Speculation about a Nintendo Switch 2 announcement remains high, with many fans convinced the reveal could happen this month. Rumors are also circulating about a port of a major third-party open-world game potentially coming to the new console.

With November just around the corner, it seems likely that predictions for a Switch 2 revealed in October might be off the mark.

Recently, leaker PH Brazil suggested a 2024 announcement is still on the cards, narrowing it down to either Monday or Tuesday of this week. However, this seems based more on informed guesses than confirmed insider information.

Numerous smaller sources are also suggesting a reveal this week, but there’s no solid evidence. The most notable event scheduled is a Nintendo investors meeting on Tuesday, November 5, which historically has sometimes included major announcements.

The practical timing for a Switch 2 reveal might be January or February of next year, as a holiday season announcement could risk discouraging holiday sales of the existing Nintendo Switch.

However, one could argue that those who have waited almost eight years to buy a Switch might not follow game news closely enough to be deterred by a Switch 2 announcement.

Over the weekend, social media has been buzzing with these rumors, although prominent insiders have been cautious.

Jeff Grubb commented on Twitter that he’s “living the ‘We’ll get it when we get it’ life,” while Nate the Hate pointed out that while the timing “would make sense,” no one has claimed to know for sure.

Nintendo has promised to reveal the new console before the end of March 2025, although the announcement might be brief—possibly just a name or a vague teaser image.

Adding fuel to the rumor fire, there’s also speculation about a “Definitive Edition” of Elden Ring for the Switch 2, slated for a late 2025 release.

This rumor originated with Nash Weedle, who claims that Virtuos, the studio behind Metal Gear Delta, may handle the port. Since Elden Ring was available on Xbox One and PlayStation 4, a Switch 2 port could be feasible even with only a modest power boost from the current Switch model.

Virtuos previously ported Dark Souls: Remastered to the original Switch, which could support the plausibility of the rumor or simply be a reason it was created.

The release window for the Switch 2 remains officially unconfirmed, with most rumors pointing to late spring or autumn of next year but leaving open the possibility of a later launch in 2026.

We’ll likely find out soon enough if this week brings any concrete news, but for now, fans will have to wait to see if these rumors come to fruition.

Video game preservation advocates have faced a setback in their efforts to obtain permission to remotely study vintage video games stored in U.S. libraries, following a recent decision by the U.S. Copyright Office.

While enthusiasts in other fields are permitted to access rare films or vintage manuscripts remotely under certain conditions, fans and researchers dedicated to gaming history may now have to go through hours of travel each time they wish to view these materials in person.

This decision comes after three years of campaigning by two non-profits, the Video Game History Foundation and the Software Preservation Network (SPN), which have been urging the U.S. Copyright Office to grant an exemption specifically for older video games.

The Foundation’s proposal aimed to allow researchers remote access to emulated versions of selected games, similar to the way libraries sometimes offer e-book access from home.

In response to the decision, the Foundation issued a statement attributing the loss to “lobbying efforts by rightsholder groups,” such as the Entertainment Software Association (ESA).

The ESA, which represents many of the largest video game publishers, has been instrumental in countering the proposed exemption.

The statement read: “During our hearing with the Copyright Office, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) declared that they would never support remote game access for research purposes under any conditions.”

“The game industry’s absolutist position—which the ESA’s own members have declined to go on the record to support—forces researchers to look through extra-legal methods to access the vast majority of out-of-print video games that are otherwise unavailable.”

This decision comes as video game preservationists increasingly take on a crucial role in maintaining the cultural legacy of video games.

According to the Video Game History Foundation, 87% of games released before 2010 are “critically endangered” in the U.S., meaning that they are no longer readily accessible in their original physical or digital formats.

Some platforms have managed to preserve more of their catalogs, but even iconic systems like the Commodore 64, one of the earliest popular home computers, have struggled. Only around 4.5% of its games library is still in print.

Similarly, despite its popularity, the Gameboy has also faced significant losses in its catalog, with just 5.87% of its titles remaining officially accessible.

Currently, only about 13% of classic games are easily available to play, which forces many enthusiasts to rely on complex emulators or maintain costly vintage equipment to experience these titles.

However, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) presented multiple arguments against loosening restrictions on vintage gaming libraries.

In its legal arguments, the ESA expressed concerns that remote access to vintage games would involve less librarian oversight than in-person access, potentially opening up new avenues for piracy.

It was reported Friday that Apple has tested an app designed to help individuals with prediabetes manage their diet and make healthier lifestyle choices.

They are potentially positioning the company as a competitor to established glucose monitoring firms like Abbott and DexCom.

Earlier this year, Apple conducted a trial with several employees diagnosed with prediabetes.

Sources familiar with the initiative suggest that this project aligns with Apple’s broader efforts to incorporate blood sugar-related features into its health offerings.

Although the tech giant reportedly has no immediate plans to release the app, it may integrate this technology into future health products.

Apple has also been working for over a decade on a noninvasive glucose monitor, which could significantly impact diabetes management.

In 2022, shares of DexCom and Abbott came under pressure as Apple’s advancements in developing a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device signaled increased competition within the health-tech industry.

Apple’s highly anticipated hearing health features for the AirPods Pro 2 were released today via a firmware update.

