TechLinked Podcast Summary: "China's GPMI Connector, RX 9070 w/ XT BIOS, Switch 2 Updates + More!" Hosted by Linus Media Group | Released on April 8, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of TechLinked, listeners are treated to a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements and news in the tech and gaming world. From innovative connector standards emerging out of China to exciting updates on flagship gaming consoles, the episode delves into a diverse range of topics. Below is a detailed summary capturing all key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

1. China's General Purpose Media Interface (GPMI) Connector

Riley Murdoch kicks off the episode by discussing a significant development in the connectivity standards sector.

• Overview of GPMI:

  • Over 50 Chinese tech companies are adopting the General Purpose Media Interface (GPMI), aiming to unify various existing standards like HDMI, DisplayPort, USB4, and Thunderbolt. Riley humorously notes, "makes HDMI, DisplayPort, USB4 and Thunderbolt seem like two cans with a string between them" (00:30).

• Technical Specifications:

  • GPMI Type A:
    • Data Bandwidth: 96 Gbps
    • Power Delivery: 240W via USB Type C connector
    • This surpasses all current consumer standards in both data transmission and power delivery.
  • GPMI Type B:
    • Data Bandwidth: 192 Gbps
    • Power Delivery: 480W
    • Although visuals of Type B are scarce, it's described as "a USB C plug stretched sideways" to facilitate easier cable management.

• Adoption and Market Potential:

  • The USB Implementers Forum has licensed the GPMI standard, signaling potential global adoption.
  • Major TV manufacturers like TCL, Hisense, and Huawei are on board.
  • Riley speculates that GPMI products and cables might soon be available internationally, albeit at a premium price of around $200,000.

Notable Quote:

"The GPMI standard has been licensed by the USB Implementers Forum, and TV manufacturers like TCL, Hisense, and Huawei are on board." — Riley Murdoch 02:15

2. Radeon RX 9070 Modded with XT BIOS

The episode transitions to GPU modding, highlighting a fascinating development in the Radeon RX series.

• The Modding Process:

  • A community member known as Gertie from German PC gaming hardware forums managed to flash the BIOS of a Radeon RX 9070 with that of the RX 9070 XT.
  • This modification resulted in increased power draw and clock speeds, effectively boosting performance.

• Performance and Stability:

  • Despite the RX 9070 having fewer cores, the modded version matches the XT's performance in 3D Mark tests.
  • However, the hybrid card experiences some issues:
    • Ultra Low Power Mode: Non-functional post-modification.
    • System Stability: Some users reported system freezes, indicating potential instability.

• Community Reactions:

  • Comparisons are drawn to overambitious experiments, with Riley humorously likening it to "the billionaire guy who injects himself with his son's blood to make him stronger."
  • The community remains cautiously optimistic, recognizing both the performance gains and the associated risks.

Notable Quote:

"Despite having a lower number of cores, the hybrid card is apparently stable, although its ultra low power mode doesn't work and one of the forum members encountered some freezes when they tried it in their setup." — Riley Murdoch 05:45

3. Nintendo Switch 2 Updates

Nintendo's latest console, the Switch 2, is under the spotlight with several intriguing updates.

• Joystick Technology:

  • Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 does not use Hall Effect joysticks, addressing long-standing concerns over joystick drift experienced in original Switch Joy-Cons.
  • Speculation points to the use of Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) technology, which incorporates elements of quantum mechanics, adding a layer of resilience against drift (06:30).

• Developer and Performance Insights:

  • Developers have expressed high satisfaction with the Switch 2's processing power.
  • CD Projekt Red's Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition screenshots showcase impressive graphics performance on the console, indicating significant horsepower improvements.

• Pricing Concerns:

  • Despite the hardware advancements, prices remain a sticking point for consumers.
  • Doug Bowser, Nintendo of America President, addressed pricing impacts due to US tariffs:

    "We couldn't factor in the impact of Trump's new tariffs, which were unforeseen." — Doug Bowser 09:20

  • This implies that the Switch 2 may not see a price reduction in the near future, despite fan calls for affordability.

Notable Quote:

"Developers told Stephen Totillo at GamePhile they are extremely happy with the console's horsepower." — Riley Murdoch 08:10

4. US-China Tariffs and Their Economic Impact

The geopolitical climate continues to influence the tech market, with tariffs playing a pivotal role.

