Intel’s upcoming Arc Battlemage B580/B570 GPUs are expected to outperform NVIDIA’s current GeForce RTX 4060 Ti, with early benchmarks suggesting superior performance for these next-gen graphics cards.
This development offers a look into the capabilities of Intel’s “Battlemage” series, though much of the performance details have remained under wraps, leaving many wondering what to expect upon release.
While some specifications of Intel’s Battlemage GPUs have been revealed, it was recently disclosed by Golden Pig Upgrade that the B580 and B570 models will feature better performance than NVIDIA’s mid-range offering, the RTX 4060 Ti, according to synthetic benchmarks.
Interestingly, Golden Pig Upgrade also noted that AMD’s “Navi 44” — the company’s upcoming budget-friendly GPUs — are expected to compete with the RTX 4060 Ti as well.
While the comparison may not be entirely fair due to the generational differences between the products, it indicates that both Intel and AMD are positioning their next-generation GPUs as strong contenders in the low-to-mid-end market.
This suggests that the upcoming GPUs from both companies will offer solid alternatives to NVIDIA’s offerings in the budget segment.
Intel Arc Battlemage B580
The RTX 4060 Ti is considered one of the leading GPUs for budget-conscious users, and it’s anticipated that Intel’s Battlemage B580/B570 and AMD’s Navi 44 will offer similar price-to-performance ratios.
It appears that Intel and AMD are shifting their focus towards capturing a significant share of the mid-range GPU market, as NVIDIA has a clear lead in the high-end GPU race.
However, this shift could give Intel and AMD a competitive advantage in a broader segment of the GPU industry.
This strategy aligns with AMD’s previous statements regarding its future roadmap. A few months ago, the company revealed its UDNA architecture, signaling a departure from competing solely on high-end performance.
Instead, AMD expressed a desire to focus on appealing to a wider consumer base, particularly in the budget segment.
Intel seems to be following a similar approach with its Battlemage GPUs, which could make their affordable next-gen options more attractive than NVIDIA’s offerings in the same price range. As for the release timeline,
Intel’s Battlemage GPUs are expected to launch by mid-December, while AMD’s Navi 44 GPUs are slated for release around CES 2025, likely in Q1.
Nintendo has revealed a new trailer showcasing all the Donkey Kong Country games currently available on the Switch, gearing up for the much-anticipated release of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, set to launch on January 16, 2024.
For fans with a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, the service offers access to the classic SNES Donkey Kong Country trilogy.
This includes the original Donkey Kong Country, the fan-favorite Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy’s Kong Quest, and the adventurous Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong’s Double Trouble, all available to play right now.
Switch players can also purchase Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze as a standalone title.
Originally developed by Retro Studios for the Wii U, this version features the addition of a Funky Mode, tailored for the Switch, while preserving the engaging gameplay and creative level design that made the original a standout platformer.
Donkey Kong Country Returns (Photo: Nintendo Switch)
The trailer also offers another glimpse at the upcoming Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, marking the third release of Retro Studios’ groundbreaking entry into the series.
The updated visuals show a notable improvement over the debut trailer earlier this year.
While it’s still a modest remaster rather than a full overhaul, Forever Entertainment seems to have successfully brought the visuals closer to the high standards set by Tropical Freeze.
With so much Donkey Kong content available, it’s evident that Nintendo is leveraging the franchise to tie in with its new theme park expansion in Japan.
However, the spotlight on Donkey Kong has sparked speculation about what might be next for the iconic character.
Could a brand-new Donkey Kong game be on the horizon? Or perhaps that long-rumored crossover with 3D Mario?
Alibaba, the Chinese retail giant, has revealed an open-source alternative to OpenAI’s o1 artificial intelligence (AI) model, naming it QwQ.
According to Alibaba, this new model rivals OpenAI’s current reasoning models, offering comparable capabilities.
The QwQ-32B model is available under the Apache 2.0 license, enabling its use in commercial projects. However, it has not yet been fully released, indicating that its development is ongoing.
