Podcast Summary: The WAN Show – "Linux Gamers Are Cheaters" (November 8, 2024)

Host: Linus Sebastian
Co-Host: Luke Lafreniere
Producer: Dan

1. EA Drops Linux Support for Apex Legends

Timestamp: [03:00]

Overview:
Linus announces that Electronic Arts (EA) has ceased support for Linux in the popular battle royale game, Apex Legends. EA cites a higher incidence of cheating among Linux gamers as the primary reason for this decision.

Key Points:

• EA’s Statement:
  EA developers claim, “The openness of the Linux operating systems makes it an attractive platform for cheaters and cheat developers” ([03:00]).

• Impact on Player Experience:
  EA argues that the cheating on Linux significantly disrupts the gaming experience for other players, leading to the discontinuation of support for the platform.

• Community Reaction:
  Luke suggests, “... the player base playing on Linux is probably not super high either” ([03:53]), questioning the validity of EA’s claims given Apex Legends' status as a top 50 game on Steam Deck.

Discussion:
Linus and Luke delve into whether Linux is genuinely a hotspot for cheaters or if EA is scapegoating the platform to avoid investing in robust anti-cheat measures. They consider the feasibility and incentives for cheat developers to target Linux versus Windows, highlighting the challenges in enforcing anti-cheat protocols on open-source systems.

2. AMD’s Rising Market Share and Ryzen 7 9800x3D Sell-Outs

Timestamp: [01:46]

Overview:
The hosts discuss AMD's impressive upward trajectory in the CPU market, particularly focusing on the Ryzen 7 9800x3D, which has experienced rapid sell-outs across major retailers.

Key Points:

• Market Performance:
  Luke reports that, according to Mercury Research, AMD's desktop CPU market share has climbed by 10% over the past year ([82:43]).

• Ryzen 7 9800x3D Demand:
  The Ryzen 7 9800x3D has sold out within minutes on platforms like Amazon and Best Buy. Newegg, however, still offers motherboard bundles featuring the chip, indicating ongoing supply chain or packaging strategies ([83:36]).

• Data Center Sales Surge:
  AMD’s data center division has reportedly begun outselling Intel for the first time, driven largely by their machine learning and MI accelerator products. However, this does not fully offset Intel’s overall data center sales ([84:12]).

Discussion:
Linus criticizes Intel’s rushed product launches and lack of adequate support from motherboard manufacturers, suggesting that AMD's strategic partnerships and product offerings are better aligned with consumer and data center needs. The conversation underscores AMD's strategic advantage in both consumer and enterprise markets.

3. DIY Upgradable MacBook Storage by Modder IBOFRCC

Timestamp: [92:00]

Overview:
The episode highlights a community modder, IBOFRCC, who has developed a custom PCB add-on and swappable SSD modules for M series MacBooks, allowing users to upgrade their storage beyond Apple's soldered options.

Key Points:

• Mod Development:
  IBOFRCC's DIY mod enables storage upgrades up to 2TB, matching or exceeding the speeds of Apple’s integrated SSDs by leveraging PCIe connectivity ([93:49]).

• Technical Challenges:
  The mod requires Apple Configurator and a secondary Mac to complete the setup, reflecting the inherent difficulties in modifying proprietary hardware.

• Market Implications:
  The ability to upgrade MacBook storage externally challenges Apple's business model of non-upgradable devices, potentially appealing to power users and enthusiasts seeking flexibility ([94:46]).

Discussion:
Linus and Luke commend the ingenuity of modders like IBOFRCC while expressing frustration over Apple's restrictive hardware designs. They debate the ethical and practical implications of such modifications, considering both the benefits to consumers and the potential violations of warranty or device integrity.

4. Ms. Paint Gets an AI Makeover

Timestamp: [68:31]

Overview:
Ms. Paint is receiving new AI-powered features, revitalizing its relevance in modern computing by integrating generative fill and other intelligent tools.

Key Points:

• Feature Demonstration:
  Linus and Luke explore the new AI capabilities in Paint, such as generative fill, which allows users to modify images intuitively by describing desired changes ([68:31]).

• Potential Revival:
  The addition of AI features could make Paint a more powerful and user-friendly tool, attracting both nostalgic users and new audiences seeking simple yet effective graphic editing solutions ([73:03]).

• User Experience:
  The hosts experiment with creating custom images, showcasing the ease and creativity enabled by the AI enhancements, though they encounter some limitations and glitches during the demonstration ([73:58]).

Discussion:
The inclusion of AI transforms Ms. Paint from a basic drawing tool into a more sophisticated application, potentially bridging the gap between casual and more advanced graphic editing. The hosts discuss the balance between maintaining simplicity and adding powerful features, considering how this could impact Paint’s place in both consumer and professional workflows.

5. Company Performance and Resilience Amid Challenges

Timestamp: [02:58]

Overview:
Linus provides an update on Linus Media Group’s performance, highlighting resilience and recovery from recent challenges.

Key Points:

• Viewership Metrics:
  The company’s main channel, LTT, has regained 85-90% of its previous viewership numbers, indicating a strong rebound ([26:53]).

