Apple TV+ recently marked its fifth anniversary, boasting a small yet high-quality library of content.

Despite its impressive accolades, including thousands of awards and critically acclaimed shows, the financial equation to sustain the streaming service appears less than ideal.

Now, Apple may be considering a strategic pivot in its approach to distributing movies.

Apple is going through licensing its films to third-party platforms, such as international TV networks and digital stores, where viewers could rent or purchase them.

While original TV series are set to remain exclusive to Apple TV+, the company could begin offering movies like Wolfs, Napoleon, CODA, and others on external platforms.

The company has spent billions of dollars on original films and TV shows and has received strong reviews and praise from critics.

Yet few of its titles have attracted a large audience and its streaming service doesn’t make money.”

This move could mark the beginning of Apple’s efforts to turn a profit with its streaming division.

Recently, the company added Apple TV+ as a standalone channel on Amazon Prime Video, giving its content a prominent spot on another widely used platform.

While the Apple TV app offers a hub for multiple streaming services, integrating with Amazon Prime Video brings additional visibility to Apple’s offerings.

Other industry players have already embraced similar strategies. For instance, Warner Bros. licenses certain HBO content, available on Max, to platforms like Netflix.

By following this model, Apple could potentially enhance the profitability of its films by sharing them across additional services.

Despite Apple’s ongoing push for original content and bundling options through its Apple One subscription, Apple TV+ has yet to achieve the level of success seen with Apple Music.

The company has also scaled back budgets for several productions as it redefines its goals for the streaming service, signaling a new chapter for Apple TV+.

Circle to Search has quickly become one of my favorite Android features of 2024. The ability to search for anything on your screen from anywhere within Android is incredibly convenient.

Fortunately, Google is expanding this feature beyond just Samsung and Pixel devices. A recent report suggests that, along with this expansion, Google may also be introducing subtle changes to the Circle to Search user interface (UI).

According to Android Authority, Google is working on adding an app drawer to Circle to Search.

The publication discovered this redesigned UI in the beta version of the Google app (v15.45.43.ve.arm64), which indicates that Google is refining the Circle to Search experience with several small UI improvements.

The updated UI for Circle to Search looks noticeably different from the current version.

UI elements like the search bar and the Song Search icon are now enclosed in a rounded box, and the icons themselves appear slightly larger.

The most prominent change, however, is the addition of an app drawer button.

In its current form, Circle to Search displays features like Translate and Song Search directly alongside the search bar.

In the new version, these features may be moved behind the app drawer button. Tapping the button would reveal additional options, including the return of the previously removed Google Lens shortcut.

Although this change may require an extra step to access some features, it could also indicate that Google plans to add more functionality to Circle to Search.

It would be even better if Google allowed us to customize this menu for quicker access to the actions we use most often.

Since the feature hasn’t officially launched yet, there’s still a possibility that Google could add this customization option in the final version.

The revamped UI isn’t the only upgrade in development. Reports also suggest that Google is working on a feature that would allow users to search within videos.

While there is no official timeline for the release of either feature, it’s exciting to see Google continue to enhance this already useful tool.

At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, LG introduced an impressive 27-inch 480Hz OLED panel with remarkable specifications, though the company did not disclose when or if it would develop a monitor based on it.

Now, LG has officially announced the UltraGear GX7 (27GX790A), a 27-inch QHD (2,560 x 1,440) OLED gaming monitor that boasts a 480Hz refresh rate and a .03-millisecond response time, which LG claims is the fastest response time of any QHD OLED monitor available.

This new monitor is compatible with both NVIDIA’s G-Sync and AMD’s FreeSync technologies, which help to eliminate screen tearing and flickering.

It also holds VESA’s DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification, indicating that it offers decent brightness, a wide color gamut (DCI-P3 98.5 percent), and produces rich, deep blacks.

The display is also equipped with an anti-glare and low reflection coating for improved viewing.

The UltraGear GX7 features a headphone jack and includes both HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1 inputs.

However, it’s important to note that neither HDMI 2.1 nor DisplayPort 2.1 natively support 480Hz refresh rates at 1440p resolution.

Therefore, LG’s display will likely use DSC (Display Stream Compression) technology to achieve such high refresh rates when paired with modern NVIDIA and AMD GPUs.

Additionally, the monitor is mounted on a sleek stand that is height-adjustable, with 15 degrees of tilt and 30 degrees of swivel for optimal ergonomics.

Priced at $1,000, the UltraGear GX7 is positioned slightly below its competitor, Sony’s InZone M10S, which also features a 1440p 480Hz OLED display but is priced $100 higher.

However, Sony’s model offers additional professional gaming features, such as an outline effect to highlight enemies and a mode that simulates the look of older LCD monitors for players who prefer that style.

The UltraGear GX7 is currently available on LG’s website, but there is no pre-order option or shipping date as of now.

New information about Google’s upcoming second-generation Pixel Tablet has recently emerged from a typically reliable source.

Sources have provided insights not only into potential hardware upgrades for the Pixel Tablet 2, but also into some of the accessories that will accompany the tablet.

The new prototypes are closely similar to the design of Google’s current Pixel Tablet (currently priced at $393.34 on Amazon).

However, the Pixel Tablet 2 is expected to feature thinner bezels around the display, as well as repositioned cameras and physical buttons.

