TechLinked Episode Summary: RX 9070 XT 32GB, Melted Cables Investigated, AI Copyright Case + More!

Release Date: February 13, 2025
Host/Author: Linus Media Group
Description: A thrice-weekly news show about tech + gaming culture

1. AMD’s Radeon RX9070 XT 32GB: An Exciting New Release on the Horizon

Timestamp: [00:31]

TechLinked kicks off the episode with thrilling news for AMD enthusiasts. A prominent leaker, Zhang Zhong Zhao, shared on the Chiphell forums that AMD is gearing up to release a 32GB variant of its Radeon RX9070 XT graphics card. This new model is set to launch later this year, following the vanilla RX9070 series, which is expected to feature 16GB of VRAM with an MSRP ranging between $600 to $700 USD. James comments on the significance of the RX9070 XT name, recalling AMD’s previous attempts to announce an XT variant at CES, which didn't go as planned.

Notable Quote: James states, “AMD is preparing a 32 gigabyte version of its Radeon RX9070 XT, which is my favorite name XT” ([00:31]).

2. Nvidia’s RX5070 Launch Delayed: Strategic Timing or Supply Challenges?

Timestamp: [00:54]

Following the AMD news, Riley and James delve into Nvidia’s latest developments. Rumors suggest that Nvidia is delaying the launch of its RX5070 non-Ti model from February to early March. This strategic postponement appears to be an effort to align the RX5070’s release with that of AMD’s RX9070 and 9070 XT. James humorously notes, “If the 5070 launches anything like the 5080 and 5090 launches, hardly anyone will actually get cards” ([00:52]). The delay could exacerbate supply issues, making these high-demand GPUs even harder to obtain for consumers.

3. GPU Connector Melting Issues: Unraveling the Cause

Timestamp: [01:35]

A concerning topic discussed is the recurring issue of GPU connectors melting, particularly with high-end models like the RTX 4090 and 5090. A Reddit user reported their 5090’s damaged 12-volt high power cable, which was analyzed by YouTuber Derbauer. Findings revealed excessively high temperatures and uneven power distribution across the cable's individual wires. BuildZoid adds that the power distribution method in the RTX 4090 and 5090 differs unfavorably from the 3090, potentially contributing to these problems.

Further complicating matters, Mod DIY, the manufacturer of the faulty third-party cable, advises RTX5090 owners to use their newer 12V 2x6 cables, claiming significant enhancements. This contradicts guidance from industry leaders like Corsair and Seasonic, who assert that the issue lies solely in the GPU and power supply sockets, not the cables themselves. While PC integrator Falcon Northwest has been unable to reproduce the issue, Darkside of Gaming discovered a melted cable on their 4090 after two years of use, highlighting the problem’s persistence.

Notable Quote: Riley humorously remarks, “Doctors recommend some parts melt faster than others” ([03:02]).

4. AI Copyright Case: Thomson Reuters Triumphs Over Ross Intelligence

Timestamp: [03:05]

In a landmark legal development, TechLinked covers the first major AI copyright case where media tech conglomerate Thomson Reuters successfully sued AI startup Ross Intelligence. The case centered around Ross Intelligence using thousands of legal summaries from Thomson Reuters' Westlaw database to train its AI system. The court ruled that Ross's actions were not protected under fair use, as the AI merely surfaced existing material without generating new content. James points out the significance of this ruling, especially in a pre-ChatGPT era, saying, “It's unclear how useful this ruling will be as a precedent for the various generative AI copyright cases currently in the pipe” ([03:05]).

The discussion underscores the distinction between generative AI and earlier AI models, highlighting uncertainties in how future cases involving advanced AI will be adjudicated.

Notable Quote: James muses, “It's less ChatGPT and more old Google before it told you to eat rocks” ([03:28]).

5. Apple Expands Services: Apple TV App for Android and Content Migration Features

Timestamp: [05:02]

Apple is making significant strides in broadening its ecosystem. The company has launched the Apple TV app for Android mobile devices, allowing Android users to subscribe to Apple TV+ and enjoy popular shows like "Severance." Additionally, Apple has introduced a feature enabling users to migrate their purchased movies, music, apps, and other content from one account to another primary account. James applauds these moves, noting that long-time Apple fans have eagerly awaited such functionalities.

Notable Quote: James enthusiastically states, “Apple has launched the Apple TV app for Android mobile devices so Android users can finally subscribe to Apple TV plus and watch the best show ever made. Severance, right?” ([05:02]).

6. Upcoming Smartphone Releases: Delays and Leaks

Timestamp: [05:35]

The episode also covers the latest updates in the smartphone arena. Apple has delayed the launch of its newest iPhone SE model to the following week, prompting speculations about the reasons behind the postponement. Meanwhile, leaks for Google's Pixel 9a reveal a minimal camera bump, with an expected launch date of March 19. Samsung’s Galaxy A56.5G is also in the spotlight, with renders from EV leaks suggesting its imminent release. James advises viewers that their current smartphones are likely sufficient, hinting at the incremental nature of these upgrades.

Notable Quote: James humorously warns, “By the time you look at these photos, you'll have bad eyes” ([05:38]).

7. Google Maps Renames Gulf of Mexico and Jeep Infotainment Glitches

Timestamp: [06:12]

In geographical updates, Google Maps has rebranded the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America for US users, while maintaining the original name for Mexican users. The rest of the world will see both names, leaving it up to users to choose their preference. Bing Maps attempted to join this change but only labeled it as the Gulf of Mexico twice, eventually aligning with Google and Apple Maps.

On a different note, Jeep owners have reported unwanted ads for extended warranty coverage appearing on their vehicle’s infotainment displays during stops. Stellantis, Jeep’s parent company, attributes these occurrences to software glitches and is actively working on a fix. James remarks on the situation, drawing parallels to the complexities of modern infotainment systems.

Notable Quote: Riley quips, “AI is crazy” ([07:10]).

Closing Thoughts

TechLinked wraps up the episode with a blend of humor and anticipation for future tech developments. While addressing the latest issues and releases, the hosts ensure that viewers are well-informed and entertained, maintaining the show’s reputation as a go-to source for tech and gaming culture news.

Note: Advertisements, intros, and outros were omitted to focus solely on the episode's content.