Author: GizNews

May 9, 2025
Free Racing Game Giveaway on Epic Games Store for Android & iOS
Key Takeaways
1. Epic Games is offering a free mobile game, Mr Racer: Premium, valued at $9.98, available until May 15.
2. The game features 15 hypercars, five different locations, and seven racing modes, with both offline and online gameplay options.
3. Players will receive 5 million in-game currency and a ‘Fancy Pack’ for car customization.
4. Mr Racer: Premium is free from advertising interruptions, enhancing the gaming experience.
5. The game can be claimed through Epic Games’ mobile apps or a desktop browser, but there are regional restrictions for installation.
The Epic Games Store has refreshed its mobile free game giveaway program, featuring a racing game this time. Last week, they discounted Super Space Club for Android and iOS devices, including the newest iPhone 16 (currently priced at $676 – refurbished on Amazon). To add to this, the new mobile giveaway comes alongside two free games available on PC, which we have detailed in another article.
Free Game Offer
Starting today and running until May 15, you can add Mr Racer: Premium to your Epic Games library, a deal valued at a total of $9.98 for both mobile platforms. According to the store’s blog post, the game boasts 15 hypercars and allows you to race in five different locations with seven racing modes available. Mr Racer: Premium also offers both offline and online gameplay options, letting you compete against friends or randomly matched players.
Added Bonuses
In addition, this week’s offer includes 5 million in-game currency and a ‘Fancy Pack’ that provides various customization choices for your cars. Epic Games highlights that Mr Racer: Premium delivers a racing experience free from advertising interruptions. You can claim Mr Racer: Premium at no cost through Epic Games’ mobile applications or using a desktop browser via the instant checkout link, provided you are logged into your Epic Games account. Keep in mind that there are still regional restrictions regarding the installation of Epic’s mobile applications.
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Tags: Epic Games Store, iPhone 16, Mr Racer: Premium
May 9, 2025
Arc Raiders Datamine Reveals New Map, Bosses, and More
Key Takeaways
1. Arc Raiders has gained popularity during its brief playtest, generating excitement for its upcoming features.
2. A datamine revealed a new map called ‘The Blue Gate’ and confirmed four other maps, indicating ongoing development.
3. New bosses and enemies are in the works, with codenames and HP stats suggesting their roles and strengths.
4. Upcoming game modes include ‘HarvesterHunt’, ‘OutpostDefense’, ‘Reclaim’, ‘Salvage’, and ‘Siege’, hinting at diverse gameplay options.
5. Additional details on character skills, loot, and game systems are available, but they may change before the final release.
Arc Raiders has proven to be a great hit, despite being available for only a brief period during its playtest. This upcoming extraction shooter, crafted by Embark Studios using Unreal Engine 5, has generated a lot of buzz. Although the playtest offered limited gameplay experiences, a datamine of the game has revealed exciting details about future content, like new bosses, a fourth map, extra game modes, skills, and more.
Insights from the Datamine
Information shared on the Arc Raiders subreddit by user CoUsT indicates that game files contain hints about what the developers might be working on. It’s important to remember that this content is not final and may never reach the full release. Some of the values might also be incorrect or misinterpreted, so it’s wise to take this info lightly.
New Map Discovery
Among the findings, a new map titled ‘The Blue Gate’ has been identified. This map is one of the five confirmed, which also includes ‘PracticeRange’, ‘BuriedCity’, ‘Spaceport’, and ‘TheDam’. Notably, The Blue Gate has no Points of Interest (POIs) listed, implying that it is still under development. Additionally, other locations mentioned in the data include ‘DeathMatch’, ‘CombatValidation’, ‘MountainCompound’, and ‘Onboarding’ (which serves as a tutorial).
Upcoming Bosses and Enemies
Regarding bosses and enemies, there are codenames, abilities, and HP stats for anticipated new and existing foes in Arc Raiders. The codenames include Salt, Wasabi, Mustard, Fennel, Pepper, and Radish. Salt is characterized as having 20K HP, while Wasabi, thought to be the Queen, boasts 35K HP. Mustard is speculated to be the King with 60K HP, while the others are expected to be lesser enemies.
Game Modes and Features
There is also a mention of a “Pendulum System/Move,” which is thought to be related to movement or a new game mode. In terms of game modes, the data reveals ‘HarvesterHunt’, ‘OutpostDefense (with Elite waves, LastStandOrbital)’, ‘Reclaim’, ‘Salvage’, and ‘Siege (with Elite)’ as some of the modes currently present or on the horizon for Arc Raiders.
