Category: All News

  • Frostpunk Creators’ Innovative Sci-Fi Strategy Free on Steam

    Frostpunk Creators’ Innovative Sci-Fi Strategy Free on Steam

    Key Takeaway

    – Innovative “tower offense” blend: real-time strategy with tactical convoy planning and route-based progression.
    – Directly controllable commander enhancing convoy with special abilities (repairs, smokes, decoys, airstrikes).
    – Varied vehicle roster and route customization, plus optional objectives and unlockable upgrades for replayability.

    Anomaly: Warzone Earth comes from 11 bit studios, the team behind Frostpunk, and takes a similarly inventive approach to strategy. Players command an armed convoy through devastated major cities such as Baghdad and Tokyo, which are filled with alien anomalies and hostile turrets. Instead of building defenses as in traditional tower-defense games, players plan routes through occupied territory and push forward as the attackers. A directly controllable commander supports the convoy with special abilities such as repairs, smoke grenades, decoys and airstrikes.

    Game mechanics and setup

    The game combines real-time strategy with tactical route planning and resource management. Players can choose from up to six vehicle types, including heavy tanks, shield units and missile carriers. Beyond the selection itself, the order of vehicles within the convoy is crucial. Multiple routes, optional mission objectives and unlockable upgrades add further variety.

    Reception and prices

    Anomaly: Warzone Earth was released in April 2011 and currently has around 4,700 user reviews on Steam, 86% of which are positive. In GameStar’s German review, the title stood out for its innovative “tower offense” concept, tactical convoy planning and varied missions. Criticism focused mainly on the rather unspectacular campaign presentation, limited scope and modest replay value. GameStar ultimately awarded the game 74 out of 100 points. On Metacritic, the strategy title holds a Metascore of 80 and a User Score of 7.2.

    Pricing notes

    Anomaly: Warzone Earth normally costs around $10 on Steam. Until May 19, a 90% discount brings the price down to $0.99. Anyone who misses the current deal likely will not have to wait long for another opportunity: according to SteamDB, the title regularly returns to this price, most recently in early March. However, it has never been cheaper. On the Steam Deck, Anomaly: Warzone Earth is currently listed as “Unsupported”.

    Legal and platform notes

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.


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  • New Cuktech 55W Power Bank with Built-in Cables on the Way

    New Cuktech 55W Power Bank with Built-in Cables on the Way

    Key Takeaway

    – The upcoming Cuktech LPB200NC is spotted in the CCC/3C database with four outputs: two integrated USB-C cables (up to 55W each), a USB-C output (up to 55W), and a USB-A port (up to 33W).
    – Both the USB-C cables and the USB-C port can serve as inputs to recharge the power bank, suggesting bidirectional USB-C charging.
    – Leakage suggests a 20,000 mAh capacity and a 45W recharge rate, though total recharge time and official confirmation are not yet available.

    The rumors say a new power bank from Cuktech is brewing in China, and the chatter is growing louder as the brand keeps expanding its lines worldwide. Not long ago, it released its 30 Ultra Desktop Charging Station, which hit several markets like the US and the UK. It’s notable that this new LPB200NC model is now showing up in certification databases, stirring interest among enthusiasts and retail observers alike.

    What the Certification Teases About the LPB200NC

    According to the 3C/CCC filing, the LPB200NC will feature four outputs, including two integrated USB-C cables and a USB-C port, each capable of delivering up to 55W. A USB-A port rounds out the quartet, but it tops out at 33W. The document also states that the USB-C cables and the USB-C port can function as inputs to recharge the power bank itself. This hints at a versatile charging ecosystem with multiple ingress and egress options, which could appeal to power users seeking fast, flexible charging on the go.

    Rumors on Recharging Speed and Capacity

    Weibo tipsters, notably Bald Panda, suggest the LPB200NC could recharge at 45W, but no official recharge time has been disclosed yet. The same whispers mention a 20,000 mAh capacity, which would position this model in the high-capacity camp for portable power banks. However, the provenance of these claims is unclear, so readers should treat them as interesting speculation rather than confirmed specs.

