Author: GizNews

  • New Free Retro RPG Launches on Steam with 95% Positive Reviews

    New Free Retro RPG Launches on Steam with 95% Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Koltera 2, released by independent developer Braymen, is completely free with no microtransactions or paid DLC, following the philosophy of its predecessor.
    2. The game features a complete redesign with improvements, including new dungeon mechanics and an “Awakening” prestige system to enhance player engagement.
    3. The developer transitioned to a new engine to fix balancing issues and unintuitive gameplay loops present in the original Koltera.
    4. Braymen’s “anti-monetization” approach has contributed to the game’s popularity, positioning it at the top of Steam’s “Trending Upcoming” chart.
    5. Koltera 2 is ideal for casual players who enjoy idle games without microtransactions, and it runs well on low-spec laptops and the Steam Deck.

    Independent developer Braymen has released Koltera 2 on Steam this past Friday, marking the complete launch of the sequel to 2023’s Koltera. After an entire year of solo work, the creator decided to make the game completely free, with no microtransactions or paid DLC involved. This approach mirrors the philosophy of the first game, allowing players to easily join in, even though the developer had thought about charging a premium price to help cover the high costs of creature art.

    Game Features and Improvements

    Koltera 2 is a light “skilling” idle game designed with automation in mind. The sequel is essentially a complete redesign of the original game. The developer transitioned to a new engine to address the “horrid” balancing problems and the unintuitive loops that plagued the first title from 2023. While the original Koltera faced criticism for its repetitive mid-game grinding and confusing trading systems, the sequel appears to offer a smoother experience, introducing new dungeon mechanics and an “Awakening” prestige system to keep players engaged.

    Popularity and Community Response

    Focusing on the most notable aspect of this launch, the developer’s “anti-monetization” approach, which is uncommon in idle games, seems to be a significant factor for the game’s position at the top of Steam’s “Trending Upcoming” chart. By offering a high-quality creature collector for free, Braymen is successfully cultivating a “portfolio” community, similar to other free-to-play titles. Initial reviews indicate that although the game is “very idle,” the 120 unique creature designs have made it an excellent choice for a “second monitor” game within the community.

    Ideal for Casual Players

    If you enjoy number-crunching idle games like Melvor Idle or Idleon but prefer a version that does not include microtransactions, Koltera 2 is definitely worth checking out. It is especially friendly for low-spec laptops and users of the Steam Deck (currently priced at $940 on Amazon for a renewed 512 GB model).

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  • Windows Copilot Tests Side-Pane Web Links for Insiders

    Windows Copilot Tests Side-Pane Web Links for Insiders

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft introduces a new Copilot app experience for Windows Insiders that keeps web links within the app, opening them in a side panel beside the chat conversation.
    2. The feature aims to reduce context switching, allowing users to view content without leaving the chat discussion.
    3. The app incorporates tab-aware assistance, enabling Copilot to use the context of open tabs for follow-up queries and content summarization.
    4. Users can revisit previous conversations as tabs opened during chats are stored, and optional syncing for passwords and form data can be activated.
    5. The updated Copilot app is rolling out across all Windows Insider channels, enhancing speed, reliability, and functionality without replacing a full browser.

    Microsoft has begun to introduce a fresh Copilot app experience for Windows Insiders, which maintains web links within the app. Now, when users click on a link, it opens in a side panel beside the chat conversation instead of launching a new browser window. This allows users to view content without having to leave the ongoing discussion.

    Simplifying User Experience

    The concept is simple: reduce context switching. Microsoft explains that this feature aims to prevent users from constantly flipping between Copilot and their web browser whenever the assistant references a source or a web page.

    Enhanced Assistance Features

    Moreover, Microsoft is incorporating tab-aware assistance into this new design. With user consent, Copilot can utilize the context of the tabs open in that specific conversation to respond to follow-up queries, compare details from different pages, summarize on-screen content, or aid in drafting text based on the materials currently being viewed. This access is restricted to the ongoing conversation only.

