Category: All News

  • Legendary RPG Series Surprise-Drops Parts 1 and 2 on Xbox Game Pass

    Legendary RPG Series Surprise-Drops Parts 1 and 2 on Xbox Game Pass

    Key Takeaways

    1. Baldur’s Gate, created by BioWare in 1998, is a classic role-playing game set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe.
    2. The game features a rich narrative, team-based gameplay, and character creation influenced by player choices and moral decisions.
    3. Baldur’s Gate II, released in 2000, continues the story and enhances gameplay with more complex systems and expanded world.
    4. Enhanced Editions of both games were released by Beamdog in 2012 and 2013, featuring modern updates, bug fixes, and new content.
    5. The Enhanced Editions are now available on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, expanding access for players.


    Baldur’s Gate is a timeless role-playing game that first came out in 1998, created by BioWare for Windows and macOS. Players take on the role of an unnamed hero who gets caught up in a complex political situation, setting out on an adventure across the Sword Coast in the Forgotten Realms. This classic, team-based quest includes allies, groups, and a multitude of missions. Built on the famed Dungeons & Dragons tabletop rules, the game features challenging real-time-with-pause combat, detailed character creation, and branching dialogues influenced by moral decisions. Its sequel, Baldur’s Gate II, was launched in 2000 and continues the story seamlessly. Captured by the powerful wizard Irenicus, you must battle for your freedom. The second part enhances the original with more detailed class choices, a bigger world filled with cities and dungeons, and more complex gameplay systems.

    Enhanced Editions

    Thanks to Beamdog and its internal team called Overhaul Games, fans received a refreshed version of the original game in 2012 with the release of Baldur’s Gate: Enhanced Edition. In the following year, an updated version of Baldur’s Gate II was launched as well. These editions introduced support for modern resolutions and operating systems, along with a redesigned user interface. Many bugs from the original games were fixed, and improvements for player convenience were included, such as an expanded quick bar, inventory search, and better party management. Beamdog also added several new companions, each featuring unique backgrounds, dialogues, and personal quests. The Enhanced Edition of Baldur’s Gate additionally included Siege of Dragonspear, a brand-new adventure that connects the storyline between the first and second games.

    Game Pass Announcement

    Microsoft had previously revealed its list of upcoming Game Pass titles, with just two games initially slated for this week. However, unexpectedly, the Enhanced Editions of Baldur’s Gate and Baldur’s Gate II have been added and are currently available through the subscription service. The only limitation is that both games are exclusive to Game Pass Ultimate members.

    Source:
    Link

  • New Free Game Giveaways on Epic Games Store Leaked Early

    New Free Game Giveaways on Epic Games Store Leaked Early

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epic Games Store will reveal a new collection of Mystery Games today.
    2. Two free games will be available from June 5 through June 13.
    3. One confirmed free game is “Ogu and the Secret Forest,” available for macOS and Windows.
    4. The second game is “Deathloop,” a Windows-only title worth $59.99, previously offered through Amazon Prime Gaming.
    5. Both games are set to launch today at 15:00 UTC.


    The Epic Games Store is set to unveil a new collection of Mystery Games later today. Last week, the store announced it would be giving away two games from June 5 through June 13. Meanwhile, a reputable leaker seems to have figured out at least one of the games from recent hints shared on X.

    Upcoming Free Titles

    According to billbil-kun, they have obtained details about this week’s giveaway ahead of time. As predicted by u/MeguminShiro, one of the games will be Ogu and the Secret Forest, which is a 2D adventure title that Epic had quietly added to its store some time ago. Notably, Ogu and the Secret Forest will be available for both macOS and Windows when downloaded from the Epic Games Store, setting it apart from many of the recent free offerings.

    Additional Game Information

    In addition to Ogu and the Secret Forest, Epic is also including Deathloop, which has a price tag of $59.99, published by Bethesda and made by Arkane Studios. For reference, Deathloop has been free to claim on the Epic Games Store before, but only through Amazon Prime Gaming. It’s important to note that Deathloop will only be playable on Windows. Both of these complimentary games are expected to launch today at 15:00 UTC.

    Source:
    Link

  • RedMagic 10S Pro Launches: Overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite, 7050mAh Battery

    RedMagic 10S Pro Launches: Overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite, 7050mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Global Launch: The RedMagic 10S Pro smartphone is now available globally, including in the US, UK, EU, Canada, Singapore, UAE, and Mexico.

    2. Enhanced Performance: It features the overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version chipset, offering higher clock speeds for improved CPU and GPU performance.

