Tech Summary News

• Microsoft tried to sell Bing to Apple in 2018, as revealed in Google court filings
• Apple had exploratory talks with Microsoft about acquiring Bing as recently as 2020
• Google argued in court filings that Apple chose Google over Bing as the default search engine in Safari due to search quality
• Microsoft approached Apple in 2018 to pitch improvements in Bing’s search quality and proposed a sale or joint venture
• Apple’s lucrative partnership with Google, where Google pays to be the default search engine, was a key factor in talks to acquire Bing not progressing

https://9to5mac.com/2024/02/24/microsoft-sell-bing-to-apple/

• 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…

• Ukraine’s Next-Gen CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicles to be produced by Sweden and Denmark for Ukraine, with Denmark funding and Sweden building
• The CV9035NL Mid-Life Update IFV offers advanced features such as stabilized thermal vision for the commander, third-generation thermal vision systems, laser rangefinders, and a warning system for enemy targeting
• The vehicle may include the Iron Fist active protection system for intercepting enemy missiles and rounds, enhancing crew safety
• The CV90’s design includes fixed seats with spall-liners for mine-strike protection, a new armor composition, and a 35-millimeter Bushmaster Mk. III cannon
• The turret also features a launcher for two Spike LR anti-tank missiles, allowing for fire-and-forget capability and increased maneuverability compared to older IFVs

https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2024/02/24/ukraines-next-gen-cv90-infantry-fighting-vehicles-might-be-the-best-ifvs-of-the-war/…

• 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…

• 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…

• 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/…

• 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/…

• 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…

• Helldivers 2’s Discord issue: Community manager blocked for sending too many DMs too fast, mistaken for a bot
• Katherine Baskin, the community manager, faced account lockout due to high DM volume from players seeking support
• Discord support restored Baskin’s account after she reached out for help and the game’s creative director also intervened
• Helldivers 2 servers struggle with high demand, prompting emergency hiring and server limit increases
• Despite challenges, the game’s success continues with Arrowhead Game Studios working to address issues

https://www.gamesradar.com/helldivers-2-burdened-by-its-own-success-yet-again-calls-out-discord-for-blocking-its-community-manager-for-sending-too-many-dms-too-fast/…

• Oscar nominees will receive ‘Everyone Wins’ gift bags valued at six-figures, including trips, skincare, electronics, food, and more
• Distinctive Assets, an entertainment marketing company, creates the iconic swag bag for nominees like Carey Mulligan and Mark Ruffalo
• CEO Lash Fary shared insights on the unique gifts, emphasizing the bags’ focus on small businesses and female entrepreneurs
• Not officially affiliated with the Academy, the gift bags aim to elevate brands and provide luxury items like a Swiss chalet stay and wellness retreats
• The bags also feature items like silk pillowcases, a mentalist show, designer pillows, and gourmet treats from various brands

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/oscar-nominees-home-veryone-wins-gift-bags-six-figure-valuation-peak-inside…

• The speculation of a future “Hey Gemini” hotword is discussed, with reservations about Google’s branding change to “Gemini.”
• Google’s strategic choice of “Hey Google” over “Hey Assistant” aimed to maintain a primary relationship with users and continue the legacy of ubiquity in voice searches.
• Google’s naming convention for products typically revolves around the primary function, making “Gemini” a departure from this tradition and requiring significant advertising and awareness efforts.
• The potential for “Gemini” to become a hotword in the future is considered, as it would need to achieve the same level of recognition as “Google.”
• The preference is expressed for maintaining a strategy centered around the main Google brand rather than introducing a secondary branding like “Gemini.”

https://9to5google.com/2024/02/23/google-hey-gemini-hotword/…

• Jeff Bezos adds finishing touches to his $175 million Beverly Hills mega-mansion, featuring a reef-themed swimming pool and tennis courts.
• Recent updates in the ongoing construction process include private basketball and tennis courts, along with tropical themed swimming pools.
• Bezos acquired the 10-acre property from former Warner Bros. president Jack Warner in 2020 and faced a construction delay in April 2023.
• The mansion includes a main house, guest house, gym, pergola, and security guard house, with plans for expansion halted temporarily.
• Bezos’s extensive real estate portfolio, worth approximately $600 million, includes properties in Manhattan, Washington DC, and Beverly Hills, where he shares residences with girlfriend Lauren Sanchez.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13119083/Jeff-bezos-175-million-beverly-hills-mega-mansion.html…