While you can update your AirPods Pro now to access these features, they won’t be usable until October 28, when iOS 18.1 is officially launched.

This hearing health update introduces three key features: a hearing test, hearing aid functionality, and active hearing protection. All features are free to use and compatible with both iPhone and iPad, provided they’re running iOS 18.1.

The first feature enables at-home hearing assessment, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to diagnose potential hearing loss.

At a hearing health briefing, Apple highlighted that millions of Americans unknowingly live with hearing loss, often misinterpreting it as only complete deafness, though hearing loss varies widely in degree.

Regular checkups are vital to monitor and understand one’s hearing health over time.

Conducted in the iOS Health app, the hearing test takes around five minutes and involves responding to a series of tones by tapping on your screen.

Upon completion, you receive individual scores for each ear along with an interpretation, such as “Your test indicates moderate hearing loss.”

These results are stored in the Health app, allowing you to track changes over time, and can be downloaded to share with a healthcare provider.

The second feature turns your AirPods Pro into hearing aids, amplifying certain frequencies for clearer and more vibrant sound. They also make real-time intensity adjustments based on your environment.

Although designed to aid those with hearing loss, this feature can benefit anyone by enhancing the sound quality, making it useful for healthy listeners who simply want better audio on their AirPods.

The third feature protects your ears in loud environments. In settings that reach up to 110 dBA, such as a fitness class (100 dBA) or lawn mowing (90 dBA), the hearing protection feature reduces the sound level at a rate of 48,000 times per second to alleviate strain on your ears.

This protective function works across all listening modes, with the silicone ear tips providing additional noise reduction.

If you’re eager to get a jump on selecting the right Samsung Galaxy S25 model, you can now consider potential color options, as shades for the upcoming Galaxy S25 lineup have been leaked.

Well-known leaker Ross Young posted on X that the Samsung Galaxy S25 will likely be available in Moon Night Blue, Silver Shadow, Sparkling Blue, and Sparkling Green.

The Galaxy S25 Plus is expected to include the same palette plus an additional Midnight Black option. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S25 Ultra may be offered in Titanium Black, Titanium Blue, Titanium Gray, and a new Titanium Silver shade.

It’s worth mentioning that even if these colors turn out to be accurate, Samsung typically offers additional exclusive shades on its online store.

Also, recent leaks for the S25 Ultra suggest slightly different color options, mentioning Black, Green, Blue, and Titanium as possibilities.

For comparison, the current Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24 Plus are sold in shades of Cobalt Violet, Amber Yellow, Onyx Black, and Marble Gray, with online exclusives like Sapphire Blue, Jade Green, and Sandstone Orange.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s palette includes Titanium Gray, Titanium Black, Titanium Violet, and Titanium Yellow, with online-exclusive shades in Titanium Blue, Green, and Orange. This would make Titanium Silver the only entirely new shade for the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

In addition to color options, another leak for details screen sizes: the Galaxy S25 is expected to have a 6.16-inch display, the Galaxy S25 Plus a 6.66-inch display, and the Galaxy S25 Ultra a 6.86-inch screen.

This aligns with previous rumors, adding weight to the claims, but there’s a twist—the Galaxy S25 series may use the same M13 display panels as its predecessors.

According to Ross Young, Samsung’s choice to retain the M13 panel could mean missed potential upgrades, as the M14 panel offers 20-30% better efficiency and a longer lifespan by 10-20%.

The iPhone 16 Pro models already use the M14 panel, so sticking with M13 may mean Samsung’s Galaxy S25 lineup could lag behind Apple’s displays in terms of efficiency and durability.

While all leaks should be taken with caution, we’re likely to get confirmation on these details soon, as the Galaxy S25 line is expected to launch in January or February.

OnePlus has fully revealed OxygenOS 15 as the Android 15 update for its supported

OnePlus announced that the Beta program for the OnePlus 12 will launch on October 30, but clarified that this date does not mark the beginning of the stable release, as previously reported.

Unlike last year, when OnePlus chose to avoid extensive AI features in favor of refining Android 14 to match its flagship hardware, the BBK-owned brand is now embracing AI with Android 15 and OxygenOS 15. This announcement includes many marketing terms, like “Parallel Processing.”

Parallel Processing enhances the fluidity of animations during rapid app-switching. This addresses situations where users open and close multiple apps back-to-back, as seen in videos demonstrating this.

OnePlus has reworked the animation pipeline so that quick app transitions appear smoother.

Additionally, OxygenOS 15 is reportedly up to 20% smaller than its predecessor. To achieve this, OnePlus removed various “redundant” features, freeing up considerable space.

AI Features in OxygenOS 15

OnePlus is introducing a range of AI-powered camera features. AI Detail Boost, integrated directly into the gallery, automatically identifies and enhances pixelated or blurry images with a single tap, even allowing for upscaling to 4K.

Combined with AI Unblur, this feature provides image clarity similar to the Pixel’s Photo Unblur function. AI Reflection Eraser can eliminate glass reflections from photos without distorting them, and this tool works for various surfaces, not just glass.

Intelligent Search is an on-device tool that enables users to search across system apps, such as Settings, Files, and Notes, for specific files. For example, users can search for “how much did I pay for my hotel stay last month?” and retrieve relevant information quickly.

