Summary
Overview
This TechLinked episode covers major tech industry news including Apple's iPhone Duo launch troubles with cracking displays, Spotify's controversial family plan verification changes, Meta's $25 billion fine for privacy violations, and various other stories ranging from Greece's social media age restrictions to genetically engineered military dogs. The episode is hosted by Riley Murdoch and features rapid-fire coverage of multiple tech stories with humorous commentary.
Apple iPhone Duo Launch Issues and Cracking Displays
Apple's new $2,000 iPhone Duo has launched to mixed reviews, with early praise for its matte finish and minimal display crease, but concerns about app compatibility. More seriously, multiple users are reporting identical cracking issues near the hinge, with one Australian owner experiencing a crack just six hours after unboxing. A YouTuber's stress test of 10,000 folds revealed the hinge holds up but the crease becomes more pronounced over time.
- iPhone Duo starts at $2,000 USD with sales off to a strong start despite mixed reviews
- Early buyers praise the matte finish and almost non-existent display crease
- YouTuber Tim Pan stress-tested the Duo with 10,000 folds, revealing the crease worsens while the hinge holds up
- Multiple users reporting identical cracks near the hinge in the exact same location
- One Australian owner's display cracked just six hours after unboxing
- Galaxy Z Fold 8 sales in Europe up 45% year over year, with search traffic spiking after Duo reveal
" Still, a crease beats a crack, and there have been increasing cases of the duo reportedly cracking in roughly the exact same place. "
" It seems the duo is already a smash hit. "
Spotify's Controversial Family Plan Verification System
Spotify is cracking down on its $22/month family plan by requiring members to prove they live together through a QR code scanning system, or face being kicked to the free tier for a year. This follows a failed 2018 attempt using GPS tracking. The move aims to force friends splitting accounts into individual paid plans, though the enforcement method has raised concerns about practicality and user experience.
- Family plan members must scan a rapidly rotating QR code on the plan manager's screen within seven days or risk account lockout for one year
- Previous 2018 attempt using GPS location data was cancelled because users hated being tracked
- According to Goldman Sachs, a meaningful share of family plan users are actually friends splitting costs
- CEO hopes enforcement will increase earnings by forcing users into individual paid plans
" I'm sure people will be down to pay you more money after being forced through a flow that makes them ask their stepdad to see his phone then locks them out of the paid plan when his phone is too greasy for the QR code to scan. "
" Turns out being tracked by a creepy Swedish billionaire who loves, adds, and hates artists isn't worth access to every Blink-182 song ever. "
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