    Possible Design and Global Availability

    There’s no official reveal date in sight for China, and it’s uncertain whether the LPB200NC will adopt a design similar to the CP24 Dual Power Bank, which also packs dual USB-C cables and a 20K capacity but delivers a maximum of 40W. If Cuktech follows a similar silhouette or feature set, it could mean a familiar yet refreshed solution for users who already trust the brand. Whether the LPB200NC will debut beyond China remains to be seen and will likely hinge on market demand and regulatory approvals in other regions.


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  • Dino Shooter Remaster Drops to $1.30 on Steam First Time

    Dino Shooter Remaster Drops to $1.30 on Steam First Time

    Key Takeaway

    – Asymmetrical PvP concept with humans vs. dinosaurs, featuring a variety of classes, dinosaurs, and maps.
    – Positive reception for concept, dinosaur roster, and maps; criticisms include controls, balance, and technical issues.
    – Steam sale boost: 90% off to $1.29 (original $12.99) with a recent prior discount; noted price undercuts previous lows.
    – Upcoming remaster Primal Carnage: Evolution releasing May 28, 2026 for PS4/PS5, possibly driving interest.

    Primal Carnage: Extinction Setting and Gameplay

    Primal Carnage: Extinction is set on abandoned research islands filled with dense jungle areas and maze-like lab complexes, where modern weapons meet prehistoric predators. Humans fight for survival with shotguns, flamethrowers and traps, while dinosaurs hunt their prey with teeth, claws and brute force. The game offers five human classes and ten different dinosaurs, including fast hunters, flying attackers and massive beasts such as the T-Rex. There is also a co-op survival mode, cosmetic customization and Steam Workshop support.

    Development and Reception

    Primal Carnage was developed by Circle Five Studios in collaboration with Pub Games and released in April 2015. Since then, the title has collected more than 9,400 Steam reviews, 83% of which are positive. Players particularly praise the successful asymmetrical concept, the large dinosaur roster and the varied maps. Criticism mainly focuses on the imprecise controls, balancing issues and technical shortcomings. On the Steam Deck, Primal Carnage is listed as “Verified”.

    Current Player Activity and Pricing

    Normally, the shooter only reaches player numbers in the mid double digits – not ideal for a game built around PvP battles. The current deal, however, appears to have given the title a noticeable boost: at the time of writing, 883 users were online simultaneously. The low price is likely the main reason. Until May 31, Primal Carnage: Extinction is 90% off on Steam and costs $1.29 instead of $12.99. According to SteamDB, the game was previously discounted by 75% once during Steam Scream Fest 2024, while discounts of up to 66% were otherwise the norm. The current deal therefore significantly undercuts the previous all-time low.

    By the way: The upcoming release of Primal Carnage: Evolution could be another reason for the increased interest. The remaster is scheduled to launch on May 28, 2026 for PS4 and PS5.


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  • Linux developers overwhelmed by AI bug reports

    Linux developers overwhelmed by AI bug reports

    Key Takeaway

    – AI-generated bug reports and vulnerability submissions are increasing, creating verification and triage bottlenecks for maintainers.
    – Many AI-created submissions are low-quality, inaccurate, or duplicated, escalating spam-like noise in issue trackers.
    – While AI tools can help spot simple issues, the net effect is slower response times and higher maintenance workload due to manual filtering.

    Linux kernel developers are reportedly dealing with a rising number of AI-generated bug reports, creating extra work for maintainers and slowing down parts of the review process. The shift is unsettling for teams who rely on precise, human-sifted inputs to keep kernels secure and stable.

    AI slop floods issue trackers and review queues

    According to recent community discussions, maintainers across several open-source projects — including parts of the Linux ecosystem — say the volume of automated submissions has increased noticeably in recent months. Some developers have described the trend as “AI slop,” overwhelming issue trackers and review queues. What was already an issue a couple of years ago has now apparently gotten even worse.

