Author: GizNews

  • PlayStation 5 PSSR 2.0 Uses AMD FSR 4 INT8, Skips PC RDNA GPUs

    PlayStation 5 PSSR 2.0 Uses AMD FSR 4 INT8, Skips PC RDNA GPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD accidentally exposed the full FSR 4 libraries and source code on GitHub, which were quickly removed but noted by modders.

    2. The leaked files included an INT8 version of FSR 4 that works on older RDNA 2 and RDNA 3 GPUs, though AMD has no plans to officially support it for older Radeon cards.

    3. The INT8 version of FSR 4 is being used by Sony in the PS5 and PS5 Pro under the name “upgraded PSSR” upscaling solution.

    4. There are technical differences between FSR 4 and Sony’s PSSR 2.0, with different implementations due to hardware specifications despite similar core technology.

    5. AMD has not commented on the leak, and the only guaranteed access to official FSR 4 support appears to be through the new RX 9000 series GPUs.

    AMD recently made a significant error by unintentionally exposing the full FSR 4 libraries and source code on its GitHub repository through the AMD OpenGPU Project. Although the company quickly removed the files, modders had already taken note of the leak.

    INT8 Version of FSR 4

    The leaked files included details about an INT8 version of FSR 4, which is a lighter version capable of running on older RDNA 2 and RDNA 3 GPUs. Currently, AMD has no plans to launch FSR 4 for older Radeon cards. Interestingly, both the PS5 and PS5 Pro, which utilize RDNA 2 architecture, are operating with an INT8 version of FSR 4, referred to by Sony as its “upgraded PSSR” upscaling solution.

    Context of FSR 4

    When AMD initially presented FSR 4, also known as FSR Redstone, the company highlighted that it was specifically tailored for its newest RDNA 4 GPUs found in the Radeon RX 9000 series. The GitHub leak reveals that the lighter INT8 version of FSR 4 can function well on RDNA 2 and RDNA 3 GPUs, leaving users with RX 6000 and RX 7000 series without access to this technology.

    Despite this, modders quickly downloaded the libraries before AMD could take them down and have started modifying their games to integrate the INT8 FSR 4 build into RX 6000 and RX 7000 series GPUs.

    PSSR 2.0 Rollout

    Sony has implemented and rolled out an upgraded version of PSSR, which is being dubbed PSSR 2.0, in the game Resident Evil: Requiem. In a recent chat, PlayStation’s lead system architect, Mark Cerny, spoke with Digital Foundry about how the new PSSR technology connects back to AMD.

    Cerny elaborated on the technical distinctions between FSR 4 and the new PSSR, stating, “FSR Redstone and the new PSSR have somewhat different implementations due to the underlying hardware, e.g., FSR Upscaling uses 8-bit floating point, and PSSR uses 8-bit integer.”

    Core Technology

    He added that while the fundamental technology remains consistent, the training process is tailored to each platform, like PC and PlayStation 5. Cerny mentioned, “In practice, the same model is used, but it’s trained on different data, e.g., if targeting a 2:1 fixed upscale, then the training data used is just for that upsampling ratio, and that different training results in different parameters… Not seeing too much difference in the results, the various flavors in the updated FSR Upscaling really are rather close to the new PSSR.”

    This provides pretty much confirmation that PSSR 2.0 on the PS5 Pro is effectively utilizing the INT8 version of FSR 4 that AMD inadvertently exposed in its GitHub libraries. To add to the issue, AMD has not commented on the situation, and it appears that Team Red will not offer FSR 4 for older Radeon GPUs, making the purchase of an RX 9000 series GPU likely the only guaranteed way to access official FSR 4 support from AMD.

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  • YouTuber Reveals New 1080p Digital-Bus Mod for SNES

    YouTuber Reveals New 1080p Digital-Bus Mod for SNES

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Super Switch HD mod for the SNES delivers clear 1080p video output using the console’s own hardware, eliminating the need for upscalers.
    2. Created by Stanislav Parhomovich, the mod offers impressive video quality without artifacts or conversion issues.
    3. The mod allows users to adjust resolution, screen size, aspect ratio, and more through an interface activated by specific button combinations.
    4. Unlike other solutions that rely on analog RGB output, the Super Switch HD uses a dedicated digital bus for better performance and reduced input lag.
    5. The mod is still in the prototype phase, with no release date or pricing information available yet.