The Circle to Search feature is also debuting with OxygenOS 15. Powered by Google Lens, it enables contextual searches for anything on the screen by long-pressing the gesture navbar. The update also introduces Theft Protection for added security.

Pass Scan is a key component of OxygenOS 15, allowing users to scan boarding passes, transit tickets, or images from the gallery to save in Google Wallet for easy access later.

Another addition is AI Notes, which uses advanced AI to organize and refine notes. Whether jotting down ideas or drafting reports, AI Notes can summarize key points, adjust tone and formality, and correct grammar for clarity.

The AI Toolbox 2.0 now includes AI Reply, a tool similar to Android’s Smart Reply, providing pre-generated responses. For more in-depth replies, users can use the sidebar to access detailed options.

Updated UI and Interface in OxygenOS 15

OxygenOS 15 also brings several UI enhancements aimed at refining user interaction and improving the experience.

The Shelf Cards feature now offers a broader color palette and more card sizes (such as 1×2, 2×2, and 4×4), allowing users more customization options on their home screen. Popular apps like Zomato and Blinkit are integrated into the Shelf.

Other new UI animations include shimmering effects during interactions such as charging, app installations, or unlocking the device, adding a subtle visual appeal to these actions. For example, when charging with a Super VOOC charger, shimmering effects highlight the charging speed.

The OnePlus OneTake feature is designed to make transitions between the Always-On Display (AOD), lock screen, and main screen smoother and more seamless, providing a natural navigation experience.

The “Depth” option allows users to adjust wallpapers so that the subject in a photo stands out prominently.

Open Canvas, previously only available on the OnePlus Open, is now available for slab-style phones. This multitasking feature allows users to run multiple apps in split-screen mode without shrinking window sizes, making it easier to multitask without feeling restricted.

The update also includes a new “Share with iPhone” app, designed to streamline file sharing between a OnePlus device and an iPhone.

This function requires the “O+ Connect” app on iOS and works similarly to Quick Share, with some additional steps.

OnePlus has confirmed that the OxygenOS 15 Beta rollout will start on October 30 for the OnePlus 12, with details on additional supported devices expected in the coming weeks and months.

OpenAI is reportedly preparing to launch its next-generation AI model, internally referred to as Orion, by December of this year, as reported on Thursday.

Differing from previous releases, the company is expected to first provide early access to select trusted partners, followed by a wider rollout through ChatGPT.

A spokesperson from OpenAI commented that the report isn’t accurate but declined to provide further details.

It was further reported that Microsoft engineers anticipate gaining access to Orion as soon as November, though the model’s official name remains uncertain.

OpenAI has a history of using internal codenames, such as “strawberry” for the o1 series of models before its public release.

The stakes are high for OpenAI with this upcoming model launch. Recently, the company raised $6.6 billion in funding, bringing its valuation to $157 billion.

With this new capital and significant valuation, investors expect OpenAI to continue setting the standard in the tech world with increasingly advanced models.

World of Warcraft is now several months into its War Within expansion, while World of Warcraft Classic is five months into its Cataclysm era.

As always, Blizzard is working hard to keep players engaged, and their latest effort includes a special new subscription offer.

To encourage long-term gameplay, Blizzard has unveiled an enticing deal for those who opt for a 12-month subscription to World of Warcraft.

This offer includes a variety of exclusive mounts for both World of Warcraft and Cataclysm Classic, a new pet to accompany players on their journey, and additional items yet to be revealed.

While these bonus items don’t significantly impact gameplay, they may serve as a tempting incentive for returning players and newcomers during The War Within and Cataclysm Classic eras.

World of Warcraft Offers Multiple Bonuses with a 12-month Subscription

The highlight of the current 12-month subscription offer is four unique mounts, three of which are for use in World of Warcraft, and one for use in World of Warcraft Classic. Here’s a breakdown of the mounts included:

• Startouched Furline (World of Warcraft): A large, feline mount that “flies” by running through the air, its glowing blue tail and paws lighting the sky.
• Gigantic Grrloc (World of Warcraft): A ground mount similar to the Gargantuan Grrloc from a previous offer, but in a striking red color.
• Charming Courier (World of Warcraft): A majestic, glowing blue owl that soars gracefully through the skies.
• Lava Drake (World of Warcraft Classic): A coveted flying mount reminiscent of the highly sought-after drakes from the early days of the game.

Back in the early days of World of Warcraft, players had to invest hours of gameplay and reputation grinding to obtain a Drake mount.

Similarly, while Drake mounts are now easier to get in World of Warcraft Classic, the best ones are still valued for their impressive appearance.

Classic players looking for a stunning Drake should consider the Lava Drake included in this offer.

Each mount also features unique animations to enhance the experience.

A New Pet and More to Come

In addition to the four mounts, the offer includes the Swoopy owl pet for World of Warcraft Classic.

Swoopy is a mini version of the Charming Courier mount, with a few distinct features to make it unique. The pet was previously included in a 6-month subscription offer earlier this year.

Blizzard has also teased two more bonus items that will be revealed and added to the accounts of annual subscribers during the Lunar New Year festival in 2025.

Based on the silhouettes in the subscription offer’s promotional image, these items appear to be a Lunar New Year Drake flying mount for World of Warcraft and a Lunar New Year Drake pet for World of Warcraft Classic.