Additional Information
A wealth of information is available regarding character skills and abilities, loot, armors, inventory, audio, weather systems, and even a first-person camera. As previously noted, it’s crucial to approach this information cautiously, as the final version of the game may not include every detail mentioned.
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Tags: Arc Raiders, game modes, Unreal Engine 5
May 9, 2025
Vivo X Fold5 Global Release Expected with Exciting Upgrades
Key Takeaways
1. Vivo is expected to launch successors to the X Fold3 Pro, including the X Fold5, between June and September.
2. The X Fold5 will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and a larger battery of 6,000 mAh.
3. The design will include 6.3-inch and 8.3-inch cover displays, differing from the previous model’s display sizes.
4. The device will retain a 50 MP triple rear camera setup and a 32 MP front-facing camera with Zeiss optics.
5. There are indications that Vivo may move away from the triple camera setup seen in earlier models.
More detailed info about a possible new foldable device has surfaced online thanks to Yogesh Brar. To summarize, there were hints towards the end of last year that Vivo was getting ready to launch a successor to the X Fold3 Pro, along with a competing product to the Apple Vision Pro. Additionally, rumors suggested that Vivo might move away from the triple camera setup seen in the X Fold3 and X Fold3 Pro.
Time for New Models
Since both of these models are now more than a year old, it’s about time for Vivo to unveil their successors. According to Brar, at least one model is expected to have a global launch sometime between June and September. Sadly, the leaker hasn’t shared any details regarding the anticipated launch in China. However, it seems that the global release might only pertain to the X Fold5, unlike last year when the X Fold3 Pro was also included.
Specs and Features
Regardless, Brar anticipates that the standard X Fold5 will be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which is found in current leading foldables, such as the Galaxy Z Fold6 (currently priced at $1,249 on Amazon). It shouldn’t be much of a surprise since the X Fold3 was launched last year with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 alongside a robust 5,500 mAh battery.
Reportedly, the X Fold’s battery is going to increase by 9%, reaching 6,000 mAh. Additionally, the device will feature the same 50 MP triple rear cameras and a 32 MP front-facing camera, along with Zeiss optics and a side-mounted fingerprint scanner. Brar also mentions that the X Fold5 will include 6.3-inch and 8.3-inch cover displays, suggesting a change in design from the X Fold3, which had a 6.3-inch cover display that unfolded into an 8.03-inch interior screen.
Conclusion
In summary, Yogesh Brar’s insights give us a glimpse into what we might expect from Vivo’s next foldable. With upgraded specs and a potential global release on the horizon, it’ll be interesting to see how the new models stack up against competitors in the market.
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Tags: Foldable Smartphone, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Vivo X Fold5
May 8, 2025
Nintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. Gamers
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo is sending out pre-order invitation emails to select gamers, but timing and availability remain unclear.
2. Only a small number of players have reported receiving emails, indicating limited console availability ahead of the June 5th launch.
3. Eligible buyers include Nintendo Switch Online subscribers with over 12 months of membership and 50+ hours of gameplay, but invitations are not guaranteed.
4. Gamers who receive invitations have a 72-hour window to complete their purchases on Nintendo’s Store.
5. Delivery options may lead to delays, with standard shipping taking 3-9 business days and expedited options still possibly arriving after the Switch 2’s release date.
U.S. gamers were aware that Nintendo would dispatch emails to chosen players on May 8th, but the specific time for pre-ordering the Switch 2 was still unclear. Now, it seems that invitation emails are beginning to reach select gamers. Nevertheless, as has been the case during the pre-order phase, there is still a lot of confusion regarding the availability and shipping methods.
Select Emails Rolling Out
Currently, only a small group of users on the ResetEra forums and various subreddits have reported receiving an email. This pattern might suggest that Nintendo plans to keep sending invitations throughout the day, or it could mean that the number of consoles available is even lower than anticipated. Nintendo has already mentioned that there might not be enough handheld devices for every player by the Switch 2 launch on June 5th.
Invited Buyers Share Their Emails
Lucky participants who received invites from Nintendo have shared the content of their emails. There’s nothing particularly surprising in the communication, as gamers have a window of 72 hours to complete their purchases. Before the pre-order period kicked off, Nintendo made it clear which buyers would be eligible. The company favors Nintendo Switch Online subscribers who have been registered for over 12 months and logged 50+ hours of gameplay. However, even those who meet these criteria are not guaranteed an invitation to purchase the console from Nintendo’s Store.
Delivery Options and Expectations
On social media, retail tracker Wario64 suggested that gamers waiting for their emails should visit Nintendo’s website. Any gamer who gets selected by Nintendo might be able to finalize their order right away.