    A fresh modification for the classic Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is gaining popularity among retro gaming fans. This new SNES mod is said to deliver clear 1080p output using the console’s own hardware. Dubbed the Super Switch HD, this digital output mod eliminates the need for upscalers or analog RGB signals that are often used with modern televisions.

    Impressive Video Quality

    In a demonstration of the prototype mod, the SNES showcased a pristine 1080p video output, meaning that classic SNES games can now appear visually appealing on the original hardware without any artifacts or conversion problems.

    The creator of the HD digital output mod for the SNES is Stanislav Parhomovich. Previously, he developed the Megaswitch HD for the Sega Genesis last year. To give some context, the Megaswitch HD was directly connected to the Sega Genesis’s digital video bus, allowing for a native HDMI output while maintaining the console’s original hardware. It provided a clear, responsive 1080p experience.

    Exciting New Features

    Now, Parhomovich is extending this 1080p digital-output technology to Nintendo’s 16-bit console. On X, he shared insights about his SNES mod, stating, “I’m working on a digital video output for the SNES. It’s conceptually similar to the Megaswitch HD. No analog RGB.”

    He demonstrated the Super Switch HD on YouTube by running Pilotwings (1991) on a 1080p Dell monitor. By pressing Start and Up on the D-pad at the same time, the Super Switch HD reveals an interface that lets him modify the SNES’s resolution, screen size, aspect ratio, buffer post-processing, and additional settings.

    Modding the Classics

    In the video (translated from Russian), he said, “I’m developing a digital video output for the Super Nintendo. The Super Switch HD is an internal modification that enhances the image to 1080p. The data source is a dedicated digital bus in the video processor. Both 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios are supported.”

    Most alternative solutions have concentrated on analog RGB output through internal hardware mods or special adapters and cables. While these methods can produce 1080p output, they often result in some visual noise and input lag. That’s where the Super Switch HD stands out.

    Currently, this SNES 1080p digital output mod is in a working prototype phase, but there’s no set release date or pricing information available.

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  • Dnsys Launches Second Batch of Kojima Death Stranding 2 Knee Exoskeletons

    Dnsys Launches Second Batch of Kojima Death Stranding 2 Knee Exoskeletons

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dnsys is launching the second round of the Kojima Death Stranding 2: On the Beach x Dnsys Z1 knee exoskeleton on March 26, 2026, after the first batch sold out quickly.
    2. The special-edition Z1 exoskeleton is priced at $1,998 and is designed to align with the futuristic themes of the Death Stranding universe.
    3. Interested buyers can register for updates on the upcoming release and should monitor the website for announcements due to high demand.
    4. The Z1 knee exoskeleton enhances mobility and can be used with the X1 hip exoskeleton for improved performance in various activities.
    5. The exoskeleton features AI technology, a dual-core processor, and powerful motors, providing mobility assistance while reducing knee pressure.

    Dnsys is gearing up to launch the second round of the Kojima Death Stranding 2: On the Beach x Dnsys Z1 knee exoskeleton. The initial batch of 100 special-edition exoskeletons flew off the shelves in just an hour, priced at $1,998, after a giveaway in 2025. Interested buyers can register to receive updates about the second release, which is scheduled for March 26, 2026. Given the significant demand, it’s advisable to keep an eye on the website for any news.

    Special Features of the Z1 Exoskeleton

    This limited-edition model is an exclusive variant of Dnsys’s Z1 knee exoskeleton, which debuted on Kickstarter in August 2025. The video game associated with this product, part of Kojima’s celebrated Death Stranding series, is available for purchase on Amazon, and Notebookcheck has reviewed it.