Alibaba joins other major tech companies in the open-source AI space, following Meta’s release of Llama 3.1, which operates under a similar licensing framework.
Despite sharing an open-source approach, Meta’s Llama 3.1 and Alibaba’s QwQ differ significantly in their design and purpose.
QwQ stands out as a reasoning model, designed to simulate human-like problem-solving processes and verify its own conclusions.
This enables it to address more complex challenges compared to traditional large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT-4 and Claude 3.5.
In an example shared by Alibaba, QwQ demonstrated a detailed step-by-step explanation of its reasoning while solving math problems.
Using Hugging Face’s Spaces, users can test these capabilities and observe how the model applies its parameters in practice.
QwQ AI Model
One demonstration of QwQ’s analytical abilities involved identifying the number of “R”s in the word “strawberry,” a seemingly simple task that has stumped other AI models in the past.
Hugging Face prominently features this question as a standard test for new AI systems.
When asked, QwQ-32B provided an exhaustive explanation of its reasoning process, highlighting a common issue in AI systems where data is broken into tokens for processing, occasionally leading to overly complex responses.
Although Alibaba’s Qwen team reports that QwQ surpasses OpenAI’s o1-preview and Mini models in three benchmarks, including the MATH-500 benchmark—focused on intricate, word-heavy math problems—the model’s real-world performance remains to be fully evaluated.
These benchmarks suggest a promising capability, but broader testing and user feedback will ultimately determine how it measures up in practical applications.
Notably, concerns persist regarding restrictions imposed on Chinese-developed AI systems, which could limit their utility.
For example, when asked basic questions such as “Who is Xi Jinping?” QwQ declined to provide an answer, reflecting the constraints often placed on such technology.
As development continues, the AI community awaits QwQ’s full release and real-world testing to see how it fares against competitors in practical scenarios.
Microsoft has rejected allegations that it leverages Microsoft 365 applications—including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint—to collect data for training its artificial intelligence (AI) models.
The claims originated from a Tumblr blog post, which accused Microsoft of using the “Connected Experiences” feature to gather user data from Word and Excel for AI training purposes. The post gained traction on social media, prompting a response from the tech giant.
“Microsoft does not use customer data from Microsoft 365 consumer and commercial applications to train large language models.
Additionally, the Connected Services setting has no connection to how Microsoft trains large language models,” a Microsoft spokesperson clarified in a statement to BleepingComputer on Monday.
Microsoft further emphasized that this optional feature, enabled by default since its introduction in April 2019, serves specific functionalities unrelated to AI training.
“The Connected Experiences feature powers capabilities such as co-authoring, real-time grammar suggestions, and access to web-based resources,” the company stated.
“These features are activated by default because users naturally expect such tools in a cloud-connected productivity suite. However, customers retain full control and can modify their Connected Experiences settings at any time.”
According to Microsoft’s support site, the Connected Experiences feature is designed to:
Offer design suggestions, editing tips, or data insights based on Office content through tools like PowerPoint Designer or Translator.
Allow users to download online resources such as templates, images, 3D models, videos, and reference materials, including Office templates and PowerPoint QuickStarter.
Microsoft Company
Users who wish to enable or disable this feature can do so through their Office apps. To adjust these settings, they need to go to File > Account > Account Privacy > Manage Settings and modify the “Connected experiences” preferences.
Microsoft reiterated the purpose of this feature in its response. “The Connected Experiences setting enables cloud-backed features designed to enhance productivity within Microsoft 365 apps.
These include suggesting relevant information and images from the web, enabling real-time co-authoring and cloud storage, and providing tools like Word Editor, which offers spelling and grammar recommendations,” the company explained.
Moreover, Microsoft highlighted that its AI-enhanced tools, such as PowerPoint Designer (which helps create visually appealing slides) and Word Editor (which provides writing and grammar suggestions), have been part of Microsoft 365 for years.