An unexpected downside for buyers relates to the delivery choices. The standard free shipping option estimates delivery in 3-9 business days. Depending on when the order is dispatched, the console might not arrive until after the Switch 2 release date. Even the expedited shipping options provide estimated delivery times of 2-3 days. While the Switch 2 pre-order frenzy has caused issues for retailers like Best Buy and GameStop, players still hope to receive their consoles on June 5th.
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Tags: Nintendo, Pre-order, Switch 2
May 8, 2025
Asus Vivobook S16: Long Battery, 120Hz QHD Display, NPU Available
Key Takeaways
1. The Asus Vivobook S16 is available in Europe, with two models priced at €999 and €899, featuring 1TB and 512GB SSDs respectively.
2. Both models are powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon X1-26-100 processor and have 16GB of soldered LPDDR5X RAM.
3. The 16-inch display offers a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 500 nits.
4. Weighing 3.8 lbs, the laptop includes various connectivity options, such as HDMI 2.1, USB 3.2, and USB 4.0 ports, along with WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 4.3.
5. The battery supports fast charging and can reach 60% in 49 minutes, with a claimed battery life of up to 32 hours.
Asus has recently launched the new Vivobook S16, and it is now available for buyers in various European countries, including Germany. The 16-inch laptop, identified by the model number S3607QA-PL006W, can be purchased for €999, which includes 19% VAT. There is also another configuration of the Vivobook S16, with the model number S3607QA-PL004W, priced lower at €899. This version comes with a 512GB SSD instead of the 1TB option. Both models feature soldered 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and share the same Qualcomm Snapdragon X1-26-100 processor.
Performance and Display Features
The ARM chipset in these laptops boasts an NPU capable of 45 TOPS, which is expected to deliver solid performance in AI tasks. These new Asus devices come with a 16-inch screen that has a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels, a response time of just 0.2ms, and a refresh rate of 120Hz. The IPS display reportedly achieves a peak brightness of 500 nits and a standard brightness of 400 nits. Asus claims that the sRGB color space is fully covered.
Weight and Connectivity Options
Weighing in at 3.8 lbs, the Vivobook S16 has dimensions of 14 x 9.9 x 0.7 inches. It includes a Full-HD webcam, along with built-in microphones and speakers. For connectivity, you’ll find one HDMI 2.1 port, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, and two USB 4.0 ports that can support display output. Additionally, the device features WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 4.3, while the 70Wh battery can be charged to 60% in just 49 minutes. Asus also asserts that the Vivobook S16 complies with the US MIL-STD-810H standard and can provide battery life of up to 32 hours. Nevertheless, a similar model of this laptop lasted around 20 hours in our detailed testing.
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Tags: 16-inch laptop, Asus Vivobook S16, S3607QA-PL006W
May 8, 2025
Apple Exec Warns: iPhone May Become Obsolete Due to AI
Key Takeaways
1. Eddy Cue’s remark about a drop in search volume on Safari indicates a potential shift in how iPhone users will engage with web search.
2. Apple plans to integrate generative AI search tools into Safari, moving away from traditional Google search interfaces.
3. Google’s dominance in search is being challenged by AI platforms like ChatGPT, impacting its market value.
4. The iPhone’s role as a primary access point for search is changing, potentially affecting Google’s advertising revenue.
5. The rise of AI may disrupt Google’s search monopoly more effectively than legal actions from regulators.
At a pivotal moment in an important antitrust trial in Washington, D.C., Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, shared a remark that could signal a significant change in the iPhone’s usual function in web search. “For the first time in 22 years, we’ve seen search volume drop on Safari,” he declared. Cue’s testimony aimed to support Apple’s multi-billion-dollar agreement with Google, but it also suggested a larger transition that might alter how users engage with the iPhone. The main catalyst behind this change is artificial intelligence.
AI Integration in Safari
Reports indicate that Apple is looking to incorporate generative AI search tools such as OpenAI and Perplexity into Safari. This move could fundamentally transform how iPhone users search for information, shifting from the conventional Google search box to interfaces powered by AI. This trend has already begun influencing the market, as shares of Google’s parent company Alphabet fell by more than 7% this week, wiping out about $150 billion in market capitalization.
Changes in Revenue Dynamics
Cue remarked in court, “It just seems crazy to me,” in reference to potential revenue losses linked to Google’s antitrust challenges, acknowledging that the true disruption may arise more from AI than from legal decisions. His statements mirror a rising sentiment within the industry. Google’s long-held supremacy in search is now being challenged by generative AI platforms. With ChatGPT reportedly managing over 1 billion search queries each week and Apple working on redesigning Safari with AI capabilities, the iPhone’s role as a gateway to Google’s ecosystem might be fading.