In particular, both the front and rear-facing cameras will reportedly be upgraded with better sensors compared to the 8 MP and 1/4-inch sensors found in the original Pixel Tablet.

In addition, it is suggested that the Pixel Tablet 2 will be powered by either a Tensor G4 or Tensor G5 chipset.

If the device features the Tensor G4, it is expected to deliver about 30% faster performance than its predecessor.

As with previous devices, the Pixel Tablet 2 will likely receive up to seven years of software updates.

The Pixel Tablet 2 will also support external monitor output and will include several first-party accessories that were absent from the original Pixel Tablet.

Google will offer the tablet with a detachable keyboard and a stylus, which were previously rumored for the first model.

However, it remains uncertain whether the Pixel Tablet 2 will come bundled with a detachable smart home dock, a feature present in the original model.

The competition in the budget TV market is fierce, and it’s about to get even more intense as Amazon unveils its latest offering: the Fire TV Omni Mini-LED series, equipped with impressive specifications.

In a blog post shared earlier today, Amazon introduced the Fire TV Omni Mini-LED series, which features a remarkable 144Hz refresh rate and comes in a variety of sizes ranging from 55 inches to 85 inches.

Priced starting at $819, it directly competes with other budget-friendly models like the Roku Pro Series TV (rated 3.5/5 stars) and the Hisense U7N (also rated 3.5/5 stars).

Notably, the Fire TV Omni Mini-LED series incorporates Dolby Atmos support and built-in subwoofers, addressing the common issue of subpar audio quality in budget TVs.

For those seeking an even more robust sound experience, Amazon is also releasing the Fire TV Soundbar Plus. Starting at $249, this 3.1-channel all-in-one soundbar is designed to rival some of the best budget soundbars available.

Both the Fire TV Omni Mini-LED series and the Fire TV Soundbar Plus officially launch today and are available for purchase on Amazon.

Amazon’s First Foray Into Mini-LED

This marks Amazon’s debut in the Mini-LED TV category, following Roku’s entry earlier this year with its Pro Series.

The Mini-LED market is already crowded with offerings from Sony, Hisense, TCL, Samsung, and Panasonic. Yet, the Fire TV Omni Mini-LED series is shaping up to be a strong contender.

One standout feature is its 144Hz refresh rate, a rarity at its starting price of $819. This, paired with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro support, makes it an attractive option for gamers.

While Amazon hasn’t explicitly mentioned it, the Omni Mini-LED might use variable refresh rate (VRR) technology to achieve 144Hz, with a native refresh rate of 120Hz.

This makes it particularly suitable for gaming on consoles like the PS5 Pro and positions it as one of the best gaming TVs in its price range.

Amazon is also boasting impressive performance metrics, claiming up to 1,400 nits of peak brightness. If accurate, this places it well above the Roku Pro Series’ 922 nits and just shy of the Panasonic W95A’s 1,617 nits (review pending).

Additionally, the Omni Mini-LED series will feature up to 1,344 dimming zones, varying by screen size.

Another noteworthy feature is Amazon’s Ambient Experience, which transforms the TV into an art display, similar to Samsung’s The Frame.

This feature has become increasingly popular, with brands like TCL and Hisense offering similar options, while Roku and Fire TV focus on enhancing their software capabilities.

The Fire TV Omni Mini-LED is also the first Amazon Fire TV to support Dolby Atmos. While this will undoubtedly enhance the audio experience, audiophiles may still prefer investing in one of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars to complement their setup.

Introducing the Fire TV Soundbar Plus

Amazon isn’t stopping with TVs; the company is also launching a new budget-friendly soundbar.

The Fire TV Soundbar Plus, priced at $249, features a 3.1-channel system with Dolby Atmos support, precise tuning, and a Dialogue Enhancer feature to ensure clear audio for conversations.

For those looking to expand their home audio systems, Amazon is offering additional hi-fi products, including a wireless subwoofer and two surround sound speakers.

Bundles are available, with the soundbar and wireless subwoofer priced at $374, and the complete package, including surround sound speakers, costing $489.

The Fire TV Omni Mini-LED series and the Fire TV Soundbar Plus are available starting today on Amazon, with prices beginning at $819 for the TV and $249 for the soundbar.

These releases signify Amazon’s commitment to competing in both the budget TV and audio markets, promising impressive specs at affordable prices.

The Huawei Mate XT foldable has garnered significant attention for its innovative triple-folding design and its premium price tag.

However, a new leak hints that Samsung’s upcoming tri-fold device will adopt a distinctly different approach to the form factor.

Samsung’s triple-folding phone is slated for a 2025 launch, with its design expected to be finalized by the end of this month.

Unlike Huawei’s Mate XT, which features an outward-folding mechanism where all three screens fold back on themselves, Samsung’s device will employ an “infolding” design.

In this configuration, both side panels will fold inward, potentially enhancing durability.

In the Mate XT, the far-left screen doubles as the main display when the device is folded shut. By contrast, Samsung’s tri-fold will likely include an additional display on the back to ensure usability when closed.

This mirrors the design seen in other foldables like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, both of which integrate a secondary external display.

Design Details and Functionality

Samsung’s rationale for choosing an inward-folding mechanism centers on protecting the main screen from scratches and other damage, the report states.

This approach, however, requires one of the device’s hinges to be larger than the other to accommodate the folding screens.