    Tabs that are opened in this manner are also stored with the chat, allowing users to revisit the same conversation at a later time and continue from where they left off. Additionally, Microsoft mentions that optional syncing for passwords and form data can be activated for those seeking a more integrated browsing experience within the app.

    Rolling Out to Users

    This feature is starting to be available across all Windows Insider channels as part of an updated Copilot app. Microsoft claims that this release also enhances the app’s speed and reliability while introducing newer Copilot features that were previously available on the web version. The rollout affects Copilot app version 146.0.3856.39 and later, although its availability will gradually expand and may vary depending on the market.

    While this update does not replace a full browser, it does enhance the Windows app’s functionality for tasks that require extensive research. For Microsoft, this represents another move towards making Copilot seem less like a detached chatbot and more like an integrated workspace.

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  • Qualcomm Launches Arduino Ventuno Q SBC for AI Projects

    Qualcomm Launches Arduino Ventuno Q SBC for AI Projects

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm’s Arduino Ventuno Q is a single-board computer powered by the Dragonwing IQ8, priced under $300, and set for release in Q2 2026.
    2. It features an 8-core Kryo Gen 6 CPU, Adreno 623 GPU, 16 GB LPDDR5 RAM, and 64 GB eMMC storage, along with an STM32H5 microcontroller for real-time control.
    3. The SBC supports various connectivity options, including USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet, HDMI, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, along with external inputs via MIPI-CSI and other expansion headers.
    4. Compatible with Debian or Ubuntu Linux, it offers up to 40 TOPS processing power, allowing developers to create applications using Python and Docker for AI and sensor control.
    5. The Ventuno Q enables development of diverse AI applications, including robotics, voice assistants, and smart home devices, appealing to developers and hobbyists.

    Qualcomm has introduced the Arduino Ventuno Q, a single-board computer powered by the Dragonwing IQ8, designed for developers and hobbyists interested in physical AI projects. This SBC is available for under $300, with plans for release in the second quarter of 2026.

    Specifications and Features

    The IQ8 SoC consists of an 8-core Kryo Gen 6 CPU and Adreno 623 GPU, along with 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 64 GB of eMMC storage. To enable real-time motor and sensor control, it comes with an STM32H5 microcontroller that has an Arm Cortex-M33 CPU. The SBC also features USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet, and HDMI ports, along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities.

    Expansion Options

    Developers can utilize external inputs and expansion cards via the MIPI-CSI camera input, RPi connector, and UNO and expansion headers, which facilitate access to camera and sensor inputs while managing motors and other peripherals.

    The Ventuno Q is compatible with AI software that operates on Debian or Ubuntu Linux, boasting up to 40 TOPS (trillion operations per second) of processing power. Developers can leverage the Arduino App Lab to create applications using Python and modular services involving networking, AI, and vision sensing, which can be containerized using Docker, ensuring deterministic and real-time hardware control.

    Versatile AI Applications

    This SBC caters to modular AI services that offer capabilities in computer vision, speech, language, and sensor intelligence, enabling the development of various AI-driven hardware devices like robots, voice assistants, industrial inspection tools, and smart home gadgets.

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  • OnePlus 15T First Look: Compact Flagship Phone Unveiled

    OnePlus 15T First Look: Compact Flagship Phone Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OnePlus 15T is set to launch in March for the Chinese market, featuring a design similar to its predecessor with a squircle-shaped camera module.
    2. It will have a dual rear camera system, available in brown and green color options, but the global launch date remains unannounced.
    3. The phone boasts a 6.3-inch flat display with rounded edges and may feature a 165Hz refresh rate, based on leaks.
    4. It includes a periscope telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom and is expected to run on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.
    5. The device is equipped with a 7,500mAh battery, supports 100W wired and 50W wireless charging, and has high water and dust resistance ratings (IP66, IP68, IP69, IP69K).

