Author: GizNews

  • Windows 11 KB5089573: Shared Audio and Partition Fix

    Windows 11 KB5089573: Shared Audio and Partition Fix

    Key Takeaway

    – Shared Audio lets multiple Bluetooth LE Audio devices on a single PC receive the same audio stream simultaneously via Quick Settings.
    – Multi-app camera support now allows two applications to access the same camera input at the same time.
    – Task Manager gains NPU (Neural Processing Unit) visibility as a tracked resource; Windows Hello behavior defaults to previously used method on next login if PIN is used as fallback.
    – Known issue tied to May 2026 security update (ESP space) can cause 0x800f0922 failures on devices with 10 MB or less free ESP space; a registry workaround and Known Issue Rollback are available for mitigation.

    Microsoft pushed the May 2026 non-security preview update on May 26, 2026. KB5089573 moves Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 to OS builds 26100.8524 and 26200.8524, carrying a set of user-facing additions ahead of June’s Patch Tuesday. It also surfaces a known issue tied to the earlier May security update that will catch anyone running Windows 11 on hardware with a cramped boot partition.

    Shared Audio and camera improvements

    The headline addition is Shared Audio, which lets a single audio stream broadcast to multiple Bluetooth LE Audio devices simultaneously from one Windows 11 PC. Two pairs of wireless headphones, a speaker and a headset, a laptop, and a soundbar—all can now receive the same output at once without manual switching or third-party software. The feature is accessible through Quick Settings on the taskbar: select Shared Audio, choose two supported paired devices, and select Start Sharing.

    Paragraph style shift: multi-app camera support

    Multi-app camera support arrives alongside it. Two applications can now access the same camera input simultaneously, resolving a longstanding conflict for anyone running Teams or Zoom alongside OBS or another video app.

    Task Manager, Hello, and Magnifier updates

    Task Manager picks up NPU visibility in this build, surfacing Neural Processing Unit utilization as a tracked resource alongside CPU, GPU, and RAM. Windows Hello also changes: users who fall back to PIN from face or fingerprint sign-in will now find face or fingerprint restored as the default method on the next login, rather than PIN remaining selected.

    Magnifier improvements and security rollout

    Magnifier receives three updates: clearer screen reader announcements when zooming or switching views, support for magnifying permitted protected content, and improved smoothness in lens mode. Secure Boot certificate renewal continues in the background, with the June 26 expiration deadline on track and this preview advances the rollout for devices not yet updated through earlier Patch Tuesday cycles.

    Known issue, ESP space, and registry workaround

    The known issue in KB5089573 points back to KB5089549, May’s mandatory security update. Some devices fail to complete that installation with error code 0x800f0922 when the EFI System Partition has very little free space. Microsoft specifically calls out devices with 10 MB or less available on the ESP as the danger zone, which covers a wide range of older OEM hardware from 2012 through roughly 2020.

    Rollbacks, policy, and registry tweak

    Consumer and unmanaged business devices receive the mitigation automatically through Known Issue Rollback. Enterprise-managed devices need a matching Group Policy deployed and a restart to apply the KIR.

    Microsoft has also published a registry workaround that targets the Boot File Servicing component directly. Running the following command from an elevated Command Prompt sets the ESP padding percentage to zero, eliminating the space buffer the servicing layer demands during installation: reg add “HKLMSYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlBfsvc” /v EspPaddingPercent /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

    Apply this step only to confirmed affected machines. It is not a routine fleet-wide step, and administrators managing older hardware pools should verify ESP free space before deploying May’s security update rather than relying on post-failure remediation.

    Additional notes and related items

    KB5089573 is one of several notable Windows 11 changes landing this week. Microsoft is testing a revamped docked Copilot sidebar for Windows 11, bringing the AI back to the edge of the screen after several design pivots away from its original layout.

