Category: All News

  • Five Xbox Game Pass Games Leaving by Mid-October

    Five Xbox Game Pass Games Leaving by Mid-October

    While Microsoft is set to bring five new games to Game Pass before October 15, it will also remove five titles from the service. Midway through the month, three sci-fi games will depart: Dyson Sphere Program, Everspace 2, and From Space. Fans of F1 Manager 2023 might feel the sting of its removal the most, as it remains uncertain if or when a new version will become available. If you’re looking for a unique horror journey at the beginning of October, Scorn could be worth checking out. As long as these games are still playable, members can enjoy a 20 percent discount on purchases.

    Dyson Sphere Program Overview

    Dyson Sphere Program is a sci-fi construction game where players assume the role of an engineer on a mission to create a sprawling space empire. Gamers can automate production lines, establish interplanetary transport systems, and enhance resource management. A key objective in the game is to construct a Dyson Sphere, a colossal structure that envelops a star to harness its energy.

    What Everspace 2 Offers

    In contrast to the first game, Everspace 2 moves away from its roguelike origins and delivers a more open-world action adventure blended with RPG elements. The storyline continues from its predecessor, placing players in the shoes of a new clone pilot, Adam Roslin. Everspace 2 boasts a vast world filled with planets, asteroid fields, and space stations. As players navigate through quests and collect resources, they will also engage in technology research and weapon upgrades. Intense space battles further elevate the thrill of the game.

    Exploring From Space

    This top-down shooter is set in a post-apocalyptic realm overrun by pink aliens. Players can select from five distinct classes and team up with up to three others to combat the alien threat. Each class possesses unique abilities and weapons that encourage strategic collaboration. In From Space, players must work together to achieve mission goals, gather resources, and repel the relentless alien forces. As you progress through missions, you enhance your gear and skills to better counter the invasion.

    F1 Manager 2023 allows players to manage a Formula 1 team, making crucial decisions as a team manager. From selecting racing strategies to overseeing drivers and vehicle development, players must juggle short-term choices during races with long-term planning for vehicle upgrades and budgets. The removal of F1 Manager 2023 from Game Pass is expected to be a significant blow for its fans, especially since F1 Manager 2024 is not yet accessible on Microsoft’s platform.

    The Unique World of Scorn

    Scorn is a first-person horror experience set in a disturbing universe inspired by the artistic styles of H.R. Giger and Zdzisław Beksiński, known for their surreal creations. Players navigate through an organic-mechanical landscape, tackling intricate puzzles and interacting with strange machinery. Occasional confrontations with grotesque beings compel players to strategize carefully, as resources are often limited. The game emphasizes a chilling atmosphere, minimal dialogue, and a subtle narrative approach that enhances its unsettling vibe.

    Xbox

  • Honor Announces Magic V3 and V2 Launch in India with Prices

    Honor Announces Magic V3 and V2 Launch in India with Prices

    Following its introduction at IFA, the Honor Magic V3 is set to launch in India. HTech CEO Madhav Sheth revealed this exciting news during a discussion with Times Network and Digit.

    First Foldable Phones in India

    Honor is yet to release any foldable smartphones in India, making the Magic V3 its inaugural offering in the nation. Sheth also indicated that the Magic V2, which is the predecessor of the V3, will be launched at the same time. Both devices are anticipated to hit the market by the close of 2024.

    Pricing Details

    Madhav Sheth provided some information about the pricing of these foldable devices. While the exact figures are not confirmed, the Honor Magic V2 is expected to be priced below Rs 1 lakh, whereas the Magic V3 will be priced higher. Given its price point, the Magic V2 could potentially become one of the most budget-friendly foldable options available in India. Presently, the Tecno Phantom V Fold, which debuted in May 2023 with a price of Rs 88,888, is the reigning champion of affordability in the Indian foldable market.

    Specifications Overview

    The Honor Magic V2 and V3 share multiple standout features that enhance their appeal in the foldable smartphone segment. Both models feature a 7.92-inch foldable LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing vivid visuals. They offer configurations with up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, alongside a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and 5G capability, all wrapped in high-quality materials for an elegant design. Their camera setups are advanced, with optical image stabilization (OIS) present in the main lenses. Battery capacity and charging technologies are also quite similar.