    OnePlus has given us a sneak peek at the OnePlus 15T, which is expected to launch in March for the Chinese audience. Contrary to earlier speculations suggesting a big rectangular camera design, the official photos released by OnePlus showcase a design that is quite similar to its previous model.

    Camera and Design Features

    The OnePlus 15T features a squircle-shaped camera module that houses a dual rear camera system. The phone will be available in brown and green color options. While the specific release date for China is still unknown, there has been no announcement regarding a global launch either.

    Specifications and Performance

    Leading up to the launch, OnePlus has shared several specifications about the OnePlus 15T. The device sports a 6.3-inch flat display with rounded edges. Though not officially affirmed, there are leaks that suggest it might have a 165Hz refresh rate, similar to the regular OnePlus 15 (curr. $899 on Amazon).

    In terms of photography, the OnePlus 15T comes with a periscope telephoto lens that offers 3.5x optical zoom. Even though the processor has not been officially announced yet, a recent Geekbench listing indicates that the OnePlus 15T will run on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.

    Battery and Additional Features

    When it comes to battery life, the sleek phone is equipped with a sizeable 7,500mAh battery that supports 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. Impressively, the device holds IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings for water and dust resistance. Furthermore, it incorporates an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner for added security.

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  • Imprisoned Hacker Warns GTA 6 Source Code Leak May Delay Release

    Imprisoned Hacker Warns GTA 6 Source Code Leak May Delay Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Arion Kurtaj, a hacker in prison, claims to have the source code for GTA 6 and is surprised it hasn’t leaked yet.
    2. At 17, Kurtaj illegally accessed Rockstar Games’ servers, downloading clips and potentially sensitive material from an early version of GTA 6.
    3. Social media discussions have heightened gamer anxiety about potential leaks affecting the game’s release.
    4. The status of the source code remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from exaggeration to retrieval by Take-Two Interactive.
    5. Despite concerns, a delay in the GTA 6 release date is considered unlikely, though marketing plans could be impacted if leaks occur.

    The hacker known as Arion Kurtaj has reportedly gotten hold of a smartphone while in prison. He was recently overheard discussing the stolen source code for GTA 6, expressing surprise that it hasn’t leaked yet. This news has left gamers anxious, as they fear that if the materials do come out, it could lead to another delay in the release date for GTA 6.

    Early Intrusions

    At just 17, Kurtaj was able to breach the servers of Rockstar Games, downloading numerous clips from an early version of GTA 6. He claimed to have the source code for the game as well. In December 2023, a UK court deemed Kurtaj, who is autistic, to be confined indefinitely to a hospital. However, it appears that he’s now been moved to a standard prison.

    Social Media Buzz

    On platforms like Twitter, videotechuk shared a series of posts alongside a photo of Kurtaj in his cell. An anonymous user informed him that the build he referenced hasn’t been made public yet. Kurtaj did not elaborate on this, which hasn’t exactly calmed the nerves of gamers.

    Uncertainty Surrounding the Code

    What exactly has happened to the source code remains unclear, assuming it does exist. The 2022 hack allowed players to glimpse footage from Vice City and introduced a character named Lucia. Nevertheless, a more severe leak regarding GTA 6 has yet to affect the ongoing work at Rockstar Games.

    Videotechuk outlined several possible scenarios for the near future. Kurtaj could be exaggerating about the potential risk of the build leaking. It’s also possible that Take-Two has already retrieved the code after looking into the security breach. Still, there’s a chance that someone else has it and is waiting for the perfect moment to release it.

    Release Date Implications

    Even in the worst-case scenario, it seems unlikely that the GTA 6 release date will face another setback. The game’s development has probably evolved since 2022, and any leaked version may not include crucial features. Nonetheless, Rockstar might be concerned that users could exploit the relevant code, compromising online servers and leading to various security risks.