    3. High Memory and Storage: The device supports up to 24 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, but lacks expandable storage options.

    4. Gaming Features: Includes a dedicated RedCore R3 Pro gaming chip for better gaming performance, a 144 Hz AMOLED display, and a large 7,050 mAh battery with 80 W wired charging.

    5. Additional Specs: Features DTS X-certified stereo speakers, customizable RGB lighting, an upgraded cooling system, and various color options, starting at $700 for the base model.


    Last month, RedMagic launched the 10S Pro series in China. Now, the popular gaming smartphone brand has revealed the 10S Pro smartphone for the global markets, which includes the US, UK, EU, Canada, Singapore, UAE, and Mexico. Like its variant released in China, the global RedMagic 10S Pro comes with the overclocked Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version chipset.

    Performance Upgrades

    The Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version serves as Qualcomm’s latest top-tier System-on-Chip (SoC), being an enhanced version of its predecessor, providing improved gaming graphics upscaling compared to the standard variant. The Leading Version Chip has a higher clock speed than the Snapdragon 8 Elite. Specifically, the CPU operates at 4.47 GHz (an increase from 4.32 GHz), while the GPU can reach 1.2 GHz (up from 1.1 GHz), and the NPU’s performance has been boosted by 40%.

    Memory and Storage

    The robust chipset is paired with up to 24 GB of RAM and as much as 1 TB of storage, but there’s no option for expanding the storage. It runs on Android 15 with RedMagic OS 10.5 pre-installed. Although it’s primarily a gaming phone, RedMagic includes a solid camera setup in the 10S Pro, which has a 50 MP (OV50E) main camera with optical image stabilization. This main camera is supported by a 50 MP (OV50D) ultrawide camera and a 2 MP depth sensor. For selfies and video calls, there’s a 16 MP camera embedded in the display.

    Gaming Features

    This gaming-centric smartphone also includes a dedicated RedCore R3 Pro gaming chip that manages super-resolution upscaling to achieve 120 fps in demanding games and enhances cooling for an optimal gaming experience.

    Beyond this, the RedMagic 10S Pro features a 6.85-inch BOE AMOLED screen with a resolution of 2688 x 1216 pixels, boasting a refresh rate of 144 Hz and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits. The slim bezel display is shielded by Corning Gorilla Glass and covers the full DCI-P3 color gamut. A massive 7,050 mAh battery powers the internals, supporting 80 W wired charging (200 W Ugreen Nexode 25K power bank currently priced at $99.99 on Amazon). Unfortunately, this flagship smartphone does not support wireless charging.

    Additional Features

    The remaining standout features of the 10S Pro include DTS X-certified stereo speakers, RGB lighting, an upgraded ICE-X cooling system, 4D tactile feedback, a customizable Magickey, an in-display fingerprint scanner, and shoulder trigger buttons with a 520 Hz touch sampling rate.

    The RedMagic 10S Pro is available in matte black, silver transparent, and black transparent options, starting at $700/€650/£580 for the base model with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage. The high-end 24 GB RAM and 1 TB storage model is priced at $1000/€1000/£880. The device is set to be available for purchase starting June 18. For further information, visit the official product page of the RedMagic 10S Pro.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • New 5.5-Inch Retro Gaming Handheld with Android and ES-DE

    New 5.5-Inch Retro Gaming Handheld with Android and ES-DE

    Key Takeaways

    1. The K56 has been officially released after a year of speculation, available in three colors.
    2. It features a 5.5-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels, powered by a Unisoc T620 processor and 6 GB of RAM.
    3. The device runs on Android 14 and includes 128 GB of storage, with Pegasus and ES-DE user interfaces.
    4. It is equipped with a 5,000 mAh battery, offering up to 8 hours of playtime.
    5. Pricing for the K56 varies, with options around $135 on AliExpress, $149 from Kinhank, and $169.99 on Amazon.


    The K56 has finally arrived after nearly a year of speculation and excitement. Initially, it was thought that Powkiddy was working on the device. Later, there were ideas that it would be released as the K560. However, it is now officially available on various retail sites under the name K56, and it comes in three different colors.

    Display and Performance

    Kinhank reports that the K56 is equipped with a 5.5-inch IPS screen that has a resolution of 1,280 x 720 pixels, displaying content in a 16:9 aspect ratio. As anticipated, this gaming handheld integrates a relatively sharp display with a Unisoc T620 processor and 6 GB of LPDDR4X RAM. This means the device utilizes two ARM Cortex-A75 cores and six ARM Cortex-A55 cores, alongside a Mali-G57 MP1 GPU that operates at a maximum frequency of 850 MHz.