Further insights based on industry sources, reveal that Samsung’s tri-fold device will feature a main screen measuring around 9-10 inches when fully unfolded, significantly larger than the Galaxy Z Fold 6’s 7.6-inch main display.

The new tri-fold is part of Samsung’s strategy to boost demand for foldables and solidify its position against competitors.

Although the Huawei Mate XT is currently exclusive to the Chinese market, it has already captured considerable global attention. Samsung’s innovation in this space could help the company maintain its leadership in the foldable market.

The Future of Foldables

While Samsung’s tri-fold device is set to debut in 2025, fans can still expect the standard Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 next year.

Additionally, speculation around a Galaxy Z Flip FE continues to circulate. With Apple reportedly going through foldable technology as well, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for foldable smartphones.

Samsung’s efforts with this new device not only aim to redefine the foldable category but also to safeguard its market dominance against rising competition.

Whether this tri-fold design will go through the same level of intrigue as Huawei’s Mate XT remains to be seen, but the foldable race is undoubtedly heating up.

The Xbox brand has undergone a transformative evolution, as evidenced by its latest campaign titled “This is an Xbox.”

Earlier today, the company released a 30-second ad showcasing its expanded vision. Set to Black Sheep’s 1991 hip-hop hit “The Choice is Yours,” the ad begins with a Series X console and the tagline “This is an Xbox.”

It then transitions to other devices such as a smart TV, smartphone, handheld PC, and laptop — all now defined as Xbox platforms.

This shift in branding aligns with the development of Xbox Cloud Gaming, which launched in 2019.

Coupled with Xbox games’ availability on PC for years, the ecosystem allows users to stream purchased games or titles from the Xbox Game Pass library across various devices, provided they have high-speed internet.

Fans React to the New Messaging

While the concept behind the campaign makes sense, it has stirred concerns among fans. Many worry Xbox may be abandoning its home console roots.

The anxiety stems from the lackluster sales performance of the current hardware generation. Reports from May indicate the PlayStation 5 has outsold Xbox Series X and S consoles by a nearly 5-to-1 ratio.

The concern has revived discussions about the “console wars,” a term that once described the fierce competition among gaming giants Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft.

For some, the campaign seems like an indication that Xbox is shifting focus away from consoles in favor of cloud gaming. However, the reality is more nuanced.

Phil Spencer on Xbox’s Future

In an interview, Xbox CEO Phil Spencer addressed these concerns and elaborated on the campaign’s intent.

He explained that the Xbox brand has evolved significantly since its inception. Originally a console—the “Direct X Box”—it has grown into an ecosystem emphasizing accessibility.

“Xbox isn’t just one device anymore. It’s on your smart TV, PC, phone, and we’re in the middle of that transition,” Spencer said.

He acknowledged that some fans might yearn for the simplicity of a single-platform gaming experience, but argued that today’s largest games transcend any one platform.

Having been with Microsoft since 1988 and part of the Xbox team since its 2001 launch, Spencer believes the brand’s core identity remains intact.

“The games, characters, and worlds should define Xbox, while platforms should enable players to enjoy those experiences wherever they choose,” he explained.

Expanding the Xbox Ecosystem

Microsoft’s acquisitions of ZeniMax Media in 2021 and Activision Blizzard in 2023 have significantly bolstered the Xbox library, bringing popular franchises such as The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Doom, World of Warcraft, and Call of Duty under its umbrella.

Despite these major additions, Xbox has largely maintained cross-platform availability, launching many games on rival platforms like the PlayStation 5.

However, Xbox’s recent first-party offerings, including Redfall (2023), Starfield (2023), and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II (2024), have faced mixed receptions.

While Starfield saw strong initial sales, its player base has since dwindled, even with the release of expansions like Shattered Space.

This, coupled with Xbox’s continued support for multi-platform releases, has fueled speculation about its future in the console market.

The Role of Consoles in a Changing Market

Spencer dismissed the idea that Xbox is abandoning consoles, stating, “We’ll definitely do more consoles in the future, and other devices.”

He noted, however, that the console market is not a growth sector. “Our biggest growth comes from PC and cloud gaming.

While we love our console customers, expanding Xbox means focusing on making games more available in more places.”

Among the “other devices” Spencer referenced is a potential handheld Xbox, aimed at capitalizing on the growing popularity of portable PCs like the Asus ROG Ally and Valve’s Steam Deck.

These devices, which often run Windows, integrate seamlessly with Xbox’s ecosystem, allowing players to transition effortlessly between their consoles and handhelds.

When asked about a mid-generation hardware refresh akin to Sony’s PlayStation 5 Pro, Spencer suggested it wasn’t a priority.

“We focus on hardware that creates unique value for players and developers. Incremental updates don’t necessarily offer a compelling new experience,” he said.

A Broader Vision for Xbox

For Spencer, the future of Xbox lies in expanding its definition beyond a single device.

Xbox Cloud Gaming exemplifies this mission, as the company aims to ensure the brand remains vibrant for decades to come.

“We’re redefining what it means to be an Xbox,” Spencer said. “Twenty years from now, Xbox needs to encompass multiple pieces of hardware and deliver a flexible, accessible gaming experience.”

This vision highlights Microsoft’s commitment to adapting its strategies while preserving the essence of what makes Xbox a leader in gaming.

