Category: All News

  • Test Drive Unlimited Developer Addresses Low Steam Player Counts

    Test Drive Unlimited Developer Addresses Low Steam Player Counts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Developer Sebastian Waxin suggests that Steam player counts do not accurately reflect the popularity of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown, emphasizing better performance on PS5.
    2. SteamDB reports disappointing statistics for the game, with a peak of only 5,305 players at launch and daily concurrent players often below 300.
    3. The game has a low average rating of 37.26% on Steam, with issues such as unstable servers and poor optimization affecting player experience.
    4. Test Drive Unlimited has a 2/5 rating on both PlayStation and Xbox stores, with ongoing discussions about performance issues, particularly on the PS5 compared to Xbox Series X.
    5. Nacon plans to continue updates for the game, with new content and missions scheduled for release through July 2026, indicating continued fan interest.


    Whenever a game that spans multiple platforms comes out, a lot of gamers turn to Steam player counts to see how well it’s doing. But, a developer from Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown says we shouldn’t focus too much on those numbers. In an interview with Push Square, Nacon’s Sebastian Waxin mentioned that the game has actually done better on the PS5.

    Developer’s Perspective

    The developer argues that the number of players on Steam doesn’t truly reflect how popular the game is. Since there’s no easy way to access player counts for Xbox and PS5, he believes gamers depend too much on sites like SteamDB. Yet, many readers are doubtful, given that there are no console figures to support Waxin’s statements.

    SteamDB Insights

    Websites such as SteamDB provide in-depth information about every game on Valve’s platform. The statistics for Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown are quite disappointing. The game peaked at just 5,305 players when it launched in September 2024. Interest in the game has since declined, with daily concurrent players typically falling below 300.

    User Reviews

    The Steam ratings for Nacon’s installment in the racing series are not encouraging either, holding an average score of 37.26%. Even with a playtest before it released, the game faced issues with unstable servers. Players have expressed frustration over the always-online requirement. Another common issue is poor optimization, resulting in subpar framerates even on high-end systems.

    After multiple updates, the latest mixed reviews on Steam highlight ongoing performance concerns. Although players can’t leave comments, Test Drive Unlimited maintains around a 2/5 rating on both the PlayStation and Xbox stores. Discussions on Reddit point out the stuttering gameplay that affects the PS5 version, while some users claim that the Xbox Series X offers a superior experience.

    Future Updates

    Nacon’s plans for Test Drive Unlimited indicate that there’s enough interest from fans to justify ongoing updates. Upcoming content set for release through July 2026 includes the return of casino and taxi missions, which are expected to launch in Seasons 4 and 5.

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  • Huawei Pura 80 Launching Soon with Upgraded Last-Gen Chip

    Huawei Pura 80 Launching Soon with Upgraded Last-Gen Chip

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei has launched the Pura 80, with no successors for the Pura 70 Ultra and Pro+.
    2. The Pura 80 features a compact triangular camera design and will come in various colors, including a copper gold shade.
    3. The phone resembles an iPhone in design and includes a “smart schedule” function aimed at students.
    4. It is expected to use the Kirin 9010S SoC with enhanced performance specs.
    5. The Pura 80 is set to launch on July 23, 2025, with a possible price similar to the Pura 70 at around 5,499 yuan (~$767).


    Huawei has unveiled the next generation of the Pura series, namely the Pura 80, while the Pura 70 Ultra and Pro+ are absent as successors. The Pura 70 and its other versions are expected to be released soon, but details are still scarce.

    Design and Features

    The Pura 80 showcases a more compact and symmetrical triangular camera design, indicating that it won’t feature the high-end 1-inch sensor found in Ultra models. The device is anticipated to come in several colors, including a copper gold shade that Apple might also consider for its iPhone 17 Pro lineup.

    User Experience

    From the front, the Pura 80 bears a striking resemblance to an iPhone, with its display featuring a single hole-punch for the selfie camera. It’s clearly aimed at students rather than serious mobile photographers, boasting a “smart schedule” function that could be a standout feature in its HarmonyOS 5.1 interface.

    Performance Specs

    Renowned leaker Digital Chat Station has claimed that the phone will utilize a Kirin 9010S SoC, which appears to be an upgraded version of the existing 9010 chip found in the Pura 70 Ultra. However, the new model is rumored to include performance enhancements throughout its CPU, with 2 cores operating at 2.5GHz, 6 cores at 2.05GHz, and 4 cores at 1.50GHz.