The Redefinition of the iPhone
“The iPhone’s role as the portal to search is being redefined,” stated Yory Wurmser, an analyst at eMarketer. “When your default gateway no longer leads to Google but to AI, the device becomes less of a command centre and more of a conduit.” This strategic shift by Apple could have extensive implications for the smartphone and advertising sectors. Analysts caution that changing Google’s default search position on iOS could destabilize Google’s advertising revenue and redirect billions in global advertising expenditure. As U.S. regulators deliberate on actions regarding default search engine agreements, Apple seems to be gearing up its platform for a future dominated by AI.
At this moment, the iPhone continues to hold a dominant position. However, as Cue pointed out, the emergence of AI may achieve what courts cannot — diminish Google’s search monopoly and, in doing so, reshape the iPhone itself.
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Tags: AI, Apple, google
May 8, 2025
Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV Price Increase Due to Tariff Hikes
Key Takeaways
1. Ford is raising prices on the Mustang Mach-e SUV by $2,000 due to increased tariffs on models made in Mexico.
2. The price increases will also affect the hybrid Maverick pickup truck and the Bronco Sport SUV, which are also manufactured in Mexico.
3. Ford plans to absorb some tariff costs instead of passing all of them onto customers, with new prices applying to vehicles assembled after May 2.
4. Ford is the first major automaker to raise prices in response to import tariffs, which could cost the company $2.5 billion by 2025.
5. Ford has a lower exposure to import tariffs compared to competitors, with nearly 80% of its U.S. sales produced domestically.
American drivers who have delayed purchasing the Ford Mustang Mach-e SUV may find themselves facing higher prices. The automaker is applying additional fees to the models it brings in from Mexico to adjust for the tariff increases that President Donald Trump has put into place.
Price Increases Announced
Ford has already informed its dealers about the price increases. According to Reuters, the Mustang Mach-e will see an increase of $2,000. Other models impacted include the hybrid Maverick pickup truck and the Bronco Sport SUV, both of which are manufactured in Mexico as well.
Company’s Response to Tariffs
Despite the price hikes, a Ford representative stated that the company would cover some of the tariff costs rather than shifting the entire burden onto customers. The revised prices will apply to vehicles assembled after May 2.
Industry Context
Ford is the first established carmaker to implement price increases due to the elevated import tariffs. Recently, they disclosed that the ongoing trade conflict could cost the company around $2.5 billion by 2025. However, Ford aims to reduce that impact by up to $1 billion. Meanwhile, local competitor General Motors might face losses ranging from $4 billion to $5 billion.
Ford has one of the lowest exposures to import tariffs in the American auto industry. It has a significant local production capacity, with nearly 80% of its U.S. sales being manufactured domestically. In contrast, companies like Volkswagen and Hyundai, which import over 60% of their sales, are more vulnerable in the second-largest auto market.
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Tags: Ford Maverick, Ford Mustang Mach-e, Tariff Impact
May 8, 2025
Home Assistant 2025.5 Launches with Exciting New Features
Key Takeaways
1. Backup system enhancements with customizable retention policies for each backup location.
2. New text-to-speech voice options for Home Assistant Cloud subscribers, including styles like “friendly” and “whisper.”
3. Improved user interface for selecting entities, providing more context about devices and areas.
4. Introduction of Z-Wave Long Range support for extended device communication.
5. New integrations for Amazon S3 and certain Miele appliances, along with a QR scanning tool for Z-Wave Smart Start.
Home Assistant 2025.5 has been released for those using the open-source smart home automation platform. As the name indicates, this marks the fifth update from the organization this year, following their trend of releasing updates at the beginning of each month.
Backup System Enhancements
With the new 2025.5 version, users will find enhancements in the backup system, which now includes the option to establish a retention policy for each backup location. For subscribers of Home Assistant Cloud, there’s a neat feature that allows them to choose from various text-to-speech voice types, offering styles or tones like “friendly” and “whisper.” This lets users customize announcements for different situations. Moreover, when selecting entities, the user interface has been upgraded to display more context about the device and area name.
Z-Wave Long Range Support
This update introduces support for Z-Wave Long Range, enabling devices to communicate over extended distances. The Z-Wave Smart Start QR scanning tool is now incorporated into the Home Assistant mobile application. Additionally, users can easily copy and paste YAML automation and scripts directly into the user interface. Furthermore, there are newly added integrations for Amazon Simple Storage Service (S3) and certain Miele appliances. For those interested in the full release notes for Home Assistant 2025.5, they can be found on the company’s website.