    Kojima Productions’ art director, Yoji Shinkawa, expressed:

    “We crafted this exoskeleton with utmost care and enthusiasm, almost as if it was made for the Death Stranding universe. Every little aspect was polished to bring the game’s futuristic concept into existence, making it something that Sam Porter Bridges could actually wear. Wearing it gives you the sensation that the world of Death Stranding has materialized, merging creativity and reality.”

    Enhanced Mobility Features

    The Z1 knee exoskeleton can be used concurrently with the X1 hip exoskeleton from Dnsys, which has also been reviewed by Notebookcheck and is available on Amazon. This combination provides an extra boost in mobility for various activities, from hiking to sports.

    The collaborative exoskeleton utilizes AI technology with a dual-core 240 MHz processor, which powers 900-watt motors with each step taken. It runs on interchangeable batteries that offer hours of mobility assistance while alleviating pressure on the knees and enhancing trekking distance, as stated by Dnsys.

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  • Android Outperforms iPhone in Google Search Speed, Reports Say

    Android Outperforms iPhone in Google Search Speed, Reports Say

    Key Takeaways

    1. Android has surpassed iPhone as the fastest mobile platform for web browsing.
    2. Recent enhancements have improved performance on Android flagship devices in key benchmarks like Speedometer 3.1 and LoadLine.
    3. Speedometer measures browser responsiveness, showing Android devices outperforming iOS models.
    4. LoadLine assesses link opening speed, with Android devices reportedly opening links up to 47% faster than competitors.
    5. Despite significant benchmark improvements, real-world benefits for users are more modest, with only a 5% increase in loading times and 9% in smoothness.

    Just as AirDrop is beginning to expand to a wider range of Android devices, Google has now announced that Android has surpassed iPhone as the quickest mobile platform for browsing the web.

    New Performance Insights

    A recent post on the Chromium Blog reveals that recent enhancements have elevated the performance of Android flagship devices to unprecedented heights in key industry benchmarks, specifically Speedometer 3.1 and LoadLine.

    Speedometer, which is a collaborative effort involving Apple, Google, and Mozilla, mimics typical user activities like clicking on buttons and scrolling to gauge how responsive a browser feels. The benchmark results released by Google indicate that unnamed Android flagship smartphones are outperforming the latest models from a “competing mobile phone platform” (which refers to iOS).

    LoadLine Benchmarking

    The second tool, LoadLine, is a newer benchmark created by Google and its collaborators. It assesses the speed at which links are opened after being clicked. Google asserts that high-end Android devices now open links up to 47% faster than their non-Android rivals.

    Google attributes this increase in web browsing speed to what it calls “vertical integration.” By working closely with chip manufacturers and phone producers, Google has optimized the Android kernel and the Chrome engine for better efficiency with specific hardware. However, there’s a downside – the speed differences might not be as significant as the benchmarks indicate.

    Real-World Performance

    Even though these improvements have purportedly led to a 20-60% increase in benchmark scores year-over-year, Google mentions that users can expect only about a 5% increase in page loading times and a 9% enhancement in smoothness during everyday usage.

    In summary, while Android’s web browsing capabilities are impressive on paper, the practical benefits may be more modest than the statistics suggest.

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  • Oppo Watch X3 Mini Unveils Redesigned Crown in First Look

    Oppo Watch X3 Mini Unveils Redesigned Crown in First Look

    Key Takeaways

    1. Oppo is set to unveil a smaller version of its smartwatch called the Oppo Watch X3 Mini.
    2. The design features a silver case, white fluoroelastomer straps, and a new rounded digital crown.
    3. Color options for the Watch X3 Mini are not confirmed, but users can likely change straps for different looks.
    4. There is no official release date yet, but a launch is expected next month.
    5. The Watch X3 Mini is anticipated to be priced lower than the Watch X3, possibly with fewer features.

    Following news that Oppo is planning to unveil a smaller version of its smartwatch called the Watch X3, a recent leak has given us a sneak peek at this upcoming device. Known as the Oppo Watch X3 Mini, the image was shared by Evan Blass.

