Category: All News

  • 1666 Amsterdam Faces Backlash Over ‘Oversight’

    1666 Amsterdam Faces Backlash Over ‘Oversight’

    Key Takeaway

    – Generative AI use in games triggers backlash, especially when unannounced.
    – 1666 Amsterdam faced criticism for AI-generated in-game portraits and marketing assets.
    – The developer called it an “oversight” and promised no AI in the full game.
    – Public perception is shaped by how and why AI is used, not just its presence.
    – The controversy undermines positive reception, even for veteran developers like Patrice Desilets.

    Generative AI and the Backlash

    Generative AI in games seems to be becoming more common, but the way it is used is what defines public perception. The newly announced 1666 Amsterdam is the latest victim of backlash after the devs admitted to featuring content created by AI in there free prologue. This has caused quite a stir among gamers who feel tricked by the inclusion of these assets.

    The Prologue and It’s AI Assets

    1666 Amsterdam was showcased at Summer Game Fest, where the Creative Director at Panache Digital Games, Patrice Desilets, announced a free prologue out on Steam and Epic Games Store. Said prologue, as it turns out, uses some generative AI assets, and fans were quick to spot them. Not just the game, some of the marketing assets were also AI-generated. Panache Digital Games took to X to admit and apologize for the use of AI. They claimed it was a mistake.

    Oversight or Intentional Choice?

    As per the post, some in-game portraits and external marketing assets were, in fact, AI-generated and made there way to the prologue. The team is calling it an oversight and promising that the full game will not include any assets generated by AI. Many are questioning wether this was truly an oversight or a calculated move that backfired.

    What should have been a glorious return to making games for Desilets has turned out to be a dissapointment for fans. Desilets was one of the great minds behind the original Assassin’s Creed games and had to fight for years to bring his original IP, 1666 Amsterdam, to the public. Now, fans are upset with the use of AI and are accusing the team of intentionally using it for there game, and then calling it an oversight. How this will effect the full game release remains to be seen.

    • Prologue is free on Steam and Epic Games Store
    • AI assets included portraits and marketing material
    • Full game will not feature AI generated content
    • Creative Director Patrice Desilets previously worked on Assassin’s Creed
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  • Vectron X: Siemens digital locomotive with apps & CarPlay

    Vectron X: Siemens digital locomotive with apps & CarPlay

    Key Takeaway

    – The Vectron X features an integrated “CarPlay-like” system with an App Store and 11.6-inch Smartscreen for simplified operations.
    – Remote Start allows the locomotive to boot up and prepare for operation ahead of time.
    – Near real-time operational data transmission enables predictive maintenance.
    – Interfaces are open to third-party providers for app development.
    – The Vectron X is a digitalized variant of the existing Vectron platform, which has sold 3,000 units in various configurations.

    Siemens has unveiled a more heavily digitalized variant of its Vectron locomotives, the Vectron X. The digitalized locomotive offers additional features that, according to Siemens Mobility, are designed to simplify the operation of Vectrons while also enhancing “operational transparency.” To achieve this, the new locomotive features a “CarPlay-like solution” including an App Store, which is displayed on an 11.6-inch monitor referred to as the Smartscreen.

    Apps and Interface Inside the Cab

    The rationale behind this is to make apps that train drivers previously used on smartphones and tablets directly available inside the locomotive itself. As examples, Siemens mentions apps for scheduling or specialized tools within a rail transport company. Route information is also intended to be displayable on this screen. Siemens promises simpler operation and, consequently, increased efficiency in the operational workflows of a rail transport company.

    Open App Store and Remote Start

    The interfaces are also planned to be open to third-party providers, allowing for the creation of a true App Store. As another feature, the Vectron X is said to support booting up a locomotive remotely. Via Remote Start, the locomotive will thus be able to get itself ready for operation ahead of time. Furthermore, the Vectron X is designed to transmit operational data in near real-time, thereby supporting features like predictive maintenance.

    Sales Numbers and Configurations

    According to Siemens, 3,000 locomotives have already been sold of the Vectron, which hauls both freight trains and high-speed trains like the ICE L. The Vectron is available in various configurations, ranging from different multi-system locomotives and hybrid locomotives (diesel + overhead catenary) to the upcoming battery-equipped Vectron.

    Build-to-Order and Exceptions

    The Vectron X builds upon this, meaning it should likewise be available in different configurations. For now, this is just an announcement. Rolling stock in rail operations is typically manufactured to order only, which is comparable to the aviation industry. Siemens’ Mireo Smart trainsets are one of the few exceptions, as they are actually pre-produced, “off-the-shelf” products.


