Author: GizNews

  • George Russell Wins Australian Grand Prix for Mercedes in F1

    George Russell Wins Australian Grand Prix for Mercedes in F1

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mercedes drivers Russell and Antonelli secured 1st and 2nd places at the season opener in Melbourne, while Ferrari’s Leclerc and Hamilton put up a strong fight.
    2. Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing finished 6th, facing challenges due to his teammate Hadjar’s engine issues.
    3. The 2026 Formula 1 season features new regulations, including a 50/50 hybrid turbocharged 1.6L V6 engine paired with an electric motor.
    4. Chassis designs now incorporate active aerodynamic wings and spoilers for improved performance based on track conditions.
    5. The next race will be the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai on March 15th, prompting teams to strategize for upcoming challenges.

    Sparkling blue was the sky above Melbourne’s coastal Albert Park Circuit as 11 teams and 22 drivers kicked off the first race of the FIA’s 2026 Formula 1 World Championships. Mercedes’ racers, Russell and Antonelli, took 1st and 2nd place after a tough battle against Ferrari’s Leclerc and Hamilton. On the other hand, Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing had a challenging race, finishing at No. 6 while dealing with the absence of his teammate Hadjar, who had engine issues.

    High-Speed Competition

    In this global motorsport event, teams and drivers race in sleek, open-wheeled cars on 26 circuits worldwide, starting in Australia. The vehicles are the result of extensive engineering efforts, with their chassis and engines often created by different manufacturers. A strong finish relies heavily on the driver’s skill and quick thinking on the track.

    New Rules and Regulations

    The 2026 season introduced two significant changes to Formula 1 regulations, affecting the vehicles’ drivetrains and chassis designs. The drivetrains now consist of a 50/50 hybrid turbocharged 1.6L V6 engine paired with an electric motor, a shift from the previous 20/80 balance. Additionally, the chassis now includes active aerodynamic wings and spoilers that can adjust to increase downforce while cornering and flatten out to minimize drag on straightaways. Another exciting feature allows drivers to activate a “boost” mode, unleashing their electric motor’s full 350hpw. This adds a layer of strategy, as knowing the right moment to use boost can be critical: a driver who “uses boost to overtake a rival, or defend from an attack… risks being passed easily [in a following straight]” (BBC).

    Upcoming Challenges

    The teams will meet once more at the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai next week (March 15th), bringing renewed energy and fresh strategies to the competition.

    Formula1 (1, 2)

    BBC

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  • Sony PlayStation 6 May Achieve 4K 120 FPS with Ray Tracing

    Sony PlayStation 6 May Achieve 4K 120 FPS with Ray Tracing

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation 6 may target 4K output at 120 FPS with ray tracing enabled, but true native performance is unlikely.
    2. Expected performance boosts include 2.5 to 3 times greater rasterization than the PS5, and 6 to 12 times better ray tracing.
    3. The console is rumored to use a next-gen GPU based on RDNA 5 and a Zen 6 CPU for these enhancements.
    4. Sony’s AI upscaling technology, PSSR, will likely play a key role in achieving high resolutions.
    5. The PS6 is projected to launch in late 2027 or early 2028, with no expected delays according to recent insights.

    Rumors are swirling again about Sony’s upcoming home console, the PlayStation 6. The latest insights come from the well-known leaker Moore’s Law Is Dead. During a recent livestream, the insider revealed that Sony might be aiming for 4K output at 120 FPS while having ray tracing activated.

    Expected Performance Boosts

    Previously, the leaker disclosed the complete specifications for the PS6, indicating that the console could achieve rasterization performance that is approximately 2.5 to 3 times greater than that of the PlayStation 5. Regarding ray tracing, earlier leaks hinted at an enhancement ranging from 6 to 12 times compared to the PS5.

    When comparing with the PS5 Pro, rumors suggest that the rasterization improvement would be around 2 times, with ray tracing performance advancing by 3 to 6 times. These potential advancements are attributed to Sony’s utilization of a next-gen GPU based on RDNA 5, which will work alongside a Zen 6 CPU.