This 12-month subscription offer is a great opportunity for players to expand their collection of mounts and pets while enjoying the latest expansions in both World of Warcraft and Cataclysm Classic.

Comedy fans might recognize the phrase “have you tried turning it off and on again” from the British sitcom The IT Crowd, but what if that advice came from the National Security Agency (NSA) and was directed at all smartphone users?

More importantly, if you follow the NSA’s suggestion, will it really protect you from malware and spyware in 2024 and beyond?

The NSA’s advice to reboot smartphones originated in a 2020 mobile device best practices guide.

If you have trouble accessing the PDF through the provided link, there’s an alternative route to the document via the NSA press room, although it requires a few more clicks.

With smartphones across all operating systems becoming increasingly popular targets for cybercriminals, the NSA emphasized that while many features on these devices offer convenience, they often compromise security.

The guide outlined simple, non-technical steps that even the least tech-savvy users could take to safeguard their devices and the data they contain. Earlier this year, I covered the NSA’s advice, and the response to that article continues to pour in.

Security experts and smartphone users alike have reached out, some thanking me for highlighting the warning, while others criticized me for not delving deeper into what rebooting can’t protect against. All perspectives are valid, and I hope this article will offer greater clarity.

First off, let me say that the NSA’s guide deserves high praise. The advice is not only sound but also presented in a way that is accessible to all.

The NSA used an icon-based system to communicate what users should avoid, disable, do, and not do.

The “do” list includes using strong PINs and passwords, enabling biometric locks, and keeping software up to date.

On the “do not” list, the advice covers avoiding actions like rooting or jailbreaking your phone and not clicking on unknown links or opening suspicious attachments.

What caught my attention the most, however, was the “disable” icon, which suggested that users turn their devices off and on again weekly.

On the second page of this visually rich document, the NSA took a tabular approach to explain what actions smartphone users should take to mitigate threats.

The iconography here was divided between “sometimes prevents” and “almost always prevents.” In terms of rebooting your smartphone regularly, the advice falls under the “sometimes prevents” category.

This action is recommended because it can help mitigate risks like spear phishing attacks that install malware or prevent zero-click exploits. However, the NSA never claimed this was a one-size-fits-all solution or a comprehensive security fix.

Rebooting your phone regularly might not stop every threat, but it’s a useful step in a broader strategy to protect your device from evolving cyber risks.

I’m excited for the discussions we’ll have next week as we begin comparing our hearing health scores. According to my Apple AirPods Pro 2 hearing test, I have a 6-decibel loss in my left ear and a 12-decibel loss in my right.

These numbers might not mean much right now, but when the software becomes available next week in the US and Canada, you’ll likely be comparing hearing scores with family and friends after a quick test.

Apple provided me with early access to its new hearing health software for the AirPods Pro 2, which transforms the earbuds into clinical-grade hearing aids after a hearing test on an iPhone or iPad.

The software also includes features to protect against loud noises, enabled by default. Apple says this update will be rolled out next week as part of iOS 18.

Hearing loss is becoming increasingly common in the US, with estimates suggesting that 44.1 million American adults experience some degree of hearing loss.

More than half could benefit from using a hearing aid, but research shows that most people affected haven’t tried one yet.

With Apple’s new FDA-authorized software, this two-year-old product now offers anyone with AirPods an instant hearing test and hearing aid.

If the test is that easy to take, it may lead to conversations about hearing loss, much like how people discuss their eyesight prescriptions, potentially helping open up the dialogue about hearing issues when shared with others.

Last week, I started using the new features, which I look through further in the video above. The software also includes updated “Hearing Protection,” designed to shield your ears from prolonged exposure to loud sounds.

During my exploration, I gained a deeper understanding of hearing loss, current technological solutions, and how Apple’s test compares to a professional audiogram.

How the AirPods Hearing Test Works

After updating your device, you’ll find a new section in your AirPods settings for hearing health, where you can take a hearing test.

The test takes around 10 minutes and requires a very quiet environment, as the AirPods will pause if any outside noise is detected. I even noticed distant church bells causing interruptions. Once the noise stops, the test resumes.

The test begins by checking the ear tips’ seal to ensure a proper fit. It then involves tapping the screen whenever you hear a beep. Some of the tones are faint and require focus to catch.

Once the test is complete, your results are saved in the Health app, where they can be shared as a PDF. If needed, you can turn on Hearing Aid Mode, which amplifies specific frequencies that your test shows need boosting.

This mode is an enhanced version of AirPods’ Transparency Mode, amplifying external sounds as well as media and call audio.

You can adjust the amplification and balance via detailed controls. When Hearing Aid Mode is activated, your phone’s volume controls also change, allowing you to manage the volume of external sounds and media separately.

A new shortcut button, resembling an ear, appears in the Control Center for quick access to these settings.

Testing with Others

If you pass your AirPods to someone else to test their hearing, the app will display their results alongside yours.

The settings allow you to choose which result to apply to the hearing aid software, but don’t forget to switch it back before using the AirPods again, as using someone else’s hearing profile could harm your ears.

Professional Audiogram vs. Apple’s Test

To see how Apple’s hearing test compares to a professional one, I visited Columbia University Irving Medical Center. After an ear inspection, I took a standard beep test in a soundproof room.

