU [00:30]
The episode kicks off with exciting news for GPU enthusiasts. Intel has seemingly hinted at the upcoming release of a more powerful ARC B770 GPU, sitting above the current B570 and B580 models in Intel's lineup.
Host: "Intel seems to have implicitly confirmed rumors that they'll release a more powerful ARC battlemage GPU." [00:35]
This speculation arises from Intel's recent interactions on Twitter, where the official account responded to fan requests for the B770 with cryptic messages like "Stay tuned 👀✨". While the B770 hasn't been officially announced, Intel's engagement suggests that fans might soon see this elusive GPU materialize.
Additionally, there are whispers about a 24 GB version of the ARC B580, potentially aimed at professional users. Furthermore, rumors indicate that a third-party manufacturer is working on a dual GPU graphics card featuring two B580 chips on a single board—implying a significant performance boost for gamers and content creators alike.
2. Google Introduces AI Mode in Search: A Double-Edged Sword [08:15]
Next, the discussion shifts to Google's latest experiment with integrating an AI mode button directly into its main search interface. Users have reported varying experiences:
- Replacement of "I'm Feeling Lucky": Some have seen the AI mode replace the classic button that took users directly to the top search result.
- Addition of an Extra Button: Others report an additional AI button appearing alongside the existing search functionalities.
Host: "Google forced AI overviews into your normal searches and made you first perform an AI-enabled search before you can even select the option to search without AI." [08:20]
While some users express frustration, Google defends the change by highlighting enhanced security measures for Android devices. New features include:
- Improved Spam and Scam Protections: Prevent disabling of Google Play, protect sideloading, and manage permissions during calls.
- Cryptographic Key Verifier: Allows users to confirm the identity of their contacts using cryptographic keys, enhancing communication security.
Moreover, Google unveiled Material 3 Expressive, the new design language for Android 16, featuring vibrant color blocks and gradients aimed at attracting Gen Z users.
3. US House Republicans Push to Halt State AI Regulations [15:45]
Shifting to legislative news, House Republicans have introduced language in the proposed budget reconciliation bill that would prevent US states from enforcing any locally passed AI regulations for the next decade. This move is part of a broader strategy that includes unrelated provisions like cuts to Medicaid.
Adding to the legislative chatter, Senator Tom Cotton has proposed a bill mandating tracking chips in all high-performance AI processors, ostensibly to protect children from potential AI-related harms.
Host: "This kind of legislation is going to be relevant because the Trump administration just rescinded Biden's AI Diffusion rule, which placed strict limits on US companies shipping AI chips." [15:50]
The episode also touches on international dynamics, noting that while AI chip exports to China remain restricted, countries in the Middle East are heavily investing in AI infrastructure. Notably:
- Saudi Arabia's Humane: Committed to purchasing $10 billion worth of AMD GPUs and 18,000 Nvidia GPUs.
- United Arab Emirates: Plans to acquire over a million GPUs to power burgeoning data centers.
The US Commerce Department has reiterated that using Huawei's Ascend AI chips globally could result in disciplinary actions, emphasizing the ongoing tech tensions between the US and China.
4. Samsung Unveils Galaxy S25 Edge: Thin but Controversial [22:30]
Samsung recently announced the Galaxy S25 Edge, a departure from the traditionally curved-edge designs. This new model boasts an ultra-thin profile with a 6.7-inch display, positioning it as a sleeker alternative to the standard S25.
However, the reception is mixed:
-
Pros:
- Slim Design: Appeals to users preferring a thinner phone without the bulk of curved edges.
-
Cons:
- Battery Life: Features a smaller 3,900 mAh battery compared to the standard model’s 4,900 mAh.
- Charging: Offers weaker wired-only charging capabilities.
- Camera: Includes a 200 megapixel main camera but retains the same sensor size as the 50 megapixel models in the lineup, lacking a telephoto lens.
Host: "With a 6.7-inch screen, the S25 Edge is basically an S25 but worse, while being slightly more expensive." [22:35]
While some users appreciate the return to a more traditional phone thickness, others question the compromises made in battery and camera performance.
5. Nintendo Switch 2: Enhanced Performance with Dock Integration [28:20]
Nintendo has officially released the technical specifications for the Switch 2, allowing enthusiasts and analysts to delve into its performance capabilities. The highlight from Eurogamer's Digital Foundry indicates a significant performance gap between handheld and docked modes, attributed to the new dock that includes a cooling fan.
Host: "The biggest takeaway is that the Switch 2 has a much larger gap in performance between handheld and docked mode, probably partially due to the new dock and having a fan in it." [28:25]
Gamers can look forward to an enhanced experience on TV, although the over-the-air performance remains tethered to the handheld capabilities. This improvement suggests better graphics and processing power when connected to a display, though handheld mode may still lag behind expectations.
6. VPN Secure Faces Backlash Over Subscription Cancellations [34:10]
In a surprising turn of events, VPN Secure has canceled lifetime subscriptions following a change in ownership. The new management claimed ignorance of these subscriptions during the acquisition process.
Host: "Users who bought a lifetime subscription to VPN provider VPN Secure had those subscriptions canceled because the company's new owners say they had never heard about it when they were in the buying process." [34:15]
Facing significant customer backlash, VPN Secure has agreed to offer lifetime subscribers two additional free years of service as a compromise, although some users remain skeptical about the company's commitment to these changes.
7. Quick Bits: HBO Rebrands, Uber's New RouteShare, and an Air-Powered Robot [38:50]
a. HBO Revisits Its Branding
HBO is reverting its streaming service name back to HBO Max after two years of operating under the name Max. This move aims to emphasize that the platform offers a diverse range of content beyond its traditional offerings like The Sopranos.
b. Uber Launches RouteShare: Modernizing Public Transit
Uber has introduced RouteShare, a service where drivers follow set routes and arrive at designated stops every 20 minutes, effectively acting as a bus system. This initiative represents Uber's foray into structured public transit solutions, aiming to provide reliable and frequent transportation options.
c. Amsterdam's Air-Powered Robot: A Physics-Driven Marvel
Scientists at the FOM Institute for Molecular and Atomic Physics in Amsterdam have developed a robot powered entirely by air. Unlike traditional robots that rely heavily on programming, this robot's leg movements emerge from raw physics, allowing it to adapt and synchronize naturally.
Host: "You're a brainless robot that runs on air. You're a stotting gazelle that swims like a dog. You have an air of stilted vapidity about you. Begone." [40:00]
While the technology is groundbreaking, the host humorously critiques Ars Technica's portrayal of the robot, highlighting the sometimes harsh language used in tech journalism.
Conclusion
This episode of TechLinked offers a comprehensive overview of the latest trends and updates in the tech and gaming worlds. From anticipated hardware releases and AI advancements to legislative actions and innovative projects, the hosts provide insightful analysis and engaging commentary. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a casual listener, this episode ensures you're well-informed about the ever-evolving landscape of technology.
For those who missed the episode, these key highlights encapsulate the dynamic discussions that define the current state of tech and gaming culture.