    Cautious Optimism

    However, like any hardware rumors, these performance expectations should be approached cautiously. It’s important to note that the PS6 is unlikely to achieve true native 4K 120 FPS with ray tracing enabled. Instead, the console is expected to significantly depend on Sony’s AI upscaling technology, PSSR, to deliver output at such high resolutions.

    Launch Timeline Speculations

    The conversation also touched on recent rumors suggesting that the PlayStation 6 might face delays. As previously discussed, YouTuber Moore’s Law Is Dead maintains that the launch schedule is not likely to shift. In other words, Sony might still be aiming for a release in late 2027 or early 2028 for the PS6. For those curious, the insider delves deeper into the console and the rumored PlayStation 6 handheld at the 29:30 and 43:00 marks in the video linked below.

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  • Pin Pulse Smart Ring: Can It Accurately Measure Blood Pressure and Sugar?

    Pin Pulse Smart Ring: Can It Accurately Measure Blood Pressure and Sugar?

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pin Pulse smart ring can be pre-ordered for about $249 as part of a Kickstarter campaign, with expected delivery in August and additional shipping charges.
    2. Crowdfunding projects like this one carry potential financial risks, and backers should carefully consider their investment.
    3. The Pin Pulse claims to offer non-invasive metabolic wellness insights and glucose trend monitoring but is not a medical device.
    4. Measurements such as blood pressure and sleep apnea risk are estimations, while heart rate and blood oxygen levels are likely accurate.
    5. The Pin Pulse features an accelerometer for tracking physical activity and has a battery life of up to seven days, made from titanium.

    As stated, the Pin Pulse can now be pre-ordered at a discounted price. This pre-order is part of a Kickstarter initiative. Backers will be able to grab the ring starting from approximately $249. Additional shipping charges will apply, and the expected delivery won’t happen until August. It’s important to highlight the potential financial risks involved with crowdfunding projects. We are also eager to discover the ring’s actual capabilities in the end. Potential users should think carefully about whether the current excitement justifies their financial involvement. At this stage, we would suggest reconsidering support for the campaign.

    Important Details to Consider

    It’s essential to examine the details of this campaign thoroughly. The Pin Pulse claims to be the first smart ring that captures “non-invasive metabolic wellness insights and glucose trends.” Utilizing optical sensor technology and AI, it can monitor subtle bodily signals and provide warnings for elevated blood glucose levels. However, this is not classified as a medical device. We tend to view such claims with skepticism, especially since testing for prediabetes or diabetes is straightforward and cost-effective, typically achievable through a doctor’s appointment with standard blood glucose tests.

    Limitations of Measurements

    The same caution applies to blood pressure readings. In fact, this measurement is merely an estimation, as is the assessment of sleep apnea risk. Nevertheless, heart rate and blood oxygen levels are likely to be accurately measurable. The device also includes an accelerometer to track physical activity, particularly steps taken. Additionally, the Pin Pulse is made from titanium, and it boasts a battery life of up to seven days.

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  • OnePlus Unveils New Accessory for Upcoming OnePlus 15T

    OnePlus Unveils New Accessory for Upcoming OnePlus 15T

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus will unveil the 15T, featuring a high refresh rate display and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip.
    2. A new magnetic cooling accessory will be launched alongside the 15T, designed for portability and efficiency.
    3. The new magnetic cooler has a streamlined design and is expected to cover more of the phone’s back than the previous model.
    4. The OnePlus 15T will have a 7,500mAh battery, enhanced water-resistance, better wireless charging, and narrow bezels.
    5. The anticipated launch date for the OnePlus 15T and its cooler is March 2026 in China.

    OnePlus is gearing up to officially unveil its new compact flagship device, the 15T. So far, the teasers released indicate that this model will be a significant upgrade from its predecessor, featuring a display with a high refresh rate and the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. Additionally, it is rumored to come with a better cooling system, and the company’s president, Li Jie Louis, has hinted at the launch of a new cooling accessory alongside the phone.