As the industry evolves, Xbox aims to remain a pivotal part of the conversation, whether on a console, a PC, or a handheld device.

On November 13, members of ZeniMax Workers United staged a strike to press their demands for better working conditions and clearer policies from ZeniMax’s parent company, Microsoft, regarding remote work and outsourcing practices. The strike took place from 10 am to 6 pm in Maryland and Texas.

“We deserve job security and improved working conditions,” the employees stated on their Twitter account.

The strike was prompted by Microsoft’s perceived failure to engage in meaningful negotiations, which union members described as the company “dragging their feet.”

“Outsourcing and remote work are both crucial issues affecting our team and the wider industry,” said the union members (via Windows Central).

It has been reported that quality assurance (QA) workers are not allowed to work remotely on a full-time basis, and that Microsoft has increasingly outsourced jobs, excluding union workers from these practices.

“We understand that outsourcing has its place in testing and development, but Microsoft is taking actions without informing or negotiating with our union.

They are also effectively replacing in-house QA work with outsourced labor,” the employees explained.

In response to the protest, a Microsoft spokesperson told VG247: “We respect our employees’ rights to express their opinions, as they have today. We will continue to listen to their concerns and address them at the bargaining table.”

Founded in 2023, ZeniMax Workers United became the largest union of game workers in North America, initially comprising around 300 QA developers.

The union represents developers who have worked on popular Bethesda titles such as Fallout and Starfield.

Be sure to check out our 80 Level Talent platform and our new Discord server, and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Telegram, TikTok, and Threads for the latest news, artwork, and more.

Artinoise, the Italian startup known for re.corder—a smart device that reimagines the classic plastic recorder used in schools—has launched its latest innovation: Zefiro.

This portable device resembles a recorder mouthpiece and connects to any smartphone, tablet, or PC via a USB-C port, turning it into a versatile musical instrument.

Through its companion app, Zefiro offers access to around 32 unique sounds, allowing it to mimic a wide range of instruments, from soft flutes and violins to bold trumpets, saxophones, and even bagpipes.

When connected, Zefiro is recognized by the device’s MIDI input, and the app presents a virtual interface with buttons, keys, or wind holes.

Equipped with lip sensors and a highly sensitive air pressure sensor, the Zefiro can interpret breath power to control volume and pitch.

On Tuesday, Artinoise launched a Kickstarter campaign to support Zefiro’s release, offering backers a price of €22 (around $23 USD), while the retail price is expected to be €42 (about $44 USD).

Zefiro is marketed as both a MIDI breath controller and a digital instrument, addressing a niche market where wind MIDI controllers can cost up to $900. Many digital instruments on the market today are also notably expensive.

The Zefiro app enhances the user experience with features such as breathing exercises, sound layering, a looper, background sounds, and the ability to record and share audio clips.

It will be available for free download on the App Store and Google Play Store, though access to its functions requires a Zefiro device.

Artinoise aims to roll out updates every two months, with features allowing users to customize the interface by uploading images and selecting where to place buttons for playing specific notes.

“Maybe they can put the face of someone they know, the button on the eye, on the cheeks, mouth, or whatever, or invent some kind of different instrument, and putting down the notes that they want to play,” said Artinoise founder and CTO Davide Mancini in an interview with TechCrunch.

Zefiro’s design also makes it accessible to individuals with physical impairments, such as those with respiratory challenges.

Mancini explained that the sensor is easy to use and only requires a gentle breath, allowing users with limited lung capacity to set a low threshold for activation.

Artinoise is also planning to release an optional headpiece for hands-free operation, making Zefiro a complementary instrument for musicians playing guitar or piano.

In addition, Artinoise intends to make Zefiro’s technology open source, encouraging developers to create new accessibility applications. For example, users with disabilities could blow into the device to control smart lights.

The initial shipment is expected worldwide by late January to early February. Artinoise currently holds two pending patents in the U.S. and Italy.

Nearly three years after teasing a white version of the Steam Deck, Valve has finally announced that this handheld gaming PC—typically available in black—will now also be sold in white.

This limited-edition white model will be priced at $679 and will go on sale on November 18th at 3 PM PT / 6 PM ET in all regions where the Steam Deck is sold, including Australia and the Asian markets served by Komodo.

According to Valve, this special edition has the same internal specifications as the 1TB Steam Deck OLED model:

“The Steam Deck OLED: Limited Edition White has all the same specs as the Steam Deck OLED 1TB model but comes in a white and gray color scheme. It also includes an exclusive white carrying case and a white microfiber cleaning cloth.”

The standard 1TB OLED model is priced at $649, meaning customers are paying an additional $30 for the white color and accessories.

Valve has proportionally allocated stock across regions, but once this edition sells out, no more will be produced.

Valve has also shared a few more images of this model. While I recommend the Steam Deck OLED, some users might consider the Asus ROG Ally X, which offers competitive performance and good battery life, especially when dual-booting with the Bazzite operating system.

Bazzite closely mimics the Steam Deck experience, and the ROG Ally X, originally available in white but now also in black, provides an interesting alternative.

Valve previously showcased a white prototype that included an Aperture Science logo on the back, looking straight out of the Portal universe. Valve’s Greg Coomer even displayed this prototype—a nod to Portal fans, although it was never made available for sale.

