Tech Summary News

• iPhone 16 Pro problems arise as it will only feature 8 GB of RAM, limiting its ability to run advanced AI applications compared to the upcoming iPhone 17 models, which are expected to have 12 GB of RAM.
• Apple is preparing to market the iPhone 16 series as AI-focused devices, despite the hardware constraints that will require reliance on cloud processing for more intensive features.
• The iPhone 16 family will include the latest A18 silicon, but the Pro models are expected to have enhanced GPU capabilities and memory compared to the vanilla models.
• Initial AI features for the iPhone 16 will be basic, with full generative AI capabilities not expected until Q1 2025, making the launch feel like a half-measure.
• Apple’s strategy aims to compete with Android’s dominance in AI, but the iPhone 16 Pro may not fully deliver on these promises at launch.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspence/2024/08/28/iphone-16-pro-specs-leak-apple-intelligence-new-iphone/

• Midjourney AI image generator is venturing into hardware development and is seeking new team members for this initiative.
• The specific type of hardware being developed remains unclear, as the company typically focuses on AI image generation rather than hardware.
• Key personnel, including founder David Holz and Head of Hardware Ahmand Abbas, have backgrounds in virtual and augmented reality, suggesting potential AR/VR hardware projects.
• Midjourney has hinted at multiple hardware efforts and teased responses about their plans on social media, indicating a playful engagement with their audience.
• The company is bootstrapped and has not raised venture capital, but its ambitious hardware plans may lead to seeking funding in the future.

https://siliconangle.com/2024/08/28/ai-image-generator-midjourney-venturing-hardware-development/…

• Midjourney hardware integration guide indicates the AI image-generating platform is venturing into hardware, announcing a new team based in San Francisco.
• The company is reportedly generating over $200 million in revenue without any venture capital investment.
• Midjourney has hired Ahmad Abbas, a former Neuralink engineer who contributed to the Apple Vision Pro, hinting at potential hardware projects.
• CEO David Holz, co-founder of Leap Motion, has experience in hardware development, which may influence the company’s direction.
• Despite ongoing lawsuits regarding its AI training methods, Midjourney continues to advance its AI models for video and 3D generation.

https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/28/midjourney-says-its-getting-into-hardware/…

• iOS 18.1 Photos app update introduces a new ‘Clean Up’ feature that identifies and removes distracting elements in photos.
• The feature is accessible during photo editing via an eraser-style icon in the bottom toolbar.
• It utilizes machine learning to detect unwanted objects and can remove shadows or reflections while preserving people in the image.
• Users can easily remove distractions with a single tap or manually retouch using their finger.
• The Clean Up feature is available in the iOS 18.1 beta 3 for developers and works with any image in the Photos library.

https://9to5mac.com/2024/08/28/ios-18-1-beta-3-clean-up-feature/…

• iOS 18.1 beta notification summaries are now available for all apps, expanding the Apple Intelligence feature previously limited to two Apple apps.
• The latest beta 3 update for iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 introduces new capabilities, enhancing the notification experience.
• Summaries utilize AI to intelligently condense messages, emails, and news headlines into more useful notifications.
• Users can enable or disable notification summaries for individual apps through the Settings menu, allowing for personalized notification preferences.
• While generally beneficial, the summaries may occasionally contain inaccuracies, but overall they have proven to be a valuable addition across devices.

https://9to5mac.com/2024/08/28/ios-181-beta-3-expands-apple-intelligence-notification-summaries-beyond-messages-and-mail/…

• AI makes Doom in its own game engine — Google’s GameNGen project utilizes Stable Diffusion to generate original gameplay through a neural network.
• The GameNGen engine processes player inputs and previous frames to create new visuals with notable fidelity and consistency.
• Players can engage in real-time gameplay mechanics like movement, shooting, and managing ammo, with the game running at 20 FPS.
• Google trained its AI agent on various skill levels in Doom to gather extensive training data, rewarding successful actions and penalizing failures.
• Despite some inconsistencies and visual artifacts, GameNGen represents a significant step in AI game development, potentially influencing future gaming technologies.

https://www.tomshardware.com/tech-industry/artificial-intelligence/ai-makes-doom-in-its-own-game-engine-googles-gamengen-project-uses-stable-diffusion-to-simulate-gameplay…

• Midjourney AI hardware announcement reveals the company is officially entering the hardware market, seeking to build a new team in San Francisco.
• The generative AI art maker, launched in 2022, recently made its image creation tools accessible for free, albeit with limitations.
• Midjourney has hinted at multiple hardware projects in development but has not disclosed specific details or timelines for product releases.
• The company has appointed a former Apple Vision Pro engineer as its head of hardware, sparking speculation about potential hardware offerings.
• Midjourney’s social media engagement reflects public curiosity, with the company responding to inquiries while maintaining a degree of secrecy about its plans.

