Author: techsummary.news

• Microsoft accused of selling AI tool that spews violent, sexual images to kids
• Engineer flagged alarming content in Copilot Designer AI tool
• Microsoft failed to take down tool or implement safeguards
• Engineer raised concerns to FTC and Microsoft’s board of directors
• Microsoft spokesperson did not confirm filtering images, but mentioned internal reporting channels and safety systems

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2024/03/microsoft-accused-of-selling-ai-tool-that-spews-violent-sexual-images-to-kids/…

• Dragon’s Dogma 2 director Hideaki Itsuno draws heavy inspiration from GTA V for emergent gameplay
• Itsuno aims to replicate the chaos and flexibility of GTA V in Dragon’s Dogma 2
• Dragon’s Dogma 2 is an upcoming open-world fantasy RPG by Capcom
• Itsuno highlights the intentional emergent gameplay and open-world design of GTA V
• The sequel promises enhanced systems, interactions, and player freedom influenced by GTA V

https://kotaku.com/dragons-dogma-2-gta-v-grand-theft-auto-open-world-1851313730…

• Samsung is making it harder to differentiate between QD-OLED and WOLED TV types.
• Samsung’s 2024 OLED TV lineup includes both QD-OLED and WOLED panels.
• The S90D TV series may have a mix of WOLED and QD-OLED screens in various sizes.
• Samsung is not explicitly advertising any of its 2024 OLED TVs as QD-OLED.
• Samsung’s S95C model is expected to use QD-OLED for all sizes, while the S85D may only have WOLED options.

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/03/samsung-is-making-it-harder-to-know-what-type-of-oled-tv-youre-getting/…

• NYC luxury shower location: A $3,495/month studio apartment in Manhattan’s Nolita neighborhood features a shower standing next to the mini-kitchen space, with no door or curtain, creating a bizarre layout.
• The shower is enclosed only by glass brick and is steps away from the front door and a small room with just a toilet, no mirror, sink, or lights.
• The apartment’s kitchen has an unusual layout with the stove facing the living space and a small countertop between the stove and fridge.
• Despite the tight squeeze and unfinished features, the apartment is expected to attract interest due to its location in Soho.
• Instagram users criticized the apartment’s design, with one calling it a “s–thole” and questioning the high rent price.

https://nypost.com/2024/03/06/real-estate/nyc-home-with-shower-in-the-kitchen-asks-3500-month/…

• Sony has secured exclusivity for the first two installments of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy on PlayStation consoles
• Producer Yoshinori Kitase emphasized the importance of having the games on one platform for a seamless world map and game design
• Sony and Square Enix agreed to the console exclusivity deal at the start of the project, with a focus on third-party content
• The Remake was released on PS4 in 2020 and PC in 2021, with Rebirth expected to follow suit with a similar timeline for PC release
• Fans of Microsoft and Nintendo platforms will not see the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy on their consoles in the near future, as exclusivity remains with Sony

https://kotaku.com/final-fantasy-7-remake-trilogy-playstation-exclusive-1851313313…

• Final Fantasy 14 is set to release on Xbox Series X/S on March 21, after a long wait.
• The Xbox open beta for Final Fantasy 14 is available to new Square Enix accounts, offering the base game and first two expansions.
• Players can choose between a free trial with level caps and restrictions or the Starter Edition with expanded features but a subscription fee after 30 days.
• Microsoft is offering Game Pass Ultimate subscribers the Starter Edition for free between March 21 and April 19.
• Progress from the open beta will carry over into the full game, providing an opportunity for new players to explore Eorzea with friends and family.

https://www.engadget.com/final-fantasy-14-will-finally-hit-xbox-series-xs-on-march-21-205030097.html…

• Barbie Flip Phone release is highly anticipated, with HMD collaborating with Mattel to create a vintage chic feature phone experience.
• The phone aims to offer a digital-detox option for Gen Z and millennial users, promoting connectivity while reducing social media usage.
• HMD assures that the Barbie Flip Phone will be a fully functional device designed to last, in contrast to the trend of frequent phone upgrades.
• The partnership raises questions about sustainability, consumerism, and gendered marketing strategies in the tech industry.
• The Barbie phone is positioned as a product for all fans of Barbie, showcasing her iconic style and hinting at future collaborations with HMD.

https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/barbie-flip-phone-is-coming-from-mattel-hmd-to-highlight-your-dreams/…

• Samsung Galaxy Ring is Big Tech’s first entry into the smart ring market, featuring fitness and health-tracking capabilities.
• The device has a circular design with a metal exterior and black plastic interior housing various sensors.
• Features include tracking of sleep, activity, heart rate, and fertility, integrated into the Galaxy Health app.
• The battery life is estimated to last between 5 to 9 days, with nine different ring sizes available.
• Samsung plans to release the Galaxy Ring later in the year, with a rumored full unveiling in July.

