Tech Summary News

• Puzzle by Hoang-Kim Vu showcases elegant growth in theme
• Theme involves unclued letter runs in a strict sequence
• Solving process involves deciphering hyphen clues and interconnected entries
• Construction of the grid required strategic trade-offs for smooth progression
• Puzzle titled “Countdown” cleverly incorporates numbers in order

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/02/crosswords/daily-puzzle-2024-03-03.html

• NASA is investigating design problems with the Orion spacecraft’s side hatch that could impact its ability to be opened.
• The Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel (ASAP) discussed concerns about the side hatch design affecting contingency operations during a public meeting.
• Issues with the side hatch include a “delta-pressure capability” problem, requiring additional analysis on the performance of hinges.
• Another concern with Orion is the erosion of heat shield material during reentry on the Artemis 1 mission, leading to delays in Artemis 2.
• NASA is close to understanding the root cause of the heat shield erosion issue, with implications for future Artemis missions.

https://spacenews.com/nasa-studying-issues-with-orion-hatch-design/…

• Apple faces class action lawsuit over iCloud’s 5GB limit, accused of marking up prices for profit
• Lawsuit alleges Apple restricts competition by mandating iCloud for device backups
• Apple users given only 5GB free storage, leading most to purchase supplemental plans
• Plaintiffs claim Apple limits free storage to compel users to pay for more, stifling competition
• Hagens Berman law firm representing lead plaintiff, offers form for iCloud users to join lawsuit

https://9to5mac.com/2024/03/02/icloud-5gb-limit-class-action-lawsuit/…

• Yuzu creators respond to Nintendo’s lawsuit with the hiring of a lawyer
• The lawsuit involves allegations of illegally circumventing Nintendo’s software encryption
• Legal proceedings are expected to progress slowly through the justice system
• Previous cases involving emulators have not resulted in Nintendo’s favor
• Public opinion varies on the outcome of the lawsuit

https://mynintendonews.com/2024/03/03/yuzu-creators-have-responded-to-nintendos-lawsuit/…

• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth confirms Cloud’s canonical love interest as Tifa, ending debates.
• Rebirth recreates original game scenes, including Gold Saucer dates with romantic interactions.
• Date scenes with Tifa are clearly romantic, while those with Aerith show less definitive romantic tension.
• Fans previously debated Aerith as Cloud’s love interest, ignoring story complexities.
• Rebirth gameplay features include Fort Condor missions, flower-picking side quests, VR battles, and Limit Breaks.

https://www.thegamer.com/final-fantasy-7-rebirth-confirms-cloud-canon-love-interest-tifa-gold-saucer-date-scene-kiss/…

• Helldivers 2 faces Automaton invasion, marking a shift in gameplay dynamics
• Players struggle with tougher Automaton enemies and complex escort missions
• Community coordination is key in overcoming challenges, with strategies evolving
• Game director introduces real-time twists and story elements, influencing gameplay
• CEO hints at future surprises, including mechs and new enemies, enhancing the game experience

https://www.polygon.com/gaming/24086923/helldivers-2-automaton-invasion-mission-failure…

• March Madness Bracket Analysis: Instagram defeats The Fart App, now WhatsApp vs. DarkSky.
• Gizmodo’s day 2 challenge to determine the greatest app of all time.
• WhatsApp, acquired by Facebook for $19 billion, known for encryption and user privacy.
• Dark Sky, considered the best weather app, acquired by Apple in 2020.
• Readers are asked to vote on whether WhatsApp or Dark Sky should advance in the bracket challenge.

https://gizmodo.com/the-greatest-app-of-all-time-march-madness-bracket-day-1851303211…

• Internet removal guide 2024 provides steps to remove personal information from the web
• AI advancements have both positive and negative impacts on privacy
• Google offers tools to request removal of personal information from search results
• Adjust social media privacy settings to limit personal information exposure
• Data brokers can profit from selling personal details, but services like Incogni can help remove information from brokers

https://9to5google.com/2024/03/02/how-to-remove-yourself-from-the-internet-2024/…