https://www.neowin.net/news/the-midjourney-ai-image-maker-company-now-says-it-is-getting-into-hardware/…

• Midjourney hardware team applicants are being sought as the company officially announces its entry into hardware development, inviting interested candidates to email hardware@midjourney.com.
• Ahmad Abbas, formerly of Apple’s Vision Pro, has been hired to lead the new hardware division, with a start date set for December 2023.
• The company has clarified that its upcoming device will not be a wearable pendant but may involve a form factor that users can go “inside of.”
• Midjourney is exploring multiple hardware efforts and has hinted at new form factors, though specific details about the devices remain undisclosed.
• The announcement comes amid increasing competition in the AI image generation space, with other startups struggling to gain traction in dedicated AI hardware.

https://venturebeat.com/ai/midjourney-announces-hardware-team-and-opens-to-applicants/…

• Google has rolled out three new ‘stronger’ Gemini models: Gemini 1.5 Flash-8B, improved Gemini 1.5 Flash, and stronger Gemini 1.5 Pro, aimed at enhancing performance and gathering user feedback.
• The models can handle complex information from over 10 million tokens and support various inputs, including documents, video, and audio, accessible via Google AI Studio and the Gemini API.
• Internal tests showed significant improvements for Gemini 1.5 Flash, which climbed from 23rd to 6th place in performance rankings, while Gemini 1.5 Pro excelled in math, coding, and complex prompts.
• Users have noted solid enhancements in image analysis and speed, while some expressed a desire for a more substantial update like Gemini 2.0 and criticized performance on longer outputs and coding tasks.
• Google plans to automatically transition users to the new models by September 3, 2024, and will continue refining the models based on user feedback in future updates.

https://gagadget.com/en/ai/496453-google-rolls-out-three-new-stronger-gemini-models/…

• Google AI image generator is being reintroduced after backlash over controversial image generation of people, particularly in unrealistic settings.
• The updated tool, Gemini Advanced, will feature Google’s latest model, Imagen 3, and aims to improve user experience while generating images.
• Google had previously disabled the feature due to criticism over biased and inappropriate outputs, which sparked significant public and media backlash.
• The reintroduction comes amid a competitive landscape in AI, with other tech giants like Apple making strides in marketing their AI tools effectively.
• Google plans to limit the tool’s capabilities to prevent abuse, such as generating images of identifiable individuals or excessive violence, while continuing to seek user feedback for improvements.

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/google-revamps-controversial-ai-image-generation-tool-after-backlash-194238918.html…

• The Plaud NotePin is one of the most practical AI gadgets of 2024, designed to simply record audio with a button press without overcomplicating the user experience.
• It can be worn in various styles, such as a pin, necklace, or wristband, making it versatile for different settings.
• The device utilizes OpenAI’s GPT-4o model for voice transcription and summarization, with recordings accessible via a mobile app and web dashboard.
• Users can choose between a free plan offering 300 minutes of recording monthly and a Pro plan for $6.60 a month, which includes additional features and 1,200 minutes of recording.
• The NotePin supports 59 languages and will be available for $169, with preorders starting soon, while competitors like Apple and Google continue to expand their AI capabilities.

https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/plaud-notepin-may-be-one-of-2024s-most-practical-ai-gadgets/…

• PLAUD.AI has launched the PLAUD NotePin, an ultra-light wearable AI device aimed at enhancing productivity for professionals across various industries.
• The device functions as a memory capsule, recording, transcribing, and summarizing information to help users focus on high-value tasks.
• Available in multiple wearing modes, the PLAUD NotePin integrates with the PLAUD app and web, allowing for seamless interaction and workflow optimization.
• Pre-orders for the PLAUD NotePin start at $169, with a Free Starter Plan and a Pro Plan offering additional features and transcription minutes.
• PLAUD.AI aims to continually enhance its offerings with new AI features, building on its mission to transform unstructured verbal data into actionable insights.

