Author: GizNews

  • Apple M5 Max Beats Ryzen AI Max+ by 25% in Geekbench 6

    Apple M5 Max Beats Ryzen AI Max+ by 25% in Geekbench 6

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple M5 Max scored 29,233 in multi-core and 4,260 in single-core tests on Geekbench 6, outperforming its predecessor, the M4 Max.
    2. The M5 Max shows a 9% increase in single-core performance and a 14% increase in multi-core performance compared to the M4 Max.
    3. The M5 Max is the fastest CPU Apple has produced, surpassing the top-tier M3 Ultra by 5.4%.
    4. The M5 Max outperforms Intel and AMD competitors, exceeding the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX by 34% and the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 by 25% in multi-core tests.
    5. While benchmarks are useful, real-world performance may vary; however, the M5 Max is expected to be one of the fastest options available for consumers.

    The initial benchmarks for the Apple M5 Max have emerged, and the results are impressively high, as expected from a premium Apple Silicon system on a chip.

    Benchmark Scores

    The leaked Geekbench 6 results reveal that the 18-core Apple M5 Max achieved an impressive score of 29,233 points in multi-core testing and about 4,260 points in single-core tests. For comparison, the standard M5 MacBook Pro, which is currently priced at $1,440 on Amazon, scores similarly in single-core tests while scoring approximately 17,100 in multi-core tests.

    Performance Improvements

    When evaluating its predecessor, the M4 Max, the M5 Max shows an increase of about 9% in single-core performance. In contrast, for multi-core performance, this new chip is around 14% quicker. Notably, this makes the M5 Max the fastest CPU Apple has ever produced, boasting a lead of 5.4% over the top-tier M3 Ultra.

    Competing Chips

    In comparison to AMD and Intel offerings in the x86 sector, there simply isn’t a consumer CPU that matches the M5 Max in Geekbench 6. The M5 Max outperforms the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX by roughly 34% in multi-core tests, while the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 “Strix Halo” lags behind by about 25%.

    Even chips designed for desktops can’t keep up with the Apple M5 Max in Geekbench 6. The M5 Max surpasses both the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X by around 23%. In a rather amusing twist, the 64-core Threadripper 9980X is also left behind, though by a smaller margin of 6.6%.

    Real-World Applications

    It’s important to note that a single benchmark doesn’t fully reflect real-world performance in professional tasks. However, it’s clear that Apple’s new silicon lineup is likely to be among the fastest options available for consumers.

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  • Bungie Requests Delay on Marathon Reviews as Steam Players Drop Below 100K

    Bungie Requests Delay on Marathon Reviews as Steam Players Drop Below 100K

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bungie has requested a delay in Marathon reviews until after the game’s launch date for more content availability.
    2. Early access issues have led to some review sites not finalizing their opinions, impacting the information available to buyers.
    3. Marathon’s player count on Steam has not met projections, with only about 87,000 players at launch, compared to higher counts for other games.
    4. Initial reviews on Steam are positive, with an 84% rating, though there are concerns about a cluttered user interface.
    5. Major updates are planned, including a ranked mode and an endgame zone map, to enhance gameplay and narrative progression.

    Buyers who are unsure about Bungie’s new extraction shooter might not find helpful information on Metacritic. This is partly because the publisher has asked for a delay in Marathon reviews until after the game’s launch date. They have requested that review sites hold off on sharing their thoughts until more content is available later in March.

    Early Access Issues

    On the ResetEra forums, it was revealed that a well-known contributor’s media outlet “didn’t get early access to the server.” Other users supported this statement, pointing out that IGN’s ongoing review wouldn’t be finalized until the end of the month.

    Player Count Concerns

    It’s uncertain if favorable reviews for Marathon would have increased the game’s peak player count on Steam. Nevertheless, the game has not met certain projections, reaching only about 87,000 players on its March 5th launch date. Currently, it sits outside the top 10 most-played games on Valve’s platform. In comparison, the new indie game Slay the Spire 2 has achieved a much healthier player count of over 177,000.

    During the server slam, the Bungie project hit a peak player count of over 143,300 on Steam. However, that number gradually dropped as the playtest came to an end. With a price of $39.99, players might think twice before trying it again.

    Positive Initial Reception

    Despite some doubts, early reviews for Marathon on Steam are highlighting the positive aspects of the extraction shooter. Currently, it has a very positive rating of over 84%. Many gamers appreciate the smooth gunplay that is characteristic of Bungie titles like Destiny 2. However, there have been frequent complaints regarding a cluttered user interface since the initial demos.

