So am I correct in assuming this BIOS update for the SC/FTW 1070/1080 issues, only increases the fans speed?  Why not simply adjust the fans as you want to using MSI AB or Precision X OC software.
 
I see how the thermal pads could help cool off the VRMs, but this BIOS update seems unnecessary.  Or am I missing something?
 

The bios update will have the fans kick on earlier and at greater speeds when the card starts to heat up.  Yes you can do this with software like Precision as well.

Dear hapkiman,
 
I can confirm that the BIOS is recommended, as it will keep the cards fan profile even if you are not running software in the background.
 
Please direct any related questions to the original thread:  http://forums.evga.com/EVGA-GeForce-GTX-10801070-PWM-Operating-Temperature-Update-m2573491.aspx