Here’s hoping someone creates high-quality Portal-themed stickers for this white Steam Deck. Maybe we’ll even see some custom orange and blue Portal thumbstick covers to complete the look.

Google is extending the reach of its Gemini AI on iOS through the test launch of a dedicated “Google Gemini” app.

This standalone app aims to deliver quicker updates and new features, such as Gemini Live, tailored for iPhone users who rely on Google’s AI.

Previously, iOS users could only access Gemini AI within the Google Search app by going to the “Gemini” tab.

Google even updated its home screen widget in September to enable direct access to Gemini from iPhone home screens.

However, with the new standalone Google Gemini app, users may no longer need these workarounds.

The Gemini app is more than a replica of what’s in the Google app; it introduces “Gemini Live,” a new feature that allows real-time interaction with Gemini while multitasking.

This feature is expected to offer voice-based interaction and hands-free operation, enhancing convenience for users going between apps.

One early user in the Philippines demonstrated this feature, showing how Gemini Live uses iOS’s Live Activity to create a seamless, uninterrupted AI experience.

At this time, the standalone Google Gemini app is only available in the Philippines, where select users have been able to download and test it.

In other regions, users are greeted with a message in the App Store stating, “This app is not available in your country or region.”

This suggests Google is using regional testing before potentially launching Gemini AI globally on iOS, a strategy it often employs with new features.

Creating a standalone app for Gemini AI on iOS allows Google to refine and tailor updates specifically for iPhone users, ensuring a more responsive experience.

Currently, Gemini on iOS (accessible within the Google app) mirrors the functionality available on gemini.google.com, but a standalone app could enable iPhone users to access the latest design and features, similar to the Android version.

Given that Google Assistant already exists as a separate app on iOS, it makes sense for Google to take a similar approach with Gemini AI.

If testing proves successful, the standalone Gemini app could bring advanced AI tools directly to iOS, providing iPhone users with a dynamic and personalized AI experience through features like Gemini Live.

This launch comes as Apple is gradually rolling out new AI features for the iPhone 16 series, as well as the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max models from last year—a process expected to continue into Spring 2025.

Scientists are urgently seeking answers after discovering that the UK’s oldest satellite, Skynet-1A, has unexpectedly shifted to a position halfway around the globe.

Launched in 1969, Skynet-1A was stationed for decades over the east coast of Africa to support British military communications.

However, the satellite is now located over the Americas, approximately 22,369 miles from Earth—a move it could not have achieved through drifting alone.

Speculation suggests that Skynet-1A may have been directed to fire its thrusters in the 1970s, shifting its orbit westward, though records of who authorized this maneuver have since vanished.

The satellite was originally built in the United States by the now-defunct Philco Ford aerospace company and was launched into space aboard a US Air Force Delta rocket.

Graham Davison, who managed Skynet-1A from its British control center at RAF Oakhanger in Hampshire during the early 1970s, noted, “The Americans originally controlled the satellite in orbit.

They tested all of our software against theirs before eventually handing over control to the RAF.

Essentially, there was dual control, but when or why Skynet-1A might have been handed back to the Americans—I’m afraid I can’t remember.”

Rachel Hill, a PhD researcher from University College London, offered further insight, explaining, “A Skynet team from Oakhanger would travel to the USAF satellite facility in Sunnyvale—commonly called the Blue Cube—to operate Skynet during ‘Oakout.’

This was when control temporarily transferred to the US while Oakhanger underwent maintenance. Perhaps the satellite’s move occurred during one of these transitions.”

Official records indicate that Skynet-1A’s final command might indeed have remained with the United States after RAF Oakhanger lost contact with it in June 1977.

Moriba Jah, an aerospace engineering professor at the University of Texas at Austin, warned that Skynet-1A’s current location presents a potential risk. “Pieces of space junk are like ticking time bombs,” he stated.

“We need to avoid what I call super-spreader events. When these objects explode or collide, they create thousands of debris pieces that then threaten other valuable assets in space.”

The UK’s Ministry of Defence assures that the satellite is under continuous observation by the National Space Operations Centre, though it may need to take action to reposition Skynet-1A if necessary.

The Huawei Mate 70 series is expected to come with a higher price tag than its predecessors, largely due to several new features and the inclusion of a mysterious Kirin chip.

However, the price increase may not be as steep as initially anticipated, which is positive news for consumers.

Weibo tipster @FixedFocus indicates that the Mate 70 series could indeed be more costly than previous models, though the hike is not expected to be substantial.

Based on Huawei’s pricing history, the company has often raised prices on new releases by around 100 or 200 yuan, so it’s likely we’ll see a similar increase for the Mate 70 series.

For context, the starting prices for the Mate 60 series are as follows:

• Huawei Mate 60 (12GB + 256GB) – 5,499 yuan
• Huawei Mate 60 Pro (12GB + 256GB) – 6,499 yuan
• Huawei Mate 60 Pro+ (16GB + 512GB) – 8,999 yuan
• Huawei Mate 60 RS Ultimate Design (16GB + 512GB) – 11,999 yuan

Huawei may add 100 or 200 yuan to these prices for the Mate 70 series, but since the situation remains uncertain, this information should be taken cautiously.

A recent leak has also suggested that the new Kirin chip used in the Mate 70 models could be more expensive than earlier versions, potentially contributing to the anticipated price increase.

The inclusion of advanced features and upgraded components may also play a role in this pricing change.