These features rely on simpler machine learning algorithms rather than generative AI or large language models.
The company also pointed out that since the setting’s introduction in 2019, enterprise administrators have had the ability to control whether connected experiences are available to their organization’s users.
These controls extend across devices running Microsoft 365 Apps, including Mac, iOS, and Android, through various policy settings designed to manage privacy.
Jon Watts, director of Wolfs, has opened up about a canceled sequel to the Brad Pitt and George Clooney action comedy, revealing that he returned the funds provided by Apple TV+ for the project because he “no longer trusted” the streaming platform.
Wolfs, which Watts both wrote and directed, starred Pitt and Clooney as rival professional fixers forced to collaborate despite their preference for working alone. The film marked the duo’s first on-screen reunion since 2008.
Initially slated for a wide theatrical release, Wolfs was instead shifted by Apple TV+ to a limited theater run followed by a streaming debut on September 27, 2024.
The decision, announced in August, made Wolfs the most-watched film in Apple TV+ history upon release.
Despite this success, the filmmakers expressed disappointment over the abrupt change in distribution strategy, which disrupted their plans for a broader cinematic rollout.
Watts Speaks Out on the Sequel and Streaming Pivot
In a recent interview, Watts detailed his frustrations with Apple’s decision-making process:
I showed Apple my final cut of Wolfs early this year. They were extremely enthusiastic about it and immediately commissioned me to start writing a sequel.
But their last-minute shift from a promised wide theatrical release to a streaming release was a total surprise and made without any explanation or discussion. I wasn’t even told about it until less than a week before they announced it to the world.”
Watts further criticized Apple for misrepresenting his involvement with the sequel in their press materials.
I was completely shocked and asked them to please not include the news that I was writing a sequel.
They ignored my request and announced it in their press release anyway, seemingly to create a positive spin to their streaming pivot. And so I quietly returned the money they gave me for the sequel.
Wolfs Film (Photo: Apple TV+)
The director added that he refrained from publicly addressing the situation at the time to avoid tarnishing the reputation of the original film:
I didn’t want to talk about it because I was proud of the film and didn’t want to generate any unnecessary negative press. I loved working with Brad and George (and Amy and Austin and Poorna and Zlatko) and would happily do it again.
But the truth is that Apple didn’t cancel the Wolfs sequel, I did, because I no longer trusted them as a creative partner.
Clooney Responds to Reports on Salaries
In a separate controversy surrounding the film, George Clooney publicly addressed claims about his and Pitt’s earnings for Wolfs.
It was reported that both actors were paid over $35 million for their roles. Clooney disputed the figures, emphasizing the impact such misinformation could have on the film industry:
Whatever her source was for our salary, it is millions and millions and millions of dollars less than what was reported.
And I am only saying that because I think it’s bad for our industry if that’s what people think is the standard bearer for salaries. I think that’s terrible, it’ll make it impossible to make films.
Background and Legacy of Wolfs
Despite the turmoil surrounding its release and sequel, Wolfs achieved notable success on Apple TV+.
The film’s engaging storyline and the dynamic pairing of Pitt and Clooney were widely praised, but the shift away from a wide theatrical release has left lingering disappointment for the creative team.
Sony is reportedly developing a new handheld gaming device, described as a potential successor to the PlayStation Portable (PSP) and PS Vita.
This upcoming handheld is rumored to complement the PS5 and could position itself as a competitor to the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 and Valve’s Steam Deck.
According to Bloomberg, this PS5-compatible handheld is still in the early stages of development and may be years away from release—if it materializes at all. There remains the possibility that Sony might abandon the project.
The report indicates that the PlayStation Portal, originally envisioned as a standalone product similar to the Steam Deck, later evolved into a device dependent on streaming via a PS5 console.
However, recent updates to the PlayStation Portal have introduced a cloud-streaming beta for PS Plus Premium members, enabling the device to play games without requiring a PS5 console.
Sony’s interest in re-entering the handheld gaming market aligns with broader industry trends.
