TechLinked Podcast Summary Release Date: November 26, 2024
Episode Title: iPhone Air features, Intel Arc B580 listings, OpenAI v. NYT + more!

Introduction

In this episode of TechLinked, the hosts dive into the latest developments in the tech and gaming landscapes. From Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 Air to Intel's new GPU listings and the legal tussle between OpenAI and The New York Times, the episode covers a broad spectrum of current events shaping the industry.

1. Apple's iPhone 17 Air: Slimmer and Sleeker

Timestamp: [00:00]

The conversation kicks off with exciting rumors about Apple's next big release—the iPhone 17 Air. According to insider reports cited by Linus and co-hosts, Apple is aiming to significantly thin down the iPhone’s profile.

Host A: "Apple's going to be making some sacrifices to achieve a thinner body for the iPhone 17 Air, which I'm planning on buying just so I can reassure it that it'll always be beautiful no matter what." ([00:00])

Key Points:

• Thickness Reduction: The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to measure between 5 to 6 millimeters, a noticeable decrease from the current models' 7.8 to 8.25 millimeters.
• Compromised Features:
  • Audio: Reduction to a single speaker in the earpiece by removing the bottom speaker.
  • Connectivity: Introduction of Apple’s in-house 5G modem, though this means dropping support for faster millimeter-wave 5G.
  • Battery: A smaller, thinner battery is expected, potentially reducing battery life.
• Design Considerations:
  • Despite the slimmer build, Apple might still include a physical SIM card tray for Chinese models.
  • A prominent and centered camera bump is anticipated, possibly offset by the necessity of using bulkier cases to protect the new design.

The hosts humorously debate the trade-offs Apple is making, balancing aesthetics with functionality.

2. Intel's Arc B580 GPU Listings: A New Contender?

Timestamp: [04:30]

Shifting focus to the gaming sector, the episode highlights Intel's latest foray into the GPU market with the Arc B580 series.

Key Points:

• New Listings: Amazon has listed ASRock versions of the Arc B580, featuring models like the Steel Legend 12GB OC and the Challenger 12GB OC. The increased VRAM aims to settle debates around the adequacy of 8GB by stepping up to 12GB.
• Market Positioning: The B580 is positioned against NVIDIA's upcoming RTX 5060, expected to launch next spring. Comparatively, Intel's predecessor, the Arc A580 (Alchemist), launched at $179 and is roughly on par with NVIDIA's RTX 3060.
• Strategic Implications: Intel is attempting to bolster its GPU lineup amidst financial strains, particularly after the U.S. Commerce Department downgraded their Chips Act funding from $8.5 billion to under $8 billion due to delays in their Ohio chip manufacturing plant.

Host B: "How much releasing a good graphics card would actually help Intel's bottom line remains to be seen, but they could sure use a pick me up right now." ([05:15])

The discussion touches on Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger's response to the funding downgrade, emphasizing a cautiously optimistic outlook despite setbacks.

3. OpenAI vs. The New York Times: A Legal Battle Over Evidence

Timestamp: [10:45]

A significant segment is dedicated to the ongoing lawsuit between OpenAI and The New York Times, focusing on alleged mishandling of evidence.

Key Points:

• Deleted Evidence: OpenAI accuses The New York Times of accidentally deleting crucial evidence intended for a copyright lawsuit. The NYT team reportedly mishandled temporary cache data, leading to the loss of important files.
• Access and Requests: The NYT's legal team had access to OpenAI's servers for evidence discovery. However, a requested configuration change resulted in the disorganization and loss of vital data.

Host A: "Probably shouldn't have put that particular needle in the temporary needle tray. Why do we have that? No one knows." ([11:30])

• Search Efficiency: OpenAI has offered to conduct more efficient searches for The New York Times, but the NYT insists on expansive searches that strain OpenAI's resources.
• Discovery Complications: OpenAI's policy involves providing plaintiffs with $15,000 in credits to utilize their language models for evidence retrieval, after which additional usage incurs costs. This has complicated the discovery process for both the NYT case and another involving book authors.