    Operating System and Battery Life

    Additionally, the K56 is pre-loaded with Android 14 on its 128 GB of UFS 2.0 storage, featuring Pegasus and ES-DE user interfaces. Furthermore, the device is powered by a 5,000 mAh battery, providing up to 8 hours of playtime. At the moment, you can grab the K56 along with a 64 GB microSD card for about $135 on AliExpress. Kinhank also sells it directly with the same microSD card for $149. In contrast, Amazon lists the K56 for approximately $169.99, including a $10 extra charge for a 128 GB microSD card option.

    Source:
    Link


  • Xbox Showcase: Major Studio Confirms Big Game Announcement

    Xbox Showcase: Major Studio Confirms Big Game Announcement

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xbox Showcase is set for June 8, featuring exciting game announcements.
    2. Undead Labs has teased State of Decay 3 with a new image and message, raising fan anticipation.
    3. The State of Decay series is popular for its survival and base management gameplay, despite mixed reviews for State of Decay 2.
    4. Undead Labs is now under Microsoft, which could enhance State of Decay 3 with better support and new features.
    5. The Xbox conference will start at 10 a.m. in the U.S. and 6 p.m. in the UK, promising a wealth of content for gamers.


    With Summer Game Fest just around the corner, many gaming conferences are set to take place in the upcoming days and weeks. One of the most anticipated events is the Xbox Showcase, happening this Sunday, June 8. A notable studio has hinted at their participation in this event.

    Exciting Game Announcements

    While many titles are in the spotlight, such as The Outer Worlds 2, Undead Labs might steal the show. Recently, they shared a new image on social media related to State of Decay 3, accompanied by the intriguing message: “Look beyond to understand.” This has sparked renewed excitement among fans, who have been eagerly waiting for updates since the game’s announcement four years ago.

    Fan Anticipation Grows

    For those who love this post-apocalyptic game series, this image could serve as a subtle confirmation that State of Decay 3 will indeed be showcased during the Xbox event on June 8.

    The buzz is quite strong, and it’s easy to see why. The State of Decay series has won over the gaming community with its blend of survival, base management, and open-world discovery. However, it’s worth mentioning that State of Decay 2 fell short for some players, receiving a score of 66 on Metacritic for Xbox One and 69 for PC.

    New Ownership, New Possibilities

    In the meantime, Undead Labs has joined forces with Microsoft, bringing in fresh financial and technological support. This means State of Decay 3, which seems set to make an appearance at the Xbox Showcase, might just be the best installment yet. Additionally, it promises to introduce exciting new features like cooperative exploration, which fans are eagerly waiting for.

    The Xbox conference is scheduled for 10 a.m. in the U.S. and 6 p.m. in the UK, offering a wealth of new content that will surely please gamers who have been anticipating this event for months.

    Source:
    Link


  • RTX 5050 Desktop Graphics Card Launching in July with GDDR7

    RTX 5050 Desktop Graphics Card Launching in July with GDDR7

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia plans to launch the GeForce RTX 5050 in July, after delays in production.
    2. The RTX 5050 will likely be introduced quietly through a press announcement, unlike the RTX 5060.
    3. It is expected to feature a GB207-300 GPU with 2,560 CUDA cores and a TGP of 130 Watts.
    4. The RTX 5050 may utilize GDDR7 VRAM instead of the previously thought GDDR6 due to supply issues.
    5. Pricing is expected to be around $200, targeting entry-level consumers and competing with the RTX 4060 and Intel Arc B580.


    An earlier rumor suggested that Nvidia intended to unveil the GeForce RTX 5050 desktop around late April. This event, however, did not take place, likely due to delays in production and the company’s primary focus on artificial intelligence. Nevertheless, the budget-friendly graphics card remains on schedule for a launch in July.

    Upcoming Release Details

    Videocardz contacted various AIBs, who confirmed that the RTX 5050 is expected to be released in the next few weeks. In contrast to the RTX 5060, which received some attention at Computex 2025, the RTX 5050 will probably be introduced quietly through a press announcement. Additionally, its laptop version has been seen online several times, but there’s no update on its release date.

    Specifications of the RTX 5050

    The GeForce RTX 5050 is rumored to come with a GB207-300 GPU, boasting 2,560 CUDA cores and a total graphics power (TGP) of 130 Watts. At first, it was thought that the graphics card would incorporate 8 GB of GDDR6 VRAM on a 128-bit bus. However, Benchlife now indicates that Nvidia plans to utilize GDDR7 modules as Intel and AMD have been purchasing the GDDR6 VRAM supply.