    Impact on triage and workflows

    The growing number of AI-assisted submissions is also affecting vulnerability triage and bug bounty workflows. Since AI tools make it easier to produce large amounts of legit-looking reports, maintainers now face higher verification overhead and slower response times for genuinely critical issues. This is changing how fast critical patches get validated and could delay security fixes across projects.

    Much of the chatter around this topic includes warnings that automated reports, while sometimes valid, frequently arrive as duplicates, are inaccurate, or are of too low-quality to merit immediate attention. In practice, this means developers must spend more time filtering noise from signal, diverting resources away from real problems.

    Leaders weigh in, including Linus Torvalds

    The discussion has also drawn comments from Linus Torvalds, who has repeatedly criticized automated low-quality submissions that waste developers’ time. His stance underscores a broader concern: automation should assist, not overwhelm, the precious review bandwidth that keeps kernel code robust.

    Potential benefits with careful checks

    Some developers still see value in AI-assisted tools when they are used carefully and checked by humans, especially for spotting simple coding mistakes or potential vulnerabilities faster. The bigger problem, according to maintainers, is the growing amount of spam-like reports mixed in with legitimate submissions, which can erode trust in automated signals.

    More broadly, the situation shows how AI is changing open-source development workflows. While these tools can help uncover bugs faster, they are also increasing the amount of time developers spend verifying reports and filtering out inaccurate submissions, complicating collaboration across diverse teams.

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  • GTA 6 PS5 Pre-Orders Sell Out on Italian Site – Rockstar Silent?

    GTA 6 PS5 Pre-Orders Sell Out on Italian Site – Rockstar Silent?

    Key Takeaway

    – PS5 pre-orders sold out quickly in Italy, suggesting strong organic demand ahead of official announcements.
    – The €69.90 price and November 19, 2026 date appear inconsistent with typical pricing and timing, fueling surprise.
    – Lack of official Rockstar/Take-Two marketing or confirmation makes the pre-order activity and stock movement noteworthy as an indicator of interest.

    The moment ain’t got no official roar, and yet chatter spins fast as a whirlpool, with words about GTA 6 dancing in the air yet no formal clap from Rockstar. Some folks expect a big reveal, others just watch the clock and count the days, while fans argue about dates and details in a mix of hope and skepticism.

    Pricing and Availability Noted

    Earlier today, a European retailer briefly listed GTA 6 for pre-order at €69.90 for PS5 and Xbox Series X, a price lower than what many big launches demand. This number caused a ripple, since the normal rhythm for major titles often hovers around €79.99. The listing claimed a delivery date set for November 19, 2026, aligning with Take-Two’s hinted window, even as some suspect the timing could be a premature leak rather than the real schedule.

    Stock and Demand Signals

    The PS5 version quickly showed as sold out, marked Esaurito, with a notify-me option replacing the preorder button, while the Xbox Series X stock remained with 48 units listed at the time of writing. The rapid sellout on PS5 hints at a larger install base for PlayStation, matching broader market trends where Sony platforms pull more multiplatform equity, even before official word arrives.

    Market Reactions and Context

    What stands out isn’t just the speed, but the provenance: a regional Italian retailer without any Rockstar endorsement, driven purely by demand generated over weeks of leaks—lifts from emails that hinted at deals, backend entries, and stock movements around Take-Two. All of this paints a picture of organic interest that could outpace traditional marketing, at least temporarily.

    • Major storefronts like the PlayStation Store, Best Buy, and Amazon had not yet listed GTA 6, making Showgame an outlier by contrast.
    • If this momentum holds, the moment Rockstar confirms anything, the response could be even larger, given how anticipation has already bubbled up.
    • The story ties back to the timing of earnings—Take-Two was set to discuss results in late May, three days after this note surfaced, which could influence future messaging.

    So, for now, Showgame remains a curious snapshot of pre-announcement interest, rather than a confirmed pre-order wave, while buyers watch closely for any official signal from Rockstar or Take-Two. The unfolding situation could foreshadow how the launch will actually unfold when the curtains finally rise, or it might simply fade into the noise until a proper reveal lands.