The hosts underscore the challenges of legal discovery in the age of AI, highlighting how OpenAI's policies may impede efficient resolution.

4. Sony and Microsoft: Entering the Handheld Gaming Arena

Timestamp: [15:20]

The episode transitions to the handheld gaming market, detailing developments from Sony and Microsoft.

a. Sony's Upcoming Handheld Device

Host B: "Apparently Sony just realized the Nintendo Switch exists and maybe there's a market for a handheld product like the PS Portal..." ([15:35])

Key Points:

• Device Features: Aiming to play PS5 games, Sony’s new handheld is expected to launch in a few years, positioning itself as a direct competitor to the Nintendo Switch.
• Market Strategy: The device, tentatively named PS Portal, targets gamers seeking portable high-performance gaming, albeit with a projected release timeline extending into the future.

b. Microsoft's Xbox Handheld Development

Key Points:

• Confirmation: Phil Spencer has confirmed that an Xbox handheld is in development, also with a multi-year horizon.
• Market Competition: Microsoft's handheld aims to complement Sony's efforts, expanding the offerings in the portable gaming sector.

The hosts humorously speculate on the future of handheld gaming, noting the competitive dynamics between major console manufacturers.

5. Microsoft and Ubisoft: Windows Update Woes

Timestamp: [18:50]

A technical hiccup affects gamers using Windows systems with Ubisoft titles.

Key Points:

• Update Issues: Microsoft has blocked Windows updates for systems running Windows 11, 24H2, and certain Ubisoft games like Star Wars Outlaws, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, and various Assassin's Creed titles.
• Crash Reports: Users have reported game crashes and glitches post-update, as highlighted in discussions on Reddit and Microsoft forums.
• Temporary Fixes: Ubisoft has provided a temporary solution for Star Wars Outlaws, but other games may still experience issues.

Host A: "Installing them is one way to prevent Microsoft from slamming an update down your throat." ([19:10])

The segment advises gamers to be cautious with updates to avoid disrupting their gaming experience until official fixes are released.

6. Google Faces a £7 Billion Class Action Lawsuit in the UK

Timestamp: [22:00]

Major legal challenges loom for Google as they contend with anti-competitive behavior allegations.

Key Points:

• Lawsuit Details: Google is subject to a £7 billion class action lawsuit in the UK, alleging monopolistic practices related to search engine dominance and control over other platforms like browsers and mobile operating systems.
• Company Stance: Despite attempts to appeal, Google faces pressure to address the growing scrutiny over its market practices.

Host B: "Just admit you want a monopoly. Look what Apple says. We're better than you see. Just be honest." ([22:30])

The discussion reflects skepticism about Google's ability to overcome such massive legal hurdles, drawing parallels to similar lawsuits in the United States.

7. Emerging Technologies: Ubitium's Universal Processor

Timestamp: [24:45]

Wrapping up with a look into emerging tech, the hosts explore Ubitium's ambitious project.

Key Points:

• Universal Processor: Ubitium is developing a processor capable of performing the functions of CPUs, GPUs, DSPs, FPGAs, and more through a single, workload-agnostic microarchitecture.
• RISC-V Basis: The architecture is built on RISC-V, an open-standard instruction set architecture gaining traction in the chip industry.
• Funding and Prospects: Despite the innovative concept, Ubitium has raised only $3.7 million in seed funding, suggesting investor caution, potentially due to the project's lack of emphasis on AI integration.

The hosts speculate humorously on the role of future technologies, including sentient robots in tech development, highlighting both the promise and challenges of such ventures.

Conclusion

This episode of TechLinked provides a comprehensive overview of significant developments in the tech and gaming sectors. From Apple's design innovations and Intel's competitive GPU strategy to high-stakes legal battles involving industry giants like OpenAI and Google, listeners are kept informed on the multifaceted dynamics shaping the future of technology. The hosts blend detailed analysis with their characteristic humor, making complex topics accessible and engaging.

For more updates and in-depth analysis, be sure to tune into future episodes of TechLinked by Linus Media Group.