• Best Buy weekend deals must be seized before Sunday to benefit from the discounts.
• The sale includes a wide range of tech products like TVs, laptops, headphones, and smart lighting.
• Specific deals highlighted include an outdoor TV, Dell Inspiron laptop, MacBook Air, and a three-in-one air purifier.
• Additional discounts may be available for My Best Buy Plus or Total members.
• CNET provides comprehensive coverage of tech deals, offering discounts, coupons, and a shopping extension for price comparisons and cash-back offers.

https://www.cnet.com/deals/grab-these-last-minute-best-buy-weekend-deals-before-they-expire-on-sunday/…

• Engage the free lunch drive: Cartoon spaceship disaster sim Space Crew is available for free on Steam for a limited time.
• Runner Duck released Bomber Crew in 2017, followed by Space Crew in 2020, offering a similar gameplay experience.
• Space Crew’s “legendary edition” includes new content and is free until March 13 to promote the upcoming game Badlands Crew.
• Badlands Crew, set for release in 2024, allows players to build and operate a Mad Max-style war rig in a post-apocalyptic setting.
• Jody, a former music journalist, has written extensively for PC Gamer, covering various gaming topics and experiences.

https://www.pcgamer.com/games/sim/cartoon-spaceship-disaster-sim-space-crew-is-free-to-keep-on-steam-for-a-limited-time/…

• Warhammer 40,000 Call of Duty crossover announced for Warzone and Modern Warfare 3
• Skins based on Adeptus Astartes, Adepta Sororitas, and Astra Militarum coming to the game
• Previous Call of Duty crossovers include Tomb Raider, The Boys, Godzilla, King Kong, and more
• PowerWash Simulator gets expansion with 40K vehicles cleaning
• Top Call of Duty esports players sue Activision for alleged monopoly

https://www.pcgamer.com/games/call-of-duty/call-of-duty-has-already-thrown-king-kong-godzilla-and-nicki-minaj-into-its-brand-synergy-blender-so-a-warhammer-40000-crossover-is-next/…

• Morphcat Games, the new-gen NES devs, are pushing the 8-bit envelope by creating polished aftermarket IPs for the Nintendo Entertainment System.
• The duo behind Morphcat Games, Julius Riecke and Nicolas Bétoux, have developed games like Micro Mages, Böbl, and Spacegulls, showcasing modern gameplay on vintage hardware.
• They use 6502 assembly language and modern tools like NESmaker to optimize games within the console’s constraints, highlighting the benefits of hand-written assembly for full control.
• Morphcat Games’ dedication to optimizing ROM space and graphics on the NES demonstrates their commitment to pushing the hardware’s capabilities to the limit.
• The duo’s physical releases and partnership with Broke Studio for cartridge production cater to nostalgic gamers and new audiences seeking the old-school gaming experience.

https://www.nintendolife.com/features/meet-morphcat-games-the-new-gen-nes-devs-pushing-the-8-bit-envelope…

• The Apple smart ring features are still in development, with a key potential feature that could make it stand out in the wearables market.
• The wearable market has evolved from fitness trackers to smartwatches and is now transitioning to smart rings like the Oura Ring.
• Apple’s potential entry into the smart ring space is based on patents, but active development is not confirmed.
• The Apple smart ring could seamlessly integrate with Apple Health, eliminating the need for separate apps and syncing data.
• The appeal of an Apple smart ring lies in its unobtrusive design, longer battery life, and potential integration with Apple Fitness Plus, catering to users who prefer a more discreet wearable option.

https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/apple-smart-ring-worth-waiting-for-health-fitness-iphone-integration/…

