TWiT 1093: California Sober - Kimi K3, Qwen3.8, & China's Open-Weight AI Gambit

TWiT 1093: California Sober - Kimi K3, Qwen3.8, & China's Open-Weight AI Gambit

Author: TWiT July 20, 2026 Duration: 2:57:41

What happens when China drops open-weight AI models that rival Silicon Valley's best? This episode unpacks how a new wave of international AI releases is shaking up business, policy, and the future of innovation.

  • Linus Torvalds to critics of AI coding in Linux: "Fork it. Or just walk away."
  • Claude on X: "Beginning July 20, Claude Fable 5 will be included in all Max and Team Premium plans, at 50% of limits. Pro and Team Standard users will continue to have access to Fable via usage credits, and will receive a one-time $100 credit. Demand for Fable has been challenging to"
  • China's Moonshot AI Unveils Kimi Model, Threatening America's Lead
  • Alibaba's Qwen Unveils Preview of Flagship AI Model
  • Social media limits are coming for teens across Europe
  • The White House is now deciding who gets access to frontier AI models, not the labs
  • Microsoft chief turns hostile on frontier AI labs, warns companies to guard their IP
  • Meta Is Flooding the Market With Smartglasses. Privacy Advocates Are Up in Arms.
  • Federal employees can download TikTok on government devices, DOJ says
  • Amazon Web Services customers receive bills for up to $1.5tn after global glitch
  • MLB cracks down on using AI via dugout iPads to help shape in-game decisions
  • White House Teleprompter Operator Bet on Trump Speeches, Kalshi Says
  • New York school district is testing lifelike robot teachers

Host: Leo Laporte

Guests: Harper Reed and Alex Wilhelm

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Every Sunday, Leo Laporte gathers with a panel of expert guests to break down the most significant and intriguing stories from the world of technology. This isn't just a headlines recap; it's a deep, often lively conversation about what those developments actually mean. You'll hear them grapple with everything from the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics to practical discussions about personal computing, digital privacy, and the gadgets shaping our future. The dynamic roundtable format ensures multiple perspectives, offering clarity and insight that goes beyond the press releases. As the flagship This Week in Tech (Video) podcast from TWiT, it has built a reputation for being both authoritative and accessible, serving as a weekly ritual for anyone wanting to stay informed. The video element adds a layer of connection, letting you see the reactions and camaraderie that fuel these discussions. For those who prefer an uninterrupted experience, ad-free versions are available through the Club TWiT membership. Tune in each week to feel like you're sitting in on a essential briefing with some of the most knowledgeable voices in the industry.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 31

This Week in Tech (Video)
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