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Tags: Amazon S3, Home Assistant 2025.5, Z-Wave Long Range
May 8, 2025
Anker Eufy E10 Smart Display with Battery Launching Soon
Key Takeaways
1. The Anker E10 smart display (model T87AO) has been in development for a long time, with online manuals and brochures available, and an upcoming release hinted by FCC certification.
2. It features a built-in 5,000mAh battery that allows it to operate without a base station, with a battery life of up to 24 hours, and can be wall-mounted.
3. The E10 can stream videos from Anker’s security cameras and smart doorbells, and includes a microphone for two-way communication with visitors.
4. It supports WiFi connections on 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, includes 8GB of internal eMMC storage, and has an 8-inch HD display with smart functionalities like facial recognition.
5. The device can save videos locally, ensuring it remains functional during internet outages, though compatibility with specific cameras is still uncertain.
Anker has been developing a new smart display known as the E10, with the model number T87AO, for a significant period. There’s already a manual available online, and recently, a brochure has surfaced. While the official price and launch date remain unclear, a recent FCC certification indicates that its release might be just around the corner.
Features of the E10
The E10 smart display can function without needing a base station, thanks to its integrated 5,000mAh battery. This feature could be handy for checking on a video baby monitor from the comfort of your couch. According to the brochure, the Eufy E10 boasts a battery life that lasts for up to 24 hours, and it’s also capable of being mounted on a wall.
Streaming Capabilities
This smart display can stream videos from Anker’s security cameras and display live feeds from smart doorbells. Additionally, the Eufy E10 is equipped with a microphone, allowing users to communicate with visitors at their door. It can showcase multiple video streams simultaneously, which is perfect for smart home fans who want to monitor everything happening around their homes.
Technical Specifications
The device connects to WiFi on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and includes 8GB of internal eMMC storage. It features an 8-inch display with HD resolution, and Anker asserts that it comes with smart functionalities like facial recognition. Since videos are saved locally, the Eufy E10 remains operational even during internet outages. However, it’s still uncertain which specific cameras will be compatible with this new smart display.
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Tags: Anker, Eufy E10, smart display
May 8, 2025
Reolink E1 Pro Indoor Camera Launches with AI Baby Cry Alerts
Key Takeaways
1. High-Quality Imaging: The E1 Pro features a f/1.6 lens for sharp images in low light, with infrared LEDs for nighttime visibility without disturbing infants.
2. Impressive Recording Capabilities: It records 5 MP video at 20 frames per second and supports various storage options, including microSD cards and networked devices.
3. Smart Alerts: The camera can send notifications for detected motion, including alerts for humans, pets, and crying babies.
4. Voice Control and Connectivity: The E1 Pro is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, and includes a built-in speaker and microphone for remote communication.
5. Affordability and Availability: Priced at $47.99, the E1 Pro is available for purchase on Reolink.com and will soon be on Amazon.
Reolink has introduced the new E1 Pro 5 MP indoor security camera, which comes with advanced features like AI crying baby alerts.
High-Quality Imaging
The E1 Pro is equipped with a f/1.6 lens, ensuring it captures sharp images even in dim lighting. When it’s completely dark, eight infrared LEDs light up the room without waking up sleeping infants. This camera can rotate and tilt 360 degrees, allowing it to cover every corner of the room while automatically tracking both people and pets.
Impressive Recording Capabilities
Featuring a 1/2.7-inch CMOS sensor, the E1 Pro records videos at a resolution of 2,880 x 1,616 pixels (5 MP) at 20 frames per second, saving footage to microSD cards, Reolink NVRs, Reolink Home Hubs, or networked FTP/NAS devices. Users can set the camera to notify them of detected motion, be it human, pet, or even crying babies. Recordings can be programmed to trigger with motion detection, follow a specific schedule, or operate continuously throughout the day.
Smart Features and Connectivity
This intelligent camera can be controlled by voice through Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa using dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi. It also includes a built-in speaker and microphone for enabling remote conversations.
Measuring 84 x 118 mm (3.3 x 4.6 in.), the camera weighs 235 g (8.3 oz.) and can be placed on a table or mounted on a wall.
The Reolink E1 Pro is priced at $47.99. It’s available for purchase on Reolink.com and will be available soon on Amazon through the Reolink store.
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Tags: AI alerts, indoor security camera, Reolink E1 Pro