I'm Frankly Disgusted - WAN Show November 4, 2022 In this episode of the WAN Show, Linus Sebastian and special guest discuss a whirlwind of recent developments in the tech industry, tackling a range of controversial topics and revealing some eyebrow-raising insights.
Intel's On-Demand Features
One of the major topics was Intel's announcement of their "Intel on Demand" service, allowing customers to enable special processors features for a fee. Linus was particularly vocal about his disgust, likening it to a subscription model where capabilities are essentially held for ransom. This move appears to be aimed at generating ongoing revenue rather than focusing on customer satisfaction. The hosts hypothesized about how this model could extend to future services, predicting a trend where companies might utilize subscription models for various hardware features. Linus also drew comparisons to how certain tech companies are beginning to restrict access to basic functionalities unless users are willing to pay extra, suggesting that such practices are eroding the traditional model of hardware ownership.
Industry Ethics in Review Coverage
In another segment, the conversation turned to ethics in the tech review industry. The hosts discussed the troubling revelations of hardware manufacturers attempting to manipulate reviews in their favor, including direct messages from Nvidia urging YouTubers to revise unfavorable content. This situation sparked a broader discussion about the integrity of tech reviews and the potential consequences of corporate pressure on independent reviewers. Linus emphasized the importance of unbiased evaluations, underscoring how a lack of honest criticism can harm both potential buyers and the brands themselves in the long run. The hosts called for better practices in how hardware reviews are conducted, advocating for transparency and independence in tech journalism.
Closing Thoughts
The episode ended on a lighter note, discussing a variety of topics such as the current state of gaming hardware, upcoming releases, and technical innovations on the horizon. The hosts encouraged viewers to remain skeptical but informed about the evolving landscape of tech while highlighting the importance of community feedback in holding corporations accountable.
Engage with the Community
What are your thoughts on the rising trend of subscription models in hardware? Do you believe that manufacturers should be more transparent in their engagement with tech reviewers? Share your thoughts below, and feel free to bring up any personal experiences you've had with tech brands and their practices. As always, discussions like these highlight the importance of community engagement in advocating for better industry standards. If you're interested in more tech insights, check out other recent threads in our Water Cooler section!
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