• Microsoft patched a high-severity Windows Kernel privilege escalation vulnerability (CVE-2024-21338) in February, six months after being informed that the flaw was being exploited as a zero-day.
• Avast discovered and reported the actively exploited zero-day vulnerability in the appid.sys Windows AppLocker driver to Microsoft last August.
• The vulnerability impacts various versions of Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server 2019, and Windows Server 2022, allowing local attackers to gain SYSTEM privileges without user interaction.
• The North Korean Lazarus state hackers exploited the flaw since at least August 2023 to gain kernel-level access, disable security tools, and manipulate kernel objects using an updated FudModule rootkit.
• Windows users are urged to install the February 2024 Patch Tuesday updates promptly to protect against the CVE-2024-21338 attacks orchestrated by Lazarus.

https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/windows-kernel-bug-fixed-last-month-exploited-as-zero-day-since-august/…

• Apple is offering a discount of up to $150 on the Beats Studio Pro and Studio Buds Plus, with various retailers matching the pricing.
• The Beats Studio Buds Plus, including a transparent option, are also on sale.
• The Studio Pro and Studio Buds Plus provide flexibility with support for both iOS and Android software features.
• The new Beats Studio Pro features improved noise cancellation, sound quality, and comfort, supporting lossless audio over USB-C.
• Eufy’s SmartTrack Card, a Bluetooth tracker compatible with Apple’s Find My network, is discounted at Amazon and B&H Photo for $16.99.

https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/2/24087574/beats-studio-pro-buds-plus-eufy-smarttrack-card-item-tracker-deal-sale…

• Android Auto 11.4 introduces AI message summaries for all users, providing a new way to quickly understand long messages without reading them entirely.
• The feature activates automatically upon starting Android Auto after the update, with a notification prompting users to manage it in settings.
• AI message summaries condense messages over 40 words into shorter versions, preserving the overall meaning while sacrificing some detail.
• Users can provide feedback on the summaries and easily disable the feature in Android Auto settings if preferred.
• A new toggle for “Notifications with Assistant” is introduced, although its exact function is not entirely clear at this time.

https://9to5google.com/2024/03/02/android-auto-message-summaries-available/…

• Google Pixel phones have introduced a new feature called “Satellite SOS” that allows users to message emergency services and share their location without mobile or Wi-Fi connectivity.
• The feature is currently visible in the settings menu but is not yet functional on Pixel devices.
• Users will be able to call or text emergency services, share their location using Google Maps, and provide emergency information through the Satellite SOS feature.
• Information shared with emergency services and satellite providers includes the user’s name, contact details, location, device information, and emergency information.
• The functionality of Satellite SOS, which is expected to utilize Garmin services for satellite connectivity, is anticipated to be launched soon based on the detailed settings menu available on Pixel phones.

https://9to5google.com/2024/03/02/google-pixel-satellite-sos-feature/…

• Delete personal information online by actively seeking and requesting removal from websites and data brokers to protect your privacy.
• Take control of your digital footprint by embarking on an internet expedition to find and erase personal details displayed online.
• Data brokers collect personal data like addresses, phone numbers, and financial information to use in targeted advertising and potentially harmful activities.
• Utilize services like Incogni, created by Surfshark, to efficiently erase data from people search sites and data brokers, ensuring continuous privacy protection.
• Incogni’s service includes faster opt-out requests, dealing with rejection appeals, and regular data removal to maintain online privacy.

https://9to5mac.com/2024/03/02/delete-your-personal-info-from-the-internet/…

• The promotional image for FFVII Rebirth by Kingdom Hearts is easily understandable to those who played 2 prequel games and 3 mobile games.
• Tetsuya Nomura expressed disappointment in fans who don’t fully immerse themselves in the game worlds.
• Nomura and his team are known for creating complex, epic stories with unique characters.
• Fans who complete every entry in the saga will be blown away by the promotional image.
• Square Enix’s VP of Lore, Janet Gundelson, explained the significance of the number 104 in the image and referenced complex plot points from the games.

https://hard-drive.net/hd/video-games/report-you-only-need-to-play-2-prequels-and-3-mobile-games-to-understand-kingdom-hearts-promotional-post-about-ffvii-rebirth/…