    Design Details

    The leaked image, posted on X, reveals that the Oppo Watch X3 Mini will sport a silver case paired with white straps, likely made from fluoroelastomer. What stands out is the revamped design of the digital crown. Unlike its predecessor and the Watch X3, which have a flat top, the new crown has a more rounded appearance. The secondary button, however, appears to remain the same.

    Color Options

    It’s unclear whether this will be the sole color option available. Last year’s Oppo Watch X2 Mini, which can be found on Amazon.de for €293.86, was launched in two different shades — Glimmer Gold and Nebula Black. Nevertheless, users should have the flexibility to change straps for different colors or materials as they choose.

    Release Information

    Currently, there is no official release date for the Oppo Watch X3 Mini, but some sources suggest it could be revealed next month. When it does launch, it is expected to be priced lower than the Oppo Watch X3. However, this more affordable price point might come at the cost of some important features that the larger model offers.

    Evan Blass shared this on X.

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  • Sony Shifts Focus to PS6 Games, Moving Away from PlayStation PC Ports

    Sony Shifts Focus to PS6 Games, Moving Away from PlayStation PC Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Jeff Gerstmann believes game studios are shifting focus to developing projects for the PS6, even if its release is not confirmed for 2027.
    2. Concerns exist about the PS6’s potential high price and impressive specs, especially amid ongoing memory shortages that could affect availability.
    3. Sony’s strategy of limiting PS5 exclusives on PC may encourage more buyers to choose the PS6 console instead.
    4. Sony faces criticism for its investment in live-service games, with the need for strong single-player titles for the PS6 emphasized.
    5. Future announcements regarding the PS6 release date may be delayed, but clarity on PS5 exclusives could come soon.

    Some players are doubtful about the PS6 hitting shelves in 2027. Nevertheless, journalist Jeff Gerstmann is of the opinion that game studios might already be developing projects for the new console. A rumored choice to stop PlayStation PC ports could indicate that Sony is speeding up its plans for this new system.

    Insights from Gerstmann

    The previous Editorial Director of Gamespot and co-founder of Giant Bomb now runs a podcast regularly. In a recent episode, Gerstmann shared that “every studio that isn’t already working on a PS5 game needs to be pushing in the direction of PlayStation 6.” This suggests that many developers might have shifted their focus towards the future.

    Timing and Expectations

    Although the podcaster can’t specify when the PS6 will launch, he wouldn’t find it shocking if it arrives sooner than some fans expect. There are concerns regarding whether the PS6, if it comes with a hefty price, will have specs impressive enough to drive sales. The ongoing memory shortages could also result in delays or higher prices than originally thought.

    Gerstmann points out that, in spite of these worries, Sony seems to be moving towards the next generation. Keeping single-player PS5 exclusives off Steam might actually benefit the upcoming hardware. With fewer PlayStation games available on PC, buyers may be more tempted to opt for the console instead.

    Criticism and Future Plans

    Sony has been criticized for pouring a lot of resources into live-service games. Concord underperformed significantly, and Marathon hasn’t yet achieved Bungie’s expectations. However, the company understands that multi-platform shooters alone won’t attract all gamers to its next console. Just like before, there’s a need for distinctive single-player PS6 games.

    Whether PlayStation will alter its strategy again is up for debate. For the time being, players can still look forward to multiplayer games like Horizon Hunters Gathering making their way to Steam. Sony might postpone the announcement of the PS6 release date, but Jason Schreier from Bloomberg believes it could soon provide clarity on its position regarding PS5 exclusives.

    The Jeff Gerstmann Show

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  • Sony Patent Links Smartphone to PS5 DualSense Controller for Gaming

    Sony Patent Links Smartphone to PS5 DualSense Controller for Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony’s new patent suggests using smartphones as an additional input device to enhance the gaming experience with the PS5 controller.
    2. The integration of smartphones allows for expanded input options, utilizing their displays and sensors alongside the standard controller.
    3. The setup could enable games to recognize commands from both the PS5 controller and the smartphone simultaneously.
    4. Potential advantages include more natural controls via touchscreens and the use of smartphone sensors for unique gaming experiences.
    5. Developers may utilize smartphone features like high-resolution cameras to improve character design processes and gameplay.