Sony Dedicated Handheld Device
Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has openly expressed interest in developing an Xbox handheld, although such a device is also “a few years out” and may never reach production.
Meanwhile, Nintendo is expected to reveal the Switch 2 in the coming months, with the company confirming earlier this month that the new system will support backward compatibility with the current Switch library.
If realized, the PS5 portable system would mark Sony’s return to the handheld gaming space for the first time since the PS Vita’s release.
The PS Vita launched in Japan in 2011 and arrived in North America in early 2012. Despite a strong start, the system was discontinued in Japan in early 2019, shortly before the PS5’s debut.
Sony’s earlier handheld, the PlayStation Portable (PSP), made its debut in Japan in 2004 and North America in 2005.
During its lifespan, the PSP competed with Nintendo’s Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS, remaining a prominent player in the handheld gaming market throughout the mid-to-late 2000s.
The most popular creation for The Witcher 3 is an impressive HD texture pack, boasting an astounding 5.6 million downloads.
This project revamps a vast array of the game’s models and textures, enhancing their quality while preserving the artistic vision originally crafted by CD Projekt Red.
This mod increased an already visually stunning game to new heights, and with CDPR’s next-gen update, it now has a sequel.
If you’ve been considering a replay of Geralt’s journey in preparation for The Witcher 4, this mod provides the perfect opportunity.
Titled The Witcher 3 HD Reworked Project Next Gen Edition, the mod focuses on visual enhancement.
Created by modder ‘Halk Hogan,’ it completely overhauls the game’s visuals, including textures, models, materials, and more, delivering a level of detail that’s unprecedented.
Hogan describes the updates as being “counted in thousands,” emphasizing that the changes aim to make the game more detailed, realistic, and consistent while faithfully capturing the gritty, immersive atmosphere of the Witcher’s world.
Though the next-gen update already improved the game’s graphics, this mod pushes them to an entirely new level.
Hogan has upgraded many of The Witcher 3’s textures to 4K resolution, refining even the smallest details, from moss-covered rooftops to the polygons of a wheel.
The Witcher 3 Mod (Photo: Playstation)
Whether you’re going through the RPG’s world up close or admiring it from a distance, everything appears noticeably more detailed. Hogan assures that the updates align with the original artistic vision of CDPR, and the results speak for themselves.
All of Hogan’s revamped assets feature custom shaders and materials, lending objects an even more realistic appearance.
While it may be challenging to spot these upgrades at first glance, side-by-side comparisons highlight the remarkable improvements brought by the mod.
You can download Halk Hogan’s The Witcher 3 visual overhaul mod, complete with installation instructions, directly from its official page.
For those still playing the older version of The Witcher 3, Hogan previously released an HD rework mod for the base game in 2020, ensuring you can enhance Geralt’s world regardless of your game version. Otherwise, it’s a waiting game until the release of The Witcher 4.
Hogan’s dedication extends beyond The Witcher 3. They’ve also developed HD rework projects for other titles, including Starfield and Cyberpunk 2077, offering improved visuals for those games as well.
If you’ve yet to experience Geralt’s latest adventure on PC, this mod might spark your curiosity.
To prepare, you can review The Witcher 3 system requirements and ensure your rig meets the specs. Don’t forget to optimize your settings for maximum FPS to enjoy the best experience possible.
Microsoft is revealing new hardware today, diverging from its usual Surface product lineup.
The Windows 365 Link, launching in April at $349, is a compact desktop PC designed solely for accessing the Windows 365 cloud service, as opposed to running Windows natively.
Design and Build
The Windows 365 Link is a minimalist black plastic box with a Windows logo embossed on the top.
Its appearance resembles a smaller, more compact version of the Windows Dev Kit 2023—an Arm desktop Microsoft introduced for developers a few years ago.