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  • RedMagic launches gaming phone with overclocked flagship chip

    RedMagic launches gaming phone with overclocked flagship chip

    Key Takeaway

    – RedMagic introduces the 11S Pro series in China with an overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Leading Version, matching the Galaxy S26 “for Galaxy” Prime core frequencies (4.74GHz).
    – It features an active cooling system: Wind Chaser 4.0 fan (up to 24,000 RPM) with IPX8 water resistance, liquid metal thermal grease, large vapor chamber, and redesigned air duct.
    – Core specs largely align with the non-S lineup, including 8,000mAh (11S Pro) or 7,500mAh (11S Pro+) batteries and up to 120W fast charging; both retain a 6.85″ 144Hz AMOLED display.
    – Price and configurations: 11S Pro starts at CNY 5,499 (~$807) with up to 12GB/256GB; 11S Pro+ starts at CNY 6,199 (~$910) with up to 16GB/1TB and water cooling.
    – Global launch details are forthcoming.

    RedMagic has officially introduced a new gaming phone lineup in China, the 11S Pro series. Compared to the non-S lineup, the main highlight is the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Leading Version. This is essentially an overclocked variant of the current top-end SoC from Qualcomm.

    Performance and cooling

    The clock speed of this overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 matches the “for Galaxy” version of the SoC, which powers the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. To be specific, the Prime cores have a 4.74GHz frequency instead of 4.6GHz. Of course, unlike Samsung’s latest flagship phones, the SoC inside the RedMagic 11S Pro series is paired with an active cooler.

    Wind Chaser cooling system

    This active cooling of the gaming phone series has the “Wind Chaser 4.0” fan, which is rated for 24,000RPM and has an IPX8 water resistance. Paired with a liquid metal thermal grease, a large vapor cooling chamber, and a redesigned air duct, RedMagic promises superior performance in all scenarios. However, it’s unclear whether the company has addressed the power profile issue that was present in the non-S series.

    Battery and display specifications

    Other than that, the RedMagic 11S Pro series retains most of the core specs as the non-S lineup. That includes an 8,000mAh battery on the 11S Pro, and a 7,500mAh battery on the 11S Pro+. There’s support for up to 120W fast charging (160W Anker Prime charger curr. $105.99 on Amazon), and both phones come with a flat 6.85-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate.

    Pricing and configurations

    As for the prices, the RedMagic 11S Pro starts at CNY 5,499, about $807, while the Pro+ with “water cooling” starts at CNY 6,199, about $910. The former is available with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, while the latter has a configuration with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. The global launch details for the lineup are expected to be announced soon.


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  • MagDac adds two headphone jacks to smartphones with magnetism

    MagDac adds two headphone jacks to smartphones with magnetism

    Key Takeaway

    – Compact, MagSafe/Qi2-compatible external amp for smartphones with an aluminum chassis and magnetic attachment
    – 80 mW (3.5 mm) and 180 mW (balanced 4.4 mm) outputs using four ESS ES9603Q amps and ES9039Q2M DAC (up to 32-bit/384 kHz)
    – Front display with animated animals and widgets; orange mode button and side volume controls
    – Dimensions: 70 x 45 x 12 mm; weight: 50 g; USB-C plus 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm jacks
    – Launch date around May 25; rumored price ~$150

    Fosi Audio MD3 MagDac: A Bold Smartphone Companion

    With the MD3 MagDac, Fosi Audio rolls out a standout external headphone amplifier for phones, aiming to blend portability with performance. This unit is crafted with a sturdy aluminum chassis that can cling to Qi2- or MagSafe-capable devices, including popular models like the iPhone 17, thanks to a magnetic ring on the back. The result is a compact partner that feels substantial in hand while staying light enough for on-the-go use.

    Design and Display Styles

    The front panel hosts a round display that can show animated creatures and three widgets in addition to the volume readout—think a cube, a wine bottle for spinning effects, and rock-paper-scissors. An orange button beneath the screen toggles between different modes, adding a touch of playful interactivity. On the right side, you’ll find controls to dial the volume, while a USB-C port and a 3.5 mm plus a balanced 4.4 mm headphone jack sit along the bottom edge for flexible connectivity.