• Skype non-Premium calls now available to more users on X platform
• Feature integrated into direct messaging, similar to WhatsApp and Instagram
• Users can control call settings, choose who can call them or turn off feature
• Controversy arose over receiving calls from unknown users
• Latest X app version required for accessing new calling feature

https://9to5mac.com/2024/02/23/x-audio-video-calls-non-subscribers/…

• Email claiming Google is closing Gmail service on August 1 has gone viral
• Google denies the closure of Gmail service, stating it is here to stay
• A fake email circulated, falsely stating Gmail would no longer support sending, receiving, or storing emails after August 1
• The fake email was flagged as manipulated media and was actually a modified copy of a statement regarding the basic HTML view in Gmail messages
• Disinformation like this can cause anxiety among service users, prompting Google to respond and reassure users of Gmail’s continuity

https://www.forbes.com/sites/daveywinder/2024/02/23/is-google-closing-gmail-service-down-from-august-1/…

• Former Gizmodo writer changed name to ‘Slackbot’ to stay undetected
• Hiding on Slack by pretending to be a bot
• Used special characters to resemble ‘Slackbot’ name
• Account evaded deletion for months
• Colleague not surprised, citing previous work experience

https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/23/24081249/slack-slackbot-gizmodo-tom-mckay…

• Jeff Bezos enhances $165M Beverly Hills mansion with final touches
• The megamansion includes basketball and tennis courts, tropical-themed swimming pools
• Bezos bought the mansion from David Geffen in 2020 and has been working on it for four years
• Recent delay in construction due to denied application for a new “game court fence”
• Bezos also expanding property portfolio in Florida, with $147 million worth of homes on Indian Creek Island

https://nypost.com/2024/02/23/real-estate/jeff-bezos-puts-the-final-touches-on-his-california-mansion/…

• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the second-highest rated game in the series on Metacritic, with a score of 93.
• Final Fantasy VI, released in 1994, isn’t rated on Metacritic as the site was not around at that time.
• The game is exclusive to PlayStation 5 and reviews for it have been positive.
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth joins a select list of Final Fantasy games with a Metacritic score of 90 or higher.
• The success of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth reflects the positive reception of Square Enix’s remake project among critics and fans.

https://www.gameinformer.com/news/2024/02/23/final-fantasy-vii-rebirth-is-the-second-highest-rated-game-in-the-series-on…

• 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…

• 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/…

• 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…

• 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…

• 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/…

• 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/…

• 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/…

• 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…

• 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/…

• 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/…

• 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…

• 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…

• 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/…

• 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…

• **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…

• 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/…

• 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:

• “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 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

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:

• 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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• “Social media activism impact”: Google’s AI chatbot Gemini faced criticism for producing factually or historically inaccurate images, such as a woman as pope and diverse versions of America’s Founding Fathers.
• Critics slammed Google for the chatbot’s progressive-minded settings, with the AI tool aiming for accurate and inclusive representations of historical contexts.
• Google acknowledged the criticism and is actively working on a fix to improve the accuracy of Gemini’s image generation.
• Social media users had fun creating queries that resulted in confusing and inaccurate images, highlighting the chatbot’s deviations from traditional depictions.
• The strange behavior of Gemini could fuel concerns about AI contributing to the spread of online misinformation, as Google’s experimental tools are prone to generating fake or inaccurate information in response to prompts.

https://nypost.com/2024/02/21/business/googles-ai-chatbot-gemini-makes-diverse-images-of-founding-fathers-popes-and-vikings-so-woke-its-unusable/

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• Apple Vision Pro offers an unparalleled movie-watching experience, surpassing that of a traditional theater.
• The Vision Pro provides immersive 3D movie viewing, enhancing detail and depth of characters.
• The headset’s design, including a personalized fit and special Environments, enhances the cinematic experience.
• The Vision Pro is expensive but ideal for entertainment enthusiasts looking for a premium movie experience.
• The device offers access to a wide range of 3D movies through apps like Disney+ and Apple TV+, making it a desirable investment for movie lovers.

https://www.tomsguide.com/computing/vr-ar/this-is-the-most-underrated-feature-of-the-apple-vision-pro

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• iOS 17.4 beta 4 features include new Battery Health updates and an updated ‘Hello’ screen
• Apple introduces quantum computer protection for iMessage in iOS 17.4, upgrading encryption to thwart future attacks
• Ongoing PQ3 rekeying enhances security by automatically issuing new keys in iOS 17.4
• Update to CarPlay instrument cluster in iOS 17.4 allows for more customization, especially for vehicles like the Polestar 2
• Changes to Battery Health information in iOS 17.4 beta 4 include decoupling of Battery Health and Charging optimization, simplified battery health status, and updated battery lifespan for iPhone 15 lineup

https://9to5mac.com/2024/02/21/hands-on-ios-17-4-beta-4-changes-and-features-video/

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