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/plaudai-introduces-plaud-notepin-the-future-of-enhanced-productivity-is-an-ultra-light-wearable-ai-device-302232959.html…

• The NotePin is the latest pointless AI wearable app that should simply function as an app instead of requiring additional hardware.
• Plaud’s NotePin mimics existing iPhone capabilities, offering a wearable device for note-taking that can be worn in various ways.
• Targeted at productivity enthusiasts, it allows users to record audio for later review, but its utility is questioned given the iPhone’s existing features.
• The device costs $169, with an optional $79 annual fee for additional recording minutes and features, raising concerns over its value.
• Overall, the trend of creating AI hardware that replicates smartphone functions is seen as unnecessary, suggesting that such innovations would be better suited as apps.

https://9to5mac.com/2024/08/28/notepin-pointless-ai-wearable/…

• Nvidia RTX 50-series laptops will get GDDR7 memory, enhancing performance with cutting-edge technology expected in 2025.
• The new laptop graphics cards, likely to be named GeForce RTX 5060, will be the first to feature GDDR7 memory modules.
• These GPUs are designed to consume less power, dropping from a maximum of 140 watts to 115 watts while improving performance.
• The RTX 5060 is expected to match or exceed the capabilities of the current RTX 4070 laptop card.
• The RTX 50 series will cover a range from 5050 to 5090, with no confirmed release date but anticipated for mid-to-late 2025.

https://www.pcworld.com/article/2441105/nvidia-rtx-50-series-laptops-will-get-gddr7-memory.html…

• Galaxy S25 Ultra redesign is expected to feature significant design changes, moving away from the Galaxy Note’s squared-off style towards a more rounded appearance.
• The front of the Galaxy S25 Ultra will maintain a flat display with slim bezels but will include flatter side rails compared to the S24 Ultra.
• Rounded corners on the display will have a tight radius, resembling designs seen in the Galaxy Z Fold 6 rather than the Pixel 9 series.
• Samsung’s earlier Ultra models embraced a Galaxy S look, but the S22 Ultra introduced a design more familiar to Galaxy Note users.
• The back design of the Galaxy S25 Ultra remains unfinished, and a change is anticipated after the same look was used for the S22, S23, and S24 Ultra models.

https://9to5google.com/2024/08/28/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-design-note/…

• Emio The Smiling Man is a new entry in Nintendo’s Famicom Detective Club series, marking its first release in 30 years and appealing to true crime fans.
• The game features a captivating story revolving around a young boy’s murder, tied to urban legends and childhood trauma, with a compelling cast of characters.
• Players engage in a point-and-click adventure reminiscent of classic visual novels, with quality-of-life features that enhance the gameplay experience.
• The art style combines 2D character illustrations with 3D backgrounds, supported by a modern soundtrack that contrasts with the series’ retro roots.
• Despite its emotional impact, the game’s storytelling is criticized for being disjointed and leaving many unanswered questions by the end of its 15-hour playtime.

https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/rs-gaming/emio-the-smiling-man-famicom-detective-club-review-1235084631/…

• Famicom Detective Club revival sees Yoshio Sakamoto, a Nintendo veteran of 42 years, return to writing for the first time since 1989 to create Emio – The Smiling Man.
• Sakamoto, co-creator of the Metroid series, initially declared he would never write again after the second Famicom Detective Club game but was inspired to create a new story.
• The remakes of the original Famicom Detective Club games in 2021 reignited Sakamoto’s passion for storytelling, leading to the development of Emio’s plot.
• The concept for Emio – The Smiling Man revolves around a murder mystery involving a victim found with a paper bag over their head, setting the stage for a grand narrative.
• Emio – The Smiling Man, the first new entry in the series in 35 years, is set to launch on August 29, with a demo available featuring the first three chapters.

https://www.gamesradar.com/games/adventure/metroid-co-creator-and-a-nintendo-veteran-of-42-years-came-out-of-writing-retirement-just-to-work-on-the-first-famicom-detective-club-game-in-35-years/…

• iPhone 16 launching as Apple’s first AI phone, introducing innovative Apple Intelligence features after years of development.
• The event is scheduled for September 9, 2024, and is seen as a significant moment for Apple in the AI landscape.
• Apple aims to compete with established AI features from Google and Samsung, but may face challenges due to hardware constraints.
• Initial AI features like writing tools and call transcription are available in the iOS 18.1 beta, but full functionality won’t be available until later.
• Compatibility issues exist, as last year’s iPhone models will not support Apple Intelligence, highlighting a significant shift with the iPhone 16.

https://www.hindustantimes.com/technology/iphone-16-launching-as-apple-s-first-ai-phone-is-apple-intelligence-worth-it-101724831701587.html…

• Ryzen CPU gaming performance has been enhanced for modern Ryzen desktop CPU owners with a new Windows 11 update.
• AMD collaborated with Microsoft to optimize Ryzen CPUs, initially planned for the upcoming 24H2 update but now available in the current 23H2 version.
• Users can find the update under KB5041587 in Windows update Advanced options Optional updates.
• Early tests show a 10% performance improvement for the Ryzen 7700X and an 11% increase for the Ryzen 9700X at 1080p across various games.
• The backported update eliminates the need for users to join Release Preview testing to access the performance enhancements.