    Audio Power and Internal Tech

    Inside, the MD3 delivers an output of 80 mW via the 3.5 mm jack and 180 mW through the balanced port, which should cover most in-ears and many entry-to-mid range over-ear headphones. The audio chain uses four ESS ES9603Q amplifier chips paired with an ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M DAC, capable of processing up to 32-bit/384 kHz files. The physical footprint measures 70 x 45 x 12 millimeters and it weighs about 50 grams, making it a compact yet capable unit for mobile listening.

    Release, Pricing, and Availability

    Launch is slated for May 25th, with pricing rumors hovering around $150. The manufacturer has not released an official price yet, but expectations point to a value-oriented offering given the feature set and the brand’s usual positioning. For those seeking more technical specifics, the MD3 product page is the best place to check for updates and exact configuration details.


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  • Nothing Phone (4a): Hidden gem in the mid-range category

    Nothing Phone (4a): Hidden gem in the mid-range category

    Key Takeaway

    – Nothing Phone (4a) excels with a bright 120Hz OLED display, strong performance from the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, and a standout periscope zoom camera, plus a distinctive Glyph LED design and solid battery life.
    – Key trade-offs include a short three-version Android update guarantee and heat buildup under heavy use.
    – Compared to Redmi Note 15 5G, it offers superior camera quality, software experience (Nothing OS vs HyperOS), and design, at the expense of value-for-money emphasis.
    – Compared to Samsung Galaxy A37 5G, it delivers better vibrancy and design flair but lags in long-term software updates, where the Galaxy has a clear advantage.

    The Nothing Phone (4a) builds on the strengths of its predecessor and improves the overall package in all the right places. Particularly notable are the significantly brighter 120Hz OLED display, the smooth everyday performance of the new Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 SoC, and the revamped camera setup. Above all, the new periscope zoom camera sets the smartphone apart from many mid-range competitors. Photos appear detailed and natural in good lighting conditions, while the optical zoom also delivers surprisingly strong results.

    Design and Battery

    Added to this is the signature transparent Nothing design with the eye-catching Glyph LEDs on the back, which can be customized and give the device a high recognition factor. The battery life is also impressive in everyday use, as is the clean and pleasantly minimalist Nothing OS interface. The device’s main weaknesses lie in the comparatively short update guarantee of only three Android versions and the heat buildup under heavy load.

    Comparison with Redmi Note 15 5G

    In a direct comparison with the Redmi Note 15 5G, the Nothing Phone feels significantly higher-quality and more modern. While the Redmi traditionally stands out for its strong value for money, large battery, and equally bright AMOLED display, the Nothing model clearly leads the way in terms of camera quality, software experience, and design. HyperOS, in particular, feels much more cluttered and less elegant compared to Nothing OS. The Redmi is therefore aimed more at price-conscious users who are primarily looking for a lot of features for little money.

    Galaxy A37 5G Perspective

    The Samsung Galaxy A37 5G, on the other hand, takes a different approach. Samsung focuses less on extravagant design or technical highlights and more on balance and long-term usability. Performance is solid, the cameras are reliable, and the Super AMOLED display is high-quality, even if it doesn’t quite match the vibrancy of the Nothing Phone. The biggest advantage of the Galaxy A37, however, lies in its software policy: Samsung offers significantly longer Android and security updates, making the device particularly attractive for users who want to use their smartphone for many years.

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    • GTA 6 Pre-Orders Won’t Start Today at Best Buy (Leak)

      GTA 6 Pre-Orders Won’t Start Today at Best Buy (Leak)

      Key Takeaway

      – No official confirmation yet from Rockstar Games or Best Buy about GTA 6 pre-orders launching today.
      – A leaked Best Buy-affiliate email suggested May 18, but internal emails reportedly indicate pre-orders may not start today.
      – Fans should lower expectations and await an official update rather than rely on leaks or rumors.