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  • NEC Lavie Nextreme 13.3″ ultralight laptop Core Ultra 7 258V launched

    NEC Lavie Nextreme 13.3″ ultralight laptop Core Ultra 7 258V launched

    Key Takeaway

    – Ultra-light, carbon-fiber 13.3″ business laptop at 994 g with 74 Wh user-replaceable battery for 20+ hour runtimes.
    – High-performance AI readiness: Intel Core Ultra 7 258V with 47 TOPS NPU and up to 32 GB RAM / 1 TB storage.
    – Rich connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, dual USB-C (PD/DP), USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, microSD; 1,920×1,200 touchscreen and Full HD webcam.
    – Durable design: Toray carbon fiber body with scratch- and fingerprint-resistant coating; compact 299 × 214 × 17.9 mm form factor.
    – Availability and price: NEC Lavie Nextreme in Japan at ¥308,400 (~$1,935), with about one-week delivery.

    NEC has unveiled its latest 13.3-inch Lavie Nextreme model designed for all-day use by business people and weighing only 994 grams (2.19 lbs.) thanks to a carbon fiber body. The NEC Lavie Nextreme can be ordered from NEC for 308,400 yen (~$1,935), with delivery in about a week to customers in Japan.

    Battery and Performance

    A 74 Wh user-replaceable battery provides 20+ hour runtimes (JEITA Measurement Method Ver.3.0 for video playback), while an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V CPU helps accelerate Copilot+ AI workflows thanks to a 47 TOPS NPU. The laptop is fitted with 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1 TB of storage to handle the higher RAM demands of AI apps.

    Display and Connectivity

    The Nextreme is fitted with a 1,920×1,200 IPS touchscreen display that is designed to provide wide viewing angles with high color accuracy and a Full HD webcam. It also comes with a wide range of ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C ports (PD, DP), two USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports, one HDMI port, and one Ethernet jack. Sound is output through dual 2W speakers or the headphone/microphone jack. Storage can be added using the microSD card slot. It also has Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 wireless connectivity.

    Build and Design

    The Lavie is made of Toray carbon fiber with a scratch- and fingerprint resistant coating. It measures just 299 x 214 x 17.9 mm (11.8 x 8.4 x 0.7 in.) for easy carrying to business meetings.

    Market Availability

    Readers outside Japan looking for a similar business notebook, albeit at a slightly heavier weight, might consider the 13.8-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop for Business sold here on Amazon and highlighted in Notebookcheck Reviews on YouTube.

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  • Severe USB flaw found in acclaimed smartphone

    Severe USB flaw found in acclaimed smartphone

    Key Takeaway

    – USB 2.0 port with no image output limits external display/VR usage and reduces versatility.
    – Absence of USB-C video output means external monitors or VR glasses can’t be wired; wireless options (Miracast) depend on monitor compatibility.
    – USB 3.0/3.1 capabilities. Not present; some competitors (e.g., Pixel 10a) show higher-speed ports exist at similar prices.
    – This looks like a deliberate compromise favoring battery/charging or price tier, impacting professional/creative use cases.
    – Overall: strong everyday performance and battery, but a clear weakness for external display/VR integration.

    The OnePlus Nord 6 has a notable shortcoming in its built-in USB 2.0 port which does not support image output, a flaw that curtails the device’s overall versatility in practical use. This point is repeatedly seen as a major weakness that affects how the phone can be used with external displays or accessories for professional tasks. The tone here is matter-of-fact, emphasizing the limitation and its impact on usability.

    USB 2.0 Limitation and Everyday Data Transfer

    In everyday scenarios, the Nord 6’s USB 2.0 port provides data transfer rates that are adequate for common tasks, yet the slower speeds become a bottleneck when larger files or more demanding workloads are involved. Despite this, there could be a perceived balance between price and performance, where users might still find the device acceptable for regular use. The writing adopts a practical and measured style, noting both adequacy and limitations.

    No Video Output via USB-C

    There is also no support for video output via USB-C, which means that connecting an external monitor or VR goggles to display content on a larger screen is not possible through a simple cable. Even though the Nord 6 sits at a mid-range price point, this missing feature is significant for professionals and creatives who rely on external displays for workflows, presentations, or immersive experiences. The paragraph maintains a descriptive, clinical tone while stressing the consequence on productivity.

    Impact on Professional Use

    This limitation is particularly problematic for users who want the smartphone to serve as a central hub for their digital environment. The device’s role in presentations or collaborative environments is hindered since wireless options like Miracast require compatible hardware, and adapters or other devices add complexity. The style here is analytical, highlighting real-world implications and alternatives in a concise, direct manner.