    Another issue at play is the marketing strategy set to kick off this Summer, which could be thrown into disarray. If Kurtaj has his way, the launch of this highly anticipated game may not go as smoothly as everyone hoped.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Book 6 Ultra: Improved OLED Panel vs. Competition

    Samsung Galaxy Book 6 Ultra: Improved OLED Panel vs. Competition

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung’s Galaxy Book5 models had OLED screens with limited brightness, capped at 400 nits for SDR and 550 nits for HDR.
    2. The new Galaxy Book6 Ultra features an upgraded 16-inch OLED touchscreen with improved brightness, reaching 500 nits for SDR and over 1100 nits for HDR.
    3. While Samsung’s brightness has improved, competitors like Asus and Lenovo offer higher peak brightness levels, reaching up to 1600 nits.
    4. The Apple MacBook Pro 16 surpasses Samsung’s brightness performance with up to 1000 nits SDR and 1600 nits HDR using Mini-LED technology.
    5. Questions arise about Samsung’s decision not to use a tandem OLED screen in its flagship laptop, even with its excellent image quality.

    Even though Samsung is a major provider of OLED displays, their recent laptop screens haven’t really stood out in brightness. Taking a look at last year’s Galaxy Book5 models, the OLED panels delivered a great visual experience when paired with a 120 Hz refresh rate. However, the brightness was capped at about 400 nits for SDR and around 550 nits for HDR, as seen with the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360.

    Improvements in the Galaxy Book6 Ultra

    We just checked out the new Galaxy Book6 Ultra, and Samsung has finally upgraded to a better 16-inch OLED touchscreen. The resolution remains at 2880 x 1800 pixels with a 120 Hz refresh rate, but brightness has seen a boost. Now, we’re measuring roughly 500 nits for SDR content and over 1100 nits at peak brightness for HDR content. This is a clear upgrade, making HDR media, like films and games, look significantly enhanced.

    Competing with the Best

    When looking at what others offer, it’s clear that Samsung has narrowed the gap, but they still fall short against the peak brightness levels of the latest tandem OLED displays. These competitors can achieve higher SDR and especially HDR brightness, reaching up to 1600 nits, as seen in the Asus ProArt P16 or the Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i 16. The Apple MacBook Pro 16, with its well-known Mini-LED display, also surpasses Samsung’s brightness performance (up to 1000 nits SDR and 1600 nits HDR).

    Questions About Future Choices

    This brings up the question of why Samsung opted not to include a tandem OLED screen in its 2026 flagship multimedia laptop, which could have been more efficient. The current panel still offers excellent image quality, with no grainy look despite the touch layer. However, given the high cost, competitors are simply a step ahead. For more details, be sure to check out our in-depth review of the new Galaxy Book6 Ultra.

     

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  • Lenovo Confirms Xbox Full Screen for Legion Go Devices Soon

    Lenovo Confirms Xbox Full Screen for Legion Go Devices Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft introduced the Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE) in June 2025, initially for ROG Xbox Ally devices.
    2. The FSE is expanding to other Windows gaming devices, including the Lenovo Legion Go.
    3. The FSE for Legion Go is currently in a testing phase, with early trials being conducted to gather feedback.
    4. Owners of Legion Go or Legion Go 2 can sign up for early testing by providing their email through Gleam.
    5. The sign-up period for early testing will close in approximately 45 hours, with no specific public rollout date announced yet.

    Microsoft first unveiled the Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE) in June 2025. The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X were the initial handheld devices to come equipped with this interface, but Microsoft has since broadened its reach to other Windows gaming gadgets. Now, it seems that users of the Lenovo Legion Go will be the next to benefit from FSE.

    Announcement of FSE for Legion Go

    Recently, Ben Green, Lenovo’s Senior Global Gaming Manager, posted on X, revealing that the Xbox Full Screen Experience is on its way to the Legion Go devices. However, this feature is still in the testing phase and isn’t available to everyone just yet, as the company is running early trials first. This approach allows Lenovo to collect feedback and sort out any problems before the official launch.