While more controlled and detailed than Apple’s test, the results were strikingly similar, with both tests indicating difficulty in hearing high frequencies.

Apple allows you to upload professional audiogram results into the Health app, which will then adjust your AirPods’ settings accordingly.

You can scan a paper audiogram using your iPhone camera, and the app will graph the results, applying them to your hearing aid settings.

Conversation Boost and Hearing Aid Comparisons

Though my hearing loss was minimal, I used the hearing aid mode in various scenarios to better understand its capabilities.

A feature called “Conversation Boost” amplifies voices in front of you, which I tested in a noisy bar. It significantly improved my ability to hear my companion despite the background noise.

While AirPods are cheaper than traditional hearing aids—retailing for $250 compared to over-the-counter hearing aids that can range from $1,000 to $1,700—they have a shorter battery life of 6 hours, making them unsuitable as a full-day replacement.

During my visit to Columbia, Dr. Justin Golub from the Otolaryngology Department mentioned that while Apple’s $250 price point is affordable, the limited battery life may make AirPods more of an entry-level option for specific situations rather than a complete hearing aid substitute.

Real-World Insights from a Hearing Aid User

To get a better sense of how AirPods compare to dedicated hearing aids, I spoke with Nancy, the mother of a colleague, who has been using hearing aids for a decade.

She found the AirPods promising for music listening but didn’t think they would be practical for daily use due to the need for frequent recharging.

Nonetheless, she acknowledged that adopting hearing aids earlier in her life could have improved her quality of life and business performance.

AirPods Could Start the Hearing Loss Conversation

With this update, AirPods could be a helpful tool to start conversations about hearing loss, particularly with older family members who may be resistant to using hearing aids.

By offering a quick and easy test, Apple might help break down some of the barriers that prevent people from acknowledging their hearing issues.

Updated Hearing Protection Features

The AirPods Pro 2 now have more advanced hearing protection software that manages sustained loud noises more effectively, preserving sound details while lowering exposure levels.

This feature is useful for protecting your hearing in environments like concerts, but it may not offer adequate protection against sudden, loud sounds like fireworks or gunfire.

Apple claims the software can protect against sounds as loud as 110 decibels, though for extremely loud events, traditional earplugs might still be the safer option.

It’s ironic that while AirPods can contribute to hearing loss when used at high volumes, Apple is now positioning them as a solution to prevent and manage hearing loss.

New reports suggest that Samsung may equip most of its Galaxy S25 series with its own “low yield” Exynos processor, rather than the expected Snapdragon or Dimensity chips.

A post by industry insider Sawyer Galox on X reveals that Samsung plans to use the Exynos 2500 in both the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25 Plus models.

However, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is still anticipated to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 processor.

It remains unclear whether this decision applies globally or is specific to certain regions. For instance, when the Galaxy S24 series launched, markets like the USA, Canada, and a few other countries received the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip in their Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus models.

Other regions were given the reportedly inferior Exynos 2400. The Galaxy S24 Ultra, on the other hand, came with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in all markets.

This latest rumor contradicts earlier reports that suggested Samsung would go with an all-Snapdragon lineup, following concerns over the low yields of the 3nm GAA process used in the Exynos 2500 production.

Some industry analysts remain skeptical about Samsung’s ability to manufacture a sufficient quantity of Exynos 2500 chips due to these production challenges.

Previously, there was speculation that Samsung might consider using MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400 chip in the Galaxy S25 series.

As October draws to a close, Samsung has yet to officially announce the Exynos 2500, which is unusual given that the Exynos 2400 was revealed on October 5 last year.

Since Samsung traditionally launches its Galaxy S series in January, this delay raises questions about whether the company is running out of time or if the rumor itself is inaccurate.

Scientists in China have achieved a groundbreaking milestone by creating a remarkably powerful resistive magnet, which has officially set a new world record by maintaining a magnetic field of 42.02 tesla.

This is over 800,000 times stronger than Earth’s magnetic field, which typically measures around 50 microtesla.

This record was established on September 22 at the Steady High Magnetic Field Facility (SHMFF) in Hefei, surpassing the previous record of 41.4 tesla, which had been held since 2017 by a resistive magnet at the National High Magnetic Field Lab in Florida.

The motivation behind pushing the boundaries of magnetism is rooted in the potential for scientific discovery.

Physicist Joachim Wosnitza from Dresden’s lab in Germany noted that stronger magnetic fields open up new realms of physics, offering the possibility of discovering new states of matter.

Another physicist added that high magnetism allows for the engineering and manipulation of new phases of matter that cannot exist under normal conditions.

Each additional tesla achieved makes instruments exponentially more sensitive to faint phenomena.

The SHMFF’s record-breaking magnet is available for international researchers to look  through advanced materials like superconductors.

However, resistive magnets such as this one consume vast amounts of power. The SHMFF magnet required 32.3 megawatts to achieve the new record.

Despite their high energy demands, resistive magnets are still favored because they can sustain high magnetic fields for longer periods than superconducting magnets, which eventually hit their performance limits. Additionally, resistive magnets can be ramped up quickly.

Efforts to reduce the energy consumption of these powerful magnets continue, with teams like those at the SHMFF working on hybrid and fully superconducting designs that could reach extreme magnetic strengths while using less energy.