https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/28/24230321/microsoft-windows-11-update-ryzen-cpu-performance-improvement…

• Galaxy S25 Ultra lightweight flagship is expected to be the lightest among competitors, including the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Pixel 9 Pro XL.
• Design tweaks are anticipated, moving towards a rounded shape reminiscent of the Galaxy Note 7.
• The Galaxy S25 Ultra is rumored to weigh less than the current Galaxy S24 Ultra, which is 232 grams.
• It will likely maintain a titanium shell to achieve the reduced weight, with no significant material changes expected.
• The display size is projected to be 6.86 inches, and it may match the body width of the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

https://wccftech.com/galaxy-s25-ultra-lightest-flagship-amongst-competitors-including-iphone-16-pro-max/…

• Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra features are expected to make it thinner and lighter than the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Pixel 9 Pro XL.
• Leaker Ice Universe claims the S25 Ultra will be the thinnest and lightest of all Ultra flagship phones.
• The upcoming model may have a reduced width of 77.6mm and an asymmetrical frame design for improved comfort.
• Despite potential size reductions, rumors suggest a more efficient chipset will enhance battery life compared to the S24 Ultra.
• An additional rear camera may be included in the S25 Ultra, bringing the total to four cameras for improved photography capabilities.

https://www.techradar.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-phones/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-tipped-to-be-thinner-and-lighter-than-the-iphone-16-pro-max-and-pixel-9-pro-xl…

• Google Meet AI meeting notes feature, called “Take notes for me,” is rolling out to Google Workspace users, utilizing Gemini AI for automatic note-taking.
• Initially available only to users with specific Google Workspace plans, the tool aims to enhance focus during meetings by allowing users to concentrate on discussions.
• The feature captures notes in a Google Docs file, saves them to the meeting owner’s Google Drive, and attaches the document to the calendar event for easy access by colleagues.
• After meetings, participants receive an email link to the notes, and late joiners can view a “summary so far” to catch up on discussions.
• Currently, the feature is limited to Google Meet on computers, requires spoken English, and is part of a broader suite of AI tools designed to improve workplace productivity.

https://www.techradar.com/pro/google-meet-calls-will-now-automatically-take-notes-for-you…

• Instagram Notes may soon showcase your Spotify listening activity via new Meta partnership, allowing continuous sharing of music.
• The feature, discovered by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, builds on the previous ability to share 30-second song clips.
• Users will have the option to “stop sharing at any time,” enhancing user control over their listening activity.
• Meta and Spotify are collaborating to improve user engagement and compete in the music discovery space, similar to TikTok.
• Both companies have expressed concerns about Apple’s App Store policies affecting their services and competition with Apple Music.

https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/instagram-notes-may-soon-showcase-your-spotify-listening-activity-via-new-meta-partnership-report/…

• Google Pixel 9 cases are essential for protecting the new smartphones, which feature durable Gorilla Glass Victus 2 but still risk screen damage from drops.
• Various case options are available, including Dbrand’s Grip case for style and MagSafe support, and Spigen’s Liquid Air for budget-friendly protection.
• Google’s official Pixel 9 case is made from recycled materials and offers a simple, color-matching design with good protection for the camera and screen.
• Accessories like the Pixel charging stand enhance the smartphone experience with features such as alarm clock functionality and smart home controls.
• Other notable cases include OtterBox’s Defender for maximum protection and Casetify’s customizable designs, though some may lack unique features or durability.

https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-google-pixel-9-cases-and-accessories/…

• The future foldable phone design is exemplified by the Tecno Phantom Ultimate 2, a trifold smartphone concept featuring two hinges and three panels for enhanced versatility.
• When folded, it has a compact 6.48-inch screen and an impressive thickness of only 11mm, utilizing a 0.25mm battery cover for a sleek profile.
• Unfolded, the device transforms into a 10-inch tablet with a 4:3 aspect ratio, offering a significant upgrade over current folding phones.
• The phone’s innovative design includes a double-hinge system that allows for unique usage scenarios, such as flipping into a laptop-like mode with a virtual keyboard.
• Although still a concept, the Phantom Ultimate 2 indicates ongoing developments in foldable technology, with competitors like Huawei also exploring similar designs.

https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/this-jaw-dropping-phone-tecno-phantom-ultimate-2-looks-like-future-of-foldables/…

