AMD reveals issues with Ryzen 9000 processor performance, leaving users worried about system security. Meanwhile, iFixit shows that the Galaxy Ring is practically unrepairable. The DOJ takes action against RealPage, spotlighting subscription model challenges. In a surprising turn, Windows Control Panel may soon be a thing of the past. Plus, a hacker's failed ploy to fake his death for child support and AI bots now have the ability to rickroll. Tech news has never been this entertaining!
08:08
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
AMD's acknowledgment of its Ryzen 9000 performance discrepancies reveals critical security implications from improper testing methods impacting user trust.
The unrepairable design of devices like the Galaxy Ring exemplifies the rising trend of disposable technology, exacerbating electronic waste issues.
Deep dives
AMD's Performance Claims and Security Implications
AMD has recently revised its performance claims for the Ryzen 9000 series processors after reviewers found the chips underperformed in benchmarks. The company admitted to conducting tests in admin mode, which uses a hidden Windows 11 account that runs with full administrative privileges, compromising system security. This approach not only skews performance results but also disables key security features, making computers more vulnerable to malware. AMD plans to address some of these performance discrepancies in a future Windows 11 update, but this solution does not assist the majority of users still on Windows 10.
Trends in Product Repairability and Subscription Models
The Galaxy Ring and Google Pixel Watch have been deemed unrepairable, forcing consumers to replace their devices as batteries die, contributing to electronic waste. iFixit's teardown highlighted that non-replaceable batteries mandate disposal rather than repair, which reflects a broader trend among tech companies prioritizing disposable products. Additionally, subscription models are increasingly encroaching on consumer goods, as demonstrated by Peloton's new activation fee for secondhand hardware and the locking of previous features behind new subscriptions for products like the Snoo bassinet. These practices complicate resale opportunities and reinforce a cycle of consumption and waste in the tech industry.