• Apple reverses decision to remove Home Screen web apps in EU following outcry from developers and further investigation
• Home Screen web apps continue to be built on WebKit and align with iOS security and privacy model
• Apple’s decision to nix Home Screen web apps in EU came as surprise due to Digital Markets Act rules
• Apple initially removed Home Screen web apps to comply with DMA’s requirements, but has now allowed them to stay using WebKit
• Open Web Advocacy group welcomes Apple’s concession but pushes for support of alternative browsers to power web apps

https://www.theregister.com/2024/03/02/apple_reverses_pwa_decision/…

• Dell confirms the release of the NVIDIA B200 “Blackwell” accelerator in 2025, suggesting high power consumption of 1000W GPUs.
• Dell executive hints at NVIDIA’s 2025 plans, distinguishing between B200 and GB200 accelerators.
• The B200 Tensor Core GPU is set for launch next year, with Dell’s COO discussing the need for increased power density.
• Dell and NVIDIA have not provided further comments, but Dell is a key partner for NVIDIA in data-center segments.
• Dell’s stock has surged 32% following the news, while NVIDIA’s market value has surpassed $2T.

https://videocardz.com/newz/dell-confirms-nvidia-b200-blackwell-accelerator-is-coming-in-2025-hints-at-1000w-gpus…

• Xbox Game Pass will see three games leaving in early March 2024, including Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch and Shredders
• Microsoft announced the departure dates for these games, around March 15th, offering a 20% discount before removal
• Despite the losses, Xbox Game Pass will introduce Diablo 4 and other new additions in the upcoming month
• Comments from users express mixed feelings about the departing games and the time constraints to finish them
• Various upcoming Xbox games, crossplay support, and new releases are highlighted in related articles

https://www.purexbox.com/news/2024/03/three-games-will-leave-xbox-game-pass-in-early-march-2024…

• The 2024 Porsche 911 S/T review celebrates the 60th anniversary of the 911 and is limited to just 1963 examples.
• The S/T model combines components from the GT3 RS and GT3 lineup, featuring a 518 hp 4.0-liter flat-six engine and a six-speed manual gearbox, making it the lightest 911 of the current generation.
• Porsche aimed to create the ultimate canyon carver with the S/T, focusing on driver engagement by removing rear axle steering, retuning suspension dampers, and shortening gear ratios for quicker shifts.
• The S/T’s distinctive character is enhanced by a new lightweight clutch and single mass flywheel, providing a heightened level of urgency and an immersive driving experience due to reduced sound deadening.
• The S/T stands out among fast sports cars with its blend of power, weight reduction, and fine-tuned driving dynamics, offering a compelling option for enthusiasts seeking a unique driving experience.

https://arstechnica.com/cars/2024/03/2024-porsche-911-s-t-review-threading-the-needle/…

• Companies are developing app-less phones and gadgets utilizing AI to create smarter virtual assistants that can handle various tasks without the need for specific apps.
• Examples include the Humane Ai Pin and Rabbit R1, devices that perform tasks traditionally done on smartphones through voice commands and AI-generated interfaces.
• Brain Technologies is pioneering AI technology that can generate interfaces for millions of functions, aiming to make apps more accessible and personalized.
• Sierra, a startup, emphasizes the importance of AI in transforming the digital presence of companies, highlighting the shift towards AI-powered customer experiences.
• Major players like Google and Samsung are transitioning to conversational AI, with plans to enhance virtual assistants like Gemini and Bixby using generative AI and large language models.

https://www.wired.com/story/these-companies-have-a-plan-to-kill-apps/…

• Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth introduces significant story changes, including the origin of the Black Materia and the undead tribe Gi.
• New characters Yuffie, Cait Sith, Cid, and Vincent are integrated into the story in unique ways compared to the original game.
• Cloud’s struggle with visions of Sephiroth and a dramatic event involving Tifa being swallowed by a Weapon are key plot points.
• Aerith and Red XIII’s ability to see the future through the White Materia is explored, with the memories being taken by the Whispers.
• Sephiroth’s plan in Rebirth involves a multiverse conquest through Reunion, leading to a different presentation of Aerith’s fate and a new storyline for Zack.