    Magnetic Cooling Accessory

    While the full details about the smartphone are still under wraps, the magnetic cooling accessory designed for the OnePlus 15T has already been introduced. As shown in the teasers, this cooler is designed to be slim and compact, making it easier for gamers to transport.

    Enhanced Design

    In comparison to the previous generation 27W magnetic cooler that came with the OnePlus 13T, the new version has a more streamlined design. Early images suggest that it may cover more of the back of the smartphone than its predecessor did. Although the pricing remains undisclosed, it’s notable that the previous model had a launch price of CNY 199, which is approximately $29 in China (Black Shark 4 Pro currently priced at $32.24 on Amazon).

    Features of the OnePlus 15T

    Regarding the phone itself, Li Jie Louis has shared several details about the OnePlus 15T. This compact flagship is expected to house a robust 7,500mAh battery. Furthermore, he has confirmed that the device will come with enhanced water-resistance ratings, better wireless charging capabilities, and a screen with narrow bezels. The anticipated launch date for the phone in China is set for March 2026, coinciding with the release of the phone cooler.

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  • Insider Reveals Project Helix Will Be Expensive for Niche Audience

    Insider Reveals Project Helix Will Be Expensive for Niche Audience

    Key Takeaways

    1. Project Helix may function more like a tailored gaming PC instead of a traditional console.
    2. It will utilize the Windows Full Screen Experience (FSE) for a console-like user interface.
    3. Developers will create builds for the Windows Store using UWP applications, lacking a specific native development target.
    4. The device is expected to be expensive and aimed at hardcore Xbox enthusiasts rather than the general console market.
    5. The project’s direction was set prior to recent leadership changes at Xbox Gaming, with ongoing oversight from new CEO Asha Sharma.

    Microsoft has recently unveiled Project Helix, which is the name given to what looks like its upcoming console hardware. According to insider SneakersSO, this Project Helix might not take the usual console route that gamers are familiar with. Rather than being a completely fresh console platform with its own dev setup, this device could act more like a tailored gaming PC aimed at providing a console-like experience.

    New Gaming Interface

    The insider suggests that the system will utilize the Windows Full Screen Experience (FSE), a gaming-centric interface that Microsoft has recently rolled out for devices such as the ROG Xbox Ally X. This interface aims to transform Windows devices into something resembling a console, enabling users to start and manage games in a more straightforward full-screen setting.

    If these insights are correct, Project Helix won’t have a specific native development target like previous Xbox consoles. Instead, developers would just need to create builds for the Windows Store by using UWP applications. Gamers would still have access to their current Xbox game libraries through backward compatibility and emulation systems.

    Target Audience

    Additionally, SneakersSO pointed out that Project Helix is likely to be “pretty expensive” and aimed at a very specific audience, probably focusing on hardcore Xbox enthusiasts rather than the broader console market.

    The insider also mentioned that the project’s direction had already been set long before the company’s recent leadership changes. However, the new CEO of Xbox Gaming, Asha Sharma, is merely overseeing its progress because the company has already allocated resources and development funds to the project.

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  • Indie Game Studio: Switch 2 Dev Kits More Accessible, Nintendo Cautious

    Indie Game Studio: Switch 2 Dev Kits More Accessible, Nintendo Cautious

    Key Takeaways

    1. Development kits for the Switch 2 are now easier to obtain, according to Dave Oshry from New Blood Interactive.
    2. Nintendo is being selective about which games get published on the Switch 2, aiming to avoid eShop clutter.
    3. The indie game Dungeons of Dusk is planned for the Switch 2, but approval from Nintendo is still pending.
    4. The Switch 2 dev kit enables strong performance and mouse control for games like Dungeons of Dusk.
    5. Recent changes to the eShop include ranking game visibility by revenue and reducing cheap AI-made copies.