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/02/samsungs-galaxy-ring-is-big-techs-first-swing-at-the-smart-ring-market/…

• The Humane AI Pin review: It worked better than expected, but overshadowed by marketing
• Reviewer Allison Johnson shares her experience with the AI-powered assistant
• The pin aims to keep users connected while unplugging from screens
• Impressive features include vision recognition and gesture navigation
• Challenges include slow responses, overheating, and difficulties with laser projection

https://www.theverge.com/24084444/humane-ai-pin-hands-on…

• The world’s richest car collectors are embroiled in a significant fight over events like Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance and ModaMiami
• The conflict stems from Hagerty’s acquisition of Amelia Island Concours and the subsequent launch of Broad Arrow Auctions, leading to a grudge match with RM Sotheby’s
• New IIHS safety test changes include a heavier side crash test and updated pedestrian front crash prevention evaluation
• Stellantis is abandoning the Wagoneer sub-brand, reverting the Wagoneer S electric SUV back to being a Jeep
• Toyota is recalling 280,663 vehicles due to concerns over unexpected movement, requiring a software update for the transmission control ECU

https://www.theautopian.com/the-worlds-richest-car-collectors-are-in-the-middle-of-a-big-fight-this-weekend/…

• Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket, a new mobile game, will launch this year on Android and iOS as a ‘free-to-start’ app
• The game allows players to battle, collect, and trade Pokémon cards in an immersive way
• Players can open card packs with interactive animations, showcase and exchange cards in a virtual binder, and explore detailed artwork through “immersive cards”
• The game features streamlined rules based on the classic battle system, reminiscent of the quick-play appeal seen in Marvel Snap
• Pokémon TCG Pocket aims to offer a mix of accessibility for newcomers and strategic depth for veterans in the digital collectible card space.

https://kotaku.com/pokemon-tcg-pocket-mobile-android-ios-1851289803…

• Google introduces new AI feature in Android Auto to summarize messages, announced during Galaxy S24 launch
• Feature allows users to receive message summaries while driving, reducing distractions and promoting road safety
• Rollout of the feature has begun, likely through an update on the Android Auto app via Google Play Store
• Users prompted to activate the AI-powered feature upon first use after updating the app
• Along with message summaries, feature offers various options such as relevant replies and sharing ETA and live location

https://www.sammobile.com/news/android-auto-is-getting-new-ai-feature-to-summarize-messages/…

• EA announces F1 24 release date on May 31 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC via various platforms.
• Pre-ordering F1 24 allows F1 23 players to access Time Trial challenges with new 2024 team cars and offers discounts for existing game owners.
• Players who pre-order the Champions Edition receive exclusive benefits like new Formula 1 Icons, Pitcoin, and early access.
• The game promises an overhauled Career mode, a new EA Sports Dynamic Handling System, and more features to be revealed.
• Codemasters faced layoffs after F1 23 launch, following EA’s acquisition for $1.2 billion, with subsequent restructuring and studio mergers.

https://www.ign.com/articles/ea-announces-f1-24-release-date…

• Pokémon Presents February 2024 featured Legends Z-A, Trading Card Game Pocket, and Tera Raids
• Trio of Tera Raid Battle events announced for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
• Collaboration between Pokémon GO and Pokémon Horizons anime coming in March
• Raiku making Pokémon Sleep debut in March 2024
• Pokémon Legends: Z-A, set in Lumiose City, announced for 2025

https://www.nintendolife.com/guides/pokemon-presents-february-2024-every-announcement-full-livestream…

• Helldivers 2 server capacity raised to support 800k players to address long queues
• Arrowhead Studios CEO expects “light queues” despite server upgrades
• Studio rapidly hiring to meet demand, working on game optimizations and new content
• Former Halo developer hints at potential mechs and faction from the first game
• Helldivers 2 surpasses God of War’s peak player count, becoming a successful unexpected hit

https://www.gamesradar.com/helldivers-2-servers-are-being-raised-to-support-800k-players-to-tackle-long-queues-how-crazy-is-this-message-from-a-studio-of-100/…