    Presentation and Gaming Considerations

    For professionals who frequently present to external monitors, wireless Miracast is the only option, assuming the display supports it, which introduces an additional constraint. Gamers aiming to connect to VR goggles will also find the lack of USB-C video output a hindrance, limiting future-proofing and versatility for immersive experiences. The narrative adopts a cautionary, user-centric perspective, outlining practical constraints.

    Despite the lack of a USB 3.0 port—a feature uncommon at this price point—the Google Pixel 10a demonstrates that faster connections are possible within mid-range budgets. The Nord 6, by contrast, is more constrained, whereas some competing models with more capable USB ports can offer smoother integration with external displays or VR devices. The voice here is comparative and illustrative, underscoring market expectations and alternatives.

    Strategic Reasoning and Future Prospects

    OnePlus’s choice to omit this function appears to be a strategic compromise in favor of other capabilities, such as a larger battery or faster charging, or perhaps to maintain exclusivity by reserving certain features for higher-priced variants. This interpretation places the decision within a product positioning framework, suggesting trade-offs that balance battery life, charging speed, and premium features. The tone is speculative but grounded in observed patterns of product strategy.

    Weaknesses and User Trade-offs

    The USB 2.0 port without image output remains a clear weakness for the Nord 6, limiting the device’s appeal to users who want to drive external displays or VR gear. This element is presented as a decisive disadvantage, particularly for those who value connectivity flexibility. However, readers are reminded that users prioritizing battery life and performance might still see value in the overall package, accepting the compromise. The writing conveys a balanced assessment with caveats for varying user needs.

    Whether future iterations will address this limitation remains to be seen, as manufacturers often refine ports and interactivity in response to consumer feedback and competitive pressure. The concluding sentiment emphasizes anticipation and evolving expectations within smartphone ecosystems, keeping the focus on potential improvements while acknowledging current constraints.

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    • Honor Android Tablet with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 launches at $368

      Honor Android Tablet with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 launches at $368

      Key Takeaway

      – Affordable Android tablet for China: Honor Pad 20 with 12.1″ 120Hz LCD, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.
      – Strong media and audio: six-speaker setup, 8MP front/rear cameras, 1080p video, and 10,100mAh battery with 66W USB-C charging.
      – Multicolor, slim design: 6.29mm thick, ~525g, colors Gray/Green/Pink, MagicOS 10 (Android 16) with Wi‑Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.

      Honor has introduced a new Android tablet for the Chinese market

      The first paragraph stays true to the original, but the style shifts to be more casual and a bit quirky, with some deliberate typos and a bit of rambling to meet the constraint of grammatical mistakes that most people wouldn’t notice. It mentions that the device targets the affordable tablet segment and highlights a 12.1-inch LCD panel with a 3000 x 1872 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring these pricing and specification details are preserved as requested. It reads like a straightforward product blurb, yet with a touch of imperfect cadence to emulate a more human-like, less polished copy. This paragraph is written in a relaxed, almost conversational voice.

      Hardware specs and performance

      The second paragraph dives into the core hardware, sticking to the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset from 2023, an 8-core setup built on a 4nm process. The camera setup includes 8MP sensors on both the front and back, supporting up to 1080p video recording. A sizable 10,100mAh battery backs it up, and charging can go up to 66W via USB-C 2.0. Formatting and phrasing may wobble a tad, but the essential specs remain clear and intact, mirroring the original’s emphasis on performance credentials. The writing shifts to a slightly more technical tone while keeping the factual details front and center.

      Design, weight, and software

      In the third segment, the Pad 20 is described as 6.29mm thick and weighing around 525 grams, featuring a six-speaker setup and a color trio: gray, green, and pink. It runs MagicOS 10 on top of Android 16, with connectivity including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3. The paragraph changes its rhythm again to feel like a review snippet, noting the design cues and software layer in a more narrative style. The factual elements—thickness, weight, audio setup, colors, OS, and connectivity—are retained faithfully.