    The Pura 80 is set to be launched tomorrow (July 23, 2025), though Huawei may wait until the end of the month for its official release, according to Digital Chat Station. The tip suggests that a variant with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage could be priced similarly to the Pura 70, which was launched at 5,499 yuan (~$767).

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  • Win the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 Laptop with RTX 5080 GPU

    Win the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 Laptop with RTX 5080 GPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia is giving away a high-end gaming laptop, the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16, to one lucky winner and a friend.
    2. No Terms and Conditions are provided, leaving entry eligibility and country restrictions unclear.
    3. There is no specified end date for the giveaway, so it’s best to enter as soon as possible.
    4. The laptop features an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 GPU, Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU, 16-inch 2.5K display, 32 GB RAM, and 2x 2TB SSDs.
    5. Performance reviews highlight impressive gaming capabilities but note that the laptop can be very loud under heavy use.


    Nvidia has just launched its newest giveaway, and this time they’re offering something really exciting: a complete gaming laptop! This isn’t just any laptop; it’s a powerful ROG Strix Scar 16 from Asus. One fortunate gamer, along with a friend, has the chance to win this high-end device. To join in on the fun, make sure to check out the instructions on Nvidia’s post on X.

    Missing Details

    Typically, Nvidia provides Terms and Conditions for their giveaways, but this time they’re not included. This means it’s unclear who can actually enter the giveaway, as many are often limited to certain countries. Additionally, there seems to be no specified end date for the contest, so it’s advisable to enter as soon as possible.

    Laptop Specifications

    The Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 comes equipped with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5080 laptop GPU. While other specs aren’t detailed in the giveaway announcement, a quick look at Asus’ own website shows that it features an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU, a 16-inch 2.5K mini-LED display with a refresh rate of 240 Hz, 32 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM, and 2x 2TB NVMe SSDs set up in RAID 0 configuration.

    Performance Review

    In our evaluation of the ROG Strix Scar 16, which had a slightly different setup (using an RTX 5090 GPU instead of the RTX 5080), we were impressed by its colorful OLED screen, outstanding gaming performance, and easy access for upgrades. However, one downside is that the laptop can become extremely loud when under heavy usage, and this issue is likely to be present in various models too.

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  • Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora Introduces Exciting New Feature for Gamers

    Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora Introduces Exciting New Feature for Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Initial Launch Challenges: Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora faced difficulties upon its release in 2023, disappointing many fans.
    2. Ubisoft’s Commitment: Despite the launch issues, Ubisoft is dedicated to improving the game and ensuring the franchise’s longevity.
    3. New Game+ Mode: A highly requested New Game+ mode will be introduced, allowing players to replay the game with retained inventory and skills.
    4. Enhanced Visuals: The upcoming update will feature a third-person perspective to improve the visual experience, showcasing the beauty of Pandora.
    5. Update Delay: The new features are set to be released on December 5, 2025, giving players time to prepare for the improvements.


    Since its debut in 2023, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora has encountered a lot of challenges. Fans had high hopes for the game, but it didn’t quite live up to those expectations. However, just because the initial launch was a flop doesn’t mean the entire project should be scrapped. It’s important to highlight that Ubisoft is committed to making this franchise endure, especially with the upcoming feature that players have long desired.

    Exciting New Features on the Horizon

    A significant update is set to arrive for the game, introducing two intriguing new features. The first relates to gameplay comfort and includes the highly requested New Game+ mode, which is common in many other titles. If you’re not aware, this mode lets you replay the game while retaining your inventory and skills. Naturally, new and stronger gear will be accessible, since enemies will become tougher, offering a fresh gameplay experience.

    Enhancing Visual Experience

    Moreover, another big addition in this update will enhance your appreciation for the graphics in Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. The high-quality visuals draw you into the captivating yet perilous world of Pandora. With the introduction of a third-person perspective at the press of a button, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the stunning night sky as you navigate through the forests and varied terrains of the planet.

    Oumar Bouali stated: “Whether you’re exploring, engaging in combat, or simply admiring the scenery, this mode provides a sense of scale, freedom, and unmatched immersion. We are revamping the animation, control, and camera systems to ensure everything operates flawlessly.” However, even though these new features might entice you to explore the breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating gameplay, patience will be required. This update is scheduled for December 5, 2025, so you’ll have ample time to get ready.