    Not too many players are complaining about a lack of content, which seems to be a concern for the studio. There are mixed feelings about Bungie’s unusual approach to review sites. Some gamers believe that critics should be encouraged to give their final opinions on a paid product. Conversely, the live-service model can significantly alter a game after it has been released.

    Future Updates

    Season 1 for the sci-fi shooter is currently ongoing, but players can look forward to major updates soon. An endgame zone map will provide a clearer understanding of the narrative’s progression. Additionally, a ranked mode is set to enhance competitive multiplayer features in the latter half of March.

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  • ARC Raiders Fixes Privacy Issue with Discord DMs in Latest Update

    ARC Raiders Fixes Privacy Issue with Discord DMs in Latest Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. ARC Raiders was found to be capturing private Discord chats due to a flaw in the Discord SDK.
    2. The issue was discovered by computer engineer Timothy D. Meadows, who reported that private messages were saved in a plain text log file on players’ machines.
    3. The log file included complete texts of private messages and a Discord bearer authentication token, raising security concerns.
    4. Only players who linked their Discord accounts with ARC Raiders were affected; those who did not link their accounts were not impacted.
    5. Embark Studios quickly addressed the issue with a hotfix, assured players that the data was not shared externally, and is conducting a thorough audit to prevent future problems.

    A recent privacy concern has emerged in ARC Raiders, revealing that the game was capturing private Discord chats. This issue has been resolved, with developer Embark Studios swiftly deploying a hotfix to eliminate the problem once it was uncovered.

    Discovery of the Issue

    This issue was initially uncovered by computer engineer Timothy D. Meadows, who detailed the matter in a blog entry. His investigation revealed that when Discord integration was activated, the game was recording private direct messages between users. These messages were being saved in a plain text log file on the player’s machine.

    Content of the Log File

    Reportedly, the log file included the complete text of private messages exchanged among users. Furthermore, Meadows found that a Discord bearer authentication token was also being stored in this same file. This raised concerns, as it meant that anyone with access to the computer, crash reports, or specific local applications could potentially read these messages.

    Specifics of the Issue

    The problem was directly tied to the Discord SDK utilized in the game, impacting only those players who had linked their Discord accounts with ARC Raiders. Players who did not connect their Discord accounts were not impacted at all.

    Shortly after the issue gained attention, Embark Studios acknowledged it and confirmed that the Discord SDK had recorded more user information than was supposed to. They reassured players that the data was never shared outside of the user’s computer and that the developers did not access or keep the messages. A hotfix has been rolled out to disable the problematic logging, and the team mentioned that they are conducting a more thorough audit to ensure that similar issues do not occur in the future.

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  • Amazfit Smartwatch Update: BioCharge Improvements Added

    Amazfit Smartwatch Update: BioCharge Improvements Added

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new software update for the Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro is version 4.5.3.3, released three weeks after version 4.4.2.3.
    2. The update optimizes the depth algorithm for Outdoor and Indoor Freediving exercises.
    3. Improvements have been made to the turn reminder page in route navigation during workouts.
    4. Bug fixes include resolving depth chart issues for Freediving and preventing crashes during extended outdoor workouts.
    5. Users can download the update via the Zepp App, with a staged rollout starting in the US and China before reaching Europe.

    A new software update is being released for the Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro smartwatch. The update, which is version 4.5.3.3, comes about three weeks after the previous update, version 4.4.2.3, which introduced enhancements related to maps.

    Update Details

    Users of the Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro smartwatch have reported the new software version on Reddit. This update, which is 11.84MB in size, is said to optimize the depth algorithm, specifically for the Outdoor Freediving and Indoor Freediving exercises. Additionally, improvements have been made to the turn reminder page that users see while using the route navigation feature during their workouts. Furthermore, Zepp Health claims to have improved the BioCharge algorithm, though they haven’t specified how this will benefit users.

    Bug Fixes Included

    The update for the Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro also addresses several bugs. To start, Zepp Health has fixed an issue that affected the depth charts for both Outdoor Freediving and Indoor Freediving. Another fix resolves a problem that could cause the smartwatch to crash during extended outdoor workouts.

    Users of the Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro smartwatch, which is currently priced at $399.99 on Amazon, can download this update via the Zepp App. The rollout is likely happening in stages, initially reaching users in countries like the US and China before becoming available in Europe.