    Before the handheld was introduced in June 2025, there were whispers about the hard-to-find Switch 2 dev kits. In a recent chat, Dave Oshry, the CEO of New Blood Interactive, confirmed that these tools are now easier to get. However, Nintendo, which is becoming more cautious about eShop clutter, might still turn down games that are under development.

    Insight from an Interview

    Nintendo Everything picked up on some comments that were missed when Oshry spoke with RPG Site. The indie studio known for Dusk and Blood West is getting ready to launch its multi-platform dungeon crawler. Though they plan to bring Dungeons of Dusk to the Switch 2, it’s still not a definite thing.

    Development Kit Access

    Oshry mentioned that getting dev kits from Nintendo isn’t really a problem, saying it’s “not much different than the Switch 1.” Reliable leaker NateTheHate echoed this in an update at the end of 2025. But not every studio might share New Blood’s luck. A recent report from Arkaden suggests that Nintendo has denied some developers access.

    Promising Performance

    Thanks to the Switch 2 dev kit, Dungeons of Dusk builds display solid performance and even allow for mouse control. However, the indie game is still in the submission phase:

    “We’re just waiting for Nintendo to give us approval to actually launch it because they’re still being quite cautious about allowing games on Switch 2.”

    The New Blood developer also shared how they’re tackling shovelware:

    “They don’t want it to just become a giant slop fest like the Switch 1 eShop became after a few years with just tons of shovelware on there.”

    Nintendo’s Selectivity

    Despite the rise of third-party games for the Switch 2, Nintendo is careful about who gets to publish. The company has also made efforts to cut down on eShop clutter. In June 2025, IGN reported on updates to the store in certain areas.

    Now, game pages are ranked by revenue from the last three days instead of just the number sold. This change aims to lessen the visibility of cheap AI-made copies. Shoppers might also notice fewer bundles with the same games and more precise descriptions.

    With a playable demo of Dungeons of Dusk out on Steam, most gamers wouldn’t label it as slop. Still, it’s uncertain whether Switch 2 users will be able to play this turn-based RPG.

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  • Apple M5 SoC in MacBook Air 13 Consumes 7-8 Watts in Games

    Apple M5 SoC in MacBook Air 13 Consumes 7-8 Watts in Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MacBook Air 13 features a slightly slower M5 SoC with 8 GPU cores, compared to the 10 GPU cores in larger models.
    2. The MacBook Air operates without a fan, which can lead to performance dips under heavy workloads, stabilizing around 8 Watts.
    3. During gaming, power consumption is low, dropping between 6.9 and 7.2 Watts while still achieving playable frame rates.
    4. The MacBook Air 13 is noted as the most efficient laptop tested, with overall power usage, including the display, at just 19 Watts.
    5. Lowering graphics settings and using MetalFX upscaling allows for a smoother gaming experience in demanding titles while avoiding throttling.

    We recently had a chance to check out the new Apple MacBook Air 13, featuring the base configuration powered by the M5 SoC. Unlike the 15-inch version of the MacBook Air or the MacBook Pro 14 with the M5, the base Air 13 comes with a slightly slower M5 SoC, which has 8 GPU cores rather than the 10 found in its larger counterparts. Despite this, the performance remains impressive, and we were especially amazed by its efficiency during our gaming tests, where the SoC consumed only 7 to 8 Watts.

    Performance Under Load

    The MacBook Air operates without a fan, meaning its performance can dip under heavy workloads, causing the M5 to stabilize at around 8 Watts during combined tasks. You might think the processor holds steady at this range (7-8W) while gaming, but that’s not entirely true. For instance, while playing Cyberpunk 2077, the SoC’s consumption drops to between 6.9 and 7.2 Watts, which is still below the maximum of 8 Watts. This power level allows for a frame rate of 19.6 fps at 1080p with ultra settings, and this performance remains consistent even after an hour of play. If you lower the graphics settings a bit and utilize MetalFX upscaling, you can enjoy a smooth gaming experience in demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 or Baldur’s Gate 3, with power usage ranging from 7.5 to 7.8 Watts, all while avoiding throttling.