    Feature Honor Magic V2 Honor Magic V3
    Processor Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
    Inner Display 7.92″ LTPO OLED, 2156×2344, 120Hz 7.92″ LTPO AMOLED, 2156×2344, 120Hz
    Peak Brightness (Inner) 1600 nits 1800 nits
    Outer Display 6.43″ LTPO OLED, 1060×2376, 120Hz 6.43″ LTPO OLED, 1060×2376, 120Hz
    Peak Brightness (Outer) 2500 nits 5000 nits
    Main Camera 50MP with OIS 50MP with OIS
    Ultra-wide Camera 50MP 40MP
    Telephoto Camera 20MP with OIS 50MP with OIS
    Selfie Camera 16MP 20MP
    Battery 5000mAh, 66W wired charging 5150mAh, 66W wired, 50W wireless
    Software Android 13 with MagicOS 7.2 Android 14 with MagicOS 8.0.1
    Connectivity 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3
    Special Features Stereo speakers, IR port Stereo speakers, IPX8, Stylus support
    Dimensions (Unfolded) 156.7 x 145.4 x 4.7 mm 156.6 x 145.3 x 4.35 mm
    Dimensions (Folded) 156.7 x 74.1 x 9.9 mm 156.6 x 74.0 x 9.2 mm
    Weight 231g 226g

    In summary, the upcoming Honor Magic V2 and V3 are set to make waves in the Indian foldable smartphone market, offering impressive specifications and competitive pricing.

  • Oppo Find X8 Specs Leaked: Images and Launch Date Revealed

    Oppo Find X8 Specs Leaked: Images and Launch Date Revealed

    Oppo’s Find X8 Leaks Again

    Recently, live images of the Oppo Find X8 have surfaced once more. An X (previously Twitter) user shared these photos, showcasing the device’s slim-bezel display on the front and a round camera module at the back. The final image reveals the frame, which features white antenna lines, indicating a metal construction. An exciting new detail is the color; earlier leaks revealed variants in Blueish Silver and Black, and now we see a white option for the Find X8.

    Specifications of the Oppo Find X8

    Now that we’ve looked at the design, let’s dive into the specifications. A Weibo user has provided a comprehensive list of what to expect from this device. According to the leak, the Find X8 will sport a 6.5-inch BOE screen with a resolution of 1.5K and ultra-narrow bezels that are all equal in size. It will feature an optical fingerprint sensor embedded in the display for enhanced security.

    Performance and Battery Life

    On the inside, the phone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400 chipset and comes with a robust 5,700mAh battery. Charging options include 80W wired charging and 50W magnetic wireless charging to quickly recharge the device.

    Camera and Software Features

    For photography enthusiasts, the leak suggests a triple camera system, which includes a 50MP periscope telephoto lens from Sony, known as the LYT-600, although it may not support macro photography. The phone is expected to run on Android 15 alongside ColorOS 15, and it will feature a custom virtual pressure-sensitive button and an alert slider for notifications.

    Build Quality and Color Options

    As for build quality, the Oppo Find X8 will have a sleek metal frame and a glass back, boasting an IP68/69 rating for water and dust resistance. According to the information, the phone will be 7mm thick and weigh around 190 grams. It is rumored to come in four color options: Black, Blue, White, and a new Pink variant. Lastly, the leak hints at a possible launch date on October 21st.


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  • Steam Deck Transforms into Handheld Hackintosh with macOS Sequoia

    Steam Deck Transforms into Handheld Hackintosh with macOS Sequoia

    Valve delivers the Steam Deck equipped with SteamOS, a Linux distribution based on Debian. This gaming handheld functions much like any standard PC, allowing it to support common operating systems. While Windows operates smoothly on the device, user @whatdahopper has made history by demonstrating macOS Sequoia running on the Steam Deck.

    A Collaborative Effort

    According to @whatdahopper, a team worked together to enable the Steam Deck to run Apple’s newest desktop OS. However, right now, installing macOS Sequoia on the device is not particularly useful. There’s currently no GPU acceleration available, but the team is optimistic that this will change once the iGPU kext (kernel extension) for AMD Van Gogh is released.