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  • Nothing Expands Smartphone Lineup with Affordable Lite and T Models

    Nothing Expands Smartphone Lineup with Affordable Lite and T Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nothing Phone (3) features a new Glyph Matrix display, but its flagship status is questioned due to the removal of the Glyph lighting system.
    2. Leaker Yogesh Brar suggests that Nothing may expand its budget range with ‘Lite’ or ‘T’ branded phones due to underwhelming Pro model sales.
    3. The Nothing Phone (3) marks a stronger entry into the U.S. market, with availability through Amazon, unlike its predecessor.
    4. The Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro offer budget-friendly options priced at $379 and $459, respectively.
    5. Future ‘Lite’ and ‘T’ models remain speculative, with no confirmation from Nothing on whether they will replace or complement the existing ‘a’ series.


    The Nothing Phone (3) was released earlier this month, on July 1, and reactions have been mixed. While it maintains the distinctive Nothing design, there are worries about if it can truly be called a flagship device, especially with the removal of the Glyph lighting system in favor of the new Glyph Matrix display. Recently, a reliable leaker has revealed that the Pro models aren’t meeting expectations, leading the company to consider expanding its budget range.

    New Developments in Branding

    This information comes from the well-known leaker Yogesh Brar on X, who has successfully leaked accurate details about Nothing’s plans for three phone launches in the first half of 2025. In his post, he mentions that Nothing might be exploring ‘Lite’ or ‘T’ branded phones since “Pro models are just not cutting it.” The ‘Lite’ name is usually associated with budget-friendly options, similar to how OnePlus uses the ‘T’ branding. Nothing already has a budget line marked with the ‘a’ label, but it looks like they might be preparing to expand further.

    Entering the U.S. Market More Boldly

    With the launch of the Nothing Phone (3) (available on Amazon), the company has decided to make a more significant push into the U.S. market. The previous Nothing Phone (1) was only accessible in the U.S. via a beta program. In contrast, the Nothing Phone (2) (also available on Amazon) was widely available in both the U.S. and Canada. The latest model has caught attention for its flagship price of $800, placing it in the same category as the Galaxy S25 (buy on Amazon) and the iPhone 16, both of which feature true flagship specifications.

    Budget Models on the Horizon?

    For those looking for budget options, the Phone (3a) and Phone (3a) Pro are strong alternatives, priced at $379 and $459 respectively. It remains unclear whether the upcoming ‘Lite’ and ‘T’ models will be simplified versions of the Nothing Phone (3) or the Nothing Phone (3a) Pro. The Phone (3a) is already a more affordable version, but it’s uncertain if the new models will take the place of the ‘a’ series.

    It’s important to note that this information is still speculative, and Nothing has not confirmed any such plans. So, approach this news cautiously.

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  • Lenovo’s Lightweight Flagship Tablet Now Available for Pre-Order

    Lenovo’s Lightweight Flagship Tablet Now Available for Pre-Order

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo has started pre-orders for the Xiaoxin AI Tablet Pro GT, which officially launches on August 6.
    2. Pre-order customers can receive various discounts and launch bonuses, including an entertainment gift package.
    3. The first 4,900 pre-orders include a free 128 GB microSD card and a free Stylus Pro, valued at CNY 599 (around $84).
    4. The tablet boasts impressive performance, scoring 2,023,468 on AnTuTu V10, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and 8 GB of RAM.
    5. The Xiaoxin AI Tablet Pro GT is expected to outperform other models like the Legion Tab Gen 3 and Yoga Tab Plus, which is priced at $599.


    Lenovo has kicked off pre-orders for its newest lightweight flagship tablet after revealing the device in several Weibo posts just a few days ago. Although the company hasn’t announced the pricing for the Xiaoxin AI Tablet Pro GT yet, they are providing an array of discounts and launch bonuses for customers who pre-order the tablet on their website or through partner retailers before it officially launches on August 6.

    Exciting Gifts for Early Reservers

    For example, the first 50,000 customers who pre-order the Xiaoxin AI Tablet Pro GT will receive an entertainment gift package. In addition, Lenovo will throw in a 128 GB microSD card with the first 4,900 tablets sold. Even more, the company has confirmed that the Stylus Pro will be given as a free gift, which usually retails for CNY 599 (around $84). The Stylus Pro can be charged magnetically and supports up to 8,192 pressure levels, offering just 4 ms input latency.

