TechLinked Episode Summary: Next-Gen Xbox, Switch 2 Online Bans, NexusMods Buyer Revealed & More!

Release Date: June 19, 2025
Host/Author: Linus Media Group

1. Next-Gen Xbox Developments

The episode kicks off with an in-depth discussion about Microsoft's unveiling of its next-generation Xbox consoles. In a surprise update, Xbox President Sarah Bond emphasized a "gaming experience not locked to a single store or tied to one device" ([00:32]). This strategic move involves a multi-year partnership with AMD to co-engineer a diverse range of devices, positioning Windows as the premier gaming platform. However, the commentator expresses confusion over Microsoft's broad definition of the Xbox ecosystem, questioning, "What is an Xbox?" ([01:47]). Speculations from outlets like Xbox Era suggest that native handhelds might be on the horizon, especially after Microsoft’s reference to the "ROG Xbox Ally X" in their announcements.

2. Nintendo's Switch 2 Online Bans

Shifting focus to Nintendo, the conversation highlights a wave of bans affecting Switch 2 owners. Gamers utilizing the MIG Flash Micro SD adapter cartridges—which allow gameplay without modifying the console—have faced suspensions from Nintendo's online services. The commentator notes, "Big Flash was just updated to support playing Switch 1 games on Switch 2, but seems like Nintendo was ready and waiting to ban a bunch of people" ([02:30]). Despite some reports from Reddit users claiming immunity, incidents of theft, such as the alleged theft of nearly 3,000 Switch 2 consoles in Texas by a disgruntled user, underscore the severity of Nintendo's crackdown.

3. Nexus Mods Acquired by Chozen

A significant revelation in the episode is the acquisition of Nexus Mods by Chozen, a gaming startup accelerator. Announced by Redditors, this move has stirred the community. The commentator shares, "Nexus Mods is now owned by a company called Chozen, a gaming startup accelerator" ([03:00]). Chozen's mission, stated as "we partner, we amplify, we conquer," aims to differentiate from typical corporate investors by infusing humanity and gaming passion. Addressing community concerns, Chozen's team assured that they "won't sell mods, charge a download fee, or claim ownership of the mods" ([03:45]), maintaining the platform's integrity and user trust.

4. Valve Updates Steam's Performance Overlay

Valve has rolled out updates to its Steam performance overlay and the latest Steam client beta. These enhancements allow users to distinguish between traditional frames and those generated by technologies like DLSS, FSR, or XeSS, referred to as "fake frames". Additionally, the overlay now provides metrics for CPU, GPU, and memory usage. While these tools offer valuable insights, the commentator humorously states, "I'm gonna be turning this on and only looking at the top left because I want to enjoy those extra frames and be mad about it the whole time" ([04:50]).

5. TikTok's Ownership and US Ban Implications

The episode touches on the ongoing saga of TikTok's ownership. Former President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, to either agree to a sale or face a ban in the United States. The commentator remarks on the uncertainty surrounding the situation: "June 19th was going to be midnight on the TikTok doomsday clock, but every time that minute hands gets close, wouldn't you know it, midnight keeps moving" ([05:15]).

6. Google's Gemini Enhancements in Search Labs

Google has introduced new features in its Search Labs, allowing users to engage with Gemini, its AI assistant, through live voice interactions. Users can now converse with Gemini while performing Google searches, enhancing the interactivity and depth of search results. A standout feature is the ability to "directly upload video files for Gemini to analyze" ([05:50]), potentially revolutionizing how users interact with multimedia content.

7. Honda's Reusable Rocket Launch

In a surprising turn, Honda has successfully launched and landed its own reusable rocket, marking a significant achievement in the space industry. The 20.6-foot rocket soared to an altitude of 889 feet in Taiki, Japan, before making a graceful return to Earth with its "extendable legs and all" ([06:30]). The commentator humorously questions Honda's secrecy: "Why didn't you tell anyone? I mean, it turns out they did kind of."

8. Innovations in Robotics by Generalist

Generalist, founded by a former Google DeepMind researcher, showcased their advanced robot hands capable of performing general-purpose tasks with remarkable dexterity. Demonstrations included flicking small items into bins, assembling boxes, and managing complex tasks like zipping a backpack without errors. The commentator is impressed, exclaiming, "What's more impressive that or Australia approving lab grown meat, specifically quail..." ([07:10]).

9. Australia's Approval of Lab-Grown Quail Meat

Concluding the episode, the discussion shifts to Australia's approval of lab-grown meat, focusing on quail. A company named Forged has transformed laboratory-grown quail into luxury products such as "quail candles that melt so you can dip stuff in it" ([07:45]). While the commentator finds the concept unconventional, the innovation highlights the expanding boundaries of food technology and consumer products.

Note: Advertisements and non-content segments from the transcript have been omitted to focus on the core topics discussed in this episode.