Sales for the Huawei Mate 70 series are expected to kick off early next month. Another tipster reports that online sales may begin later this month, with availability in offline stores by December.

The flagship model could be released any day now, as Huawei has already announced the Mate 70 launch for this month twice. This series will likely debut alongside other exciting products, such as a new tablet, earbuds, the Watch D2, and more.

Sony recently reflected on the troubled launch of Concord, a live-service hero shooter by Firewalk Studios, admitting it is still going through the challenges of live-service games. Concord is widely regarded as one of PlayStation’s most significant missteps.

With dismal player engagement, Sony took the game offline just two weeks after launch, subsequently closing Firewalk Studios and confirming that Concord would not make a return.

The financial toll of Concord’s failure has been substantial. Reports indicate that the initial development contract was approximately $200 million, according to sources familiar with the project, though this sum didn’t cover the complete development nor the acquisition of Concord’s IP rights or Firewalk Studios.

This aligns with previous reports indicating that Firewalk’s former parent company, ProbablyMonsters, raised $200 million in 2021.

Sony had high expectations for Concord, hoping to capture a wide player base. However, lukewarm reviews and low player numbers led Sony to discontinue the title shortly after launch. One estimate suggests it only sold around 25,000 copies.

Rhys Elliott, an analyst at Midia Research, commented just before Concord’s shutdown, noting, “Pivoting to live services is a high-risk, high-reward venture, and the risk is becoming too steep for many AAA console/PC publishers not already established in this space.”

In a recent financial call, Sony’s president, COO, and CFO, Hiroki Totoki, mentioned the company is drawing lessons from both the highly successful launch of Helldivers 2 earlier in the year and the disappointing Concord rollout.

Specifically regarding Concord, Totoki noted that Sony should have engaged in earlier development checkpoints, such as user testing and internal reviews.

“Currently, we are still in the process of learning,” he said. “For new IPs, you don’t know the outcome until it’s released, but we probably needed more gates—user testing and internal evaluations—much earlier in the development process.”

Totoki also pointed to structural and strategic challenges that may have exacerbated Concord’s poor performance.

Sony’s “siloed organization” and the game’s release timing, shortly after the PS5 and PC success of Black Myth: Wukong, may have created additional hurdles.

“We have a siloed organization, so working beyond departmental boundaries in both development and sales could have been much smoother,” Totoki added.

“Looking forward, we plan to carefully select optimal release windows to maximize each game’s success on our platform and avoid cannibalization.”

The launch timing was especially challenging as Concord entered the competitive live-service hero shooter market in the wake of another high-profile failure, Rocksteady’s Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, which reportedly contributed to a $200 million revenue hit for Warner Bros.

During the same call, Sony’s senior vice president for finance and IR, Sadahiko Hayakawa, compared Helldivers 2’s success to Concord’s failure, emphasizing that the company plans to apply insights from both.

“We launched two live-service games this year,” he said. “Helldivers 2 was a huge hit, while Concord ended up being shut down. We gained a lot of experience and learned a lot from both.”

Hayakawa noted that Sony will share these lessons across its studios to improve development management and the ability to expand content post-launch, strengthening Sony’s strategy.

He further added that Sony plans to maintain a balanced portfolio, combining single-player titles with new live-service games, each carrying its own level of risk and reward.

Sony’s venture into live-service gaming has seen mixed results. Helldivers 2 broke records as the fastest-selling PlayStation Studios game, with 12 million copies sold within just 12 weeks. However, other live-service projects have faced setbacks.

Last December, Naughty Dog canceled a live-service multiplayer adaptation of The Last of Us to refocus on single-player experiences, and Sony-owned Bungie has faced layoffs amid challenges with Destiny 2.

Now, with the closure of Firewalk and the downfall of Concord, questions linger over PlayStation’s future in live-service gaming.

Despite these hurdles, Sony continues to develop live-service titles, with upcoming projects including Bungie’s Marathon, Guerrilla’s Horizon Online, and Haven Studio’s Fairgame$.

Far-right supporters are celebrating with calls for mass executions, while some on the left are spreading their own conspiracy theories about the election.

Convicted January 6 rioters now hope for pardons, while women who oppose Trump express their frustration.

Ahead of Election Day, it was discovered that an “election integrity” app by True the Vote, a right-wing group known for promoting election denialism around the 2020 election, was leaking user emails.

In one instance, it exposed an election officer in California who appeared involved in illegal voter suppression.

Disinformation and election interference have been critical issues since Russia’s 2016 Democratic National Committee hack, but 2024 has seen record levels of foreign interference.

U.S. officials have warned that Russia’s efforts have intensified beyond anything previously seen.

In other news, Canadian authorities recently arrested Alexander “Connor” Moucka, accused of hacking multiple Snowflake cloud storage accounts earlier this year.

Security experts following Moucka, known by his handle “Waifu,” consider him one of 2024’s most significant cyber threats.

A federal judge in Michigan sentenced Richard Densmore to 30 years for child exploitation. Densmore was an active member of the online criminal network 764, which the FBI now classifies as a “tier one” terrorism threat.

Reporter and 404 co-owner Joseph Cox explored infostealer malware—the same type used in Snowflake breaches allegedly linked to Moucka.

In technology news, an unexpected glitch in iOS 18 is hindering forensic investigations of iPhones.

