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Sharp Tech with Ben Thompson

Latest episodes

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15 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 14min

(Preview) What AI Could Mean for Aggregation Theory, o3 and Moore’s Law, More Questions Than Answers as Tech Enters 2025

The discussion kicks off with the potential decline of aggregation theory due to AI advancements. There's a deep dive into the architecture of OpenAI's o3 model and its implications for software engineers. The hosts ponder the future of SaaS companies in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. Plus, they touch upon the curious case of Scarlett Johansson and her missed opportunities. Finally, they share a light-hearted moment, praising the joys of learning to ski as a middle-aged beginner.
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41 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 1h 40min

Holiday Mailbag: The Next Intel, Google’s AI Revival, Modern Sportswriting, TSMC Mugs, Tutoring Takes, and Lots More

Listeners dive into intriguing questions about the future of flagship tech companies and Google's AI advancements. The hosts dissect the shift from engineer-led to finance-led management and its risks. Sports writing's evolution is explored, balancing data analysis with storytelling. The complexity of chip production highlights the role of AI versus human expertise. Cool collectibles, like a unique TSMC mug, spark excitement. Finally, they tackle academic pressures in Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of genuine learning over high grades.
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5 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 22min

(Preview) Google’s Willow Chip, Drones as a Platform and Anduril Follow-Up, Building Inside and Outside Silicon Valley

Dive into Google's groundbreaking Willow chip and its potential in quantum computing. Explore how quantum tech stands apart from classical computing, revolutionizing data processing. The discussion also touches on the balance between innovation and antitrust, examining Google’s tech advancements against historical benchmarks. Discover the contrasting strategies of tech giants like Google and Apple. Plus, insights into the future and evolving perceptions of drone technology, from civilian uses to military applications, keep the conversation buzzing.
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12 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 11min

(Preview) Anduril and the Lattice Partner Program, A New Direction for Defense Tech, OpenAI Introduces ChatGPT Pro

Delve into Anduril's strategic rise in the defense tech world and its competition with Palantir. Explore how modern warfare challenges are reshaping traditional weaponry, spotlighting affordable drone warfare. Discover the innovative leaps companies are making beyond government constraints while navigating a hesitant industry. Plus, get the scoop on OpenAI's new subscription tier for ChatGPT, offering enhanced capabilities for users.
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5 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 14min

(Preview) Mailbag: Building Toward Self-Driving Computers, Capitalism and Its Trade-Offs, The Reels-ification of 'X'

Explore the fascinating intersection of generative AI and user interfaces as they redefine how we interact with technology. Discover insights into the impact of capitalism on global birth rates and the future of wearable tech. Dive into the evolution of self-driving computers, drawing parallels to the iPhone's revolution. The conversation also touches on American lithography and the intriguing 'Reels-ification' of social media platforms. A thought-provoking mix of tech, history, and societal implications awaits!
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28 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 1h 4min

Gelsinger Out at Intel, 20 Years of Structural Challenges and Strategic Blindspots, The Board and What’s Next

The podcast dissects the implications of Intel's CEO Pat Gelsinger's unexpected exit, highlighting two decades of strategic blunders. Insightful discussions cover Intel's struggles in adapting to mobile technology, contrasting management approaches with competitors like NVIDIA and TSMC, and the fallout from the CHIPS Act. The analysis also touches on internal leadership crises, missed opportunities, and potential paths for Intel’s future, including transforming into a fabless company, questioning resilience in a rapidly evolving industry.
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7 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 14min

(Preview) Mailbag: AppLovin on a Tear, The Business of OnlyFans, Questions on OpenAI and Elon Musk

Dive into the remarkable rise of AppLovin, the powerhouse in mobile gaming advertising, and learn how Apple's privacy policies have reshaped the ad landscape. Unpack the explosive success of OnlyFans and its implications on digital content creation. Explore the evolving world of ad technology and how platforms adapt to new privacy regulations. Discover the intricate strategies companies use in the mobile gaming ad network, revealing the synergy between gaming and advertising. It's a fascinating look at market dynamics and innovation.
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14 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 18min

(Preview) LLM Utilities, Google Disruption, Remote Work Angst, Family Tech Support, and a Thanksgiving Mailbag

Listeners are treated to a holiday special filled with subscriber emails. Topics dive into the integration of LLMs into workflows and the human reactions to AI-generated content. There's an insightful discussion on the disruption risks facing Google. A young engineer's remote work challenges are addressed, alongside some humorous family tech support tales. The show even touches on creating reality shows and features an amusing unpaid shoe testimonial. A festive mix of insights and levity awaits!
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10 snips
Nov 22, 2024 • 1h 9min

America and the Trade Status Quo, Tariffs and What May Come Next, A Chance to Build in Tech and Beyond

Explore the shifting dynamics of trade and tariffs in the U.S., focusing on the tech industry's evolution. The impact of China's tech advancements and the complexities of U.S.-China economic relations come into play. Delve into the resurgence of American innovation and the challenges within manufacturing post-COVID. The crucial role of semiconductors in geopolitics is discussed, alongside the potential revival of American factories. Finally, the conversation looks at how regulation can either stifle or stimulate technological growth.
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12 snips
Nov 18, 2024 • 13min

(Preview) Monday Mailbag: Netflix and Its Mike Tyson Adventures; WBD Settles with the NBA; Lessons from Building Passport

The discussion dives into Netflix's ambitious foray into live streaming with the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight, unraveling what went wrong and its cultural implications. There’s a deep analysis of viewership numbers against traditional broadcasts and the technological hurdles streaming platforms face. Insights into the resolution of Warner Bros. Discovery's legal tussle with the NBA add to the intrigue. The conversation wraps with takeaways from the journey of building the Passport tool for creators, showcasing lessons learned along the way.

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