https://www.ign.com/articles/7-biggest-story-changes-in-final-fantasy-7-rebirth…

• NASA and Nikon are collaborating to develop a handheld camera, the HULC, for astronauts to use on the Moon during the Artemis missions.
• The camera, based on the Nikon Z9 model, will be equipped with advanced technology and modifications to withstand the lunar environment, including extreme temperatures and radiation.
• The camera will offer both still imagery and video capabilities, with a viewfinder, making it the first mirrorless handheld camera to be used on the Moon.
• In addition to the camera development, NASA is working on a docking system for the Orion spacecraft and the Starship Human Landing System, to facilitate crew movement between the two spacecrafts.
• Ongoing tests for the docking system and the partnership with Nikon are significant steps forward for the Artemis program, which aims to achieve the first crewed Moon landing since the Apollo missions.

https://gizmodo.com/nasa-astronauts-will-use-nikon-cameras-to-snap-photos-o-1851301189…

• NASA has canceled the OSAM-1 mission due to technical, cost, and schedule challenges, as well as a shift away from refueling unprepared spacecraft.
• The project, originally named Restore-L, aimed to demonstrate satellite servicing technologies but faced significant cost overruns and delays.
• Maxar, the contractor responsible for the spacecraft bus and robotics payload, contributed to the project’s issues by underestimating the complexity of the work.
• Congress consistently provided more funding than NASA requested for OSAM-1, but the mission faced challenges in execution and performance.
• The cancellation of OSAM-1 contrasts with the commercial pursuit of satellite servicing technologies, which often involve more cooperative approaches to satellite design.

https://spacenews.com/nasa-cancels-osam-1-satellite-servicing-technology-mission/…

• Diablo 4 necromancer receives buffs for skeleton minions
• Minions in Diablo 4 were weaker compared to other classes
• Patch notes reveal significant buffs for necromancer skeletons and related skills
• Necromancers to receive movement speed boost in upcoming patch
• Changes aim to address necromancer class issues and improve gameplay

https://www.pcgamer.com/games/action/diablo-4-finally-recognizes-necromancers-just-want-a-skeleton-posse-and-sprinkles-buffs-on-our-boys-in-bone/…

• Balatro bumped from some console storefronts due to ratings change, attributed to mistaken belief of gambling imagery
• Playstack, the game’s publisher, denies gambling content in Balatro and is working to restore it to affected markets
• Anti-gambling regulations in Europe and Asia impacting games without explicit gambling content
• Other games affected by similar regulations include Diablo Immortal and Sunshine Shuffle
• Balatro still available on Steam, unaffected by the ratings change on console storefronts

https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/1/24087723/balatro-console-storefront-removal-steam-pc…

• Assassin’s Creed Red is the next mainline game in the franchise, set in feudal Japan and connected to the ‘Infinity’ hub.
• The game will feature two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, and will utilize the Anvil Pipeline engine for enhanced visuals.
• Combat in Assassin’s Creed Red will be more brutal with gore, including blood and decapitations, and will emphasize stealth mechanics similar to Splinter Cell.
• Players will have the opportunity to build and customize their settlement, known as the ‘Hideout’, with various structures like an armory and dojo.
• The game represents a significant evolution for the franchise, with improvements to animations, parkour system, dynamic weather, and settlement building.

https://insider-gaming.com/assassins-creed-red-exclusive-details/…

• NASA selects ACMI as the second approved Exploration Park Facility at Johnson Space Center in Houston
• ACMI will develop facilities for commercial and defense space manufacturing at Exploration Park
• The agreement aims to enhance commercial access and competitiveness in the space and aerospace industries
• Exploration Park will foster collaboration between academia, aerospace companies, entrepreneurs, and NASA
• The lease agreement allows ACMI to develop the Space Systems Campus for a potential of up to 60 years, supporting NASA’s goals for a robust space economy

https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-selects-acmi-as-second-approved-exploration-park-facility/…