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  • Astronomers Detect Black Hole Winds at 30% Light Speed

    Astronomers Detect Black Hole Winds at 30% Light Speed

    Key Takeaway

    – Black hole winds in quasar J2318 reach 30% of light speed (201.2 million mph).
    – Quasar J2318 is 3 billion light-years away with a mass of 1.7 billion Suns.
    – The wind speed is equivalent to a “Category 79 hurricane” — vastly beyond Earthly storms.
    – Winds consist of high-speed matter, not atmospheric air.
    – Discovery used Sloan Digital Sky Survey data, improving understanding of black holes.

    Mysterious cosmic winds break records

    In the universe, many objects remain mysterious and poorly understood by astronomers, such as black holes. But recently, astronomers have discovered a black hole with winds reaching up to 30% of the speed of light, or about 201.2 million miles per hour. This finding realy challanges our understanding of extreme physics.

    The quasar J2318 and its supermassive black hole

    These winds were detected in a quasar, which is a bright core of a galaxy fed by a supermassive black hole. Thus, this quasar, named J2318, is located about 3 billion light-years from Earth, and according to astronomers, its mass is estimated to be about 1.7 billion times that of the Sun. That is an absolutly colossal size.

    Category 79 hurricane? Not quite

    However, while its mass is already remarkable, the speed of its winds is also impressive, as Lucas Seaton explains: “In terms of its speed, this quasar’s wind could be called a category 79 hurricane. Every category of hurricane is about 20% faster than the category below it. Calling it Category 79 gives an idea of just how fast it is, but of course this wind is unlike anything on Earth.”

    Indeed, these are not winds like those found on Earth, as they are composed of matter propelled at high speeds. And that’s not all, because in order to detect this phenomenon, astronomers used data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). These measurments required high-precision instruments.

    What this means for science

    As a result, while this discovery highlights the power of black holes, it also allows researchers to better understand these celestial objects, which remain mysterious and poorly understood. And there is no doubt that further studies will be conducted in the near future. The data continues to inspire awe.


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  • Apple WWDC reveal: interesting but not typical Apple

    Apple WWDC reveal: interesting but not typical Apple

    Key Takeaway

    – Apple cut specific audio frequencies (3kHz-6kHz) during WWDC when “Siri” was mentioned to prevent device activations
    – The tactic was largely ineffective, as many viewers reported their Apple devices still woke up during the livestream
    – This frequency-muting approach is not unique; Amazon used a similar method for “Alexa” in 2017, and other brands do it too

    Apple’s WWDC Tweak: Keeping Siri at Bay

    Apple made some interesting tweaks so that you could have an uninterrupted WWDC livestream. To avoid countless Apple device activations, the Cupertino giant tweaked frequencies when ‘Siri’ or ‘Siri AI’ was mentioned. How efficient those tweaks were is questionable at best, as pointed out by viewers.

    The Frequency Cutting Technique

    A user named ‘luuk de leest’ shared on X that during the keynote, Apple cut out 3kHz, 4kHz, 5kHz, and 6kHz frequencies every time the phrase ‘Siri’ was mentioned. This was done to avoid unnecessary activations on the viewers’ devices. The user shared a spectrogram screenshot showing blank spots in the claimed frequencies when ‘Siri’ was mentioned. Furthermore, they mention HomePods in particular, but the tweak should have affected all devices in the ecosystem.

    It Didn’t Quite Work Out

    Unfortunately, it didn’t really work as intended, and several commenters mentioned that their iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and even HomePods were woken up several times during the keynote. It is possible that without the tweak, the activations may have been even worse.

    Not a New Trick in the Book

    As interesting as it is, this tweaking is not new. Apple isn’t the first or the only one doing this, as back in 2017, it was found that Amazon did the same with its commercials when ‘Alexa’ was mentioned. Other brands do it as well, to prevent unnecessary smart speaker activations.

     

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  • Oppo Mini-Flagship Fails: Huge Potential Wasted by Poor Efficiency

    Key Takeaway

    – High idle power consumption (~3W) undermines the 7,025 mAh battery’s potential.
    – Falls short of the Find X9 Pro’s runtime despite similar chipset and larger battery.
    – Nearly 10 hours longer web-surfing endurance than Samsung Galaxy S26.
    – Less efficient than larger Find X9 with identical battery capacity.
    – Lack of low-load optimization prevents the phone from being a true endurance champion.