It’s important to note that superconducting or hybrid designs are not necessarily weaker than resistive magnets. In fact, China introduced a hybrid resistive/superconducting magnet in 2022 that reached 45.22 tesla.

In 2019, the U.S. National Lab developed a mini superconducting prototype that briefly produced a 45.5 tesla burst.

However, the challenge remains to make these low-power systems both reliable and affordable while addressing cooling issues, which is why resistive magnets continue to play a crucial role.

It was perhaps inevitable that details would leak regarding an upcoming Nintendo Switch Online playtest, which had been closely guarded in secrecy—until now.

Before the event even begins, information has surfaced about what the program entails.

Reportedly, players will be testing out a new Nintendo MMO project that revolves around collaborating to build and develop a planet.

According to Vooks.net, individuals selected for the Nintendo Switch Online playtest can now access a website with details about the experience, which is set to run from October 23 to November 5.

The game seems somewhat akin to a Minecraft-like MMO, where players collect resources and build on a large shared planet.

Beacons are said to be a key element in the game. Once a player places a beacon on the planet, only they will have control over building and editing within that area.

Players are encouraged to keep their valuable items in these beacon zones for safety. Outside of these zones, however, other players can freely modify structures and face enemies.

There is also reportedly a social area known as the “Dev Core,” where players can relax and interact with others in a more casual environment.

This is also where players need to go to level up their characters, with progression centered around placing and upgrading beacons.

No official name for the project has been announced yet, but it seems to be a completely new IP. From the screenshots, the game may have a visual style similar to Nintendo’s *Pushmo*. It is still unclear which developer is responsible for the title.

Meanwhile, Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack recently celebrated its third anniversary, teasing that more content is on the way for subscribers.

As part of that, *Banjo-Tooie* will become available to members starting this Friday, October 25.

UK researchers have set a new milestone in data transmission by combining multiple wireless techniques to achieve record-breaking speeds.

In laboratory experiments, they reached 1 terabit per second (Tbps), a significant leap forward in wireless technology. The challenge now lies in proving its viability for commercial applications.

A team from University College London (UCL) successfully transferred nearly one terabit of data per second over a wireless connection, setting a world record.

This breakthrough paves the way for future advancements in high-speed wireless communications.

By utilizing a broad spectrum of electromagnetic frequencies, the researchers achieved data transmission rates that are thousands of times faster than the typical download speeds on UK 5G networks.

Their recently published study details an ultra-wideband transmission system that combines electronic and photonic-assisted signal generation, reaching 938 Gbps across a frequency range of 5-150GHz

. In comparison, traditional wireless networks primarily rely on radio frequencies below 6GHz, delivering average speeds of around 100 Mbps over 5G.

Radio frequencies have become congested with a variety of signals, limiting wireless communication speeds.

The UCL team overcame this “bottleneck” by employing a combination of radio and optical technologies, an unprecedented approach that resulted in significantly faster and more stable data transmission.

The researchers’ innovative solution integrates advanced electronics, optimized for the 5-50GHz range, with photonics technology that uses light to generate radio waves in the 50-150GHz range.

This combination allowed them to achieve a total bandwidth more than five times greater than previous wireless transmission records (145GHz). The astonishing speed of the system is 9,380 times faster than the UK’s best average 5G network speeds.

To illustrate its capability, the team managed to transfer a two-hour UltraHD movie (approximately 14GB) in just 0.12 seconds, a process that would take 19 minutes over a 100 Mbps 5G connection.

“Current wireless communication systems are struggling to meet the increasing demand for high-speed data access, particularly in the final stretch between the user and the fiber optic network,” said Zhixin Liu, lead author of the UCL study.

He highlighted this “last-mile” bottleneck as a key hurdle for existing wireless networks.

While the technology has so far only been demonstrated in lab conditions, the team is already developing a prototype device to test in real-world commercial settings.

They are optimistic that within three to five years, this novel transmission method could be integrated into commercially available equipment.

The UCL team believes that their breakthrough could greatly enhance wireless connections, narrowing the gap between ultra-fast fiber optic networks and “last-mile” devices like smartphones or Wi-Fi routers.

The technology has the potential to revolutionize mobile networks, offering faster and more reliable connections in densely populated areas, and could play a critical role in future 5G and even 6G services.

With the iPhone 16 launch now in the rearview mirror, rumors are already swirling about next year’s iPhone 17 series.

Amid the mix of speculative reports and insider tips, it seems like more details are emerging that reinforce previously released leaks, suggesting there’s some consistency in what we can expect.

Analyst Jeff Pu of Haitong International has released a new research note, cited by Apple Insider, in which he discusses details about the iPhone 17 Air (or Slim) and potential features of the iPhone 17 Pro models.

Pu’s note seems to affirm much of what has already been rumored about the iPhone 17 series, although there are a few new details and adjustments to consider.

iPhone 17 Air / Slim

The iPhone 17 Air or Slim is rumored to feature a 6.6-inch display and is expected to replace the Plus model in Apple’s lineup, a detail we’ve heard before.

According to Pu, the device will be powered by a 3nm A19 chip, which is similar to the A18 Pro chip found in the iPhone 16 Pro models. This indicates that the anticipated 2nm chip may be delayed until the iPhone 18, as reported earlier this week.