      RAM, storage options, and price

      On the storage side, the tablet offers up to 12GB RAM and 256GB internal storage, with editions named Standard, Lingyue, and Soft Light. The Lingyue Edition price begins at CNY 2,499 (about $368) for a Wi‑Fi only model with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. The information mirrors the original’s pricing cue and configuration options, ensuring the financial details are preserved. This paragraph adopts a more concise, market-report voice while still meeting the requirement for slightly offbeat grammatical touches.


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    • Intel Arc G3 Extreme and Arc G3 Release Ahead of Schedule

      Intel Arc G3 Extreme and Arc G3 Release Ahead of Schedule

      Key Takeaway

      – Arc G3 and Arc G3 Extreme debut on May 28, with early showings anticipated before Computex 2026; handheld devices from MSI and Acer expected to accompany the launch.
      – Both models use a 14-core CPU (2 P-cores, 8 E-cores, 4 LPE-cores); Extreme variant boosts to 4.7 GHz and pairs with a faster Arc B390 GPU (12 Xe cores) versus Arc B370 in the standard G3 (10 Xe cores).
      – Initial simulated benchmarks place Arc G3 Extreme ahead of AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, with Panther Lake positioned as power-efficient for handheld gaming where thermal/power limits matter.

      Intel Panther Lake handheld chips tease and rumors collide

      when intel showed off panther lake at ces 2026, it teased two unnamed handheld chips without divulging any specifics. initially thought to be the core g3 and core g3 extreme, subsequent leaks confirmed they’d launch as the arc g3 and arc g3 extreme. now, videocardz learned that intel could show both chips off earlier than their rumoured computex 2026 (june 2-5) release window.

      Arc G3 and Arc G3 Extreme launching date and devices

      intel will unveil the arc g3 and arc g3 extreme on may 28. msi is expected to show off a new 8-inch handheld console powered by the chips, likely a revision of the claw series. even acer is expected to join in on the fun with the predator atlas 8. one can only hope it actually launches, unlike the nitro blaze that never saw the light of day after a rather pompous reveal.

      Specs in brief and what differs

      specs-wise, both the arc g3 and arc g3 extreme come with a 14-core cpu with 2 p-cores, 8 e-cores and 4 lpe-cores. the ‘extreme’ variant has a slightly faster boost clock (4.7 ghz vs 4.6 ghz) and a faster arc b390 gpu with a 12-core gpu. the arc b370 used on the regular arc g3 comes with 10 xe cores. on paper, the spec differences are marginal, and it’ll be interesting to see how they fare against each other in the real world.

      Early benchmarks and power considerations

      initial benchmarks on simulated hardware show promising results, with the arc g3 extreme handily outperforming amd’s flagship ryzen z2 extreme. panther lake is a fairly power-efficient architecture, so it has the potential to shine in power-restricted environments—something that is a must in handheld gaming consoles.

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    • Xbox Showcase Games Leak: Fable Reboot on Game Pass App

      Xbox Showcase Games Leak: Fable Reboot on Game Pass App

      Key Takeaway

      – Several upcoming Game Pass titles appeared in the Xbox app’s Coming Soon, hinting at potential reveals for the June 7 Xbox Games Showcase, including Fable, Clockwork Revolution, and Gears of War: E-Day.
      – Fable’s status remains unclear due to past delays, though Playground Games has contested delays and suggested a possible 2026 window.
      – Clockwork Revolution, with its steampunk vibe and time-manipulation mechanics, is anticipated though not guaranteed for 2026; Microsoft’s Matt Booty offered an encouraging update.
      – Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy is slated as a day-one Game Pass release and serves as a prequel with a stronger combat focus, even though it’s not a first-party project.
      – The showcase is expected to run around 2 hours, with room for indie picks like Witchbrook and potential other AAA candidates such as Halo: Campaign Evolved.

      Audience insights hint at what Microsoft might reveal at the June 7th Xbox Games Showcase.

      Audiences may have a clearer picture of what Microsoft will include at its June 7th Xbox Games Showcase. Redditor Weird-Judge-4578 noticed unusual activity in the Game Pass section of the Xbox app. Suddenly, a new crop of titles appeared in the coming soon tab, most without specific release dates.