    Several patents from Sony have suggested improvements for its standard PS5 controller. The latest concept shifts focus from the controller itself to a smartphone positioned above it. Cheat Happens uncovered the document that outlines how this additional input device could enhance gaming experiences.

    Expanding Input Options

    The aim of the patent is to “expand the variety of input control types that may be delivered by an input device.” It highlights smartphones as they are “commonly used and generally contain a display and at least one sensor.” Sony believes gamers will likely have a Galaxy phone or an iPhone close by, even into the PS6 generation.

    Controller and Phone Integration

    Images in the patent seem to show a DualSense PS5 controller with a mobile phone attached via a clip. This setup is similar to various phone mounts for controllers that are already available. Future PS5 or PS6 games would be able to recognize commands from both the controller and the smartphone at the same time.

    Potential Advantages

    Though the setup might seem clumsy, Sony sees several possible advantages. Certain games could feel more natural to control using a touchscreen rather than traditional sticks and buttons. Game developers might also use smartphone sensors that are usually not found in other gaming accessories.

    Although the Nintendo Wii U didn’t manage to win over critics, an extra screen can improve gameplay when properly utilized. The second display can allow games to show a map or present action from a different viewpoint.

    Utilizing Smartphone Features

    Developers might also discover ways to make use of a mobile phone’s high-resolution camera. Some games already let players upload selfies when designing their characters, but this process isn’t always smooth.

    The latest Sony patent is just one of many aimed at enhancing the DualSense PS5 controller and its future versions. Most pertinent to this new idea is a filing from January for a stickless and buttonless version. Instead of depending on an additional device, players could map touchscreen inputs directly onto the surface of the controller.

    Cheat Happens, Oivo, Orzly.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Cartridge Games Becoming More Expensive

    Nintendo Switch 2 Cartridge Games Becoming More Expensive

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has changed its pricing strategy for games on the Nintendo Switch 2, lowering digital prices compared to physical versions.
    2. The new pricing model is a response to increased storage costs due to the DRAM crisis.
    3. Prices for previously released games will remain the same, despite the new pricing structure.
    4. The first game to feature the new pricing is “Yoshi and the Mysterious Book,” launching in May at $59.99 digitally, while the cartridge version is $69.99.
    5. Nintendo states that both digital and physical versions provide the same content and gaming experience.

    Nintendo has changed its pricing strategy for games on the Nintendo Switch 2 ($449 on Amazon). Previously, the price was the same for both digital and physical versions. Retailers often provided discounts at launch, which meant that the digital copies sometimes cost more.

    New Pricing Model

    Now, Nintendo has decided to lower the list price for digital versions on the Nintendo eShop compared to cartridge versions. This adjustment seems to be a response to increased storage costs caused by the DRAM crisis. However, the prices for games that have already been released will remain unchanged.

    First Title with New Pricing

    The first game to adopt this new pricing structure is Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, set to launch in May. It can be pre-ordered now on the Nintendo eShop for $59.99, while the standard retail version is priced at $69.99. Nintendo assures that both versions provide the same content and gaming experience, no matter how they are bought. This change aims to reflect the “different costs of production and distribution,” which is reasonable since game cartridges not only require costly memory chips but also include retail margins.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Gains AirDrop Support in US and Europe

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Gains AirDrop Support in US and Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is rolling out a significant software update (build AZCF) for Galaxy S26 series users in Europe, India, and the U.S.
    2. The update introduces native AirDrop support to Samsung’s Quick Share feature, allowing file sharing with iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
    3. This functionality enables users to share files directly without needing third-party applications.
    4. Currently, AirDrop support is limited to the S26 series, but Samsung plans to extend it to more devices with the upcoming One UI 8.5 update.
    5. Apple’s lack of official response suggests they may be considering easing restrictions due to regulatory pressure from the European Commission.

    This is a significant moment! Samsung is closing one of the biggest divides between Android and iOS.

