TechLinked Podcast Summary
Episode: US Chip Tax, AOL is Dead, GitHub CEO Resigns + More!
Release Date: August 12, 2025
Host/Author: Linus Media Group
Introduction
In this episode of TechLinked, host Elijah delves into significant developments in the tech and gaming industries. From groundbreaking changes in the semiconductor market to the end of an era for dial-up internet, the episode covers a wide array of topics that shape the current technological landscape.
US Chip Tax: Nvidia and AMD's Landmark Agreement
Elijah opens the discussion by highlighting a pivotal move in the semiconductor industry. Nvidia and AMD have agreed to pay the US government a 15% tax on all revenue generated from chip sales to China, specifically targeting AI-centric chips like Nvidia's H20 and AMD's Mi308.
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Context and Implications: This agreement follows the recent announcement at the White House, where President Jensen Huang (likely a humorous twist referring to Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang) announced Nvidia's receipt of the necessary export licenses. The move is seen as a strategic response to geopolitical tensions and aims to curb the flow of advanced AI technology to China.
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Revenue Projections: Experts estimate that this tax could generate over $2 billion for the US government, considering Nvidia's projected sales of $15 billion and AMD's $800 million in chip sales to China.
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Industry Reaction: This marks the first instance of a US company agreeing to such a financial arrangement for export licenses, raising eyebrows among industry analysts. Some fear it might set a precedent that could burden other tech firms, while others view it as a necessary step to safeguard national interests.
Notable Quote:
"This is the first time a US Company has agreed to fork over some of their revenue in order to obtain these export licenses," – Elijah [01:10]
AOL Shuts Down Dial-Up Service
Transitioning to internet service news, Elijah announces that AOL will discontinue its dial-up service on September 30th, 2025.
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User Impact: The shutdown affects approximately 160,000 remaining dial-up users, a significant decline from 260,000 six years prior. While dial-up speeds of 56 kilobytes per second may seem antiquated, the persistence of these users underscores the slow pace of technological adoption in certain demographics.
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Historical Context: This closure comes just four years after Verizon sold Yahoo and AOL to Apollo for a hefty $5 billion. Despite the sale, AOL's presence has dwindled, with the company maintaining only minimal services like their newsfeed.
Notable Quote:
"Don't get but what the is core AI?" – Elijah [02:45]
GitHub CEO Resignation: A New Chapter for the Platform
A significant corporate shift is on the horizon for GitHub as CEO Thomas Domke announces his resignation, aiming to return to the startup scene.
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Transition Details: In his farewell blog post, Domke expresses his desire to pursue new entrepreneurial ventures. With his departure, the GitHub leadership will now align under Microsoft's newly formed Core AI team, led by former Meta executive Jay Parakey.
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Future Prospects: This move raises questions about GitHub's future direction, particularly regarding its community-centric approach. Speculation abounds about the potential introduction of AI-driven leadership, hinted humorously by Elijah as an "AI CEO."
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Company Stability: Domke commits to staying until the end of 2025 to ensure a smooth transition, reflecting his dedication to the platform's stability during this period of change.
Notable Quote:
"Get out of my swamp, Thomas. Don't get but what the is core AI?" – Elijah [03:15]
Quick Bits: Additional Tech News
In the latter part of the episode, Elijah shares several brief yet impactful tech stories:
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Hyundai's Security Vulnerability:
- Issue: Certain Hyundai Ioniq 5 models have a flaw that allows hackers to unlock cars using a device disguised as an old Game Boy.
- Solution Cost: Hyundai is offering a security upgrade for $65 to prevent such exploits.
- Elijah's Take: "I personally am just going to let mine get stolen for the insurance money."
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Zellotech's Cabless Trucks in China:
- Innovation: A video surfaced showing a cabless truck operating at highway speeds in China, raising discussions about safety and design aesthetics.
- Public Reaction: While some find the trucks terrifying, others debate the necessity of adding facial features to reduce their menacing appearance.
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Affordable 13-inch MacBook Rumors:
- Specifications: Reports suggest a new 13-inch MacBook will feature the A18 Pro chip, making it the most affordable MacBook yet, priced between $600 to $700.
- Production Timeline: Components expected to enter mass production by the end of Q3.
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Instagram's New Maps Feature:
- Functionality: Allows users to share their exact location with followers when posting.
- Privacy Concerns: Raises potential risks for stalking, though Instagram assures enhancements for user understanding and control.
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R/Place Returns with wplace Live:
- Revival: The beloved pixel art collaboration subreddit R/Place is back as wplace Live, powered by libremaps, enabling global pixel placement.
- Community Engagement: Users can contribute to artworks like thematic cityscapes and logos, fostering creative collaboration.
Notable Quote:
"You're so good, Elijah. You're brilliant, Elijah. Thank you." – Elijah [07:50]
Conclusion
Elijah wraps up the episode with a nod to the return of R/Place, encouraging listeners to engage in collaborative art projects. The episode underscores significant shifts in the tech industry, from international trade policies affecting major semiconductor companies to the evolving landscape of internet services and open-source platforms.
For those who missed the episode, this summary encapsulates the crucial discussions and insights shared by TechLinked, offering a comprehensive overview of the latest in tech and gaming culture.
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