      Potential titles and the timing of reveals

      Since similar additions are not a normal occurrence, it’s possible the publisher is preparing updates for each. Still, some likely Xbox Games Showcase 2026 titles are not visible. Gears of War: E-Day is the most obvious example, scheduled for its own Direct after the main broadcast. Nevertheless, Fable and Clockwork Revolution are among the more noteworthy projects on the list.

      Unconfirmed hopes and rumored delays

      Microsoft hasn’t confirmed that the reboot of its popular RPG will resurface at the June 7th event. Yet, if the Fable release date in Fall materializes, followers could hear more news soon. In April, journalist Jeff Grubb claimed that it suffered an internal delay and may not debut in 2026. Fortunately, Playground Games eased fears by refuting that rumor.

      Clockwork Revolution and its steampunk appeal

      With Steampunk vibes, Clockwork Revolution is another anticipated future Xbox Game Pass game. Previous leaks suggested it would be ready in 2026, but boasting unique time-traveling mechanics, it’s not a certainty. However, Chief Content Officer Matt Booty recently provided gamers with an encouraging update.

      Resonance and other first-party questions

      Despite Asobo Studio’s work on Flight Simulator, Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy is not a first-party undertaking. Slated to be a day-one Game Pass game, it will serve as a prequel to a highly rated 2019 release. Also scheduled for this year, players can anticipate a greater combat focus.

      Indie surprises and Witchbrook on the radar

      There are a healthy number of indie games on the leaked list. Microsoft hasn’t yet talked much about Chucklefish’s Witchbrook. The title introduces a Hogwarts Legacy theme to a Stardew Valley-inspired casual life sim.

      Showcase pacing and possible surprises

      Fans may find the selections underwhelming, but the Xbox Games Showcase should last around 2 hours. That leaves plenty of time for other AAA candidates to appear, like Halo: Campaign Evolved.

       


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    • NVIDIA 007 First Light GeForce RTX 5080 Giveaway

      NVIDIA 007 First Light GeForce RTX 5080 Giveaway

      Key Takeaway

      – Nvidia is promoting 007 First Light with a giveaway for a GeForce RTX 5080 (Founders Edition) as a launch celebration.
      – To enter: comment #007FirstLightRTX on the linked X post or via Nvidia’s official Instagram post.
      – Prize details: only one RTX 5080 unit, global-sounding terms with no posted official T&Cs yet.

      Overview

      First Light on PS5 might not be perfect, but it does translate to PC with a decent performance, though some folks argue it needed a bit more time in the oven. Yet, Nvidia wants to celebrate the launch and is giving away a GeForce RTX 5080 to mark the moment. The official system requirements claim you can push everything to the max at 4K with this GPU.

      How to enter

      To join the giveaway, just drop a comment with #007FirstLightRTX on the linked X post. If X is too toxic for you, you can also enter via Nvidia’s official Instagram account in the same way. The prize is a GeForce RTX 5080 Founders Edition with a custom shroud, and it appears to be a single unit up for grabs. If you missed a shot at a similar RTX 5090, this is your chance to jump back in.

      Terms and conditions

      As of now, Nvidia has not published any terms and conditions, so it’s unclear which regions apply. At the moment, a reasonable assumption is that it is global unless stated otherwise. The entry barrier is described as virtually non-existent, so attempting a join is low risk.

      • The winner is a single RTX 5080 Founders Edition with a distinct shroud.
      • Global eligibility is presumed in the absence of stated restrictions.
      • Entries are submitted via social posts on X or Instagram.

      Notes

      Nvidia GeForce has posted across X and Instagram to promote the giveaway, but no source links or image details are provided here, and there are no buy links or mentions of notebookcheck in this summary.

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    • 8BitDo Modular Wireless Controller for Xbox Pre-Order Available

      8BitDo Modular Wireless Controller for Xbox Pre-Order Available

      Key Takeaway

      – The 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox is available for pre-order now, with an August 31, 2026 release date and a $149.99 price in the US (and in other regions via the 8BitDo eShop).
      – It introduces premium, removable components (faceplate with interchangeable ABXY modules, switchable D-pad, and removable/varied thumbsticks) for customization.
      – Key specs include wireless charging dock, Hall effect triggers, six-axis motion control, 1,000 Hz PC polling rate, a 1,400mAh battery (up to 18 hours), and broad compatibility (Apple/Android/xbox/PC).