    Pricing Expectations

    The exact price of the RTX 5050 has not yet been disclosed, but a price around $200 seems reasonable considering it is aimed at entry-level consumers. With only limited specifications available, it’s challenging to assess its performance accurately. However, we can anticipate that it will compete closely with the RTX 4060 or Intel Arc B580.

    Source:
    Link

  • Garmin Unveils Non-Invasive Blood Sugar Measurement Technology

    Garmin Unveils Non-Invasive Blood Sugar Measurement Technology

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has patented a method for measuring blood glucose levels, focusing on HbA1c, which reflects long-term glucose control.
    2. HbA1c is crucial for health insurance and monitoring diabetes progression, but it does not provide real-time glucose readings.
    3. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems can estimate HbA1c values using optical measurements of blood glucose levels.
    4. The patent involves pressure compensation and pulse spectrometry, capturing a wide spectrum of interactions between matter and radiation.
    5. The feasibility of this patent translating into a marketable product remains uncertain.


    Several firms are actively engaged in developing wrist-worn devices for monitoring blood glucose. In an earlier article, we explored the context and obstacles of this kind of measurement. Recently, Garmin has unveiled a new patent (patent number 20250134464) that outlines a method for measuring blood glucose levels, or at least a value associated with blood glucose.

    Understanding HbA1c

    The patent specifically mentions HbA1c, commonly known as long-term blood glucose, which gives insights into blood glucose levels over weeks. In numerous countries, determining HbA1c is essential for health insurance, especially for individuals with type 1 diabetes, and it helps in tracking the condition’s development. Simply put, the HbA1c value reflects red blood cells that have undergone a specific, irreversible chemical reaction with glucose. It’s critical to note that while HbA1c cannot provide real-time blood glucose readings, it can be estimated using Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems that optically measure blood glucose levels.

    Technical Aspects of the Patent

    In essence, the patent discusses pressure compensation alongside a method known as pulse spectrometry. The term “spectrometry” means capturing a whole spectrum—the interaction between matter and radiation across a certain electromagnetic range—not just single wavelengths, as seen in heart rate or blood oxygen saturation measurements. The process of measuring the HbA1c value might be simpler due to its unique progression. However, to directly measure blood glucose levels, relatively advanced Near Infrared (NIR) sensors might be required. As always, it is uncertain if this patent will lead to an actual product in the market.

    Source:
    Link


  • Brose Qore E-Bike System: New Motor Launching Soon

    Brose Qore E-Bike System: New Motor Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Brose Qore e-bike system will debut at Eurobike Frankfurt 2025, featuring a comprehensive package including a drive unit, batteries, charger, and display options.
    2. The system’s Drive³ Peak motor delivers 600W peak power and 95 Nm of torque, weighing approximately 2.9 kg (6.4 lbs).
    3. Battery options include a 650 Wh and an 800 Wh InTube battery, along with a 500 Wh SlideIn battery and an optional range extender for additional power.
    4. The Control Allround operating unit offers a TFT color display for navigation, with larger display options and remote controls planned for the 2027 model year.
    5. Eurobike will occur from June 25th to June 29th, showcasing e-bikes featuring the Brose Qore system, with further details to be released on a dedicated website after the event.


    The Brose Qore e-bike system is set to make its first appearance at Eurobike Frankfurt 2025. The company has recently shared details about this exciting new product, which consists of a drive unit, batteries, a charger, and display options.

    Specifications and Features

    At its launch, the Qore by Brose system will incorporate the Drive³ Peak motor, which can achieve a peak power of 600W and offers 95 Nm of torque. This motor weighs about 2.9 kg (around 6.4 lbs). The system includes a Battery InTube that comes in two sizes: 650 Wh and 800 Wh. Brose claims these batteries provide some of the highest energy densities in the market. Additionally, there’s a smaller 500Wh Battery SlideIn available, along with an optional range extender for those needing extra power.

    Display and Compatibility

    The system also features the Control Allround operating unit, which has a TFT color display for easy navigation. Additionally, a larger Display Integrate and Remote control unit were revealed, although these will not be available until the 2027 model year. Brose emphasizes that its system can work with numerous third-party components, including those for anti-lock braking, electronic shifting, and GPS functionality.