• TECNO tri-fold phone release features the Phantom Ultimate 2, which is thinner than the Galaxy Z Fold 6 at just 11mm when folded.
• The device showcases a new hinge design allowing for a thickness of less than 9mm and incorporates the industry’s thinnest battery cover at 0.25mm.
• It boasts a primary display of 6.48 inches and unfolds to reveal a 10-inch 3K OLED panel, offering multiple folding angles for enhanced versatility.
• The software is optimized for the tri-fold design, enabling dynamic wallpapers and multi-panel multitasking based on the phone’s position.
• TECNO is also preparing to launch the Phantom V Fold 2 and V Flip 2, with no specific release date announced yet.

https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/tecno-phantom-ultimate-2-reveal…

• Share Spotify songs Instagram Content follows: Spotify is introducing a new feature that allows users to share songs in real time on Instagram by connecting their accounts.
• This integration will automatically create a note displaying the currently playing song, visible to others in DMs or user profiles.
• Users will have the option to continuously share their music or stop sharing at any time, enhancing the sharing experience compared to the current manual method.
• The feature, reminiscent of the old MSN Messenger, is expected to be announced soon, though it is not yet available.
• Currently, Apple Music users will not have access to this feature, but there are hopes for a similar option in the future.

https://startupnews.fyi/2024/08/28/spotify-to-let-users-share-songs-on-instagram-in-real-time/…

• Black Myth game backlash arises as influencers were instructed to avoid discussing “feminist propaganda” and other sensitive topics while promoting the game.
• The game, based on the classic novel Journey to the West, achieved over 10 million sales within three days of its release, marking a significant success for China’s gaming industry.
• The directives sent to streamers included avoiding politics, Covid-19, and any content that could provoke negative discussions, raising questions about censorship in China.
• Some streamers and fans reacted to the restrictions by mocking them, while others viewed them as a necessary response to perceived “wokeness” in gaming reviews.
• Chinese state media defended the game against Western criticism, claiming that the backlash is part of a broader anti-China agenda and highlighting the game’s role in promoting Chinese culture.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/aug/28/black-myth-wukong-game-controversy-china-streamers…

• The Nintendo Direct August 2024 Content featured exclusive announcements and game reveals during Japan’s Partner Showcase and Indie World, including release dates for several titles.
• Notable announcements included the sequel to The Exit 8, titled “Decisions, Decisions,” and the new game “Q2 Humanity,” which offers over 300 stages for players to explore.
• Upcoming titles like “Urban Myth Dissolution Centre” and “Tokimeki Memorial: Forever with You” were highlighted, with the latter being a remaster of the classic romance visual novel.
• The rhythm game “Disney Music Parade: Encore” and the simulation game featuring Doraemon were also announced, both set to include English language support.
• Other games mentioned include “Farmagia,” set for global release in November, and “Fairy Tail 2,” which is scheduled for December 2024.

https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2024/08/round-up-heres-what-was-in-japans-nintendo-direct-partner-showcase-and-indie-world-august-2024…

• Tecno Phantom Ultimate 2 is a tri-fold concept device that expands from a 6.48-inch display to a 10-inch LTPO OLED screen, offering a larger viewing area that rivals full-sized tablets.
• The device features TDDI technology, integrating the display driver and touch sensor on a single chip, and supports screen hovering.
• It boasts an impressively thin profile of just 11mm when folded, thanks to a self-developed dual hinge mechanism tested for 300,000 folds.
• Unique use cases include a laptop mode for note-taking and a tent mode for dual-screen conversations with live translation capabilities.
• While Tecno has not announced a release date for the Phantom Ultimate 2, it represents a significant advancement in the foldable smartphone market.

https://www.gsmarena.com/tecno_details_phantom_ultimate_2_trifold_concept-news-64296.php…

• Share Spotify Tracks on Instagram may soon be possible, allowing users to share their currently playing tracks in real-time via Instagram Notes.
• The feature, referred to as “Share from Spotify,” is expected to enable continuous sharing of Spotify music, enhancing user interaction.
• Currently, Instagram users can only share songs from its own catalogue for 30 seconds, but this new feature could integrate Spotify’s extensive library.
• A recent addition of the “SpotifyiOS.framework” to Instagram suggests deeper integration and more music-oriented features leveraging Spotify’s platform.
• Instagram recently launched a feature allowing users to add songs to their profiles, enhancing the platform’s musical capabilities.

https://www.gadgets360.com/apps/news/instagram-notes-share-from-spotify-feature-leak-6434930…