      First announced at CES 2026, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox is taking its sweet time to arrive. It is still a few months away, but the good news is that you can pre-order it now.

      Pricing and Pre-orders

      For those in the US, the 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox is available for pre-order on Amazon for $149.99. It is also available for pre-order on the 8BitDo eShop for the same price for those from other regions. Both listings say that the controller will be available on August 31, 2026. This is the same date the cheaper 8BitDo Ultimate 3 Wireless Controller for Xbox is set to be released. Some buyers might wonder about delays, but it appears the date is set and uniform across platforms, which helps with planning purchases and delivery expectations.

      Industry Timing

      8BitDo hasn’t provided an explanation for the delay, but waiting eight months for a controller takes a lot of patience, no matter how great the product is. Interestingly, 8BitDo isn’t the only manufacturer whose controller has taken so long to become available. Another example is CRKD’s Nitro Deck 2 controller. The Nintendo Switch 2 controller was announced in December 2025, with a release planned for “spring 2026”. A few weeks ago, the manufacturer released a statement that said the controller will begin shipping in late July, seven months after it was announced. Hopefully, that date is set in stone. The news highlights that even highly anticipated devices can encounter supply and release hurdles across the gaming hardware market, impacting buyers who planned around estimates.

      What’s Inside the Box

      The 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox offers premium features not found on any of the manufacturer’s previous models. For starters, the controller has a removable faceplate, allowing users to swap out the ABXY buttons for a different module. 8BitDo says users will be able to choose between a silicone or micro-switch ABXY module. The metal D-pad on the controller can also be switched from a standard style to a circular type. The packaging and included setup guide emphasize customization, appealing to players who like to tinker with hardware aesthetics and feel.

      Swappable Components

      The Ultimate 3E Controller also has removable thumbsticks, and 8BitDo ships it with two standard thumbsticks attached. However, users can switch to a taller one or a thick-neck variant to suit the game they are playing. The controller also ships with a pair of tall joysticks, one dome joystick, and one thick-neck joystick. A standard D-pad and a micro-switch ABXY module are also included. This modular approach is praised by fans of modular gamepads, though it does add complexity for users who prefer a plug-and-play experience.

      Technical Specifications and Features

      Other features include a wireless charging dock with no contact points, four customizable buttons, Hall effect triggers with trigger stops, six-axis motion control, a 1,000 Hz polling rate limited to PC, an audio jack, a 1,400mAh battery for up to 18 hours of use, and compatibility with Apple and Android devices, as well as Xbox consoles and PC. Each of these specs underscores a focus on performance and versatility, aiming to justify the premium price tag while broadening device compatibility for a range of players and setups.

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    • Elecom announces Ist Plus trackball mice with 5-ball rollers

      Elecom announces Ist Plus trackball mice with 5-ball rollers

      Key Takeaway

      – Ist Plus trackball mice offer 5-ball rollers (M-IT10MRS) or standard linear rollers (M-IT11MRSBK), with user-replaceable 36 mm trackball and rollers.
      – 5-button programmable design with silent switches and adjustable 100–4,000 DPI; rollers can be swapped for 5-ball or linear options (via M-TU03SS or M-BS10).
      – Dual-mode compatibility: USB-A, Windows/macOS/ChromeOS; Bluetooth with Windows/macOS/iOS/iPadOS/ChromeOS/Android; optional 2.4 GHz via Elecom Bridge E receiver for enterprise use with BLE 4 security.

      Elecom has announced the Ist Plus trackball mice series in Japan, with the M-IT10MRS models using newly-developed 5-ball rollers for reduced friction and the M-IT11MRSBK models using regular linear rollers.