• Samsung and other smartphone makers will focus on promoting AI phones in 2022 to boost sales and stay ahead in the market.
• AI phones incorporate advanced chips to run AI applications on-device rather than in the cloud, enabling features like generative AI and large language models.
• Companies like Qualcomm and MediaTek have introduced smartphone chipsets to support the processing power required for AI applications.
• The shift towards on-device AI enhances security, unlocks new applications, and improves processing speed on smartphones.
• While AI capabilities are being showcased in devices like Samsung’s Galaxy S24, the full potential of AI smartphones may take years to materialize, with the need for compelling use cases to drive consumer adoption.

https://www.cnbc.com/2024/02/25/what-is-an-ai-smartphone-samsung-major-players-talk-up-tech.html…

• Five more Rare games have joined Nintendo’s Switch Online + Expansion Pack service
• Four titles are available in the base tier, while Blast Corps is in the premium tier
• Viewers speculate more Rare games may be teased in the announcement trailer
• Poll asks users which Rare game they will play this weekend and which games they would like to see added in the future
• Comments from users discuss their preferences and experiences with Rare games, including Killer Instinct and Battletoads

https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2024/02/poll-what-switch-online-rare-game-are-you-playing-this-weekend…

• Rainbow Six Siege director believes creating a sequel after 9 years would be a mistake, citing examples of games that failed after sequels
• Siege’s team and tools are capable of sustaining the game indefinitely
• Siege has been receiving regular content updates for years, making it one of the oldest games in the live service model
• The director emphasizes the strength of the current engine and team, highlighting continuous improvements in content delivery
• While a new engine could bring improvements, the current approach of incremental updates has proven successful for Siege’s longevity

https://www.pcgamer.com/rainbow-six-siege-sequel-alex-karpazis/…

• iOS 17.4 introduces new battery menus for iPhone 15 series, making it easier to monitor battery health
• Apple states iPhone 15 batteries can retain 80% capacity for up to 1,000 full charges
• Battery Health menu in iOS 17.4 shows battery status as normal or not, along with cycle count and manufacturing details
• Apple retested all iPhone 15 models to confirm battery performance, estimating 80% capacity retention after 1,000 cycles
• iPhone 15 series, including 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max, rank highly in CNET’s battery life tests

https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apples-latest-ios-17-4-tool-boosts-battery-insights-for-the-iphone-15/…

• Corsair introduces high-end cases for motherboards with hidden connectors, supporting MSI Project Zero and Asus BTF
• Cases include 2500X, 2500D, 6500X, and 6500D with glass and mesh front panels in black and white
• Dual chamber design allows for cable hiding and full display of components
• Compatible with graphics cards up to 400mm and various radiator sizes
• Motherboards with reversed connectors aim for aesthetically pleasing systems, requiring specific case compatibility

https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/pc-cases/corsair-rolls-out-cases-for-motherboards-with-hidden-connectors…

• Chinese researchers have developed a new optical disk format with a capacity of up to 125TB.
• The new disks are similar in size to Blu-ray but offer a 10,000x increase in capacity due to nanotechnology and 3D stacking.
• The research aims to address the growing need for high-capacity data storage solutions.
• The disks use a 3D stacking architecture and a photoresist film doped with dye for increased data density.
• The researchers plan to improve data transfer speeds, reduce write energy, and make the disks more affordable for commercial use.

https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/storage/chinese-researchers-tout-optical-disk-format-with-up-to-125tb-capacity…

• Jim Cramer views moon stock up 30% as a profitable opportunity for taking profits
• Cramer’s daily rapid fire assesses stocks outside CNBC Investing Club portfolio
• Credit Cards, Loans, Banking, Mortgages, Insurance, Personal Finance, Small Business, Taxes, and Investing services highlighted
• Recommendations for best credit cards, loans, mortgages, insurance, and personal finance tools
• Information on boosting credit scores, tax filing, and investment opportunities provided

https://www.cnbc.com/2024/02/23/jim-cramer-sees-the-moon-stock-up-30percent-as-a-good-opportunity-to-take-profits.html…