• All-Hands Meeting Insights:
  During a recent all-hands meeting, Linus and Yvonne discussed upcoming challenges and celebrated the teams' efforts in maintaining company operations and content quality ([46:34]).

• Team Shoutouts:
  Special recognition is given to the Floatplane team, social media teams, and business units for their critical roles in the company's ongoing success and adaptability ([49:04]).

Discussion:
Linus emphasizes the importance of resilience and teamwork in navigating the company through hypergrowth phases and economic uncertainties. The conversation reflects on strategic decisions, resource allocation, and the collective efforts required to sustain and grow the business amidst external pressures and internal dynamics.

6. New Merch: The Super Soft Hoodie Launch

Timestamp: [59:03]

Overview:
Linus and Luke introduce the new Super Soft Hoodie, elaborating on its design features and availability.

Key Points:

• Design Features:
  The hoodie is crafted from buttery smooth fabric with a brushed fleece interior for enhanced comfort. It includes a custom chunky drawcord with the LTT logo and a secure kangaroo pocket for phones or earbuds ([59:03]).

• Availability:
  Available now on the Linus Media Group store website (lmg.gg/supersoft), the hoodie is promoted as versatile and easy to integrate into any outfit ([59:51]).

• Community Engagement:
  The hosts encourage listeners to purchase the hoodie, highlighting its quality and the practical design tailored to the community’s preferences ([60:42]).

Discussion:
The introduction of new merchandise strengthens the community bond and provides fans with high-quality apparel that reflects the brand’s identity. Linus and Luke discuss the importance of product design in meeting consumer expectations and the strategic role of merchandise in revenue generation.

7. Floatplane Exclusives and Subscription Benefits

Timestamp: [61:52]

Overview:
The hosts announce the upcoming Floatplane exclusives, emphasizing the value of the $5 monthly subscription.

Key Points:

• Exclusive Content:
  Next week will feature five exclusive Floatplane videos, offering subscribers additional value and unique content not available on YouTube ([73:19]).

• Elijah Week:
  Special emphasis is placed on "Elijah Week," celebrating contributions and spotlighting exclusive content, fostering a sense of community and exclusivity among subscribers ([63:26]).

Discussion:
Linus and Luke highlight the benefits of their Floatplane platform in providing more in-depth and exclusive content for dedicated fans. They discuss the challenges and rewards of producing high-quality, subscriber-only material and the role of Floatplane in diversifying their content distribution channels.

8. Additional Topics and Community Interactions

Timestamp: Various

Overview:
Throughout the episode, Linus, Luke, and Dan engage in various discussions, anecdotes, and interactive segments with their audience.

Key Points:

• Personal Stories:
  The hosts share memories of high school reunions and LAN parties, reflecting on the evolution of social interactions and gaming culture ([117:03], [124:47]).

• Sponsorships and Partnerships:
  Multiple sponsorship messages are integrated seamlessly into the conversation, promoting brands like Thingiverse, Seasonic, and Notion through creative and humorous endorsements ([02:36], [59:03]).

• Technical Insights:
  Discussions on topics like SSD endurance, Steam’s game recording features, and election reforms in Canada provide listeners with in-depth technical and societal insights ([86:00], [103:03]).

Discussion:
The episode balances serious technical discussions with light-hearted banter and community engagement, maintaining an engaging and dynamic format. The hosts' interactions with Dan and live chat comments add spontaneity and relatability, enhancing the overall listener experience.

Notable Quotes:

• Linus on EA’s Decision:
  “The openness of the Linux operating systems… makes it an attractive platform for cheaters” ([03:00]).

• Luke on AMD’s Market Share:
  “If you ask anyone what CPU they should get if they're a gamer, they say whatever the best x3D chip is” ([82:43]).

• Linus on Modding:
  “I hate that Apple hates their customers so much, and I don't understand why their customers continue to bend over and take it and be happy about it” ([93:09]).

• Discussion on Ms. Paint: Linus: “Generative erase. Make it look like the object was never there. Very cool.” ([69:43])

• Linus on Company Resilience:
  “It means focusing on what we need to do and not allowing yourself to get distracted by negativity or by things that don't matter” ([52:18]).

• Luke on Floatplane’s Growth:
  “Floatplane is back up to near YouTube hack levels is like, whoa, pretty nuts” ([49:02]).

Conclusion:

In this episode of The WAN Show, Linus and Luke dissect EA’s controversial decision to drop Linux support for Apex Legends, attributing it to alleged cheating issues. They explore broader themes of platform openness versus security, market dynamics between AMD and Intel, and community-driven innovations like MacBook storage modding and AI-powered software enhancements. Amidst these discussions, the hosts update listeners on Linus Media Group’s resilient performance, unveil new merchandise, and engage with their community through Floatplane exclusives. The episode seamlessly blends technical analysis with personal anecdotes and humor, offering a comprehensive and entertaining insight into the current technology landscape.

Note: This summary captures the essence of the discussions and highlights key moments and quotes. For an exhaustive understanding, listening to the full episode is recommended.