• Signs of another new Chromecast appear in the Google Home app, indicating Google is working on a new Chromecast device
• The new Chromecast model, referred to as YTD, is being treated similarly to existing models in the Google Home app
• The purpose and specifics of the YTD model are currently unknown, but it is speculated to potentially replace the current 4K Chromecast with Google TV dongle
• Google TV enthusiasts have been seeking higher-powered options, as existing devices may not meet their needs
• Speculation suggests the new Chromecast model may offer 4K, HDR, and Dolby Atmos support with minor upgrades, possibly replacing the current model

https://www.androidpolice.com/new-chromecast-google-home-app-evidence/…

• Apple reverses decision to remove web apps on iPhones in the EU, citing requests from users and will continue support in iOS 17.4
• Progressive web apps (PWAs) act like native apps with features such as dedicated windows, notifications, and local storage.
• Open Web Advocacy organization criticizes Apple’s initial move, highlighting the lack of browser competition facilitated by Apple.
• EU officials probe Apple’s decision to remove PWAs, suggesting a potential formal investigation.
• Apple refrains from disclosing details but hints at responding to requests to reinstate home screen web apps for European users in the upcoming iOS 17.4 update.

https://www.engadget.com/apple-backtracks-on-plans-to-get-rid-of-web-apps-on-iphones-in-the-eu-195232177.html…

• MWC 2024 announcements roundup: Nothing Phone (2a), 4FYN winner
• TechCrunch team reporting live from Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona
• Highlights of major announcements at MWC, including Google’s new Android features, Lenovo’s laptop concept, and Xiaomi’s robotic dog
• Features and innovations showcased by various startups at MWC, such as Liveliness, Sweanty, and Qilimanjaro
• Notable developments in technology, including Lenovo’s transparent laptop, Samsung’s Galaxy Ring, and OnePlus Watch 2’s battery life

https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/01/mwc-2024-everything-you-need-to-know/…

• The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo’s cladding can be removed with ease, enhancing its appearance.
• American car enthusiasts often lament the scarcity of station wagons in the U.S.
• The Taycan Cross Turismo in the U.S. features SUV-like styling due to body cladding and a slight lift.
• Owners can remove the cladding by filling in alignment pin holes with plugs, creating a sleeker look.
• The Cross Turismo’s unique bumper designs and side skirts can still be retained for a stylish appearance even without the cladding.

https://jalopnik.com/you-can-take-off-the-porsche-taycan-cross-turismos-clad-1851301891…

• Pixel Watch 3 details revealed: 45mm size confirmed, addressing size complaints
• Google also developing new Pixel Buds Pro 2 headphones
• Wear OS 5 based on Android 14 expected for Pixel Watch 3
• Enhanced battery life through microcontroller unit utilization
• Potential enhancements in ANC and AI features with new hardware

https://9to5google.com/2024/03/01/45mm-pixel-watch-3-pixel-buds-pro-2/…

• MWC 2024 showcases the latest mobile technology available for immediate purchase
• CNET offers discounts and price drops on featured products
• OnePlus Watch 2 and Humane AI wearable available for preorder
• Samsung Galaxy Book 4 laptops on sale with trade-in offers
• Honor’s Magic 6 Pro and Xiaomi 14 Ultra available for preorder in the UK

https://www.cnet.com/deals/mwc-2024-is-over-but-heres-the-wildest-tech-you-can-buy-now/…

• The Samsung Galaxy Ring may offer up to nine days of battery life, which is appealing for those tired of daily charging.
• Battery estimates for smart rings, like the Galaxy Ring, may vary in practice due to factors such as sensor usage and ring size.
• Smart rings, such as the Galaxy Ring, are smaller and more discreet than smartwatches, with passive tracking capabilities that may contribute to extended battery life.
• Samsung’s battery estimates for the Galaxy Ring should be taken with caution, as real-world usage may differ from official figures.
• Reviewers will need to test the Galaxy Ring to determine if Samsung’s battery claims hold true in practical use.