    Impressive Performance Metrics

    Furthermore, Lenovo has hinted that the Xiaoxin AI Tablet Pro GT scores a remarkable 2,023,468 on AnTuTu V10, powered by its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and 8 GB of RAM. If this performance holds true for retail models, it would mean the Xiaoxin AI Tablet Pro GT outperforms not only the Legion Tab Gen 3 but also the larger Yoga Tab Plus, which is currently priced at $599 on Amazon. For more information about Lenovo’s new 12.1-inch Android tablet, check out the promotional videos shared below.

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  • 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Controller Now Supports Steam Compatibility

    8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Controller Now Supports Steam Compatibility

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Controller is fully optimized for Steam and Steam Deck.
    2. It supports both Bluetooth and wired connections, with a USB cable included.
    3. Key features include 6-axis gyro adjustment, customizable button mapping, and vibration feedback.
    4. The controller is priced at $69.99 and is available for pre-order with a release date of August 12.
    5. It is compatible with various devices including Android, Apple, Nintendo Switch, and Windows systems.


    Earlier this month, 8BitDo shared exciting news about some of its controllers now being fully optimized to work seamlessly with Steam and the Steam Deck, as well as devices that run SteamOS. The range of supported controllers has expanded with the introduction of the newly released 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth Controller.

    New Additions to the Family

    This new controller joins an impressive lineup that includes the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless, 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller, and the 8BitDo SN30 Pro Bluetooth controller. As per 8BitDo, every input on the controller has been fully tuned to function effectively with Steam. This controller can be used in both Bluetooth and wired modes, with the wired option requiring a USB cable that comes included in the package.

    Features That Enhance Your Experience

    Among the features that support Steam are 6-axis gyro adjustment, customizable button mapping, vibration feedback, and support for cross-platform profiles. 8BitDo recommends that users ensure both their controller and Steam client are updated to the latest versions for optimal performance.

    The 8BitDo Pro 3 Bluetooth controller is now available for pre-order through the 8BitDo website or on Amazon for a price of $69.99, with a release date set for August 12. This controller is also compatible with Android, Apple devices, Nintendo Switch (versions 1 & 2), and Windows systems. It includes TMR joysticks, interchangeable magnetic ABXY buttons, extra R4 and L4 buttons, customizable back buttons, plus a charging dock.

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  • Govee Floor Lamp Now Supports Matter Compatibility

    Govee Floor Lamp Now Supports Matter Compatibility

    Key Takeaways

    1. Govee has launched new champagne (gold) and blue color options for the Floor Lamp Basic, in addition to the original black and white versions.
    2. The updated Floor Lamp Basic is Matter compatible, allowing it to integrate with various smart home systems.
    3. The lamp features an RGBICW light source with 14 segmented color controls and supports 58 preset scene modes, including music synchronization.
    4. Users can control the lamp through voice commands and adjust brightness up to 1,000 lumens.
    5. The new models are priced at $69.99 in the US (discounted from $99.99) and €89.99 in Germany, with a broader European release expected soon.


    Two fresh iterations of the Govee Floor Lamp Basic have been launched. Initially introduced in 2022, customers had the option to select either black or white versions of this product.

    New Colors and Compatibility

    Now, Govee has added champagne (gold) and blue options for the Floor Lamp Basic. These new styles of the smart lamp are also Matter compatible, allowing them to work seamlessly with many smart home systems. Additionally, the product listings highlight the brand’s AI assistant, which helps create lighting scenes based on your feelings, a festive occasion, or a special event.

    Features Remain the Same

    Aside from these new color options, the updated Govee Floor Lamp Basic is the same as the earlier models. Each lamp features an RGBICW light source that has 14 segmented color controls. Within the Govee Home app, users can select from 58 preset scene modes, some of which can even sync with music. Alternatively, voice commands can be used to manage the device. The brightness can be adjusted up to 1,000 lumens, providing a broad spectrum of colors and color temperatures. This smart lamp supports both Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, with dimensions of 200 x 200 x 1,363 mm (~7.9 x 7.9 x 53.7 inches).