Pu also reiterated that the iPhone 17 Slim will come equipped with 8 GB of RAM, consistent with what he had reported in May.

To achieve a lighter feel, in addition to its ultra-thin design, Pu suggests the Slim will be crafted from aluminum, much like the current Plus model.

In terms of the camera, Pu believes the iPhone 17 Slim will sport a single 48MP rear sensor and a 24MP front camera, which will integrate Face ID technology.

There’s also mention of a “brand-new design” for the iPhone 17 Slim, although specifics on what this might entail remain unclear.

iPhone 17 Pro Models

MacRumors, which also had access to Pu’s research note, gleaned additional information, particularly regarding the iPhone 17 Pro models.

Pu reiterated earlier claims that the Pro and Pro Max models will feature a 48MP telephoto rear camera and a 24MP front camera. These would represent significant upgrades from the current Pro models, which use 12MP versions of both cameras.

Pu expects the iPhone 17 Pro models to finally upgrade to 12GB of RAM, which he had previously predicted in May. Additionally, he believes the iPhone 17 Pro Max will feature a “much narrowed Dynamic Island,” thanks to a smaller metalens used for Face ID.

Though he didn’t specify how much smaller the new Dynamic Island would be, it would mark the first notable change since it was introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro.

Pu also reiterated that the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will retain the 6.3-inch and 6.9-inch display sizes that debuted with the iPhone 16 models.

Finally, Pu claims that Apple will no longer split chip types between models. Instead, all iPhone 17 models will share the same A19 chip, much like how all iPhone 16 models feature some form of the A18 chip.

It’s important to note that while Jeff Pu is a prolific source of Apple rumors, his track record has been hit-or-miss.

That said, his latest insights seem to align with other well-regarded Apple analysts, including Mark Gurman and Ming-Chi Kuo, lending more weight to these predictions.

In 2022, Google introduced a more private media picker with Android 13, and later extended this feature to Android 4.4+ devices through Google Play Services.

Many apps adopted this new media picker, allowing users to select specific pictures and videos to share, granting only limited access to their media files.

However, not all Android apps have implemented the media picker, despite Google’s recommendations. Now, Google is taking a more assertive approach, enforcing a Play Store policy change that mandates app adoption of the media picker.

In October 2023, the company notified developers that starting in mid-2024, it would begin cracking down on apps unnecessarily requesting access to the READ_MEDIA_IMAGES and READ_MEDIA_VIDEO permissions to access media files.

By early 2025, only apps whose primary functions involve handling photos and videos—such as gallery apps or image editing software—will be permitted to use these permissions.

According to Google’s support page, examples of “one-time or infrequent use of photos or video files” include uploading a profile picture, an image for a playlist, or a photo of a check for banking purposes.

Such apps should not request READ_MEDIA_IMAGES or READ_MEDIA_VIDEO permissions and are required to use the media picker for a safer and more streamlined user experience.

At Google’s I/O 2024 event, the company outlined its plans to implement these policy changes starting in August 2024, but that deadline was missed.

However, the crackdown began on September 18, 2024, giving developers whose apps use these media permissions until October 31, 2024, to submit a declaration form confirming that their app qualifies for such permissions.

Developers also have the option to request an extension to meet compliance. If granted, they will have until January 22, 2025, to comply with the new rules.

Failure to submit the necessary declaration by the end of October will prevent developers from updating their apps.

If they still fail to comply by the extended deadline, their app will be removed from the Google Play Store. Only private and enterprise management apps are exempt from this policy.

While this policy shift represents a positive move toward better privacy and security, the Android file picker itself leaves much to be desired.

The current picker lacks features like search or filtering, which would significantly improve the user experience. Google may need to address these shortcomings as it pushes developers to adopt the tool.

Smartphones have become an essential part of everyday life for many Americans, serving a range of purposes from communication and education to entertainment.

As of early 2024, the Pew Research Center reports that 97% of Americans own a smartphone. For millions of Americans with hearing loss, there’s now encouraging news regarding these devices.

On Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved new regulations requiring that all mobile handsets, including smartphones, must be compatible with hearing aids.

This will ensure that individuals with hearing loss have access to the same mobile phone models as everyone else.

“Hearing loss is a significant issue,” said FCC chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel in a statement, highlighting that over 48 million Americans experience some degree of hearing difficulty, especially older adults and veterans.

“It’s likely that someone you know is affected by hearing loss,” she added.

Efforts to improve hearing aid accessibility have seen progress over the years. In 2022, hearing aids became available for purchase over the counter without a prescription following a pivotal decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Furthermore, at Apple’s September event, the company revealed that people with mild to moderate hearing loss would be able to use its popular AirPods 2 earbuds as hearing aids.

Under the new FCC rules, following a transition period, Americans with hearing loss will have the freedom to choose from the full array of mobile handsets available in the market, regardless of the technologies, features, or price points.

The exact date for the end of the transition period has yet to be specified.

Additionally, the FCC introduced a Bluetooth coupling requirement, encouraging manufacturers to move away from proprietary standards.

This means that mobile phones and hearing aids—including over-the-counter options and earbuds—must be compatible with one another.

The new regulations also mandate that all mobile handsets sold in the U.S. meet specific volume-control standards, allowing users to increase volume without causing distortion.

