Google and Epic Settle

Nov 5, 2025 21m

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Episode Description

Google and Epic Games settle their beef. Ripple wants to claim the stablecoin crown. Hyperscalers are about to claim the power generation equivalent to 40 million homes. And the wonkiest analysis I’ve seen in a while on whether or not AI can scale productivity in some sort of up and to the right way. Google proposes app store reforms in settlement with ‘Fortnite’ maker Epic Games (Reuters) Cloud streaming finally arrives on the PlayStation Portal (The Verge) Citadel Securities and Fortress take stakes in Ripple at $40bn valuation (FT) How many ‘bragawatts’ have the hyperscalers announced so far? (Financial Times) Amazon Sues to Stop Perplexity From Using AI Tool to Buy Stuff (Bloomberg) Thoughts by a non-economist on AI and economics (Windows On Theory) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI-Generated Summary

Google and Epic Games Settle Antitrust Lawsuit

In a pivotal development, Google and Epic Games have resolved the anti-trust lawsuit that Epic filed back in 2020. This settlement proposes changes to how apps are accessed and monetized on Android, allowing users easier access to third-party app stores and alternative payment options. Google will implement lower service fees between 9% and 20%, which is a significant reduction from the standard fee currently charged. This change is seen as a win for developers and could drastically alter the app distribution landscape.

Ripple and the Stablecoin Market

Ripple has garnered significant investment, raising $500 million at a valuation of $40 billion, positioning itself as a prominent player in the stablecoin market. With the traditional finance sector showing increasing interest in cryptocurrencies, Ripple's CEO highlighted this funding as a validation of their market strategy. The company aims to enhance its stablecoin infrastructure while outpacing competitors like Circle.

The Energy Demand of Hyperscalers

Barclays reported that hyperscalers have announced a staggering 46 gigawatts of AI data center capacity, which could consume as much energy as 44 million US households. This massive energy requirement raises concerns about the sustainability of energy sources, as these centers might require significant investment in new infrastructure. The report also highlighted how companies like DTE Energy are adapting their strategies to accommodate this new demand.

Amazon vs. Perplexity: A Legal Showdown

Amazon has taken legal action against Perplexity, accusing it of fraud for its AI tool that facilitates shopping on Amazon without disclosure. This suit could set a critical precedent concerning the use of AI agents in online shopping, as Amazon argues that Perplexity's actions violate their terms and hinder the consumer experience. Perplexity claims that Amazon is targeting competition in the AI space, echoing the larger conversation about the role of AI in facilitating purchases.

AI Productivity Analysis: Trends and Predictions

A recent analysis has suggested that AI's capability in software engineering tasks is progressing rapidly, potentially doubling every six months. However, the real-world applicability of these advancements remains complex due to the inherent 'messiness' of tasks. The discussion touches upon whether AI can break through historical GDP growth ceilings and the implications of AI efficiency on macroeconomic productivity.