• Spotify HiFi subscription is missing after three years, raising questions about audio quality
• Uncertainty surrounds Spotify’s delayed rollout of HiFi feature, potentially in a new “Supremium” tier
• Spotify faces competition from Apple and Amazon offering higher-fidelity audio at no extra cost
• The delay in Spotify’s HiFi launch may be due to financial viability and lack of other divisions to recoup costs
• The author switched to Apple Music due to Spotify’s delayed HiFi release, but may reconsider with the introduction of the Supremium plan

https://www.theverge.com/24080999/spotify-hifi-lossless-high-res-audio-three-years-rip…

• The 256GB iPad mini is on sale for $120 off, now priced at a record low of $529 on Amazon.
• The iPad mini features an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, A15 Bionic chip, Touch ID, USB-C port, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil.
• Walmart is offering the 5th-generation iPad Air for $120 off, priced at $449 for the 64GB variant.
• Apple may update its iPad lineup in late 2024, potentially introducing a new iPad mini model.
• Other tech deals include discounts on Apple HomePod, AirTags bundle, and Panasonic’s S5 II camera.

https://www.engadget.com/the-256gb-ipad-mini-is-120-off-and-down-to-a-record-low-price-173024101.html…

• Some Apple Vision Pro units have developed a hairline crack on the front glass without being damaged, possibly due to a manufacturing flaw.
• Reports suggest a small number of units are affected by the crack, with unclear causes leading to potential repair costs for users.
• Apple may not cover the crack under warranty, requiring affected users to pay for repairs, possibly up to $800.
• Apple has a history of first-generation product issues, such as the easily scratched first iPod nano, leading to legal settlements.
• Other tech news includes discounts on Apple products, Google discontinuing Pay in the US, and Reddit filing for an IPO.

https://www.engadget.com/some-apple-vision-pro-units-reportedly-developed-a-similar-hairline-crack-on-the-front-glass-173701528.html…

• An ultra-rare Zelda game, a sealed copy of The Legend of Zelda’s first NES printing, could fetch over $700,000 at auction
• A 22-year-old Californian, Kiro, discovered the rare game in his family collection and nearly sold it for $17,000 before realizing its true value
• The game was purchased in 1987 for $29.87 and was put up for sale on eBay, attracting immediate interest and offers reaching up to $30,000
• After realizing the game’s rarity from a collector, Kiro had it professionally graded and is now set to auction it through Heritage Auctions
• A similar sealed copy of the game sold for $870,000 in 2021, indicating that Kiro’s ultra-rare game could command a similar price at auction

https://kotaku.com/rare-sealed-legend-zelda-nes-copy-ebay-auction-1851282362…

• Humane pushes Ai Pin ship date to mid-April
• Humane’s first-generation product, Ai Pin, delayed from March to mid-April for initial units to leave factory
• Ai Pin positioned as innovative wearable device utilizing generative AI technology
• Competition in AI smartphone market intensifies with platforms like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft
• Humane faces pressure for successful launch with $230 million funding, layoffs, and $699 preorder offer

https://techcrunch.com/2024/02/23/humane-pushes-ai-pin-ship-date-to-mid-april/…

• Google explains Gemini’s “embarrassing” AI pictures of diverse Nazis due to tuning issues
• Gemini AI will undergo testing before resuming image generation
• Google’s senior vice president acknowledges the model’s inaccuracies and over-cautious behavior
• Google aims for Gemini to accurately depict diverse people in various contexts
• Image generation with Gemini AI halted for further improvement and testing

https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/23/24081309/google-gemini-embarrassing-ai-pictures-diverse-nazi…

• Warner Bros. Discovery expresses disappointment in the performance of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League game
• Rocksteady’s highly anticipated game released to mixed reviews after delays
• Chief financial officer notes underwhelming financial impact compared to Hogwarts Legacy release
• Game faced criticism for live service elements and technical issues at launch
• Rocksteady plans free seasonal content featuring different DC characters, starting with The Joker in March

https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/warner-says-suicide-squad-kill-the-justice-league-has-fallen-short-of-expectations/…

• Xbox’s Hi-Fi Rush rumored to launch on ‘Switch 2’
• PlayStation release confirmed this week
• Nintendo’s Partner Showcase locked in two Xbox games for Switch
• Questions raised about gameplay compromise on Switch
• Hi-Fi Rush datamine hints at platform-exclusive content

https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2024/02/rumour-xboxs-hi-fi-rush-will-reportedly-launch-on-switch-2…