According to a report from 404 Media, some iPhones in police custody for forensic examination are rebooting, making it difficult for investigators to access their data.

This automatic reboot returns devices to the Before First Unlock (BFU) state, rendering them less accessible with forensic tools like Cellebrite.

A document obtained by 404 Media indicates that police believe iOS 18 may have a feature allowing devices to communicate with nearby iPhones while in airplane mode, potentially triggering a timed reboot after a period of inactivity.

Meanwhile, Hot Topic confirmed a data breach impacting approximately 54 million customers.

The stolen data includes email addresses, lightly encrypted credit card numbers, names, phone numbers, and even home addresses, raising identity theft risks.

In international news, German authorities arrested a U.S. citizen, identified as Martin D., for allegedly passing American military secrets to China.

Prosecutors claim he worked with the U.S. armed forces in Germany and accessed sensitive information before contacting Chinese government agencies.

Finally, the FBI is investigating possible Chinese state-backed hacking of U.S. presidential campaign staff iPhones.

Security firm iVerify reported unusual setting changes on iPhones belonging to campaign staff, potentially tied to a Chinese hacker group known as Salt Typhoon, which has previously breached several U.S. telecom networks.

As Behaviour Interactive wraps up its annual Haunted by Daylight event, the studio has announced a new Chapter for Dead by Daylight, titled Doomed Course.

Available now on Steam’s public test build and set for full release on November 28, Doomed Course introduces two new characters to The Fog: The Houndmaster as the new Killer, along with her AI-controlled companion, and Taurie Cain as the new Survivor.

The Houndmaster, known as Portia Maye, is described as one of the “most unique and tragic characters” in Dead by Daylight’s lore.

Once a curious and kind-hearted young girl, Portia’s life was forever altered after witnessing the brutal torture and murder of her father by pirates in the 19th century.

Driven by vengeance, she grew up isolated on Dragon’s Tooth Island, a mysterious locale in the Bermuda Triangle, and dedicated herself to punishing those responsible.

Her only link to humanity is her bond with her dog, Snug—a hulking creature and gift from her father—who assists her in hunting down prey.

In a first for Dead by Daylight, Snug, an AI-controlled animal companion, aids The Houndmaster by tracking, chasing, and holding Survivors.

Players will have access to two unique commands for Snug: Chase and Search. The Chase command sends Snug forward, allowing for redirection as he targets Survivors.

If he captures one, he will drag them back toward The Houndmaster. Meanwhile, the Search command activates a Houndsense radius, expanding as Snug moves, which detects and reveals any Survivor within its reach.

On the other side of the struggle, the new Survivor, Taurie Cain, was raised in the Black Talon cabal, a secret cult devoted to studying and worshipping The Entity.

Taurie lost her mother and brother during an expedition into a Bleed—a world where our world overlaps with The Entity’s.

Her encounter with the Bleed left her profoundly changed and more certain than ever that her destiny was to serve The Entity.

However, when The Fog finally came for her, Taurie found that her fate was not to join as a Killer, but rather as a Survivor.

Nvidia is announcing major updates to its GeForce Now cloud gaming service today, including a rebranding and a new playtime cap for certain members.

The current Priority membership tier is being renamed to “Performance,” and it will now include 1440p streaming, ultrawide resolution support, and the ability to retain graphics settings across sessions.

Additionally, starting January 1, 2025, new members joining either the Performance or Ultimate GeForce Now plans will be limited to 100 hours of playtime per month.

The 100-hour cap, which averages about three hours per day, is being introduced to prevent the need for higher membership prices in the near future, according to Nvidia.

This playtime limit aims to ensure consistent quality, speed, and minimal wait times for all paid members without affecting membership costs.

Nvidia clarifies in a blog post that less than 6% of current members will be affected by this change.

Initially, this cap will apply only to new members, but as of January 1, 2026, it will extend to nearly all current subscribers as well, except for the remaining Founders members.

Founders subscribers will retain unlimited playtime as long as they continue paying monthly, and they will not be affected by the cap unless they switch plans.

If Founders members decide to upgrade to the Ultimate tier, they will be subject to the monthly limit but can revert to their original Founders benefits with unlimited hours if they return to the Founders plan without any interruption in their payments.

Subscribers can also carry over 15 hours of unused playtime to the following month. If users reach the 100-hour limit, they will have the option to purchase additional playtime blocks or use Basic rigs for the rest of the month.

These additional blocks are priced at $2.99 for 15 hours on the Performance plan and $5.99 for 15 hours on the Ultimate plan.

To ease the transition, Nvidia is offering a 25% discount on Ultimate and Performance day passes until November 22, which users can upgrade to recurring monthly or six-month plans to secure unlimited playtime for a full year before the 100-hour cap applies to existing members in 2026.

If you’ve been wondering about Amazon’s much-anticipated upgrade to its Alexa voice assistant, you’re not alone.

The revamped Alexa is still in development, with Amazon having halted access to its beta phase, including the new “Let’s Chat” feature. Originally slated for a late 2024 release, the launch is now postponed to next year.

The delay appears tied to challenges with Alexa’s large language models (LLMs).

While the new Alexa aims to handle more complex questions from users, it’s reportedly struggling with basic tasks that the older version managed easily, like setting timers or controlling smart lights, as noted in a follow-up report from The Verge.