    Event Details and Future Information

    Eurobike will take place from June 25th to June 29th, giving visitors their first chance to see the Brose QORE e-bike system up close. E-bikes from Waldbike and Campus that showcase this system will also be present at the event. After late June, the company plans to provide more information about the Qore by Brose e-bike system on a dedicated new website, which will also feature an e-bike finder tool.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • GameStop Damages Nintendo Switch 2 Screen, Delays Release Date

    GameStop Damages Nintendo Switch 2 Screen, Delays Release Date

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameStop employees damaged Switch 2 screens by stapling receipts to boxes, causing punctures and scratches.
    2. Disappointed customers are sharing their experiences on social media, highlighting the issue’s impact.
    3. Packaging design lacks adequate cushioning, with the screen facing upwards and minimal protection from potential damage.
    4. Nintendo warned users to keep a protective film on the screen to prevent glass shards from scattering if dropped.
    5. The ongoing complaints indicate a need for improved handling and packaging practices at GameStop and Nintendo.


    Anxious gamers picking up consoles from GameStop on the Switch 2 release date soon made devastating discoveries. Some employees stapled receipts to boxes, which damaged the handheld’s screen. As noted by Wario64 on social media, disappointed customers have shared evidence of their misfortune. While the retailer is under fire, other critics blame Nintendo for improper packaging.

    Damage Reports

    It’s unclear how widespread the problem is, but one post gaining attention was from a Staten Island, New York buyer. Gamers in other regions collecting Switch 2 pre-orders soon chimed in with similar horror stories. Unfortunately, GameStop workers stapled proof of purchase where the Switch 2 screen sits. The decision led to punctures and scratches on the LCD display. Now, these gamers are asking GameStop to rectify the situation, but with limited stock, a replacement could take weeks to arrive.

    Packaging Concerns

    When the first unboxing videos appeared, the packaging design shocked some viewers. Inside the rather thin box, the Switch 2 screen faces upwards with minimal cushioning. Had the manufacturer placed the dock in the same spot, the more valuable console below might have avoided harm. Still, the box is also surprisingly compact, considering the handheld’s larger 7.9-inch screen. With Nintendo stockpiling units to avoid shortages, the dimensions allowed more consoles to fit on pallets.

    Protective Measures

    Nintendo has also warned fans about another way the Switch 2 screen could become damaged. The handheld arrives with a protective film, which some gamers may peel off. However, the material prevents glass shards from scattering after impacts and should remain untouched.

    Even if GameStop stops stapling, complaints stemming from midnight Switch 2 pre-order pickups and sales will mount. Hopefully, the store can avoid similar disasters when the console restocks.

    Source:
    Link

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Display Faces Criticism in Early Review

    Nintendo Switch 2 Display Faces Criticism in Early Review

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features a powerful Nvidia Tegra T239 ARM chip and faster flash storage.
    2. It has an 8-inch screen with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 and a frame rate of 120 Hz, supporting HDR content and variable frame rate (VRR).
    3. Critiques highlight a peak brightness of 422 nits and low contrast ratio of 844:1, affecting HDR performance and black level display.
    4. Compared to modern smartphones, the Switch 2’s display struggles with brightness and contrast but offers improved resolution and frame rate.
    5. The display quality is generally acceptable with bright colors and good viewing angles, but reflections and limited brightness may be problematic in bright environments.


    The Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, boasting major enhancements over the last model. It features a powerful Nvidia Tegra T239 ARM chip, along with much faster flash storage. The screen has expanded to an 8-inch diagonal, providing a frame rate of 120 Hz and a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080. Nintendo claims the new display supports HDR content, while the variable frame rate (VRR) helps to minimize image tearing during gameplay when the frame rate fluctuates.

    Critiques on Display Quality

    The YouTube channel GamingTech has examined the Nintendo Switch 2’s display and has shared some critical feedback. The YouTuber found a peak brightness of 422 nits, with black levels at 0.5 nits, leading to a low contrast ratio of 844:1. This brightness level makes it difficult for the device to display HDR content effectively; blacks appear more as dark gray, particularly in low-light environments, which is a step back compared to the Nintendo Switch OLED.

    Comparison to Smartphones

    With these brightness and contrast metrics, the Nintendo Switch 2 struggles to rival the displays of modern smartphones. Our team also got our hands on a Nintendo Switch 2 here at the office, and while the display quality is generally okay, the LCD produces bright colors and offers good viewing angles. The improved resolution and frame rate deliver a sharper and smoother experience than the earlier model. However, the limited brightness, coupled with the highly reflective screen, could pose challenges in bright or sunny settings during the day.

    Source:
    Link