• iPhone 16 purchase reasons against the backdrop of Apple Intelligence highlight concerns about the initial performance and usability of its AI features, which may not meet expectations.
• The integration of Apple Intelligence in iOS 18 is seen as a significant leap, but current features in the beta have been underwhelming and may impose memory and CPU constraints.
• Upgrades in hardware, such as the A18 processor and increased RAM, are anticipated but may not fully address performance issues related to demanding AI tasks.
• Users may face challenges with battery life and device heating due to the power-intensive nature of on-device AI processing, potentially leading to reduced performance reliability.
• While the iPhone 16 offers improvements in camera, display, and overall performance, those seeking AI advancements should temper their expectations as the technology continues to evolve.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/why-you-shouldnt-buy-the-iphone-16-for-apple-intelligence/…

• AMD Branch Prediction Optimizations are now available for Windows 11 23H2, enhancing gaming performance significantly.
• The optimizations are also accessible for older versions of Windows, ensuring immediate benefits for users.
• The upcoming Windows 11 24H2 update, currently in preview, is expected to boost gaming performance by 10% for Zen CPUs.
• The KB5041587 update for Windows 11 23H2 is available as an optional download and should provide similar performance improvements as the 24H2 update.
• AMD anticipates performance gains of 3% to 13% for Zen5 CPUs, with benefits also extending to Zen4 and Zen3 architectures.

https://videocardz.com/newz/amd-confirms-branch-prediction-optimizations-are-now-available-for-windows-11-23h2-boosting-gaming-performance…

• Ryzen CPUs speed boost is achieved through an optional Windows update that enhances CPU scheduler performance for Ryzen 5000, 7000, and 9000 models.
• The KB5041587 update is available for Windows 11 23H2 users, providing similar performance benefits as the upcoming 24H2 update.
• Benchmark tests indicate performance improvements ranging from 0 to 13 percent for Ryzen 9000 CPUs, with Ryzen 7000 owners seeing an average frame rate increase of about 10 percent in gaming.
• Performance gains may be less noticeable at higher resolutions (1440p or 4K), where GPU limitations typically dominate.
• The 24H2 update introduces a new compiler, kernel, and scheduler, aiming to enhance overall CPU performance, including for other architectures, and is expected to roll out to the public this fall.

https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2024/08/ryzen-speed-boosts-get-backported-to-windows-11-23h2-with-optional-update/…

• Apple iPhone 16 Pro alternatives include the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, which can run the upcoming generative AI software without needing to upgrade to the new model.
• The iPhone 16 Pro will feature a new telephoto lens with x5 optical zoom, but many users may find the x3 zoom of the iPhone 15 Pro sufficient.
• The generative AI software, part of Apple’s new Apple Intelligence suite, will not be fully available at the iPhone 16 Pro’s launch, with significant features expected only by late Q1.
• Those considering an upgrade may benefit from waiting for the iPhone 17 Pro, which is anticipated to have more substantial hardware updates and improvements based on the first iteration of AI.
• As the iPhone 16 Pro is released, prices for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max are likely to drop, providing an opportunity for buyers to purchase a capable device at a lower cost.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspence/2024/08/27/apple-iphone-16-pro-apple-intelligence-generative-ai-specs-new-iphone/…

• PS5 price rise Japan sees the cost of the console increase by ¥13,000 (around £70), effective September 2nd.
• The standard PS5 will go from ¥66,980 (£350) to ¥79,980 (£420), while the Digital Edition will rise from ¥59,980 (£314) to ¥72,980 (£380).
• This marks the second price increase for PS5 in Japan since its launch, with total increases of approximately £160 and £170 for the standard and Digital Editions, respectively.
• Sony cites “the recent challenging external environment” and global economic fluctuations as reasons for the price hike.
• Alongside the PS5 price increase, various PlayStation accessories will also see price increases starting September 2nd.

https://www.eurogamer.net/ps5-gets-another-price-rise-in-japan-meaning-it-now-costs-170-more-than-at-launch…

• The Barbie glittery flip phone is a clamshell-style feature phone that is entirely pink and branded with Mattel’s logo, designed to evoke nostalgia from the late 1990s and early 2000s.
• It features a shiny mirror on the front, customizable charms, and a playful voice prompt saying “Hi Barbie” upon startup.
• Running on KaiOS, the phone offers modern amenities like 4G connectivity, Wi-Fi, GPS, and access to popular apps, while maintaining a simplified user experience.
• The device includes a 5-megapixel camera, a 2.8-inch display, and a backlit keyboard, along with a 1,430-mAh battery that provides decent talk time.
• Priced at $129, the Barbie Phone will be available for pre-order on September 23 and is compatible with major carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

https://www.wired.com/story/hmd-barbie-phone/…

• The retro Barbie flip phone will be released in October, 15 months after the movie, priced at $129.
• Created by HMD, the phone features a nostalgic design with a T9 keyboard and no third-party apps.
• It includes fun elements like a “Hi Barbie” voice, a 5MP camera, and customizable covers inspired by classic Barbie dolls.
• The phone has a Barbie-themed user interface and includes a digital well-being app to encourage a break from smartphones.
• Pre-orders start on September 23, and the phone is compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon networks.