• Elden Ring expansion’s new weapons are highlighted as a main selling point, featuring unique options like double-bladed shields and reverse-grip ninja swords
• FromSoftware’s DLCs are known for offering exceptional gaming experiences and innovative weapons
• The expansion introduces eight new weapon types, including the ōdachi and the intriguing “gyakute ken” or reverse-hand sword
• Additional weapon additions include a martial arts moveset, throwing daggers that change all attacks into throws, and a double-bladed shield inspired by historical dueling shields
• Director Hidetaka Miyazaki emphasizes the significance of the new weapons and spells in the expansion, making them a focal point for players to look forward to

https://www.pcgamer.com/elden-ring-director-says-the-expansions-new-weapons-are-a-main-selling-point-including-double-bladed-shields-reverse-grip-ninja-swords-and-acrobatic-martial-arts/…

• A viral hoax claimed Google was shutting down Gmail, causing panic on the internet.
• The fake news release stated Google was “sunsetting Gmail” and set a closure date of August 1, 2024.
• The hoax quickly spread on social media platforms, but users recognized it as fake.
• The hoax may have been created by Chris Bakke, a self-described tech entrepreneur known for pranks.
• Google, in response, affirmed that Gmail is not shutting down and remains a popular email platform with 1.8 billion users worldwide.

https://nypost.com/2024/02/22/business/viral-hoax-claims-gmail-is-shutting-down-heres-what-happened/…

• ChatGPT answered queries in gibberish on Tuesday due to a bug in language processing
• Users reported bizarre and erratic responses from ChatGPT, including nonsensical phrases and language switching
• OpenAI swiftly fixed the issue by rolling out a fix for the bug in language model processing
• The incident highlighted the complexities and vulnerabilities of AI technologies
• The episode serves as a reminder of the need for caution when relying on AI chatbots like ChatGPT for consistent performance

https://www.zdnet.com/article/why-chatgpt-answered-queries-in-gibberish-on-tuesday/…

• Google pauses Gemini’s ability to generate people after overcorrecting for diversity in historical images
• Gemini chatbot criticized for producing diverse images of historical figures like Nazis and Founding Fathers
• User @JohnLu0x triggers backlash by revealing AI’s lack of nuanced diversity portrayal
• Google acknowledges issues and promises to improve image generation feature
• Google rebrands chatbot Gemini in response to competition from OpenAI and Microsoft

https://www.engadget.com/google-pauses-geminis-ability-to-generate-people-after-overcorrecting-for-diversity-in-historical-images-220303074.html…

• Microsoft default font change from Calibri to Aptos upset some users
• Users react passionately to the font change, with some expressing excitement and others resistance
• Aptos replaces Calibri after 17 years as the default font in Microsoft programs
• Font designer Steve Matteson created Aptos with a slight humanist touch, aiming for universal appeal
• Microsoft spokesperson acknowledges mixed reactions to the font change, emphasizing the evolution of font technology and changing preferences

https://edition.cnn.com/2024/02/22/us/microsoft-default-font-aptos-calibri-cec/index.html…

• Elden Ring’s map size in the DLC Shadow of the Erdtree is hinted to be larger than Limgrave
• Hidetaka Miyazaki has a tendency to underestimate game content, as seen in previous projects like Demon’s Souls
• Miyazaki initially estimated Elden Ring to take around 30 hours to complete, but it took much longer for most players
• The DLC’s scope may be more extensive than suggested, with a focus on denser level design
• FromSoftware is known for creating detailed and immersive game worlds, potentially making the DLC more involved

https://www.gamesradar.com/miyazaki-says-elden-ring-shadow-of-the-erdtrees-map-is-probably-bigger-than-limgrave-but-he-also-said-the-base-rpg-would-take-about-30-hours-and-it-took-me-125/…

• **Project L 2XKO 2025 Launch**: Riot Games’ Project L has been officially named 2XKO and is set to launch in 2025.
• 2XKO to Debut at EVO Japan: The game will be showcased at EVO Japan in April, offering a glimpse into the 2v2 tag-fighter.
• Expansion of Riot’s Universe: 2XKO is part of Riot’s efforts to expand the universe of League of Legends, alongside other projects like an MMO and Netflix’s Arcane.
• Development Updates: The team behind 2XKO has grown significantly, with plans to showcase the game globally in 2024 for feedback.
• Roadmap and Launch Details: The game is scheduled to launch in 2025 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, with opportunities for playtesting and updates through official channels.

