Summary of "We’re The Best In The World At Computer - WAN Show May 16, 2025" – The WAN Show by Linus Tech Tips

Introduction

In the May 16, 2025 episode of The WAN Show, hosts Linus Sebastian and Luke Lafreniere tackle a range of pressing topics in the tech world. From setting world records to addressing consumer frustrations with subscription services, the duo provides insightful and engaging discussions, enriched with humor and expert opinions.

VPN Secure’s Controversial Cancellation of Lifetime Subscriptions

Timestamp [90:25]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the fallout from VPN Secure's decision to cancel lifetime subscriptions. This move has left many customers outraged and seeking refunds.

Linus Sebastian expresses strong disapproval:

“If you weren't worth it to them as a customer, who by the way, already paid for the service, then you aren't worth it to them as a customer, period.”

Discussion Points:

• Linus criticizes the ethical implications of the cancellation, emphasizing the company's lack of transparency and accountability.
• Luke adds perspective on how such asset-only deals should logically affect all types of subscriptions, not selectively.
• The hosts debate the impracticality of pursuing legal action due to jurisdictional challenges, instead advocating for consumer awareness and support through negative reviews.

Achieving a Guinness World Record in Computing PI

Timestamp [01:32]

Linus proudly announces that Linus Tech Tips, in collaboration with partner Kioxia, has secured a Guinness World Record by calculating PI to an astounding 300 trillion decimal places.

Linus Sebastian shares:

“Yes, my friends, we have this Guinness World Record to show that we computered more than anybody ever computered before.”

Luke Lafreniere comments on the project's challenges:

“It's all about priority.”

Discussion Points:

• The initiative, led by team member Jake, involved optimizing GPU compute nodes and high-speed PCIe storage.
• Despite frequent power outages in their Canadian infrastructure, the team's dedication ensured the project's success.
• Linus highlights the technical hurdles and the perseverance required to achieve such a monumental feat.

Philips’ 3D Printable Repair Components Initiative

Timestamp [97:02]

Switching to a positive note, Linus and Luke express excitement over Philips' new initiative to offer 3D printable repair components for their products, promoting sustainability and self-repair.

Linus Sebastian states:

“They partnered with Prusa Research to launch Philips Fixables, aiming to encourage self-repair of Philips products using 3D printed replacement components.”

Discussion Points:

• This collaboration makes replacement parts accessible, allowing users to print and replace parts themselves, thereby extending product lifespans.
• The initiative is seen as a progressive step towards reducing electronic waste and empowering consumers to maintain their devices.

Challenges in Podcast Metrics and Advertising

Timestamp [114:35]

The hosts delve into the complexities of podcast metrics and advertising, questioning the transparency and reliability of current listener statistics.

Linus Sebastian remarks:

“Do you have any idea how hard it was to sell sponsorships against YouTube videos 13 years ago?”

Luke Lafreniere adds:

“We try our best.”

Discussion Points:

• Linus criticizes the opaque nature of podcast listener metrics, making it difficult for advertisers to gauge true audience sizes.
• They discuss Spotify's "Plays" feature, initially designed for transparency but met with criticism for potentially favoring already popular shows.
• The conversation highlights the disparity between podcast advertising rates and actual listener engagement, advocating for more transparent metrics.

Energy Star Program’s Imminent Termination

Timestamp [135:00]

Linus introduces alarming news from Ars Technica about the US Administration’s decision to terminate the Energy Star program, a collaboration between the EPA and DOE aimed at promoting energy-efficient products.

Linus Sebastian explains:

“For larger appliances, I prefer it. All else being equal, I like to see it there.”

Discussion Points:

• The termination threatens manufacturers who relied on Energy Star for consumer trust and sales.
• Luke shares his limited exposure to the program outside the American market, highlighting its varying impact globally.
• The hosts discuss potential repercussions for both consumers and manufacturers in identifying and choosing energy-efficient products.

Android’s New Scam Protection Measures

Timestamp [133:00]

Linus highlights Android’s latest updates aimed at protecting users from scams, including enhanced in-call protections and AI-powered scam detection in texts.

Linus Sebastian asserts:

“…the world is trash and it's full of people who are trash and are going to try and take everything from you for no reason other than that you have it and they don't.”

Discussion Points:

• Partnering with cybersecurity expert Kit Boga, the hosts emphasize the importance of these protective measures.
• They express skepticism about the measures' effectiveness against sophisticated scammers targeting non-tech-savvy users.
• The conversation underscores the ongoing battle between platform developers and malicious actors in the cybersecurity landscape.

Ongoing Projects and Personal Anecdotes

Throughout the episode, Linus, Luke, and team members share updates and personal stories, adding a relatable and entertaining layer to the discussions. Highlights include:

• Linus detailing his ongoing motorcycle paint project, facing challenges with achieving a candy finish.
• Luke sharing his struggle to complete Final Fantasy 6 during a flight, reflecting on the game's complexity and his gaming habits.
• Team dynamics and light-hearted banter about personal projects, enhancing the show's engaging and personable atmosphere.

Conclusion

In concluding the episode, Linus and Luke reflect on the diverse topics discussed, reaffirming their commitment to delivering insightful and engaging content. They emphasize the importance of informed consumer choices and ethical business practices in shaping a sustainable and innovative tech environment. Listeners are encouraged to stay proactive and supportive of transparent and responsible tech initiatives.

This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions and incorporating notable quotes with precise timestamps to provide clarity and depth.