https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/1/24087820/samsung-galaxy-ring-battery-life-wearables…

• Spotify’s new audiobook tier offers 15 free listening hours for $9.99, but still includes ads for music and podcasts.
• The audiobook plan lacks additional perks for readers and may be seen as upselling to the Premium option.
• Audible’s basic plan is priced at $7.95 with limited audiobook selection, while Spotify offers 200,000 titles.
• Publishers are concerned about Spotify’s audiobook compensation model, which pays based on full listens rather than purchases.
• Spotify claims to have paid “tens of millions” to publishers since introducing the audiobook feature.

https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/1/24087550/spotify-audiobook-access-tier-price-ads…

• Wicked Hands-On Preview Review: No Rest for the Wicked combines elements of Dark Souls and Diablo, offering challenging gameplay that requires strategic combat skills.
• The game features a beautiful, painterly art style reminiscent of Ori but with a darker tone, creating a visually immersive world.
• Players must be deliberate in their attacks and movements, managing stamina and utilizing strategic tactics to survive battles with formidable enemies.
• The game incorporates elements of exploration, NPC interactions, and skill point distribution, providing a well-rounded action-RPG experience.
• The preview experience left a strong impression, indicating that No Rest for the Wicked is likely to appeal to a wide audience upon its Early Access release.

https://www.ign.com/articles/no-rest-for-the-wicked-the-first-hands-on-preview…

• No Rest for the Wicked launches in Early Access for PC on April 18 via Steam
• Moon Studios founders share details about the game during “Wicked Inside” broadcast
• Isometric action RPG set in a kingdom plagued by the return of an ancient Pestilence
• Players take on the role of Cerim, mystical holy warriors tasked with defeating the Pestilence
• Full launch planned for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC at a later date

https://www.gematsu.com/2024/03/no-rest-for-the-wicked-launches-in-early-access-for-pc-on-april-18…

• Apple reverses decision to disable iPhone web apps in the EU, will continue offering existing Home Screen web apps capability in iOS 17.4
• Web apps will still be built on WebKit, limiting functionality for apps downloaded from third-party browsers
• Apple initially planned to drop iOS web apps in the EU due to compliance issues with the Digital Markets Act
• Reversal comes after receiving requests to continue supporting the feature from developers and users
• Criticism from developers, users, and the European Commission prompted Apple’s reversal

https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/1/24087666/apple-disable-iphone-web-apps-eu-reversal…

• Action RPG “No Rest for the Wicked” by Ori Dev receives a significant update, showcasing impressive gameplay
• Enters early access on Steam next month, with a PS5 launch planned for version 1.0
• Developed by Moon Studios, known for the Ori games, the game offers isometric dark fantasy RPG gameplay
• Features customizable characters, weapon-based combat styles, base-building activities, and a story-driven campaign
• Promises a dynamic world that changes after completing the main storyline, with endgame content and new challenges

https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2024/03/ori-devs-action-rpg-no-rest-for-the-wicked-gets-a-huge-update-gameplay-looks-amazing…

• Best Buy is offering a PS5 Spider-Man 2 deal for $450, $50 cheaper than usual
• The bundle includes a digital copy of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 game
• Customers can save an additional $120 by trading in a device
• Spider-Man 2 showcases the PS5 capabilities with enhanced graphics and gameplay
• The PS5 has a lineup of exciting games like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Hi-Fi Rush, Dragon’s Dogma 2, and more

https://kotaku.com/ps5-best-buy-bundle-spider-man-2-sale-1851300967…

• Cohere AI startup, backed by Nvidia, focuses on generative AI for enterprise, contrasting with consumer chatbots.
• Cohere raised $270 million in funding, with plans for additional capital, and is valued at $2.2 billion.
• The generative AI field has seen significant growth, with over $29.1 billion invested in 2023 across various industries.
• Cohere’s enterprise-only approach sets it apart from competitors like OpenAI and Anthropic, with clients in banking and financial services.
• Cohere’s strategic investor relationships, hardware challenges, and focus on search and retrieval in generative AI contribute to its unique positioning in the market.