    Future Possibilities

    This release might come sooner than expected, as macOS already supports RDNA 2. Once that happens, the Steam Deck could transform into a legitimate portable Hackintosh. Nonetheless, it’s important to note that using Sequoia on the Steam Deck for gaming isn‘t advisable, given that the gaming library on macOS isn’t as robust as what you’ll find on Windows or Linux.

    In the end, with the right iGPU support on the Steam Deck, it might become a mobile substitute for a MacBook (the base 2023 MacBook Pro is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon). However, @whatdahopper has pointed out that getting macOS Sequoia to run on this device is more challenging than simply installing Windows, which is something to keep in mind if you’re considering the Mac operating system for your gaming handheld.

  • Can Samsung’s 2nm Technology Beat TSMC and Boost Semiconductors?

    Can Samsung’s 2nm Technology Beat TSMC and Boost Semiconductors?

    Samsung Semiconductor, known as the second-largest chipmaker in the world, is at a crucial point as it rushes to begin mass production of advanced 2nm chips. The outcome of this project could significantly impact its ability to rival the top company, TSMC, and reclaim some of its lost market share.

    The Stakes for Samsung Semiconductor

    Despite pouring in considerable funds, Samsung has not been able to reach TSMC’s level of profitability and scale. Currently, TSMC dominates the semiconductor foundry market with a substantial 62.3% market share, while Samsung only holds 11%. This gap has led to significant financial downturns for Samsung, highlighting the pressing need for a major technological advancement.

    Focus on 2nm Technology

    Samsung’s plan revolves around its 2nm and smaller manufacturing technologies. The company is making big investments in its production facilities, with intentions to add new production lines at its Hwaseong and Pyeongtaek locations. The target date for mass production of 2nm chips is set for 2025, with a further goal of achieving 1.4nm by 2027, which is in line with TSMC’s schedule.

    Challenges Ahead

    A critical element for Samsung’s success will be gaining significant clients for its 2nm technology. The company is in talks with Qualcomm, aiming to persuade the American semiconductor firm to select Samsung’s technology for its next-generation Snapdragon processors. If these partnerships can be established, it could greatly enhance Samsung’s foundry business and draw in additional clients.

    However, the path is not without obstacles. Samsung has faced difficulties before, including the postponed launch of its 3nm Exynos processor. Additionally, reports indicate that the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 series will utilize Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 globally, implying that Samsung might not have complete faith in its Exynos chips versus the Snapdragon option. Meanwhile, the Exynos 2500 is anticipated to power the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7, which are expected to launch later in 2024.

    The triumph of Samsung’s 2nm technology could have significant consequences for the global semiconductor market. Should Samsung manage to narrow the gap with TSMC, it might incite heightened competition and potentially bring down prices for consumers. Furthermore, it could bolster South Korea’s status as a key player in the high-tech arena.

  • PlayStation 5 Slim: Get Rs. 5,000 Off Disc & Digital Editions!

    PlayStation 5 Slim: Get Rs. 5,000 Off Disc & Digital Editions!

    Sony has revealed a special festive sale for the PlayStation 5 Slim, both Disc and Digital editions (CFI-2008A01 and CFI-2008B01) in India. This offer, which is available until October 23 or until the stock runs out, can be found at multiple retailers such as Amazon, Flipkart, and the Sony Center. The consoles will be discounted by Rs. 5,000, bringing the starting price down to Rs 49,990.

    Powerful Gaming Experience

    The PlayStation 5 Slim delivers the same exceptional gaming performance as its earlier version. It is equipped with a custom 8-core AMD Ryzen Zen 2 CPU and a custom AMD RDNA 2 GPU. This powerful hardware guarantees smooth gameplay and remarkable visuals, even for the most demanding games. With 16GB GDDR6 RAM and a 1TB SSD, players can expect super-fast loading times and support for 4K Blu-ray discs, ensuring a top-notch experience for the latest games and movies.

    Compact and Efficient Design

    Built with portability in mind, the PlayStation 5 Slim is smaller and lighter than the original model, yet it does not sacrifice performance or cooling efficiency. Its slim design makes it easy to move around and fit into different gaming setups. Even with its compact size, the PS5 Slim keeps the same cooling capabilities as the previous version, which means it can maintain peak performance during extended gaming sessions. When it comes to connectivity, the PS5 Slim comes with several options such as USB ports, HDMI output, and Ethernet.

