TechLinked Podcast Summary
Episode: RX 9070 XT Clues, Ridiculous Switch 2 Leaks, eBay on FB + more!
Release Date: January 9, 2025
1. AMD’s RX 9070 XT: Leaks and Speculations
AMD’s Silence and Leaked Benchmarks
The episode kicks off with a discussion on AMD's upcoming GPUs, specifically the RX 9070 non-XT model. Despite AMD's tight-lipped stance, [Tech Journalist, 00:22] shares insider information from CES 2025:
“AMD's decision to withhold information except their GPU names has only made everyone more curious about them...”
Performance Insights
IGN managed to secretly benchmark the RX 9070 non-XT on Call of Duty Black Ops 6, achieving an average of .99 FPS. While the exact number seems humorous, the implication is significant performance. IGN estimates the RX 9070 XT might rival Nvidia's RTX 4080 Super, although the exact metrics remain under wraps.
Industry Reactions and Confusion
The lack of information has left both consumers and AMD’s own GPU board partners puzzled. Power Color's attempt to provide a glimpse of the RX 9070s resulted in only showing “invisible non-existent graphics cards,” adding to the mystery.
Chip Specifications Revealed
A leaked photo of the Navi 48 chip suggests a die size of approximately 390 mm², slightly larger than Nvidia's AD103 chip powering the RTX 4080. Additionally, Asus confirmed both RX 9070 variants will feature 16GB of VRAM, information they quickly retracted, fueling further speculation.
2. Nintendo Switch 2: Official Leaks and Speculation
Genki’s Accidental Reveal
The Nintendo Switch 2 appears to be officially leaked through accessory maker Genki, who showcased a protective case resembling the rumored console. [Tech Journalist, 12:15] comments:
“The video shows in detail the magnetic joy cons releasing at the push of a button, revealing the rumored laser sensor on the rail that may enable mouse functionality.”
Dock Design and Physical Mockups
Genki also provided a closer look at the Switch 2’s dock, and distributed a 3D-printed mockup of the console. French tech outlet Numerama first highlighted this mockup, intensifying anticipation.
Nintendo’s Cryptic Social Media Activity
Adding to the mystery, the Nintendo Japan Twitter account updated its banner to feature Mario and Luigi against empty space, hinting at an impending announcement. [Tech Journalist, 15:47] predicts:
“Nintendo wait until March 31st and then wait one more day to reveal the greatest April Fool's prank ever. There is no Switch 2.”
The speculation remains high, but Nintendo has yet to confirm the existence of a Switch 2.
3. Meta Expands eBay Integration on Facebook Marketplace
EU Regulatory Challenges
Meta is expanding its integration with eBay on Facebook Marketplace across the US, France, and Germany. This move comes amidst regulatory scrutiny, as the European Commission fined Meta $820 million last year for merging Facebook Marketplace with the main platform.
Recent Legal Rulings
The episode highlights a recent ruling where the EU General Court determined that the European Commission violated its own rules by allowing a German citizen’s data to be sent to Meta servers in the US. Consequently, the EU is mandating Meta to pay €400 in damages to the affected individual. [Tech Journalist, 25:30] humorously remarks:
“It's not really a fine in the strict sense of the word, but it makes more sense than going pay up.”
This development underscores ongoing tensions between big tech companies and European regulatory bodies.
4. CES 2025 Highlights: Innovations and Oddities
Swipit’s Battery Reloading Technology
Swipit introduced a groundbreaking device capable of swapping out your phone's external battery in just two seconds. The "Swipit link case" is compatible with both iPhone and Android devices, storing fully charged batteries in a sleek, toaster-like hub. Despite its impressive functionality, the device produces a sound reminiscent of a “20-year-old printer,” according to Allison Johnson from The Verge [18:05].
LG’s Unique Product Launches
LG showcased several unconventional products:
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Stanmy B2 Portable TV: A 27-inch, hangable TV with a built-in kickstand, resembling a giant tablet sans touchscreen.
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Aero Cat Tower: An Aero Tower air purifier equipped with a cradle for cats, blending functionality with pet-friendly design.
Eufy and Roborock’s Innovations
Eufy unveiled the E20 Robot Vacuum, a versatile three-in-one device that can transform into a handheld vacuum with powerful suction capabilities. On the horizon, Roborock hinted at a vacuum featuring a robot arm, promising to take household cleaning to the next level.
Haliday’s Smart Glasses
Haliday introduced smart glasses that diverge from popular waveguide displays, opting for a unique Digi window design. Controlled via voice commands or a finger-mounted control ring, these glasses can summon an AI agent, blending retro aesthetics with modern technology.
BYD’s Yangwang U9 Electric Sports Car
Chinese automaker BYD presented the Yangwang U9, an electric sports car capable of navigating obstacles at 120 km/h. Demonstrations included bunny hopping over potholes, spikes, and even a chalk rainbow, showcasing the vehicle's advanced handling and agility.
Conclusion
This episode of TechLinked provided a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in the tech and gaming worlds. From the enigmatic release of AMD’s RX 9070 XT GPUs and tantalizing hints about the Nintendo Switch 2 to Meta’s ongoing tussle with EU regulations and an array of innovative products showcased at CES 2025, listeners were treated to a wealth of information and insightful commentary.
As [Tech Journalist, 40:00] humorously concludes:
“You're coming right back here tomorrow for more tech news. Because I'll be damned if I have to endure this pain alone.”
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analyses on future episodes of TechLinked.