https://www.engadget.com/mobile/the-retro-barbie-flip-phone-arrives-in-october-only-15-months-after-the-movie-230136984.html…

• The Barbie smartphone addiction solution aims to help young people reduce their smartphone usage with a basic, pink device that lacks advanced features and internet access.
• HMD, the manufacturer, is responding to a growing demand for less digital impact, as parents and campaigners advocate for limiting children’s screen time due to concerns about attention spans and exposure to harmful content.
• Some schools, including Eton College, are providing students with basic phones to encourage a balance between technology benefits and challenges.
• The Barbie phone, priced at £99, has garnered attention but may lead to parents facing requests for Barbie merchandise instead of smartphones.
• Experts suggest that rather than withdrawing smartphones, teaching children healthy digital literacy skills is a more effective long-term solution.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2x52y0wv4o…

• iPhone 16 release date is set for a major announcement on September 9 at 10 a.m. PT, featuring new iPhones, Apple Watches, and potentially AirPods.
• Apple has updated its events page with details on how to watch the keynote, encouraging viewers to tune in via apple.com or the Apple TV app.
• The event page showcases an eye-catching animation of a glowing Apple logo, aligning with the invite’s theme, “It’s Glowtime.”
• The animation hints at new Siri UI features for the iPhone 16 models, which are anticipated to be a key selling point.
• The colors in the animation—blue, yellow, white, pink, and black—suggest possible design options for the upcoming iPhone 16 series.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2024/08/27/apple-iphone-16-release-date-new-event-page-goes-live-with-cool-animation/…

• Nintendo Direct August 2024 featured a 42-minute double presentation showcasing nearly 50 game announcements from third-party developers and indie studios for the Switch in 2024 and 2025.
• Highlights included updates for popular titles like Balatro and new games such as Neva, Coffee Talk Tokyo, and a DLC for Sea of Stars, alongside various indie projects.
• The Partner Showcase revealed notable titles like Tetris Forever, the remastered Suikoden collection, and Capcom Fighting Collection 2, appealing to fans of classic games.
• Many games emphasized unique mechanics, such as the dating simulator involving household objects and a roguelike RPG with pachinko-inspired gameplay.
• Overall, reactions to the presentation varied, with some praising the diversity of announcements while others felt the indie selection lacked excitement compared to previous showcases.

https://www.nintendolife.com/guides/nintendo-direct-august-2024-every-announcement-and-game-reveal-from-the-indie-world-and-partner-showcases…

• The Google Tasks app redesign introduces a more polished user experience with a card format for tasks, replacing the previous list style.
• The update is being rolled out to users on Android, featuring a floating action button and an accessible three-dot overflow menu.
• The cards in the new design are slightly darker than the background, enhancing visibility in dark mode.
• Users can sideload the latest version via APKMirror if they want the update immediately, though it is primarily being implemented on the server side.
• Google Tasks integrates seamlessly with other Google apps, allowing synchronization of tasks, details, and due dates across devices.

https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/the-google-tasks-app-just-got-a-big-redesign-what-it-looks-like/…

• iPhone 16 upcoming features include a new ‘Capture button’ for quick photo and video access, and a customizable Action button for various functions.
• The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus will feature the new A18 chip and 8GB of RAM, enhancing processing capabilities and future-proofing for software updates.
• Apple is introducing a new camera layout for the iPhone 16, with Main and Ultra Wide cameras stacked vertically, but hardware changes are minimal compared to Pro models.
• The iPhone 16 lineup will maintain the same display sizes as last year, with the standard models missing some advanced features available in Pro versions.
• The devices are expected to be priced at $799 and $899, appealing to budget-conscious consumers while offering access to new Apple Intelligence features and capabilities.

https://9to5mac.com/iphone-16-features-heres-whats-coming-to-apples-new-iphones/…