https://kotaku.com/project-l-2xko-league-of-legends-riot-games-1851278882…

• New Helldivers 2 patch kicks AFK players to free up server space
• Patch 1.000.11 released on February 22 for PC and PS5
• Fixes bugs and improves performance in the popular sci-fi shooter
• Devs aim to address server overload due to excessive player demand
• Some players exploit AFK status, prompting the need for the new patch

https://kotaku.com/helldivers-2-servers-full-afk-players-kick-patch-ps5-1851278757…

• Chrome introduces a new AI writing tool powered by Gemini for the entire web
• The tool, currently in experimental phase, can be enabled in Chrome settings under “Experimental AI”
• Available only in English on Windows, Mac, and Linux, it can generate and rewrite text, tailored to the webpage context
• Designed for short-form content like emails, it does not provide enhanced models for Gemini Advanced subscribers
• User data and content are sent to Google for improving the feature through generative model research and machine learning technologies

https://techcrunch.com/2024/02/22/help-me-write-chrome-gets-a-built-in-ai-writing-tool-powered-by-gemini/…

• Chrome’s new right-click for AI tool, “Help Me Write,” is a feature that allows users to easily fill any online text box with AI-generated content.
• The tool is part of the latest update to Chrome, version M122, and is currently available on Mac and Windows PCs in English.
• Users can activate the feature by enabling it in their Chrome settings under “Experimental AI.”
• The tool uses Google’s Gemini language models to help users write and refine shorter-form content for online tasks like selling items or making inquiries.
• Google’s approach with this AI feature is to make AI technology more accessible for everyday tasks without overwhelming users, as it aims to enhance the quality of content published online.

https://gizmodo.com/chromes-new-right-click-for-ai-tool-will-fill-the-web-w-1851277757…

• Xbox’s hit content for 2023, Hi-Fi Rush, may skip Nintendo Switch for its successor, as per Insider Gaming report
• Hi-Fi Rush, a rhythm-action game by Bethesda and Tango Gameworks, was confirmed for PS5 but no release date for Switch
• Nintendo’s next console release may impact Hi-Fi Rush’s availability on Switch
• Nintendo’s rumored console delay to 2025 adds uncertainty to Hi-Fi Rush’s platform release
• Despite leaks hinting at Nintendo release, uncertainty remains on Hi-Fi Rush’s future on a Nintendo console

https://kotaku.com/xboxs-biggest-surprise-hit-of-2023-is-coming-to-switch-1851278265…

• Google pauses Gemini AI chatbot’s image tool after backlash over historically inaccurate pictures
• Social media criticizes Gemini for creating diverse but historically inaccurate images
• Examples include black Vikings, female popes, and diverse Nazi-era soldiers
• Concerns raised about bias being built into the system in the name of anti-bias
• Google acknowledges need to address issues with Gemini’s image generation feature

https://nypost.com/2024/02/22/business/google-pauses-absurdly-woke-gemini-ai-chatbots-image-tool-after-backlash-over-historically-inaccurate-pictures/…

• Renders of the Nothing Phone (2a) have surfaced, showcasing the final design
• The design includes a centered camera module, Glyph lighting array, and slim bezels
• The phone is expected to debut in early March and will feature a MediaTek processor
• Pricing is anticipated to be €349, aligning with the device’s budget focus
• The official renders were posted on the company’s forums by a user named “Greg2024”

https://9to5google.com/2024/02/22/nothing-phone-2a-official-looking-renders/…

• “Rare Replay should have been announced on Switch”
• Latest Nintendo Partner Showcase featured classic Rare games for Switch Online service
• Some Rare fans disappointed about absence of Rare Replay on Switch
• Microsoft or Nintendo have not confirmed Rare Replay for Switch
• Technical and financial hurdles may prevent Rare Replay from coming to Switch

https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2024/02/random-some-rare-fans-are-upset-about-the-latest-switch-online-announcement

Links to additional Resources:

• The development of an AI tool capable of creating extremely realistic video content is both remarkable and concerning.
• Oren Etzioni, founder of TrueMedia.Org, discusses the implications of AI-generated video and its potential misuse for disinformation.
• The ability to create convincing videos with simple prompts raises fears of deepfakes and their impact on significant events like elections.
• Solutions to combat the misuse of AI-generated videos include detection technology, better regulations, and public education.
• The rapid advancement of AI technology poses challenges in distinguishing between real and fake content, necessitating collaborative efforts to address the issue.

