I Can’t Believe This is Happening

Summary

Intel's recent struggles, including being dropped from the Dow Jones and its ongoing challenges, are highlighted in this tech news roundup. Meanwhile, the PS5 Pro disappoints with underwhelming specs, while AMD and Apple continue to lead the chip efficiency race. Apple's Vision Pro headset faces delays, and Microsoft’s AI rebranding hints at a new identity for its Co-Pilot. Meanwhile, Amazon and Meta run into trouble with their nuclear-powered data center projects. Finally, Netflix cuts back on its interactive specials, leaving fans to say goodbye to their 'choose your own adventure' experiences.

Takeaways

• 😀 Intel has been removed from the Dow Jones Industrial Average, signaling its declining influence in the tech industry.
• 😀 Nvidia has replaced Intel in the Dow, reflecting the shift towards AI and cutting-edge technology in the market.
• 😀 The US government is considering saving Intel by promoting a potential merger with companies like AMD or Qualcomm.
• 😀 Intel is reducing its workforce at its Israeli R&D centers, with some employees leaving for Nvidia.
• 😀 The PS5 Pro's leaked specs were mostly inaccurate, with actual GPU performance being about half of what was claimed.
• 😀 The PS5 Pro includes 2GB of additional RAM compared to previous versions, and it has an easy-access Coss battery slot.
• 😀 Sony has removed the 8K label from the PS5 Pro box and replaced it with a “disf-free console” warning.
• 😀 AMD's Ryzen 7 9800X 3D outperforms the 7800X3D by 24% when overclocked, but still doesn't reach the performance of Apple's M4 Pro chips.
• 😀 Apple's Vision Pro headset production has been delayed, but a cheaper alternative using an iPhone's computing power may be in the works.
• 😀 Microsoft might rebrand its AI from 'Co-pilot' to 'Windows Intelligence' in an attempt to improve its appeal and image.
• 😀 Amazon and Meta face regulatory issues in their plans to build nuclear-powered data centers, with environmental and safety concerns being raised.

Q & A

Why was Intel removed from the Dow Jones Industrial Average?

Intel was removed from the Dow Jones Industrial Average due to its declining influence in the stock market, reflecting a broader loss of relevance in the tech industry. It was replaced by Nvidia, a rising powerhouse in AI and tech.

What are the implications of Intel's removal from the Dow Jones for its future?

Intel's removal from the Dow indicates a significant shift in investor confidence. The company is facing increasing competition, especially from Nvidia, and may struggle to regain its former dominance unless it adapts quickly to new technological trends.

What merger possibilities are being discussed for Intel?

There is speculation that Intel might merge with AMD or Qualcomm, particularly in its chip design business, due to its strategic importance and challenges in maintaining competitiveness in the market.

Why are employees leaving Intel for Nvidia?

Nvidia's rise in the tech industry, particularly in AI and graphics, has made it a more attractive employer. Intel’s challenges have led to layoffs and a lack of innovative direction, prompting employees to seek opportunities elsewhere.

What was revealed about the PS5 Pro specs during its unboxing?

The PS5 Pro specs revealed discrepancies from earlier leaks. The GPU was expected to deliver 33.5 teraflops but actually performs at 16.7 teraflops. However, it has 2GB more RAM than previously stated.

How has Sony adjusted the marketing for the PS5 Pro?

Sony removed the 8K label from the PS5 Pro’s packaging, similar to what it did with the PS5 non-pro version. The box now features a label stating it is a 'disk-free' console, which could be seen as a way to focus on the console’s digital nature.

What was the controversy regarding Microsoft's Co-pilot rebranding?

There are rumors that Microsoft may rebrand its 'Co-pilot' AI as 'Windows Intelligence' after negative feedback from users. This could be seen as an attempt to refine the brand and make it sound more sophisticated compared to Apple's 'Apple Intelligence'.

What new development has been reported about Apple's Vision Pro?

Apple’s Vision Pro, a mixed-reality headset, is facing delays and may not be released until beyond 2027. However, there is speculation that Apple is considering a cheaper version that would rely on the processing power of an iPhone.

What regulatory challenges are Amazon and Meta facing with their nuclear-powered data centers?

Amazon’s plan for a nuclear-powered data center in Pennsylvania was blocked due to concerns it might cause blackouts for other customers. Meta’s similar project was thwarted when a rare species of bee was discovered on the land earmarked for the data center.

Why is Netflix removing interactive specials from its platform?

Netflix is removing 20 out of 24 of its interactive specials, likely due to underperformance. The four most popular ones, like 'Black Mirror: Bandersnatch,' will remain, but shows like 'Barbie Epic Road Trip' and 'WWE’s Escape The Undertaker' are being cut.