    Enhanced VR Compatibility

    A major benefit of the PS5 Slim is its support for the PlayStation VR2. This advanced virtual reality headset provides immersive experiences, letting players dive into virtual worlds like never before. With the PS5 Slim, you can engage with the latest VR games and applications, enjoying stunning visuals and interactive gameplay.

    The festive sale on the PlayStation 5 Slim is a fantastic chance for gamers to grab the console at a lower price and dive into the newest gaming experiences and features.


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  • CheckMag: Is Hosting Your Own YouTube Frontend Worth It?

    CheckMag: Is Hosting Your Own YouTube Frontend Worth It?

    There are several projects that have emerged over time allowing you to set up your own YouTube front end. These range from options that can be deployed in a Docker container to those compatible with your preferred operating system. If you own a NAS like the 4 Bay UGREEN (Available on Amazon.com) or use solutions like TrueNas, Unraid, or even a Windows machine, you have various possibilities for self-hosting your personal YouTube interface.

    Invidious Overview

    Invidious is likely one of the more recognized YouTube front ends, and it has certainly caught Google’s eye. This project can be hosted in a Docker container, but many public servers are maintained by the Invidious community as well. It allows users to subscribe to channels, read comments from Reddit, download videos, and even reroute embedded YouTube videos to your hosted instance using a browser extension.

    When it functions properly, it performs excellently. There are also applications available for both iOS and Android, enabling you to access your hosted server and watch videos through an app. However, the container necessitates frequent restarts, and some videos show a message stating “The media could not be loaded,” which often leads to a fair amount of troubleshooting to resolve. The FAQ section of Invidious even hints at giving up and just watching the video on YouTube in certain cases.

    Exploring ViewTube

    Like Invidious, ViewTube operates within a container. According to the official wiki, installing ViewTube also requires two additional containers: MongoDB and Redis. While running three containers for your own YouTube front end might seem excessive, there is an all-in-one container created by mvanduijker available on GitHub. You can also opt for ViewTube’s own hosted instance.

    After installation, ViewTube offers a similar, yet arguably more aesthetically pleasing interface than Invidious. Video playback is smooth, and the platform provides trending and suggested videos based on your viewing habits. You can still redirect embedded videos to your hosted interface, and aside from a brief low-resolution buffer at the beginning, the content loads quickly and in high quality.

    Where ViewTube fell short, at least for me, was the search feature, which seemed to work intermittently at the beginning of a session before failing. Like Invidious, you can import your YouTube subscriptions, so there are workarounds, but for spontaneous searches, it was nearly ineffective.

    FreeTube’s Unique Approach

    FreeTube differs from the other options mentioned as it can run as a standalone application on any desired machine, whether it’s Windows, macOS, or Linux. It can also be deployed in a Docker container, with a prebuilt container available for Unraid. However, unlike the others, the FreeTube container effectively operates the Linux app within a virtual machine, which introduces latency when connecting through VNC, making it less viable.

    That said, when running natively on an operating system, the app has a clean interface and is the most reliable of the three regarding searching and watching videos. It also allows redirects from embedded content through the (now deprecated) FreeTube redirect browser extension. However, this lacks the flexibility of viewing content across different devices on your home network, as you are restricted to the machine where it’s installed.

    Conclusion

    Each of these solutions has its drawbacks. None encountered any major app-breaking issues, but all three options are not particularly straightforward.

    Whether it’s the time spent fixing Invidious, the challenges with ViewTube’s search function or imported subscriptions, or being limited to a single device with FreeTube, the time investment may not be worth the results.

    With dedicated applications offering YouTube front ends like NewPipe or Louis Rossman’s GrayJay app, it becomes difficult to rationalize the time and effort needed to host such a service on your own.

    The existence of these options is a testament to the open-source community, but for those wishing to escape YouTube’s tracking, there might be simpler and less time-consuming alternatives.

    Invidious on GitHub, ViewTube, FreeTube.


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  • Realme GT Neo 7 to Feature Top SoC in AnTuTu Rankings

    Realme GT Neo 7 to Feature Top SoC in AnTuTu Rankings

    According to a tipster known as Smart Pikachu, the Realme GT Neo 7 is set to launch sooner than many people thought. The Neo 6 was introduced by the company in May this year and is seen as an affordable flagship smartphone that uses the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor. According to the Weibo tipster, the new version will have the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version instead.