https://www.cnbc.com/2024/03/01/cohere-says-rivals-are-building-bugatti-sports-cars-we-make-f150s.html…

• Helldivers 2 Joel campaign: 350,000-strong contingent curses galactic D&D master Joel as their next big campaign
• Helldivers 2 players commit over 350,000 soldiers to liberate Veld planet, facing unexpected setbacks
• Game director Joel controls Galactic War behind the scenes, causing frustration among players
• Players lose Malevelon Creek despite efforts, now striving to retake it
• Major Order in Helldivers 2 prompts player engagement, upcoming balance patch to address player concerns

https://www.gamesradar.com/350000-strong-helldivers-2-contingent-curses-now-infamous-galactic-dandd-master-joel-as-their-next-big-campaign-after-malevelon-creek-takes-a-turn-for-the-worst/…

• GTA 6 developers criticize Rockstar’s decision to return to office full-time, calling it “reckless”
• Rockstar Games employees must return to the office five days a week for GTA 6’s final development stretch
• Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) condemns Rockstar’s withdrawal of remote working options
• Concerns raised about the impact on staff, potential return to “toxic crunch” practices, and lack of consultation
• Calls for senior leadership to reconsider decision, prioritize collaboration, healthy work-life balance, and inclusive workplace culture

https://www.eurogamer.net/gta-6-developers-blast-rockstars-reckless-decision-to-return-to-office-full-time…

• Helldivers 2 has united a player base through its D&D-inspired meta war, generating loyalty and camaraderie.
• The game’s dynamic shifting frontlines engage players in pushing back against alien threats, creating a sense of authenticity and urgency.
• Helldivers 2’s intentional roleplaying elements, influenced by Dungeons & Dragons, are managed by a full-time dungeon master to craft unfolding storylines.
• The game’s global reactivity and tailored challenges create a compelling sense of authorship shared between developers and players, fostering commitment and community.
• The game’s satisfying shooter mechanics, steady progression system, and engaging Galactic War meta story contribute to its success and player commitment.

https://www.ign.com/articles/helldivers-2-meta-war-is-exactly-what-we-need-right-now-live-service-game…

• Destiny 2 introduces hoverboards, known as “Skimmers,” as a new vehicle type during the Guardian Games event.
• The hoverboards are not just a reskin of sparrows, allowing players to perform tricks like kickflips and grind on various surfaces in the game.
• Bungie kept the development of hoverboards a secret until the recent reveal, surprising the community and injecting fresh excitement into the game.
• The introduction of hoverboards is seen as a positive and fun addition to Destiny 2, providing a break from recent PvP updates and bringing humor back to the community.
• While some may criticize the focus on hoverboards amidst other game issues, the new addition is viewed as a welcome and enjoyable change, offering players a new experience and a reason to participate in Guardian Games.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/paultassi/2024/03/01/destiny-2-is-getting-hoverboards-which-is-honestly-what-it-needs-right-now/…

• Director Naoki Hamaguchi discusses the anticipated ending of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and hints at Part 3
• The development team focused on executing director Kazushige Nojima’s vision for the finale
• The ending of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has sparked confusion and speculation among fans
• The third part of the Final Fantasy Remake trilogy may include Rocket Town and elements from the Compilation of Final Fantasy VII
• Hamaguchi expresses commitment to seeing Square Enix’s ambitious Final Fantasy VII Remake project through, possibly extending over 12 years

https://www.ign.com/articles/final-fantasy-7-rebirths-director-naoki-hamaguchi-interview-ending-part-3…