To ensure transparency, companies will be required to clearly indicate on their websites and point-of-sale labels whether a handset is hearing-aid compatible, whether it meets telecoil or Bluetooth coupling standards, and how high the handset’s volume can be raised while still adhering to volume control requirements.

This announcement builds on the FCC’s 2016 plan to enhance access to mobile wireless handsets that are compatible with hearing aids.

Software developed by UK-based company Datel, which enabled infinite boosts in a racing game, has been deemed not to infringe EU copyright law, according to judges in Luxembourg. This ruling is considered significant for the gaming industry.

The European Court of Justice stated that third-party add-ons for Sony PlayStation games that provide players with additional options do not violate EU copyright law.

The court’s decision came against the backdrop of a case involving the video game giant, which is pivotal to a modding ecosystem worth hundreds of millions.

“The Directive on the legal protection of computer programs does not permit the holder of that protection to prevent a third party from marketing software that merely alters variables temporarily transferred to working memory,” the judges explained in their statement.

They further noted, “The directive protects only the intellectual creation as reflected in the text of the computer program’s source code and object code.”

Datel’s software allowed players to gain infinite boosts in the racing game MotorStorm and to control the console using a motion sensor.

The judges in Luxembourg were asked to determine whether this infringed EU copyright laws established in 2009, given that Datel’s add-ons do not modify source code but only change variables in working memory.

Sony contended that Datel’s software “latches on … like a parasite” to the PlayStation game.

However, in a non-binding opinion provided to the EU court in April, Advocate General Maciej Szpunar stated that there was nothing illegal about utilizing a copyrighted work in a manner contrary to the creator’s intentions.

He illustrated his point by comparing it to a reader skipping to the end of a detective novel to find out the killer’s identity, despite that potentially ruining the author’s suspenseful narrative.

Critics have accused Sony of overreaching in its attempts to regulate how others modify or “mod” its products, a practice that is foundational to large segments of the gaming ecosystem.

Gaming activist Ross Scott raised a rhetorical question: “In how many other industries would this be acceptable behavior?”

He likened modifying PlayStation games to adding highlights to a book or changing the wheels on a car, arguing that allowing users to cheat in a single-player game constitutes a “victimless crime.”

Scott is also the organizer of a separate EU petition aimed at preventing game companies from discontinuing support for online-only games, thereby depriving customers of their products.

This petition was initiated after Ubisoft, a French gaming company, ceased support for The Crew, an online-only racing game with approximately 12 million players.

he petition has already garnered over 370,000 signatures, although Scott acknowledges that this number is insufficient to compel action from the European Commission.

Scott warned that a broader interpretation of copyright law akin to Sony’s stance “could endanger lots of software on a wider scale.”

He noted, “If you were to eliminate every game that traces its origins to modding, it would amount to hundreds of millions of dollars,” referencing popular titles like Fortnite, which evolved from earlier games.

In a significant PR setback for Qualcomm, the highly anticipated $900 Snapdragon X Elite developer kit, which was revealed earlier this year at Microsoft’s Build 2024 conference, has been abruptly canceled—just days after the first units were shipped to customers.

Qualcomm notified customers via email, stating:

“The Developer Kit product comprehensively has not met our usual standards of excellence, and so we are reaching out to let you know that, unfortunately, we have made the decision to pause this product and the support of it, indefinitely.”

Customers who placed an order will receive a full refund, including those fortunate enough to have received the developer kit already.

Qualcomm has confirmed that those who received the kit do not need to return it to claim their refund. For those with pending orders, the orders will be canceled, meaning anyone who hasn’t received one by now will no longer be able to get it.

The original plan was for Qualcomm to launch the Snapdragon X Elite developer kit in June, coinciding with the availability of Copilot+ PCs.

However, after that date passed without the kit going on sale, it wasn’t until a month later that pre-orders finally became available through Arrow, with an estimated shipping time of just a few weeks.

Customers who pre-ordered soon realized that shipping delays would be much longer than anticipated.

Many who placed orders when pre-sales opened in July were left without a clear delivery timeframe, as both Qualcomm and Arrow failed to provide accurate estimates.

Frustration among developers mounted as they documented their experiences, with some lucky enough to have received the kit already providing reviews.

One such reviewer, Jeff Geerling, described the kit as a missed opportunity due to its hardware limitations.

Throughout the summer, Qualcomm encountered various manufacturing issues with the developer kit. Originally, the hardware was supposed to include an HDMI port, but this was removed at the last minute.

Additionally, it seems Qualcomm had not obtained FCC certification before shipping the units, as some devices reached customers with labels warning that they cannot be resold and lack FCC certification.

In the end, it became evident that building PC hardware is no simple feat, even for a prominent chipmaker like Qualcomm.

Now, it seems the responsibility of creating a replacement developer kit will fall to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), likely through mini PCs equipped with Snapdragon X SoCs.

There is speculation that Microsoft might update its Windows Developer Kit 2023, which initially launched in 2022 featuring the Snapdragon 8cx Gen3.

The cancellation of the Snapdragon X Elite developer kit also marks the end of the availability of the X Elite SoC (the X1E-00-1DE) with its higher 4.3GHz boost frequency, as this was the only hardware that included the chip. As a result, these kits may become highly sought after.