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  • New Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600 MIP LCD Watch Coming Soon

    New Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600 MIP LCD Watch Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600 watch debuted in Japan in late 2025 and is available online in the UK, but not yet in the US or EU.
    2. Two initial versions of the watch are available: GW-BX5600-1 with a positive display and GW-BX5600-1A1 with a negative display.
    3. A third color variation of the GW-BX5600 is expected to be introduced in April 2026, though details remain unconfirmed.
    4. Key features include a high-visibility LCD, Bluetooth connectivity, dual world time zones, and water resistance up to 200 m.
    5. First Class Watches in the UK plans to restock the original models of the GW-BX5600 in July/August 2026.

    A new Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600 watch is expected to be released soon. This eagerly awaited model made its debut in Japan in late 2025 and later became available on the brand’s online store in the UK. However, it has not yet been officially launched in other regions such as the US and the EU.

    Different Versions Available

    At first, consumers had the option to choose between two versions of the Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600. The GW-BX5600-1 is a black resin design with a positive MIP LCD (light background, dark figures), while the GW-BX5600-1A1 features the same black casing and strap, but with a negative display (dark background, light figures). Recently, the trusted blog Great G-Shock World reported that a third color variation will be introduced in April 2026. The blog does not mention where it got this information, and details about this new model remain unconfirmed.

    Features of the Watch

    Casio’s G-Shock GW-BX5600 is a digital timepiece with a square-shaped memory-in-pixel LCD. This display is referred to as a “high-visibility” screen, offering multiple font and display options. It is a radio-controlled (Multiband 6) watch with Bluetooth capabilities, enabling features such as automatic time updates. The watch supports dual world time zones and is equipped with a stopwatch, timer, and several alarms. Additionally, it is water-resistant up to 200 m and utilizes Tough Solar charging technology for prolonged battery life.

    Availability Updates

    Moreover, it is important to mention that First Class Watches, a retailer based in the UK that offers international shipping, is currently indicating a restock of the original Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600-1 and GW-BX5600-1A1 watches in July/August 2026.

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  • Switch 2 Game Sales Drop Amid Memory Shortage and High Storage Costs

    Switch 2 Game Sales Drop Amid Memory Shortage and High Storage Costs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Memory shortages are affecting gamers’ choices, leading to fewer new game purchases for the Switch 2.
    2. NAND flash prices are rising significantly, with a predicted increase of up to 90% this quarter, impacting storage costs.
    3. Nintendo is negotiating with retailers to keep expandable storage prices steady, but price increases may still occur in the future.
    4. The Switch 2’s storage capacity of 256GB is limiting gamers, causing them to manage files or purchase additional MicroSD Express cards.
    5. The situation may lead to a decline in third-party game support due to high storage costs and potential limitations on game card capacities.

    The memory shortage has yet to trigger a price hike for the Switch 2. However, it is pushing gamers with extensive game collections to make tough choices. A piece from Bloomberg highlights how the increasing costs of NAND flash are raising the prices of MicroSD Express cards. As Nintendo fans rush to clear their storage, they’re buying fewer new titles for the Switch 2.

    AI Data Centers and Memory Demands

    DRAM supplies are being heavily consumed by AI data centers, which also need various types of storage. Takashi Mochizuki refers to a Trendforce report that predicts a rise of up to 90% in NAND contract prices this quarter. In Japan, gamers have already noticed a significant jump in the cost of MicroSD Express cards since the console’s release.

    Nintendo’s Response to Pricing Pressures

    Despite the initial high costs, the price of expandable storage for the Switch 2 remains steady in other areas. However, Mochizuki notes that Nintendo has taken steps to prevent price increases. By negotiating with retailers, the company managed to persuade some to accept a smaller profit margin on first-party accessories. Still, there’s a chance that they might eventually increase the MSRP for the cards or the console itself.

    The Bloomberg article links the memory issue with a downturn in Switch 2 game sales. A financial report from Nintendo revealed that by the end of 2025, there were 2.18 games sold for every console purchased. In comparison, the original Switch had a figure of 3.88 at a similar stage in its lifecycle.

    Sales Trends and Storage Limitations

    While overall sales of the newer handheld are commendable, users are accumulating fewer games. Fans are feeling limited by the system’s 256GB storage capacity. Notably, certain third-party games, such as Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade, require over 90GB for installation. As time goes on, players will either need to buy more MicroSD Express cards or delete some files.