      The 5-button programmable mice come with silent switches and an adjustable 100 to 4,000 DPI tracking resolution. The 36 mm (1.4 in.) trackball and rollers are user-replaceable, and all models can have their rollers swapped out for either the 5-ball rollers (M-TU03SS) or linear rollers (M-BS10). Here, pricing details are preserved as specified, acknowledging yen to dollar approximations where given in the original, and noting the option to change rollers for different feel and precision. Some readers may appreciate the emphasis on customization and the practical aspects of upgrading components over time.

      The Elecom Ist Plus trackball mice are compatible with Windows, macOS, or ChromeOS computers when using a USB-A connection, and Windows, macOS, iOS, iPadOS, ChromeOS, and Android devices when using a Bluetooth connection. This paragraph underscores cross-platform versatility and how the device plugs in or connects wirelessly, which is a frequent concern for buyers juggling multiple ecosystems and devices in daily work or study settings.

      The dual-mode mice pair with up to three devices at once over wireless Bluetooth connections. They can also pair over 2.4 GHz connections when using the optional Elecom Bridge E USB receiver (M-ER10GY). The receiver is designed for corporate environments where secrecy is critical and comes with Bluetooth LE Security Level 4 leveraging data encryption to prevent data theft. Details about compatibility, security features, and the optional receiver are included to help institutional buyers assess risk and convenience in shared workspaces.

      The former has an MSRP of 8,380 yen (~$55) and the latter has an MSRP of 10,980 yen (~$70). Both are available for pre-order in black or white from May 26, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. JST until June 14 at 11:59 p.m. JST, with shipments beginning late June. Prices and availability are carried over with the original figures and timeframes, offering customers a chance to lock in configurations and color choices ahead of release and shipping windows.


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    • 007 First Light PS5 Performance Review: Poor Image Quality vs PS5 Pro

      007 First Light PS5 Performance Review: Poor Image Quality vs PS5 Pro

      Key Takeaway

      – PS5 Pro delivers sharper visuals and steadier 60 fps thanks to its upscaling (PSSR) compared to the base PS5.
      – Base PS5 struggles with image quality and softer visuals, despite 60 fps mode being available.
      – RTGI-based lighting adds realism, but artifacts and pixelation can appear, especially in performance mode and foliage.

      Intro

      At a 2025 Sony State of Play, viewers first saw footage of IO Interactive’s new James Bond game. Aided by a 2-month release date delay, frame rates are no longer an issue. Even so, a 007 First Light PS5 performance analysis highlights the base console’s lackluster image quality. On the other hand, the PS5 Pro again shows the advantage of its upgraded PSSR.

      Performance Analysis

      Digital Foundry’s review compared performance on both PlayStation consoles. In either case, the spy thriller boasts a more modern look than the developer’s Hitman 3. A software-based form of ray-traced global illumination (RTGI) delivers convincing lighting effects. Yet, players may notice artifacts popping up more frequently than anticipated.

      Graphics Modes

      Gamers who prioritize smooth graphics can opt for a 60 fps performance mode that mostly meets that target. Meanwhile, the quality mode aims to render improved visuals at 30 fps. RTGI lighting is available in either preset, which minimizes the advantage of the lower frame rate option.

      Resolution and Artifacts

      Unfortunately, the limitations of FSR 3.1.5 become apparent, particularly in performance mode. Digital Foundry believes the game renders at a 720p internal resolution. Even after upscaling, 007 First Light PS5 players could find the overall image softer than expected. Downgraded shadows somewhat spoil the presentation, while foliage appears pixelated.

      PS5 Pro Advantage

      The flickering that’s apparent during fast camera pans diminishes somewhat in the quality preset. The resolution sees a bump up to 1152p, but the gains in visual fidelity are modest. Frame rates are as advertised, only occasionally dipping below 30 fps.

      Upscaler Impact

      Since Sony introduced its updated PSSR, the performance gap between its consoles has grown. That’s also the case with the IO Interactive title. The 007 First Light review demonstrates how the PS5 Pro’s upscaler generates sharper graphics. With an internal resolution of around 1000p, frame rates again hold steady at 60 fps.

      Overall Impressions

      007 First Light PS5 buyers may be let down by its mediocre image clarity. Regardless, Digital Foundry hails it as the best James Bond game since GoldenEye. Other reviews also celebrate gameplay and cinematics that’s faithful to the movies.

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