    How to Participate in Early Testing

    The exciting part is that if you own a Legion Go or Legion Go 2, you can participate in the test by signing up through Gleam. All that’s required is to provide your email on the sign-up page, and if you’re chosen, Lenovo will send you instructions on how to install and activate Xbox FSE on your device. Just ensure your handheld is updated to the latest software version before you proceed with the installation of the new interface.

    Timeline and Sign-Up Details

    At this point, Lenovo hasn’t disclosed a specific date for when the full public rollout will occur. However, the Gleam page indicates that the sign-up period for the early testing program will close approximately 45 hours from now, meaning you have about two days left to join in and experience the feature before it becomes widely available.

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  • Microsoft’s Project Helix: Unifying Xbox and Windows Since 2016

    Microsoft’s Project Helix: Unifying Xbox and Windows Since 2016

    Key Takeaways

    1. Project Helix Codenamed: Asha Sharma, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, announced the codename Project Helix for the upcoming Xbox console, which aims to run both PC and Xbox games.

    2. Historical Roots: The concept of merging Xbox and Windows dates back to 2003, with increased focus beginning around 2016, as part of Microsoft’s broader strategy.

    3. Cross-Platform Strategy: Project Helix emphasizes cross-platform capabilities, allowing games like Sea of Thieves and Halo Wars 2 to launch on both Xbox and PC, promoting the Play Anywhere initiative.

    4. Incremental Upgrades: The upcoming console may include components that are easier to replace, potentially allowing for frequent upgrades, similar to gaming PCs.

    5. Market Competition: To compete effectively against rivals like the Steam Machine and PS6, Microsoft may need to offer exclusive titles and address concerns about pricing and performance.

    Recently, Asha Sharma, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, disclosed the codename Project Helix for their upcoming Xbox console. Yet, the idea of having one system that can run both PC and Xbox games has been around for a long time. Tom Warren, a Senior Editor at The Verge, reminded gamers that this concept first emerged in 2016, just before the launch of the Xbox One S.

    The Origins of Helix

    Interestingly, Helix might trace its roots back to 2003 when journalist Dean Takahashi first revealed a plan to run Windows on the Xbox 360. However, it didn’t become a focus for Microsoft until later on. In a 2016 article by Keza MacDonald and Jason Schreier for Kotaku, they provided a glimpse into Microsoft’s future hardware plans. They stated that the Xbox One S and X were part of a broader strategy known as ‘Project Helix,’ aimed at merging Xbox and Windows.

    A Cross-Platform Vision

    This strategy emphasized cross-platform capabilities, bringing software to a larger audience. Games like Sea of Thieves and Halo Wars 2 were among the early Xbox exclusives that launched on both consoles and PCs. They also contributed to the Play Anywhere initiative, which soon became a well-promoted campaign. Before E3 2016, former CEO Phil Spencer hinted that Xbox consoles would evolve to resemble gaming PCs, allowing engineers to frequently upgrade their designs, while maintaining game compatibility across different devices.

    Future of Gaming with Project Helix

    With the launch of the Xbox One X, Microsoft started to explore incremental upgrades. More recently, the Xbox Series X and S have not experienced major performance improvements since their 2020 launch. However, Project Helix could change this narrative if it includes components that are easier to replace. It remains uncertain how simple it will be for users who are accustomed to upgrading their gaming rigs to make modifications.

    The upcoming gaming system represents a bold effort to introduce a hybrid console that functions like a Windows PC into homes. Critics are already debating whether gamers will welcome this new Xbox console. The full-screen experience on the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds isn’t always smooth, and there are rumors that a high price tag may put Project Helix out of reach for many consumers. Additionally, to stand out against competitors like the Steam Machine and PS6, Microsoft may need to offer exclusive Xbox titles to set its system apart.