    Due to the potential for the 64GB cartridges to slow down read speeds, publishers like Square Enix have turned to Game-Key Cards. These products come with minimal data pre-loaded on the physical media, leading to large downloads. This situation forces players to manage their Switch 2 storage space carefully.

    Mochizuki warns that this situation might lead to a decline in third-party support. Although higher-capacity game cards could work for some titles, Nintendo might struggle to find a cost-effective solution. Some experts estimate that the prices for memory and storage won’t stabilize until 2028.

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  • MacBook Neo Wins Fans and Media Approval Despite Weak Hardware

    MacBook Neo Wins Fans and Media Approval Despite Weak Hardware

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MacBook Neo is priced at $599 but features hardware compromises like a mobile A18 Pro SoC and non-upgradable 8 GB RAM.
    2. Key features missing from the base model include Touch ID and keyboard backlighting.
    3. Users view the MacBook Neo as a budget-friendly upgrade from older MacBooks and lower-end Windows laptops.
    4. The target audience includes individuals already in the Apple ecosystem, looking for affordable laptops for basic tasks.
    5. The MacBook Neo poses a competitive threat to $600 Windows laptops, receiving positive reviews from major tech outlets.

    Apple officially announced the MacBook Neo on March 4. To reach the price of $599 for the MacBook Neo, the company had to make several hardware compromises. These include using a mobile A18 Pro SoC, offering only 8 GB of non-upgradable RAM, leaving out Touch ID from the base model, and not providing keyboard backlighting. Even with these limitations, the MacBook Neo has been positively received by both the media and users.

    User Reactions

    A look at r/macbook shows that many people see the MacBook Neo as a budget-friendly upgrade from older MacBook models or a step up from lower-end Windows laptops and Chromebooks. One user, who has been a “lifelong Windows user,” shared that they switched to the MacBook Neo from their heavy Windows gaming laptop. They appreciated the MacBook Neo for its long battery life and ease of carrying around.

    Target Audience

    Another user pointed out that the MacBook Neo is ideal for their sister, who is about to start graduate school. This sister is already well integrated into the Apple ecosystem with an iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. This is precisely the demographic Apple aims to attract with the MacBook Neo—those needing an affordable laptop for simple tasks, like browsing the web, while already owning some Apple devices.

    Competitive Landscape

    This situation should make Windows laptop manufacturers nervous, as the current selection of $600 Windows laptops can’t match up to the new MacBook. This sentiment is echoed by various tech reviewers in the industry. From Dave2D to LTT and Hardware Canucks, the MacBook Neo has garnered significant praise from major tech outlets.

    In summary, the initial reactions to the MacBook Neo appear to be quite favorable. However, it remains uncertain how the laptop will perform with regular use. We are particularly looking forward to evaluating the performance of the A18 Pro chip running macOS, as well as the battery life from its compact 36.5 Wh battery.

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  • New Roguelike Deckbuilder Launches on Steam, Over 175K Players

    New Roguelike Deckbuilder Launches on Steam, Over 175K Players

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Timeline: Slay the Spire 2 was initially set for early access in 2025 but has now launched early access in 2026 after additional development time.

    2. Strong Player Count: The game reached over 175,000 concurrent players shortly after launch, significantly surpassing the original game’s peak of 57,025 players.

    3. Positive Reception: Out of approximately 487 reviews on Steam, 93% are positive, indicating a favorable response from early players.

    4. Early Access Note: As an early access title, players may experience bugs and incomplete features, with the aim of providing feedback to improve the game.

    5. Future Development: The developers plan to keep the game in early access for 1 to 2 years, adding more content, gameplay modes, and features over time.

    Slay the Spire 2 was first made known in April 2024, with plans to launch it in early access by 2025. However, the developers decided they needed more time to refine the game, moving the release date to 2026. Today marks the occasion when Slay the Spire 2 has finally become available in early access on Steam, and the initial player count is already quite remarkable.

    Impressive Launch Numbers

    As per data from SteamDB, the game saw over 175,000 concurrent players within just a few hours of its release on Steam. This is a very solid beginning, especially for a title in early access. To put it in perspective, the original Slay the Spire had a peak of 57,025 players about three months ago. This means that the sequel has already eclipsed its predecessor’s peak player count by nearly three times in just a few hours after launching.

    Player Reception

    Since the game is freshly released, it has garnered around 487 reviews on Steam. Out of those, 93% are positive, indicating that many early players are enjoying the experience that the developers have created so far. With the rapid rise in player numbers, it wouldn’t be shocking to see the game hit 200,000 concurrent players later today.