    Oppo Is Squandering Great Potential

    Oppo is squandering great potential with its Find X9s Pro in terms of endurance due to a lack of efficiency at low system load. Although the 7,025 mAh battery looks like a real highlight on paper, the Find X9s Pro cannot match the fantastic runtimes of the Find X9 Pro in our review. The mini flagship powered by the Dimensity 9500, is simply too wasteful in idle mode with the the energy available.

    Power Consumption Figures Expose the Problem

    The power‑consumption figures in our idle measurements clearly expose the efficiency problem. While other top smartphones from Oppo, such as the Find X9 or even the significantly larger Find X9 Pro, remain below 2 watts in idle mode, the Find X9s Pro consumes noticeably more energy. Our Geekbench and GFXBench measurements, taken with the display brightness adjusted to 150 cd/m², clearly indicate the lack of optimization.

    Idle Mode Results Are Alarming

    In idle mode, the Find X9s Pro consumes around 3 watts, more than three times as much power as the large flagship model, the Find X9 Pro, which is also powered on MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500. However, the Find X9s Pro’s extra-large battery only partially conceals its inefficiency. In our web surfing battery test, the Oppo phone delivers a really good stamina for the compact smartphone class. Compared to the Samsung Galaxy S26, the Find X9s Pro lasts almost 10 hours longer.

    However, due to the high power consumption at low system load, Oppo is giving away valuable screen‑on time that could have made the mini‑flagship a true endurance champion. Even the larger flagship model, the Find X9, with an identical battery capacity but larger OLED screen, lasted longer in our battery test.

    Pricing and Specs

    All information and measurement data on the Find X9s Pro can be found in our review of the Oppo phone. Prices for the compact flagship start at around $940 from our loan partner Trading Shenzhen.

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  • Tarkov Creator Details Fragmentary Order Differences

    Tarkov Creator Details Fragmentary Order Differences

    Key Takeaway

    – Fragmentary Order is a space-based extraction shooter with maps five times larger than typical *Escape from Tarkov* locations.
    – The game features a long-term session model allowing players to stay in the same raid for one to two hours, with no requirement to extract.
    – It includes drivable vehicles and multiple game modes, including a PvE-focused mode at launch.
    – The game is grounded in reality, depicting a possible future with maps on Earth, Venus, and a partially terraformed Mars.

    New Details on Fragmentary Order

    Following it’s big reveal back in March, the head of Rant Gaming studio, Nikita Buyanov, has now shared alot more information regarding Fragmentary Order. Just like his previous big project, Escape from Tarkov, the upcomming game is also an extraction shooter, though this time it is set in the vast reaches of space. But this is not simply Tarkov with a space skin; the developer claims it is considerably more ambitious in its scope.

    Comparing Scale and Setting

    Speaking directly with Insider Gaming, Nikita provided some fresh details and even a few new screenshots of Fragmentary Order. Starting with the sheer magnitude of the game world, he explained the maps are “like five times more larger than a typical Tarkov location.” Players can anticipate a variety of different maps, including locations set on Earth, the planet Venus, a massive space station, and more environments besides. The studio has already shown off the Blue Mars map, which depict’s a partially terraformed version of the red planet.

    A Grounded Future and New Mechanics

    In his interview, the developer elaborated that Fragmentary Order remains grounded in reality, offering a plausible take on what humanitys future could actually look like. Discussing the core differences that separate this title from Tarkov, Nikita stated that the whole thing is based on a long-term session model, which will allow players to stay inside the same raid for one or even two full hours. Even though it has extraction shooter elements, players dont necessarily have to extract at all if they dont want to. The game will also contain drivable vehicles for the first time.

    Sandbox Modes and Availibility

    There are going to be multiple game modes comming to Fragmentary Order, all of which aim to create a more open and sandbox environment for the player. While it is mostly categorised as a PvPvE game, there will be a dedicated PvE-focused game mode available right at launch. For the time being, it remains unclear exactly when players will be able to get thier hands on the very first playable build, but Nikita believes it will be out there quite soon. The team wants it to be perfectly playable and enjoyable for both hardcore Tarkov veterans and total newcomers alike.