Amazon initially planned to introduce its upgraded Alexa AI in October, but the timeline has since shifted.

Instead of revealing Alexa’s new features on October 17 as planned, Amazon used the date to highlight its latest line of Kindle e-readers.

Back in August, reports emerged that the upgraded Alexa would use Anthropic’s Claude AI and include a monthly subscription option.

The push for an AI-powered Alexa reportedly began as ChatGPT gained popularity in mid-2023.

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy wanted to see if Alexa could compete in the AI-driven market, testing it with sports questions “like an ESPN reporter at a playoff press conference.” But Alexa’s responses fell short, even inventing a recent game score.

Despite these initial hiccups, Alexa was deemed “good enough” by Jassy and Amazon’s executive team, who believed engineers could have a beta version ready by early 2024. However, Amazon missed this goal.

Even with the extended deadline, the upgraded Alexa has a challenging road ahead.

Some Amazon employees told that Alexa’s issues go beyond technology, pointing to overly complex management and a lack of “a compelling vision for an AI-powered Alexa.”

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition is the latest smartphone from Nothing, incorporating designs submitted by the community — and it even glows in the dark.

Starting today, depending on your location, you can register for a chance to buy one.

However, registration does not guarantee purchase, as only 1,000 units will be available. Notably, the device will not be sold in North America, Taiwan, or Korea.

Nothing initially invited the community to participate in designing a product back in March. The contest unfolded in four stages: designing a new look, creating wallpapers, developing packaging, and crafting a marketing campaign.

Participants submitted their ideas, and the winners were selected in each stage. These winning entries shaped the final design of the Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition.

Those who participated in the event are prioritized for registration, though sales will still be on a first-come, first-served basis. Instructions on how to purchase one are included in this post.

Notably, residents of Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines don’t need to register for the opportunity to purchase the phone.

Instead, they can buy it directly through Nothing’s official partners, though each country has only 25 units available.

Fans in Japan also have a chance to register, but they will receive a model based on the older Nothing Phone (2a) design.

In addition to online sales, fans in London and Delhi can visit a physical store to purchase the phone.

The Nothing Store in Soho will stock 50 units starting November 16. Those in Delhi will need to wait for the exact location announcement, with sales beginning there on November 23.

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus Community Edition officially launches on November 12, priced at £399, roughly $430. It will come equipped with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage space.

Canon has revealed four new lenses for its mirrorless camera lineup, three of which are described as “hybrid” – designed for both video and still photography creators.

The new lenses include the RF 24mm F1.4L VCM, RF 50mm F1.4L VCM, and the RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM Z.

These professional-grade prime and zoom lenses are crafted for Canon’s full-frame cameras and join two recently released lenses in the same series, the RF 35mm F1.4L VCM and RF 24-105mm F2.8L USM Z.

The latter was quietly introduced alongside the RF 200-800mm wildlife lens, expanding Canon’s hybrid lens collection to a total of five.

Alongside the hybrid lenses, Canon has also introduced a new stereoscopic lens designed for spatial video: the RF-S 7.8mm F4 STM DUAL for APS-C, which is compatible only with the EOS R7.

With these four new additions, Canon’s RF lens lineup now includes 52 options, a notable milestone achieved in just six years since the RF mount was first launched.

The RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM Z lens is priced at $2,999 / £3,449.99 / AU$5,399, available in white or black starting November 14.

The RF 24mm F1.4L VCM and RF 50mm F1.4L VCM lenses are slated for release in December, with pricing at $1,499 / £1,679.99 / AU$2,699 and $1,399 / £1,539.99 / AU$2,429, respectively.

Meanwhile, the RF-S 7.8mm F4 STM DUAL will retail for $449.99 / £519.99 / AU$799, becoming available sometime in November.

Canon appears to be targeting creators who work with both video and still photography, as evidenced by these recent lens releases.

Canon emphasizes that the RF mount is designed to “reflect the changing needs of the professional,” catering to the growing demand for versatile lenses suited for both mediums.

While it’s unclear if this trend will shape future lens designs for Canon’s professional mirrorless cameras, it seems like a plausible direction.

The RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM Z complements the existing RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM as a more premium option for hybrid users.

It features an 11-blade aperture, smooth aperture ring, internal zoom, and minimal focus breathing. Compatible with 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, it’s available in white (with a thermal barrier) or black, catering to filmmakers who require discretion on set.

Similar in size and weight to the RF 24-105mm F2.8L USM Z, which weighs just over 1kg, the 70-200mm F2.8L IS USM Z is also compatible with Canon’s Power Zoom adapter, allowing for smooth and precise video zooming. Together, these lenses cover focal lengths from 24mm to 200mm.

Canon has also emphasized that the new RF 24mm F1.4L VCM and RF 50mm F1.4L VCM are nearly identical in size and weight to the RF 35mm F1.4L VCM, forming a trio of video-optimized primes with an aperture ring and minimized focus breathing.

These lenses bring the popular 24mm and 50mm F1.4 prime designs from Canon’s DSLR lineup to the RF mount for mirrorless systems for the first time.

Research by Canon indicates that 65% of professional photographers now incorporate video into their work, reflecting evolving professional needs.

This trio of hybrid lenses may signify a new era in Canon’s lens design philosophy. While premium-priced even by Canon’s standards, these lenses could set a standard for versatile performance across photo and video applications.