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  • Samsung Exynos 2700 Chip Enters Production with 2nm Technology

    Samsung Exynos 2700 Chip Enters Production with 2nm Technology

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is testing its new Exynos 2700 chip, with design completion expected by late 2025.
    2. Production-ready samples of the Exynos 2700 are anticipated between May and June, ahead of the next Galaxy S series launch.
    3. Samsung aims to regain market share from Qualcomm, which currently supplies 75% of the Galaxy S26 chipsets.
    4. The Exynos 2700 is expected to improve heat management and reduce Samsung’s reliance on Qualcomm chips to 50% for the Galaxy S27 series.
    5. There is limited evidence of the Exynos 2700’s performance, as current benchmarks show a prototype with low OpenCL scores.

    As early as January of this year, a listing on Geekbench from a well-known tipster suggested that Samsung had started testing its upcoming Exynos chip. While many were doubtful about this leak, new updates seem to lend it some credibility.

    Development Progress

    Per the Yonhap News Agency, the design of the Exynos 2700 was reportedly completed by late 2025. Samsung MX is currently in the testing phase, with production-ready samples anticipated between May and June, which is well in advance of the launch of the next Galaxy S series.

    Market Strategy

    Currently, it is widely known that Samsung is aiming to regain market share from Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors, which currently power about 75% of the Galaxy S26 lineup.

    To achieve projected cost savings of over $7.8 billion (11 trillion won), Samsung is relying on the second-gen Samsung Foundry 2nm process (SF2P) to provide the yield and efficiency that companies like TSMC are recognized for. The Exynos 2700 is expected to enhance the heat management technology seen in its predecessor. Thus, Kiwoom Securities analyst Park Yu-ak predicts that Samsung’s reliance on Qualcomm chipsets will decrease to 50% in the Galaxy S27 series.

    Evidence and Expectations

    These financial goals are just one aspect of the project. The only tangible proof of this chip’s existence appears to be an ERD board on Geekbench, which features a peculiar 10-core prototype with lackluster OpenCL scores. While it could be a falsified listing, the burden of proof remains on Samsung until further leaks arise that show the Exynos 2700 achieving competitive clock speeds. As things stand, Qualcomm seems to have no immediate cause for concern.

    The Korea Herald, Yonhap News’

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  • MSI Venture 16: Fast Budget Office Laptop for Productivity

    MSI Venture 16: Fast Budget Office Laptop for Productivity

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MSI Venture 16 is an affordable office laptop priced at $1000, making some sacrifices but maintaining strong processor performance.
    2. It outperforms many competitors in CPU-intensive tasks due to its H-series Core Ultra 7 255H processor.
    3. The graphics performance is decent but not exceptional, as most business laptops lack discrete graphics.
    4. The integrated NPU of the Core Ultra 7 255H is limited to 13 TOPS, which may disadvantage users relying on AI-accelerated applications.
    5. Overall, the Venture 16 is a solid choice for CPU power at its price point, despite some limitations in graphics and NPU performance.

    The Venture 16 is among the most affordable office laptops offered by MSI, and it has made some sacrifices to achieve its appealing starting price of $1000. However, it does not compromise on its processor performance.

    Performance Comparison

    Our CPU and GPU charts present a comparison of the Venture 16 against around a dozen of the latest 16-inch office laptops. Surprisingly, the MSI device excels in most CPU-intensive tasks, even though it is labeled as a “budget-friendly” option. This performance advantage is largely due to its H-series Core Ultra 7 255H processor, while many other business laptops usually feature slower U-series or V-series processors.

    Graphics and Limitations

    When it comes to graphics, the Venture 16 is not as remarkable, but it still holds its own within this category since most business laptops lack discrete graphics.

    One area where the Core Ultra 7 255H falls short is its integrated NPU, which has a maximum performance of only 13 TOPS, especially when compared to the 48 TOPS found in laptops with the mentioned Core V-series CPU. Therefore, users who depend on AI-accelerated applications or Co-Pilot might find a V-series CPU more beneficial than an H-series one. Nevertheless, for pure CPU power, the Venture 16 remains a solid choice, particularly for its price. Additional benchmarks and comparisons are available in the review of this model linked here.

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