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  • Belkin UltraCharge Pro 25K 158W Power Bank Launch Deal

    Belkin UltraCharge Pro 25K 158W Power Bank Launch Deal

    Key Takeaway

    – 25,000mAh capacity with up to 158W total output, sufficient to charge a 14-inch MacBook Pro
    – Integrated 140W braided USB-C cable, plus an additional USB-C and USB-A port for multi-device charging
    – Features a digital display, 15W passthrough charging, and a 2-year warranty with $2,500 Connected Equipment Warranty
    – Priced at $84.99 after a limited-time $15 discount in the US (also available in China for ~$78)
    – A higher-capacity 27,000mAh version exists with 240W max output and a top-mounted display for $149.99

    New Power Bank From Belkin Hits Market

    Belkin has started selling a fresh power bank in the US and China which is capable of charging many devices including a 14-inch MacBook Pro at up to 158W. It also contains a quite sizable battery capacity and arives with a discount. The new power bank features an braided USB-C cable that is built-in and can charge at 140W, it also has a other USB-C port and a USB-A port, and when it is connected to three devices all at once, the power banks maximum power output is 158W.

    Battery and Display Features

    If you couldnt deduce from the name, the power bank holds a 25,000mAh battery capacity, and Belkin claims that it can give up to 17 extra hours for a MacBook Pro 14. The power bank includes a digital display on the side which shows remaining battery capacity and indicates when it is charging. Another feature of the power bank is its support for 15W pass-through charging.

    Dimensions and Warranty Details

    The Belkin UltraCharge Pro Laptop Power Bank 25K measures 164 × 89 × 26.2 mm and weighs 590g, and they describes it as TSA Carry-on compliant. It also says they offer a 2-year warranty and a $2500 Connected Equipment Warranty which means Belkin will repair or replace a users electronic device(s) if they get damaged by an electrical charge while properly connected to the power bank, up to $2500.

    • Price tag of $99.99 with a $15 discount bringing it down to $84.99
    • Available on Amazon for a limited time
    • Available to buy now in Black, but product images show Beige and White too
    • In China the power bank is cheaper at ¥529 ($78/€68)

    Alternative Version with Higher Capacity

    If 25,000mAh is to small, there is a version of the Belkin UltraCharge Pro Laptop Power Bank with a 27,000mAh capacity. It also has an integrated USB-C cable that can deliver up to 140W, but its maximum shared output is higher at 240W and its display is placed at the top. They say its available in Charcoal, and Belkin has put a $149.99 price tag on it.

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  • Makera Z1 CNC Pre-Sale: Optional Laser Module

    Key Takeaway

    – Makera Z1 is available for pre-order at $1,099 (basic version), with delivery starting in July.
    – Software is still in closed beta; users currently need separate CAM and controller software.
    – Working area is 200x200x100mm, with 150W spindle and optional rotary axis and laser module.
    – Can process plastic, carbon fiber, wood, and aluminum, but requires optional laser and dust extraction add-ons.
    – As a subtractive CNC machine, it uses more material and generates waste compared to 3D printing or laser cutting.

    Makera Z1 pre-order details

    We’ve previously reported on the Makera Z1, which is now officially available for pre-order. The starting price is $1,099. Pre-orders placed by June 30 will also recieve a few small gifts, and delivery is scheduled for July. For $1,099, pre-order customers will recieve only the basic version, not the Pro version. The laser module and a dust extraction system are available for a surcharge. We are already testing the CNC machine and can at least say that the device exists, the build quality is quite decent, and the control system works in principle.

    Software and control nuances

    Speaking of controls, the Makera Studio software is intended to enable particularly simple control, but is currently still in the closed beta phase. At presnt, the use of CAM software and controller software is still required. Since Makera aims to make the Z1’s powerful features accessible to beginners, we cannot yet adequately evaluate the system. There will also be a platform for sharing projects via Makerables, a universal project-sharing platform and digital community where creators can collaborate, share design files and download ready-to-cut templates.

    Technical specifications and work area

    The Makera Z1 offers a working area of 200 x 200 x 100 millimeters. Machining via a rotary axis is available as an option. The specified spindle power is 150 watts, with a maximum speed of 13,000 revolutions per minute. According to the manufacturer, the machine can process not only plastic, carbon fiber and wood, but also aluminum. A laser module is also available as an option. Compared to a 3D printer, a CNC machine can, in the best-case scenario, produce parts capable of withstanding very high loads. Compared to a laser cutter, the depth of a component is not quite as much of a limiting factor.

    Cost considerations and manufacturing processes

    On the other hand, the costs for consumables are likely to be higher compared to a 3D printer, since a 3D printer only extrudes approximately as much (inexpensive) filament as is required for the model. The processes of drilling, milling and turning performed on CNC machines are subtractive manufacturing processes, meaning that material is removed from a blank. When using semi-finished products, a considerable amount of metal waste can accumulate quite quickly, depending on the dimensions of the model and the semi-finished product.