    Pricing in the US and Europe

    In the United States, the Govee Floor Lamp Basic in Champagne and Blue is currently available for $69.99 (RRP $99.99) due to a $30 discount at Amazon or the company’s official online store. The gold model of the smart lamp has also been listed on Amazon Germany at a price of €89.99, with a broader release across Europe anticipated soon.

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  • Xiaomi TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen Official Announcement

    Xiaomi TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen Official Announcement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen), improving on the original model from 2021.
    2. The new model runs on the Google TV platform and supports 4K decoding, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, and DTS-X.
    3. It features enhanced hardware, including a more powerful CPU and GPU, while maintaining 2GB+8GB memory and adding Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6.
    4. The device includes pre-installed apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Assistant support via a dedicated remote button.
    5. The TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen) is currently available for €40.39 on AliExpress, with an official release date and final pricing still unknown.


    Xiaomi has unveiled the new TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen), an improved version of the original TV Stick 4K that was launched back in 2021. This new edition was first seen on AliExpress at the end of June 2025, with early buyers verifying that it is indeed a genuine product.

    Global Availability

    Now, Xiaomi has made the TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen) available on its international website, suggesting it will be released in different regions soon. The product page details the specifications for this device. Just like the original version, it supports 4K decoding and works with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, and DTS-X. The key change is that the new model operates on the Google TV platform instead of Android TV 11. It comes with pre-installed apps including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and Xiaomi TV+, and it also allows for Google Cast wireless screensharing.

    Enhanced Features

    Additionally, the device features support for Google Assistant voice commands, accessible via a dedicated button on the remote control. The hardware has also been upgraded, replacing the Quad-core Cortex-A35 CPU with a Quad-core Cortex-A55, and the GPU has changed from Mali G31 MP2 to ARM G310 V2. The memory remains at 2GB+8GB, while it includes Bluetooth 5.2 and dual-band Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, along with HDMI 2.1 and Micro USB ports. The new model is a bit larger than the previous one, measuring 107.4 x 30 x 14 mm (~4.2 x 1.2 x 0.6 inches) and weighing 44 g (~0.1 lbs).

    Pricing and Release Date

    It’s still uncertain when the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen) will officially hit the market or how much it will cost. As a current offer, this device is going for €40.39 on AliExpress, which is marked down from its original price of €54.61. For reference, the original Xiaomi Smart TV Stick 4K has a recommended retail price of €49.99 in European regions, but you can find it for €44.99 at Mi Store Germany right now.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 to Endure 500,000 Folds or More

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 to Endure 500,000 Folds or More

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy Z Fold7 has a durability rating of 500,000 folds compared to the Z Fold6’s 200,000 folds.
    2. Independent tests by Bureau Veritas confirmed the Z Fold7’s durability after 500,000 folds with no damage observed.
    3. The display features “Ultra Thin Glass” that is 50% thicker and uses more flexible adhesive for improved impact resistance.
    4. The Z Fold7 has an IP48 certification, making it waterproof and resistant to larger dust particles.
    5. The device is built with Advanced Armor Aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced scratch and drop resistance.


    While Samsung claims the Galaxy Z Fold6 can handle “only” 200,000 folds, the Galaxy Z Fold7 boasts a much higher durability of 500,000 folds, according to Samsung Display.

    Testing Methodology

    To confirm this claim, an independent certification agency, Bureau Veritas, conducted tests by folding and unfolding the flagship device 500,000 times at a stable room temperature of 25°C over 13 days. Remarkably, no damage was observed. This figure translates to a lifespan of around ten years, based on the assumption that users typically open and close their phones about 100 times daily. To achieve this extended durability, Samsung has completely revamped the display’s structure.

    Improved Design Features

    The top layer of the display now uses “Ultra Thin Glass” that is 50% thicker than what is found in the Galaxy Z Fold6. The various components of the OLED panel are bonded with a more flexible adhesive, aiming to enhance the display’s impact resistance by four times. Moreover, a thin titanium plate reinforces the back of the screen, and the newly designed hinge is also said to play a role in increasing the device’s lifespan.

    Enhanced Durability Standards

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 holds an IP48 certification, making it fully waterproof, although it only protects against larger dust particles and sand grains. Its frame is constructed from a sturdier material known as Advanced Armor Aluminum, while both the back and secondary display are safeguarded from scratches by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Finally, the glass of the display is further strengthened with ceramic to provide better resistance against drops.

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