    Efficiency and Comparison

    This efficiency makes the compact MacBook Air stand out as the most efficient laptop in our records by a significant margin, without falling into unplayable frame rates. For the entire system, including the display, we measured just 19 Watts, which again showcases its efficiency. On the other hand, the M5 SoC with 10 GPU cores in the actively cooled MacBook Pro 14 isn’t as efficient but does provide a boost in gaming performance.

     

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  • PS5 Exclusive Game Sales on PC Struggled Due to Delayed Releases

    PS5 Exclusive Game Sales on PC Struggled Due to Delayed Releases

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony may reduce single-player PC ports due to lower-than-expected player engagement compared to console users.
    2. PC gamers represented only 13% of the audience for PlayStation games shortly after release, vs. 44% for multi-platform AAA titles.
    3. Enthusiasm for PlayStation titles on PC has declined over time, with newer IPs performing better than sequels of established franchises.
    4. Sony is focusing on converting live-service games for PC while being hesitant to offer day-one releases for story-driven games.
    5. The company’s strategy aims to encourage hardware sales for future consoles, like the PS6, despite the costs of porting games.

    Speculation about Sony’s possible reduction of single-player PC ports is ongoing. A widely discussed theory is that games which were once exclusive to PS4 and PS5 did not draw in as many players as anticipated. According to a study from Newzoo, the absence of simultaneous launches on consoles and PCs played a significant role in this outcome.

    Audience Disparity

    The research highlighted by GamesIndustry.biz indicated that the number of PC gamers was significantly lower than their console counterparts for many PlayStation games. In the initial three months following their release, users on Steam and the Epic Games Store represented only 13% of the total audience for a game. In contrast, AAA titles from other publishers that launched on multiple platforms saw a much larger share, reaching 44%.

    Trends in Gaming Preferences

    This pattern appeared consistently, whether the games were first-party or third-party PlayStation exclusives. Newzoo suggests that while PC gamers are interested in SIE titles, their enthusiasm diminishes over time as they wait for releases. Earlier PC ports had better success; for instance, Horizon Zero Dawn in 2020 had a 22% share of PC users, and titles like God of War and Marvel’s Spider-Man attracted a fair amount of gaming PC owners. However, sequels like God of War Ragnarok and Spider-Man 2 failed to capture the same level of interest. Interestingly, newer IPs, like Ghost of Tsushima, showed better performance in recent years.

    Helldivers 2 stood out as the most successful PlayStation exclusive on PC. Data from Alinea Analytics in November 2025 revealed that it made up 12.7 million out of the 43 million copies sold of Sony-published titles on Steam. The company appears more eager to convert live-service games for PC. Regrettably, Newzoo did not differentiate between single-player and multiplayer titles in its analysis.

    Strategic Approach to Releases

    As part of its strategy for cross-platform gaming, Sony has been reluctant to offer day-one releases for story-driven games. SIE CEO Hermen Hulst previously stated that these PS5 exclusive titles would remain on the console for an extended period. With Marathon also illustrating this approach, it seems that live-service games might continue to be the exception to this rule.

    Hulst clarified that the company aims to maintain incentives for consumers to buy its hardware. This strategy is unlikely to change as they work to attract buyers for the upcoming PS6. Considering Valve’s revenue share, the disappointing sales figures may not warrant the cost involved in porting games like Ghost of Yōtei or Marvel’s Wolverine.

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  • Colorful Mondrian USB-C DAC Now Available in Japan

    Colorful Mondrian USB-C DAC Now Available in Japan

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Artpical Mondrian USB DAC features an ESS ES9281AC Pro chip for lossless music playback.
    2. It supports high-resolution audio formats, including 32-bit, 768 kHz PCM, DSD512, and MQA.
    3. The DAC has a signal-to-noise ratio of 118 dB when used with 4.4 mm balanced headphones.
    4. Connectivity is provided through a USB-C port, and headphone gain can be adjusted across three settings.
    5. The price in Japan ranges from 37,800 to 42,000 yen, while in the U.S., it is available for pre-order at $250.