The device features a single USB-A port on the front for quick access, while the rear panel houses:
One USB-C 3.2 port
Two additional USB-A ports
A full-size DisplayPort
A full-size HDMI port
An Ethernet port
A power jack
Internal Specifications and Functionality
According to Windows Central, the fanless device uses an Intel processor (specific details undisclosed) and includes 8GB of RAM and 64GB of storage.
It runs a streamlined version of Windows tailored exclusively for connecting to peripherals and the Windows 365 cloud.
When disconnected from the Internet, the device is largely non-functional, though it likely offers basic functionality for configuring networks and managing accessories.
Despite its limited local capabilities, the hardware is well-suited for thin-client tasks.
Microsoft states the Windows 365 Link can support two 4K displays simultaneously and features Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for wireless peripherals, such as keyboards, mice, headsets, and more.
Microsoft Windows 365 Link
The device also handles video encoding and decoding locally to ensure smooth videoconferencing.
Thin Client Concept
The Windows 365 Link is Microsoft’s foray into “thin client” computing, a concept familiar to IT professionals.
Thin clients rely on minimal local hardware and a lightweight operating system, connecting users to powerful remote servers where data, applications, and settings reside.
This approach simplifies IT management, allowing administrators to upgrade or replace hardware without impacting user data or configurations.
End users, in turn, can access their work environment seamlessly from any compatible thin client.
Future Plans
Microsoft emphasizes that the Windows 365 Link is just the beginning of its Cloud PC product line.
“We’ll build more endpoints and form factors, scaling with our OEM partners to unlock more value and options,” Microsoft’s Anthony Smith stated in a company blog post FAQ, hinting at a broader ecosystem of devices in development.
Market Target and Outlook
Currently, the Windows 365 Link is aimed at businesses willing to invest in Windows 365 subscriptions, which start at $31 per user per month.
However, Microsoft reportedly envisions a consumer version of Windows 365, suggesting that the Link device could eventually play a role in making cloud PCs accessible to a broader audience. Pricing and availability for a potential consumer variant remain unannounced.
With the Windows 365 Link, Microsoft is positioning itself as a key player in the evolving space of cloud-based computing, offering businesses an efficient and scalable solution for managing user environments.
Apple has rolled out critical security updates for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, visionOS, and the Safari web browser to mitigate two actively exploited zero-day vulnerabilities.
These vulnerabilities, which have been observed in the wild, are detailed as follows:
CVE-2024-44308 (CVSS score: 8.8): A vulnerability in JavaScriptCore that allows arbitrary code execution when processing malicious web content.
CVE-2024-44309 (CVSS score: 6.1): A WebKit cookie management vulnerability enabling cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks through malicious web content.
Apple resolved these flaws using improved checks for CVE-2024-44308 and enhanced state management for CVE-2024-44309.
While specific exploitation details remain sparse, the company acknowledged that these vulnerabilities “may have been actively exploited on Intel-based Mac systems.”
Discovery and Attribution
Clément Lecigne and Benoît Sevens from Google’s Threat Analysis Group (TAG) discovered and reported the vulnerabilities.
Their involvement suggests these flaws were likely exploited in highly targeted attacks, potentially linked to government-backed or mercenary spyware campaigns.
Devices and Updates
The updates apply to the following devices and operating systems:
iOS 18.1.1 and iPadOS 18.1.1
iPhone XS and later
iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later)
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)
iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
iPad (7th generation and later)
iPad mini (5th generation and later)
Apple Updates
iOS 17.7.2 and iPadOS 17.7.2
iPhone XS and later
iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2nd generation and later)
iPad Pro 10.5-inch
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)
iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
iPad (6th generation and later)
iPad mini (5th generation and later)
macOS Sequoia 15.1.1
Applicable to all Macs running macOS Sequoia
visionOS 2.1.1
Exclusively for Apple Vision Pro
Safari 18.1.1
Macs running macOS Ventura and macOS Sonoma
Broader Context
These updates mark the fourth set of zero-day vulnerabilities addressed by Apple in 2024.
