The WAN Show – "I Just Wanna Do Tech Tips" (January 24, 2025)

Released on January 25, 2025

1. Addressing the Controversy with Steve from Gamers Nexus
Timestamp: 00:28 - 05:50

The episode opens with Linus addressing ongoing tensions with Steve from Gamers Nexus. Following a hit piece released by Louis Rossman, Linus clarifies the situation, emphasizing that Steve published false and damaging information without retracting his statements. Linus expresses gratitude towards supporters who recognized the misrepresentation and acknowledges his own lapses in professionalism, offering apologies for any unprofessional language used.

Linus Sebastian [04:30]: "Steve's response shows that his standards for himself fall far short of the standards he holds others to."

He concludes this segment by urging listeners to focus on the show's content and dismiss further drama.

2. Showcasing a High School Student's Open Source Laptop Project
Timestamp: 06:46 - 15:15

Dan introduces an impressive project by high school senior Brian Huang, who built an open-source laptop from scratch over six months. The laptop, named "Any On," features a 4K AMOLED display, 16GB DDR4 RAM, an RK3588 SoC with an eight-core ARM processor, an M2 SSD, Wi-Fi 6, and a 62.9-watt-hour battery providing approximately seven hours of battery life.

Dan [07:01]: "Brian made an open source laptop from scratch. He called it Any On."

Linus lauds the complexity of sourcing components like the Rock Chip processor and integrating the display, highlighting the technical challenges overcome by Brian. Both hosts express admiration for Brian's ingenuity and discuss potential support avenues, including possible sponsorships.

3. NVIDIA RTX 5090 and GPU Industry Developments
Timestamp: 15:15 - 39:14

The discussion shifts to the latest GPU news, focusing on NVIDIA's RTX 5090. Linus and Dan delve into various aspects, including the removal of hotspot sensors, which Linus criticizes for hindering diagnostic capabilities.

Linus Sebastian [29:33]: "This is something I really don't like. I mean, it's one thing if they want to put a disclaimer on it or something like that..."

They explore rumors about unconventional PCB designs showcased by NVIDIA, debating the practicality and potential cooling efficiencies. The conversation also touches on AMD's RX9070 delay, attributing it to software optimizations and the introduction of FSR4.

Dan [26:22]: "AMD's Vice President... explains they're taking extra time to optimize the software stack for maximum performance."

The hosts emphasize the importance of competition in the GPU market and express support for NVIDIA's strategic delays to ensure higher quality releases.

4. Merchandising Updates and Community Engagement
Timestamp: 39:14 - 65:00

Linus announces new merchandise, including zip-up hoodies, T-shirts, hats, and lanyards, spotlighting their minimalist design. He addresses community feedback on previous merch failures, such as meme-themed products, and stresses the company's commitment to quality and brand integrity.

Linus Sebastian [43:41]: "We do not want to waste our time... create something that makes more people really happy."

Dan shares experiences from his streaming days, comparing successful charity auctions to ineffective giveaways, reinforcing the preference for meaningful community engagement over transient promotional tactics.

5. GTA 6 Pricing and the Gaming Industry's Economic Landscape
Timestamp: 64:00 - 77:50

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing the potential pricing of Grand Theft Auto 6. Industry analyst Michael Ball suggests a launch price between $80 to $100, breaking past the traditional $70 mark. Linus presents historical pricing data adjusted for inflation, revealing that a $70 GTA 6 would be the cheapest in real terms.

Linus Sebastian [64:00]: "In real terms, a $70 GTA 6 would be the cheapest ever GTA."

The debate centers on whether higher prices would benefit the industry by reducing reliance on microtransactions. Both hosts contend that while higher prices could offer better value for consumers, market dynamics and economic factors, especially in regions like Canada, may limit the feasibility of such pricing.

Dan [70:58]: "I would unquestionably agree with that."

The conversation also touches on the broader implications of game pricing strategies, digital distribution's role, and consumer purchasing power amidst economic challenges.

6. Technology Scams and Company Responses
Timestamp: 77:50 - 95:35

Linus critiques Airstech's response to their video debunking the Lifetune device, labeling the company's defensive measures as futile against informed scrutiny. He underscores the importance of transparent and accountable reporting in the tech community.

Linus Sebastian [62:54]: "Unfortunately Reddit saved us the trouble... you've got to give them time to cook."

He also covers Samsung's removal of Bluetooth connectivity from the Galaxy S25 Ultra's S Pen, lamenting the loss of convenient features like Air Actions and expressing disappointment over the decision's impact on user experience.

7. Data Recovery and Security Best Practices
Timestamp: 125:30 - 142:00

Responding to listener queries, Linus offers advice on data recovery and security, emphasizing the critical importance of robust backup strategies. He advocates for maintaining multiple copies of data in different locations and warns about the challenges and costs associated with professional data recovery services.

Linus Sebastian [130:37]: "Data safety comes down to three, two, one... three copies in at least two locations."

Additionally, he touches upon software vulnerabilities and the necessity for continuous improvement in cybersecurity measures to protect against incidents like ransomware attacks.

8. Personal Anecdotes and Community Interaction
Timestamp: 95:35 - 141:17

Throughout the episode, Linus shares personal experiences, including his recent dental procedures and the decision to undergo general anesthesia for wisdom teeth removal. He candidly discusses the challenges and apprehensions associated with medical procedures, offering relatable insights to listeners.

The show concludes with light-hearted banter, merchandise promotions, and plans for future episodes. Linus reflects on the company's growth, the balance between quality content and organizational efficiency, and encourages ongoing community support and engagement.

Linus Sebastian [140:49]: "This is Linus Mode. I can't see the ads."

Notable Quotes:

• Linus Sebastian [04:30]: "Steve's response shows that his standards for himself fall far short of the standards he holds others to."

• Dan [07:01]: "Brian made an open source laptop from scratch. He called it Any On."

• Linus Sebastian [29:33]: "This is something I really don't like... it's clearly going to harm your ability to cool your fin stack."

• Dan [26:22]: "AMD's Vice President... explains they're taking extra time to optimize the software stack for maximum performance."

• Linus Sebastian [64:00]: "In real terms, a $70 GTA 6 would be the cheapest ever GTA."

• Dan [70:58]: "I would unquestionably agree with that."

• Linus Sebastian [130:37]: "Data safety comes down to three, two, one... three copies in at least two locations."

Conclusion

In this episode of The WAN Show, Linus, Luke, and Dan navigate through a mix of corporate disputes, innovative tech projects, significant GPU developments, and broader industry trends. Their candid discussions, combined with personal anecdotes and interactive segments, offer listeners a comprehensive and engaging overview of the current state of the technology universe.

For more insights and updates, tune into future episodes of The WAN Show with Linus Tech Tips.