    Performance Insights

    This is the same chipset that has been leading the AnTuTu flagship rankings for a while now. Nubia was the first brand to release smartphones with this overclocked version of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and their RedMagic 9S Pro+ has managed to maintain the top spot in AnTuTu’s monthly rankings recently.

    Future Competition

    Nevertheless, it’s unlikely that the Realme GT Neo 7 will take the lead in the AnTuTu rankings right after its launch, as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 and Dimensity 9400 are expected to arrive soon. These new processors are anticipated to offer a significant boost in performance. If this is true, upcoming flagship models with these next-gen chipsets will likely show a considerable improvement in benchmark scores.

    Display and Battery Features

    In addition to the processor, Smart Pikachu also mentioned that the GT Neo 7 will have a 1.5K “gaming” flat screen. The tipster did not go into detail about the specifications, but the term “gaming” might suggest that the display will support a 144 Hz refresh rate. There are also rumors that it will come equipped with a large battery along with support for 100W fast charging.

    Smart Pikachu on Weibo via: GSMArena

  • Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Gets October 2024 Security Patch Update

    Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Gets October 2024 Security Patch Update

    Following some serious problems that impacted multiple Samsung Galaxy models, like the Galaxy S10 and Note10 series, Samsung is now introducing a new update aimed at improving security and stability for their devices. This comes after a SmartThings Framework update caused certain phones to get stuck in a boot loop. The first device to receive this update appears to be the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, which is currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon. Many users faced difficulties with their devices, raising concerns about data loss and issues with two-factor authentication access.

    Quick Action by Samsung

    In response to the situation, Samsung has quickly rolled out the October 2024 security patch, even prior to Google releasing the update for its Pixel devices. The official rollout date is noted as 4th October 2024 on Samsung’s website. This update includes the One UI build version S721BXXS2AXI5 and enhances system security, likely targeting vulnerabilities within the operating system.

    Details Still Unclear

    While the exact details of the problems fixed in this patch remain vague, it’s anticipated that Samsung will share more information shortly. As of now, the update is being distributed to Galaxy S24 FE users in regions like Asia and Africa, according to Android Trends, with plans for a wider global rollout in the near future.

    How to Install the Update

    To manually install the update, users can go to the Settings menu, select Software Update, and then click on ‘Download and install’. Keep in mind that it might take some time before the update reaches all areas.

    Samsung Mobile has communicated these updates through sources like Sammy Fans and Android Trends.


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  • Blue Checkmark Coming to Google Search Results Soon

    Blue Checkmark Coming to Google Search Results Soon

    Google is trying to simplify the way people find businesses online. They are testing a new feature that will add blue verification checkmarks next to business names in search results.

    Similar to Social Media Icons

    This checkmark is akin to the icons we see on social media platforms like Instagram or X (which was previously known as Twitter). When users hover over the checkmark, a message appears saying, “This icon is being shown because Google’s signals suggest that this business is what it says it is.” Yet, there is also a disclaimer stating “Google can’t guarantee the reliability of this business or its products.”

    Experimental Phase of Checkmarks

    Currently, this feature is in the testing stage and isn’t widely accessible. We haven’t spotted the checkmark in search results yet, but reports indicate it will mostly show up next to prominent and established businesses, especially in fields such as technology, fashion, and automotive. Brands like Meta, Nike, Amazon, Apple, and Samsung are among those that may display this verification badge.

    In a statement about the trial, a Google spokesperson told The Verge, “We regularly experiment with features that help shoppers identify trustworthy businesses online, and we are currently running a small experiment showing checkmarks next to certain businesses on Google.”

    Future of the Checkmark Feature

    It’s not clear if this test will evolve into a permanent feature. However, its potential usefulness is evident, especially considering the number of fraudulent businesses aimed at stealing personal information.

    Additionally, it remains uncertain if the checkmarks will only apply to official businesses or if Google intends to include smaller local ones as well. If they do broaden the scope, this feature could be highly beneficial since users often click on suspicious links when searching for lesser-known brands.

    Google has not detailed how they identify safe links, but they did confirm to The Verge that the process includes, at the very least, some manual verification.


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