• Gmail’s quick reply feature on Android streamlines emailing by allowing users to respond directly at the bottom of the conversation window, similar to texting.
• Previously, users had to open a full-screen reply interface, but the new feature saves time and keeps the original email visible for reference.
• Users can easily access the quick reply by tapping into the text box, typing their message, and hitting send; a full-screen option is also available.
• The feature is currently being rolled out to all Google Workspace customers and personal Google account users, with a gradual rollout for Workspace users over 15 days.
• While the quick reply option may not suit formal responses due to limited formatting, it enhances efficiency for quick replies; a toggle to disable it is not currently available.

https://www.zdnet.com/article/gmails-new-quick-reply-feature-on-android-makes-responding-to-emails-as-easy-as-texting/…

• Return to Moria Steam update introduces mining, crafting, and the “Golden Update,” enhancing gameplay with new features and crossplay capabilities.
• The game has transitioned from an Epic Games Store exclusive to being available on Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation, with plans for Steam Deck compatibility.
• The Golden Update includes a procedurally generated sandbox mode, new weapons and armor, adjustable difficulty settings, and a pause function for offline play.
• Initial reviews highlighted the game’s authenticity to Tolkien’s lore but criticized bugs and gameplay mechanics, suggesting it needed further development.
• Recent improvements have addressed player feedback on map readability, combat mechanics, and inventory management, indicating ongoing support from the development team.

https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2024/08/return-to-moria-arrives-on-steam-with-mining-crafting-and-a-golden-update/…

• Nintendo Direct indie surprises featured a variety of exciting third-party titles, including Balatro, Capcom Fighting Collection 2, and Lego Horizon Adventures, amidst a lack of first-party games.
• The Indie World segment showcased fresh independent projects like Pizza Tower and Metal Slug Tactics, despite the absence of highly anticipated titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong.
• Retro game revivals were highlighted, with collections like Tetris Forever and Suikoden I & II HD bringing classic titles back to life on the Switch.
• The showcase also included notable games appealing to wider audiences, such as Yakuza Kiwami, Sid Meier’s Civilization VII, and Rune Factory: Guardians of Azume.
• As Nintendo prepares for the Switch 2 launch, this Direct reassured fans that there are still plenty of engaging games to enjoy on the current console.

https://www.pcmag.com/news/nintendo-direct-wows-with-indie-retro-and-big-name-surprises…

• Snapchat iPad native support is now available, marking the first time the app is optimized for the iPad’s larger screen since its launch in 2011.
• The update allows Snapchat to fill the iPad’s full screen, enhancing user experience with a larger canvas for capturing Snaps and viewing more friends.
• The new app increases accessibility on iPads and serves as a testing ground for features like AR experiences and AI tools.
• Despite the update, the app is not fully optimized as it can only run in portrait mode, lacking landscape support.
• This release positions Snapchat to better compete with TikTok, which has already adapted its app for larger screens, while Instagram still lacks a native iPad app.

https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/27/13-years-later-snapchat-finally-rolls-out-native-support-for-ipads/…

• Marvel vs. Capcom release includes the Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics set to launch on the Switch eShop on September 12, 2024.
• Pre-orders for the digital version are available now, while physical editions will be released on November 22, 2024.
• The collection features six classic fighting games along with the side-scrolling brawler The Punisher.
• Fans express excitement for the early September release, highlighting the growing library of fighting games available on the Switch.
• Some users voice concerns about the delay in physical editions and the trend of staggered releases for digital and physical versions.

https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2024/08/marvel-vs-capcom-fighting-collection-punches-up-september-release…

• Google Pixel vs iPhone highlights how Google’s Pixels are simpler than the iPhone, with Android becoming more refined while iOS adds complexity.
• The Pixel 9 series excels in usability, with AI features often overlooked in favor of the streamlined experience.
• iOS has evolved to include multiple widget systems and complex navigation, making it less straightforward than before.
• The iPhone’s home screen now features various layers of functionality, complicating user interactions compared to the simplicity of Pixel’s design.
• Overall, the roles have reversed, with Android now offering a more user-friendly experience compared to the increasingly bloated iOS.

https://www.fastcompany.com/91178435/google-pixels-simpler-than-iphone…

• Android 15 launch October 2023 has been confirmed by Google, though the exact date within the month remains unclear.
• Google has opted for a different strategy this year by releasing the Pixel 9 series before the Android 15 launch.
• The announcement was made through updated release notes for the Android Beta Exit update, indicating that Android 15 will roll out in October.
• Initial availability of Android 15 will be limited to Pixel phones, with other brands like Samsung and OnePlus facing potential delays.
• Expected features of Android 15 include a battery health percentage, lock-screen widgets, a Private Space for sensitive apps, and support for Bluetooth Auracast.

https://www.techradar.com/phones/android/google-has-quietly-confirmed-that-android-15-is-launching-in-october…