    • Starting price: $1,099
    • Working area: 200 x 200 x 100 mm
    • Spindle power: 150 watts
    • Max speed: 13,000 RPM
    • Materials: plastic, carbon fiber, wood, aluminum
    • Rotary axis optional
    • Laser module optional
    • Pre-order deadline: June 30
    • Delivery: July
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  • N64 Inspiration: What Xbox X25 Should Do, Per Fans

    Key Takeaway

    – Xbox Series X25 transparent “OG Green” model announced, hardware identical to standard Series X.
    – Reddit render shows nine transparent colors; community strongly supports wider release.
    – Skeptics doubt Microsoft will invest late in console’s life cycle, but N64’s late “Funtastic” variants are now collector’s items.
    – No concrete plans for more colors, but Xbox Next not expected until 2027, leaving time for fan-driven expansion.

    A look at the leaked concept

    Microsoft recenty unveiled the Xbox Series X25. The anniversary model uses the same hardware as the regular Xbox Series X (currently available on Amazon for $598), but comes in a transparent “OG Green” chassis, complete with an illuminated green Xbox logo and a matching controller with transparent elements.

    Community renders spark interest

    On Reddit, u/Eastern-Mobile5351 has now shared a render showing the Xbox Series X25 in nine different transparent color variants. The user believes Microsoft could significantly boost console sales with such models. The idea has received plenty of support from the community.

    The top comment doubts that Microsoft would invest so much effort in a console nearing the end of its life cycle. However, one reply also attracted a lot of attention: “Happened with the Nintendo 64 at the end of its life and it was glorious.”

    Historic precedent for transparent consoles

    At the time, Nintendo released several transparent “Funtastic” variants of the N64, including blue, green, orange, purple, black and red models. Today, these transparent designs are especially sought after by collectors. That could give Microsoft a reason to at least consider expanding the color palette.

    Future prospects remain unconfirmed

    There are currently no concrete indications that Microsoft is actually planning additional color variants. However, with the Xbox Next currently expected in 2027 at the earliest, there is still plenty of time. It is therefore not entirely out of the question that Microsoft could still respond to fans’ wishes.

    • Transparent “OG Green” chassis with illuminated logo
    • Matching controller with transparent elements
    • Render shows nine different color variants
    • Nintendo 64 precedent with six Funtastic colors
    • No official plans announced yet
    • Xbox Next not expected until 2027


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  • Forza Horizon 6: All Horizon Promo Car Codes

    Key Takeaway

    – Use EventLab share codes to photograph multiple cars at once on the starting grid.
    – Enter each race with a stock or near-stock Performance Index car to increase grid variety.
    – Cars locked behind progression (e.g., Barn Finds) will not appear in these EventLab races.
    – Completing the full Horizon Promo collection still requires finding those special vehicles through normal gameplay.
    – The method is widely praised by the community for drastically speeding up progress.

    Horizon Promo is a collection challenge in Forza that asks players to photograph as many different cars as possible. Once a vehicle has been captured in Photo Mode, it is added to the collection. The more cars players register, the more rewards they unlock. Finding every vehicle one by one can take a lot of patience, but a Reddit post by u/Riko0Ku offers a much faster shortcut.

    How the EventLab Shortcut Works

    According to the Reddit user, they have created EventLab races featuring all cars in Forza Horizon 6. Players only need to enter the relevant share code in EventLab, start the race and switch to Photo Mode immediately after the start. The cars on the starting grid can then be photographed directly, allowing several vehicles to be added to Horizon Promo within seconds.

    Performance Class Sorting and Recommendations

    The list is sorted by performance class. u/Riko0Ku recommends entering each race with a car whose Performance Index is as close to stock as possible within that class. This should increase the variety of models that appear on the grid.

    Limitations of the Method

    The method does have some limitations. EventLab can apparently only spawn vehicles that are generally available in the game. Cars still locked behind specific progression requirements, such as Barn Finds, do not seem to appear in these races. Players who want to complete Horizon Promo in full will therefore still need to unlock those special vehicles through normal gameplay or photograph them elsewhere in the game.

    Community Response

    Even so, the community response has been overwhelmingly positive. The top comment in the thread sums it up in one word: “Hero.” Despite the limitations, the practical benefit is clear, especially for players who have barely used Photo Mode in Forza Horizon 6. Several users say the share codes helped them photograph a large portion of the vehicles they were still missing, making progress toward completing Horizon Promo much faster.

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