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/the-potentially-dangerous-implications-of-an-ai-tool-creating-extremely-realistic-video

Links to additional Resources:

• Nintendo Switch Online adds classic games from Rare, including Battletoads In Battlemaniacs, Blast Corps, Killer Instinct, and more
• Battletoads In Battlemaniacs is a SNES side-scrolling beat ’em up platformer featuring Rash and Pimple
• Blast Corps is an N64 action game where players destroy obstacles for a runaway nuclear missile carrier
• Killer Instinct, a 2.5D fighting game similar to Mortal Kombat, offers flashy combos and varied fighters
• R.C. Pro-Am, an NES racing game, and Snake Rattle ‘n’ Roll, a platformer, round out the collection of downloadable games for Nintendo Switch Online members

https://kotaku.com/nintendo-switch-online-blast-corps-killer-instinct-1851274722

Links to additional Resources:

• The PlayStation Pulse Elite headset offers high-quality audio and comfort for PS5 players at a $150 price point, featuring a unique futuristic design.
• The headset includes a retractable microphone, planar magnetic drivers for a rich soundscape, and a comfortable fit with noise-canceling capabilities.
• It offers a low-latency connection to the PS5 via a dongle, with the option to connect via Bluetooth to other devices.
• The Pulse Elite has a quick charge feature, lasting up to 30 hours, and includes a charging hanger for easy storage.
• While the headset may look goofy to some, it provides excellent value for PS5 players seeking wireless audio and a premium gaming experience.

https://kotaku.com/playstation-pulse-elite-headset-ps5-review-sony-1851272343

Links to additional Resources:

1. https://www.playstation.com/
2. https://www.sony.com/
3. https://www.pulse3d.com/

• Marvel’s Spider-Man 2’s New Game Plus update, including new suits, releases on March 7 with added features like mission replay and accessibility updates.
• The update introduces new suit styles for symbiote story suits, Hellfire Gala suits for Peter and Miles, and enhancements to photo mode.
• Accessibility features such as Audio Descriptions and Screen Reader have been added to the game in response to community feedback.
• Early access to the Fly N’ Fresh suits is available for purchase, with proceeds supporting Gameheads’ mission to empower low-income youth in the video game industry.
• Spider-Man 2 has sold 10 million copies, making it the fastest-selling PlayStation Studios game and surpassing God of War Ragnarok in sales.

https://www.ign.com/articles/marvels-spider-man-2-new-game-plus-update-has-a-release-date-sony-shows-off-new-suits

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• Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection, featuring remastered versions of the original Battlefront games, is set to launch on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC in March
• The collection includes all modes, split-screen support, bonus maps, characters like Asajj Ventress and Kit Fisto, and more
• Developed by Pandemic, these games offer 64-player online action, large open maps, vehicles, and objectives similar to EA’s Battlefield games
• Aspyr confirms inclusion of all previously released bonus content and DLC, support for Steam Deck, and offline split-screen support for two players
• The games will be available on all ground maps in Battlefront II, with cross-gen support but no confirmation of crossplay; launching on March 14 for $35.01, with a 20% discount for pre-orders if owning the original games

Read More:

https://kotaku.com/star-wars-battlefront-ii-classic-64-player-release-date-1851274858

Links to additional Resources:

1. https://www.ea.com/ 2. https://www.starwars.com/ 3. https://www.ign.com/…

• The top 7 bestselling phone models of 2023 are all iPhones, with the iPhone 14 models occupying the top three spots.
• The iPhone 15 models, released in September 2023, secured spots 5, 6, and 7 in the list.
• The iPhone 13, positioned at No. 4, is the cheapest modern-looking iPhone from Apple.
• The iPhone SE did not make the list due to its dated design and possible lack of consumer appeal.
• Samsung phones, particularly budget devices, filled the bottom spots on the list, with the Galaxy A14 5G at No. 8, Galaxy A04e at No. 9, and Galaxy A14 4G at No. 10.

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/02/apple-takes-the-top-7-best-selling-phone-models-for-2023/

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