    Artpical has introduced the Mondrian USB DAC aimed at audiophiles in Japan. This DAC features an ESS ES9281AC Pro chip, enabling it to handle lossless music playback. Its aluminum alloy casing, crafted using CNC machining, is designed to echo the abstract art of Dutch painter Piet Mondrian, showcasing vibrant primary colors arranged in structured rectangular segments.

    Technical Specifications

    This portable DAC is capable of playing high-resolution audio formats including 32-bit, 768 kHz PCM, DSD512, and MQA. It has a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 40 kHz, with a total harmonic distortion (THD) of just 0.001%. When used with 4.4 mm balanced headphones, it boasts a signal-to-noise ratio of 118 dB. The balanced headphones are more effective at separating left and right audio channels compared to the usual 3.5 mm unbalanced ones, leading to less signal crosstalk and noise interferance.

    Connectivity and Features

    The Mondrian DAC connects seamlessly to various audio devices, such as smartphones and laptops, via its USB-C port. Users can easily adjust the headphone gain across three settings (15 mV, 2.48 mV, or 4.1 V RMS) by pressing the Buff button situated on the side of the device.

    Pricing Details

    The Artpical Mondrian DAC does not have a fixed price, but in Japan, it is available through dealers for prices between 37,800 yen (about $240) at E-Earphone and 42,000 yen (around $265) at Bic Camera. In the United States, MusicTeck is offering it for pre-order at a price of $250.

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  • Free Retro-Adventure RPG Launches on Steam with 88% Positive Reviews

    Free Retro-Adventure RPG Launches on Steam with 88% Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free-to-Play and Non-Commercial: Metal Hunter is released as a free-to-play game, emphasizing its non-commercial nature and avoiding aggressive monetization schemes.

    2. Accessibility and Gameplay: The game is designed to be highly accessible, featuring a dual control system for both human characters and armored vehicles in a post-apocalyptic setting.

    3. Positive Reception: The game has received an 84% positive rating, attributed to its honest promotion as a free, experimental project that appeals to retro RPG fans.

    4. Niche Audience: Despite a peak of only 216 players, Metal Hunter has attracted a dedicated niche audience, particularly among enthusiasts of the Metal Max series.

    5. Future Updates: The game is expected to evolve with community input, as indicated by the potential introduction of features like trading cards and achievements.

    On March 6, 2026, a small developer from China, Changzhou Hualande Software, released Metal Hunter on Steam as a free-to-play title. The game calls itself an “experimental imitation” of classic tank-based JRPGs, built on an old system that was thought up in 2012. The developers advised players not to have “too high expectations” due to its roots as a non-commercial hobby project, but it has quickly attracted a niche audience among retro RPG enthusiasts.

    Game Design and Accessibility

    Metal Hunter focuses on being extremely accessible, likely influenced by its older 2012 engine. It takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where “Metal Hunters” use armored vehicles and tanks to hunt fierce monsters and valuable bounties. The gameplay features a dual system, allowing players to control both human characters and their mechanical rides, paying tribute to the Metal Max series. Since the developers have clarified that this is a non-commercial endeavor to honor original copyrights, the game is free from aggressive monetization or pay-to-win schemes often seen in mainstream F2P games.

    Positive Reception

    With an 84% positive rating, this “revived dead project” has made quite the impression. Its success can be attributed to its honesty; by promoting the game as a free, non-commercial experiment, it lowers the bar for criticism. Although Steam charts show a peak of only 216 players, the (mostly) Chinese reviews indicate that the tank-customization features are developed enough to please genre fans. The “Steam is learning about this game” label on its page suggests that features like trading cards and achievements are still on the way as the community expands.

    Conclusion

    For enthusiasts of retro JRPGs or the Metal Max series, Metal Hunter promises to be a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Its non-commercial aspect means players won’t be bothered by microtransactions, but be prepared for some rough spots, given that it is a revival of a 2012 engine.

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