• Current Tariff Situation:

  • The US is contemplating an additional 50% tariff on Chinese imports if China does not repeal its existing 34% tariff retaliatory measure.
  • If enforced, the total US tariffs on Chinese goods could soar to 104%, as stated by former President Trump, who set a deadline of April 9 for China to comply.

• Market Adaptations:

  • Companies like Apple are taking strategic measures to mitigate potential tariff impacts.
    • Apple's Strategy: Transporting large quantities of products (e.g., iPhones) ahead of the tariff deadline to maintain supply chains.
    • Riley humorously suggests this creates a "big market opportunity for smugglers."

Notable Quote:

"The extra 50% would bring the US total tariffs on China to 104%, and Trump said the country has until April 9 to make the change." — Riley Murdoch 12:00

5. Apple's Encryption Battle in the UK

Apple finds itself in a legal tussle over user privacy and governmental access to encrypted data.

• Legal Ruling:

  • A UK judge ruled that Apple's dispute with the government regarding access to encrypted user data cannot proceed in secret.
  • This decision counters the Investigatory Powers Act, which the Home Office had utilized to demand a software backdoor from Apple.

• Implications:

  • The ruling is hailed as a victory for privacy advocates, reinforcing the importance of user data protection against governmental intrusion.

Notable Quote:

"The ruling is a win for privacy advocates, while another UK law just coming into effect this week is a win for advocates of skimming online reviews." — Riley Murdoch 13:45

6. Colossal Biosciences and the De-Extinction of the Dire Wolf

Venturing into the realm of genetic engineering, Colossal Biosciences makes bold claims about resurrecting extinct species.

• Dire Wolf Resurrection:

  • The company claims success in bringing back the dire wolf, an extinct species that disappeared approximately 11,000 years ago.
  • Methodology involved extracting DNA from fossils, combining it with gray wolf DNA, and employing genetic editing techniques to create living specimens.

• Skepticism and Criticism:

  • Despite the groundbreaking announcement, there are significant concerns:
    • Scientific Doubts: Research indicates that dire wolves are more closely related to African wild dogs, which differ markedly from true wolves.
    • Ethical Concerns: Drawing parallels to Jurassic Park, critics worry about the unforeseen consequences of de-extinction.
  • The naming of the dire wolf twins—Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi—adds a layer of pop culture influence that some find unsettling.

Notable Quote:

"They named the twins Romulus and Remus, which, you know, fine, that's cool. The mythical founders of Rome..." — Riley Murdoch 16:30

7. Kawasaki's Corleo: A Rideable Robot Horse

Kawasaki unveils an innovative concept blending robotics with transportation.

• Product Features:

  • Corleo is a rideable robot horse, equipped with:
    • 150cc Hydrogen-Fueled Engine: Provides the necessary power for mobility.
    • AI Integration: Enables autonomous movement, potentially acting as a hybrid between a vehicle and a living creature.

• Potential and Speculations:

  • The concept targets ATV enthusiasts eager for advanced, versatile transportation options.
  • Riley muses on the practicalities of interacting with such a device, adding a touch of humor to the discussion.

Notable Quote:

"It's powered by a 150cc hydrogen fueled engine and it will apparently carry you just fine as it leaps over icy chasms." — Riley Murdoch 18:10

Conclusion

This episode of TechLinked offers a rich tapestry of current events and innovations shaping the tech and gaming landscapes. From China's ambitious GPMI connector to groundbreaking (and controversial) endeavors in genetic engineering, the discussions highlight both the potential and challenges inherent in technological advancement. Additionally, updates on major players like Apple and Nintendo provide listeners with insights into how global economic and legal dynamics are influencing product development and market strategies.

For those who missed the episode, this summary encapsulates the essential takeaways, ensuring you're up-to-date with the latest in tech and gaming culture.

Timestamps Reference:

• 02:15 – Licensing of GPMI by USB Implementers Forum
• 05:45 – Stability issues with modded RX 9070
• 06:30 – Nintendo's joystick technology confirmation
• 08:10 – Developer satisfaction with Switch 2
• 09:20 – Doug Bowser on Switch 2 pricing
• 12:00 – US-China tariff details
• 13:45 – UK legal ruling on Apple's encryption
• 16:30 – Criticism of Colossal Biosciences' approach
• 18:10 – Features of Kawasaki's Corleo