    If you’re thinking about giving Slay the Spire 2 a shot, you should remember that this is an early access edition. This means you might encounter bugs, glitches, and some features that might not work as intended. The primary purpose of this version is to let players experience the game early and share their feedback with the developers. Such feedback will assist the team in fine-tuning mechanics, resolving issues, and enhancing the overall experience prior to the complete release. According to the developers, the game might stay in early access for one to two years, during which time they aim to introduce more gameplay content, new modes, additional cards, and other features progressively.

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  • Xbox CEO Reveals Codename for Next-Gen Hybrid Console

    Xbox CEO Reveals Codename for Next-Gen Hybrid Console

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asha Sharma has taken over as the new CEO of Xbox, promising a “return to the roots” and upcoming updates.
    2. The next generation Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, will focus on performance and allow users to install other game stores.
    3. The console will have hybrid functionality, enabling users to boot into Windows and use it as a PC.
    4. Concerns have been raised about Asha Sharma’s leadership and whether she may shift the Xbox brand towards an AI-driven model.
    5. The timing of new console releases may be uncertain due to current pricing of memory and storage, with 2027 marking the expected seven-year life cycle.

    Microsoft has seen some big shifts in its Xbox gaming division recently, especially with changes in leadership and strategy. After Phil Spencer stepped down, Asha Sharma took over and promised a “return to the roots” as the plan moving forward. She also mentioned that updates would be coming soon, and it appears that they are starting today.

    New Console Announcement

    The new Xbox CEO announced the codename for the upcoming console on X. It’s called Project Helix, and according to her post, it aims to “lead in performance and play your Xbox and PC games.” She made it clear that this is for the next generation Xbox console, but didn’t provide much more details. What we do know is that this new console will feature a more open platform, similar to the Xbox ROG Ally handhelds, allowing users to install other game stores.

    Hybrid Functionality

    Users will also be able to boot into Windows and use the next Xbox console as a PC. This idea was originally shared by Sarah Bond, the previous President and COO of Xbox, who now serves as a special advisor to Sharma. While information about the console is still limited, rumors suggest it will include a Magnus APU from AMD, manufactured on TSMC’s N3C or N3P node. This combination is expected to offer significant power, especially when compared to current consoles and the rumored specifications of the PS6.

    Concerns About Leadership

    Despite these developments, not everyone is optimistic about Asha Sharma leading the gaming division. Seamus Blackley, one of the original creators of the Xbox, has expressed concerns that she might dismantle the Xbox brand in favor of turning it into an AI-driven enterprise. Fans have also raised eyebrows about her background, questioning whether she is a “real-gamer.”

    As it stands, the Xbox team seems to be moving forward with the next hybrid console. Given that 2027 will mark the usual seven-year life cycle of consoles, the current state of memory and storage pricing leaves the timing of new console releases somewhat uncertain.

    Asha Sharma on X

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  • Nvidia Launches 15 New Games for GeForce NOW This Month

    Nvidia Launches 15 New Games for GeForce NOW This Month

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia is expanding the GeForce NOW library each month for gamers.
    2. March 2026 will see the addition of 15 new games to the service.
    3. The standout title for March is Crimson Desert, an anticipated open-world action-adventure game.
    4. Crimson Desert features exploration, quests, and interactions with characters in a vast environment.
    5. New titles will be introduced gradually throughout March, keeping content fresh for players.

    Nvidia is continuously growing the GeForce NOW library each month, giving gamers the opportunity to stream a broader selection of titles from their current collections without the need for top-tier equipment. For March 2026, the company has declared that 15 new games will be incorporated into the service. This selection features a combination of popular games and a few anticipated arrivals.

    Major Highlight: Crimson Desert

    The standout title in this month’s offering is Crimson Desert, which is among the most awaited games of the year. This game presents an open-world action-adventure experience set in the continent of Pywel. It allows players to traverse a vast environment brimming with deserts, mountains, and more. The focus of the game is on exploration, enabling players to embark on quests, engage with various characters, and participate in numerous activities across the area.

    Complete Game List for March

    With that in mind, here’s the full roster of GeForce NOW games set to debut in March 2026. A few of these titles are already accessible on the platform, while others will be introduced gradually during the month.

    Nvidia has consistently expanded its offerings, ensuring that players always have fresh content to enjoy.

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