Earlier in the year, Apple patched CVE-2024-27834, a vulnerability demonstrated at the Pwn2Own Vancouver hacking competition, alongside others resolved in January and March.
User Advisory
To mitigate potential threats, users are strongly encouraged to update their devices to the latest versions immediately.
These updates not only address the zero-day vulnerabilities but also ensure the security and stability of Apple’s ecosystem.
Fortnite has introduced a fresh cosmetic feature for its characters—Kicks, which, in simple terms, are customizable shoes.
The debut pair of Kicks, Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG ‘Black Toe Reimagined,’ has been accessible in Fortnite since the launch of the current Chapter 2 Remix season. Players can unlock these trainers as part of the ongoing battle pass.
Starting today, Kicks can now be equipped by many (though not all) Fortnite character skins. Alongside this functionality, additional footwear options are now available for purchase in the in-game store.
Available for Purchase Today:
Nike Cortez Leather OG – 800 V-Bucks
Nike Air Foamposite One ‘Galaxy’ – 1000 V-Bucks
Nike Shox R4 ‘Comet Red’ – 1000 V-Bucks
Chomp Stompers – 600 V-Bucks
Kicks For Fortnite
Available Starting Tomorrow:
Air Jordan 3 Retro ‘Palomino’ – 800 V-Bucks
Air Jordan 3 ‘Black Cement-Gray’ – 1000 V-Bucks
Air Jordan 11 ‘Black/Gym Red’ – 1000 V-Bucks
Air Jordan 4 Retro ‘Manila’ – 1000 V-Bucks
One of the standout options, the Chomp Stompers, costs just 600 V-Bucks (around £3) and features playful shark slipper designs. These Fortnite-original Kicks are more affordable than the licensed brands, which are priced up to 1000 V-Bucks—the same cost as a battle pass.
Fortnite’s developer, Epic Games, has confirmed that Kicks are already compatible with over 500 character skins, with plans to expand compatibility to 95% of the skin library by spring next year.
This addition comes alongside yesterday’s announcement of changes to Fortnite’s battle pass system and the introduction of a new, separate battle pass for Fortnite OG, a permanent mode featuring the game’s original map.
Epic Games has announced that Fortnite’s upcoming permanent OG Mode will feature its own distinct battle pass, separate from the main Fortnite Battle Royale battle pass.
The developer previously confirmed that the original Fortnite map, which became a fan favorite, will return permanently in December as a separate mode.
This mode is expected to cycle through its various seasonal versions. This decision follows the map’s successful temporary return last year, which helped the game achieve its highest-ever player count of 44.7 million players within a 24-hour period.
In a recent blog post, Epic Games revealed that the new OG Pass, along with the main Fortnite Battle Royale Battle Pass, and upcoming iterations of the Music Pass and Lego Pass (each priced at 1400 V-Bucks), will all be included in the existing Fortnite Crew subscription moving forward.
This is a significant enhancement for players currently paying £10/$12 per month for Fortnite Crew.
Fortnite (Photo: Epic Games)
The updated subscription will soon offer four battle passes at the same price, instead of just the main Battle Pass.
Additional changes include a slight price adjustment for the main Fortnite Battle Pass, which will now cost 1000 V-Bucks, up from its previous price of 950.
Also, new Fortnite Crew subscribers after December 1st will only be able to claim battle pass rewards as long as their subscription remains active.
Details about the contents and cost of the new OG Pass will be revealed closer to its launch on December 6th.
At the same time, Fortnite will release a new Chapter 6 version of its battle royale, which is expected to feature a Japanese theme.
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.”
Apple TV Plus
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.
Circle To Search Redesign
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.
Pixel Tablet 2 Relaunch (Photo: Google)
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.
Fire TV Omni With Mini-Led Technology (Photo: Amazon)
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.
Samsung Galaxy S9 Tab
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.
Xbox CEO Phil Spencer (Photo: Getty Images)
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.
ZeniMax Workers on Strike
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.
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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.
Zefiro MIDI Device (Photo: Kickstarter)
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.