    Major Update Rolling Out

    After launching in South Korea, Samsung is now distributing a substantial software update (build AZCF) to Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra users in Europe, India, and the United States, according to the latest reports. This update, which is about 900 MB in size, introduces native AirDrop support to Samsung’s Quick Share feature.

    New Sharing Capabilities

    With this new functionality, Galaxy users can easily share files directly with iPhones, iPads, and Macs without the need for any third-party applications. Although this feature was first seen on the Pixel 10 (thanks to Google’s initiative to enable AirDrop cross-compatibility), Samsung is now the latest brand to implement this standard.

    Getting Started with AirDrop

    To enable “AirDrop” on your Samsung device using Quick Share:

    Currently, this feature is only available for the S26 series, but Samsung intends to extend support to additional devices, likely with the forthcoming One UI 8.5 update.

    It should be mentioned that Apple hasn’t made any official statements regarding the “AirDrop on Android” situation. The feature seems to be a reverse-engineered solution rather than a collaboration between the two companies, at least based on what is known publicly. Nonetheless, the absence of any blocks indicates that Apple might be gearing up to relax their strict policies in response to growing regulatory demands from the European Commission.

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  • Google’s Music AI: Create an Album in Just a Few Clicks

    Google’s Music AI: Create an Album in Just a Few Clicks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Advanced Music Creation: Lyra 3 Pro allows users to create entire songs or albums, extending track length to three minutes for richer compositions.

    2. Improved Musical Structure: The AI can identify different song sections (intro, verse, chorus, bridge) for better transitions, reducing the need for human composers.

    3. Reduced Creative Effort: The tool significantly lowers the creative input required, making it suitable for businesses needing original soundtracks without hiring artists.

    4. Copyright Management: Lyra 3 Pro uses licensed data and SynthID watermarking to address copyright concerns while producing high-quality audio.

    5. Shift in AI Role: The introduction of Lyra 3 Pro marks a transition in AI’s role in music, evolving from a supportive tool to a primary creator.

    Expanding on last month’s Lyria 3 launch, Google has introduced Lyra 3 Pro, a more advanced version of the Lyra 3 music generation AI. This tool can create entire songs or even albums from scratch. Lyra 3 Pro appears to offer a significant improvement in how users can “construct” a new track. Now, users can produce tracks that last up to three minutes, giving them control over various elements of the music.

    Enhanced Musical Understanding

    This new version of Lyria 3 Pro is capable of recognizing the differences between an intro, a verse, a chorus, and a bridge. This allows for more intricate transitions that used to need a human touch, like that from a composer, songwriter, or music producer.

    As previously mentioned, the primary enhancement here is that unlike Lyria 3, which could only create 30-second music snippets, Lyria 3 Pro allows for complete three-minute compositions. To put this into context, three minutes is sufficient time to become the next Eurovision Song Contest winner.

    A Shift in Creative Input

    Lyria 3 Pro drastically reduces the amount of creative effort needed. While Google positions this as a tool for “creative expression,” it could also be a perfect solution for corporate clients.

    By incorporating Lyria 3 Pro into Vertex AI and Google Vids, companies can now create original soundtracks for marketing and gaming. This could potentially eliminate the need to compensate artists for jingles or background music.

    Integration and Copyright Concerns

    Lyra 3 Pro is being rolled out throughout the Google ecosystem. To tackle copyright issues, Google claims that Lyria 3 Pro is trained on licensed data and features SynthID watermarking. Although it does not imitate specific artists, its ability to produce high-quality audio may forever change the perception of “stock” music.

    It’s important to highlight that while the surge of AI-generated audio may seem sudden, professional Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) such as FL Studio have been utilizing AI for tasks like stem separation and chord progressions for several years. For artists, Google’s new Lyra 3 Pro music generator signifies a major transition from being a “helper” to an “architect.”

    The Future of AI in Music

    Just a few hours ago, OpenAI decided to close Sora, its AI video generation tool. Could Lyra 3 Pro face a similar fate? Only time will tell.

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