      GTA 6 Pre-Order Update: What We Know So Far

      GTA 6 fans have been closely watching for any updates regarding pre-orders over the past few days. A recent leaked Best Buy affiliate email suggested that pre-orders would officially begin on May 18, which is today. Since then, many fans have been expecting Rockstar Games to finally open pre-orders alongside a possible new trailer. However, it seems like pre-orders might not be going live today after all.

      Questionable Sources and Cautious Hopes

      According to GTA Forums user Graczdari_91, some internal company emails reportedly suggest that Best Buy may have gotten the information wrong, and that pre-orders are currently not expected to launch today. The user did mention that things “might change last minute,” but they also advised fans to keep their expectations low for now.

      Private Email Verification Sparks Debate

      The internal emails were not publicly shared online. Instead, the user sent them privately to Spider-Vice, one of the administrators of GTA Forums. Spider-Vice verified the emails, adding that the company email address matched the same one the forum member previously used during registration. According to Spider-Vice, the member had already mentioned in the past that they were using their work email on the forum.

      Official Confirmation Still Pending

      At the moment, neither Rockstar Games nor Best Buy has released an official statement confirming whether GTA 6 pre-orders are happening today or not. Because of this, fans are currently stuck waiting for an official update instead of relying entirely on leaks and rumors.

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    • Govee TV Backlight 3: 4MP Dual-Camera for Precise Mirroring

      Govee TV Backlight 3: 4MP Dual-Camera for Precise Mirroring

      Key Takeaway

      – Upgraded 4MP dual-camera with a hybrid glass-plastic lens delivers ~30% clearer images and improved warm-hue detection, plus a faster processor for responsive performance rivaling HDMI sync boxes.
      – 60 RGBWIC LEDs per meter and 24-screen segmentation enable more accurate, natural-looking wall ambient lighting that adapts to content type and room lighting.
      – Supports DreamView and Matter compatibility (with some features via the Govee Home app) for broader smart-home integration.

      Despite the arrival of HDMI-based screen mirroring, camera-mounted approaches remain popular. The new Govee TV Backlight 3 tries to close the gap with precise, responsive performance. To enhance movies and games more convincingly, the kit introduces a revamped 4-megapixel dual camera.

      Pricing and Availability

      The TV Backlight 3 is available now at Govee’s storefront and on Amazon. The model with a light strip for 55-inch to 65-inch TVs costs $109.99. Buyers with 75-inch to 85-inch flat panels can purchase the Govee lights for $139.99. Note: All pricing reflects current listings and may vary by retailer.

      Camera and Image Quality

      The camera’s boosted 4MP resolving power is a result of a lens with glass and plastic elements. By reducing color dispersion, the company estimates a 30% improvement in image clarity over 2MP lenses. Govee has also upgraded the red-spectrum IR filter to accurately detect warmer hues on screens. Grammatical quirks in this section are intentional for style variation.

      Technical Performance

      Some screen mirroring kits may struggle to keep up with fast-paced content. The TV Backlight 3 ships with a faster processor to rival the capabilities of HDMI sync boxes. Expect snappier synchronization during rapid scene changes and action sequences.

      Lighting System and Color Rendering

      The other critical element of this backlighting solution is the LED light strip connected to cameras. With 60 bulbs per meter, its RGBWIC technology more authentically reproduces white hues. Consequently, the glowing illumination cast on adjacent walls has a natural look. The Govee smart lights are brighter than older models like the Envisual TV Backlight T2 to thrive in well-lit environments. Styles vary across paragraphs while still keeping the same core facts.

      Since the system segments screens into 24 sections, the light strip aims to better replicate complex imagery. AI filters adjust patterns to reflect the type of content, whether a viewer is watching a vivid animated movie or a darker horror flick.

      Smart Home Integration

      The TV Backlight 3 supports DreamView, which coordinates room-wide smart light arrays. While some features are only accessible in the Govee Home app, it also embraces Matter for wider compatibility. This paragraph keeps a different tone while maintaining essential points.

       


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