Category: All News

  • Xiaomi Launches Smart 2-in-1 Fan with 100 Speed Levels

    Xiaomi Launches Smart 2-in-1 Fan with 100 Speed Levels

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Smart Standing Air Circulation Fan functions as both a tabletop and floor-standing fan with a sleek design.
    2. It has an impressive airflow of 1,440m³/h and a reach of 13m, capable of refreshing a room in just two minutes.
    3. Users can control the fan remotely via the Xiaomi Home app, offering 100 speed settings and compatibility with Google Home and Amazon Alexa.
    4. The fan operates quietly at 27.9 dBA, making it suitable for bedrooms, and has a low power consumption of 1.78W.
    5. The availability date and price of the fan are currently unknown, but it follows the Mi Smart Standing Fan 2, which was priced at €89.99.


    Xiaomi has introduced the Smart Standing Air Circulation Fan on its international website. This innovative 2-in-1 device serves as both a tabletop and a floor-standing fan, featuring a sleek design.

    Impressive Airflow Capabilities

    The Smart Standing Air Circulation Fan boasts an airflow of 1,440m³/h (50,853ft³/h) and has a ventilation reach of 13m (~43ft). This means it can refresh an entire room in just two minutes! The fan provides 100° of vertical and 120° of horizontal oscillation, enabling the cool air to be distributed in various directions. It can be controlled remotely through the Xiaomi Home app, where users can select between Straight Wind or Natural Wind modes, along with 100 different speed settings. The app also lets users set schedules, and it’s compatible with Google Home and Amazon Alexa. Additionally, it can connect with other smart home devices, such as a temperature sensor or an air conditioner.

    Quiet Operation for Bedrooms

    As per Xiaomi, this fan operates relatively quietly, with an operating noise level of 27.9 dBA, making it suitable for use in a bedroom. In its lowest power mode, it consumes only 1.78W, allowing it to run for an entire summer on just 1.4kWh. Its dimensions are 326 × 310 × 886mm (~12.8 x 12.2 x 34.9″), and it comes with a removable cover for easy cleaning.

    It is still unclear when the Xiaomi Smart Standing Air Circulation Fan will be available for purchase or what its price will be. As a reference, the Mi Smart Standing Fan 2 was priced at €89.99 (currently $159.99 through a third-party seller on Amazon). Moreover, Xiaomi has also recently launched the Smart Desktop Air Circulation Fan, which is anticipated to be available globally soon.

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  • Quantum Computing: A Game Changer for Bitcoin Mining Efficiency

    Quantum Computing: A Game Changer for Bitcoin Mining Efficiency

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bitcoin mining requires significant computing power and leads to high electricity costs.
    2. Researchers from D-Wave propose using quantum computing to reduce energy consumption and costs in Bitcoin mining.
    3. Quantum computers utilize qubits, enabling faster calculations than traditional computers.
    4. The introduction of qudits enhances efficiency and significantly boosts mining rates.
    5. Quantum Proof of Work (PoQ) uses quantum computers for error-mitigated calculations, ensuring blockchain stability.


    It’s widely recognized that Bitcoin mining demands enormous computing power, leading to increased electricity expenses. In response, researchers from D-Wave have unveiled a potential solution that could greatly cut down on both energy consumption and costs associated with mining the largest cryptocurrency in the world today.

    Quantum Computing Advantages

    Quantum computers are often seen as more advanced than traditional ones because they can execute calculations at a much faster pace. Unlike standard computers that use bits, quantum computers utilize qubits. These qubits can represent not just the values of 0 or 1, but also multiple states due to a principle called superposition.

    Introduction of Qudits

    Recently, studies have introduced a new concept called qudits, which are said to be even more effective. This advancement allows researchers to utilize these efficient calculations to boost the mining rate significantly.

    According to the findings, researchers have determined that the power usage could potentially be lowered by a factor of 1,000 with quantum computers. In this study, four quantum computers located across North America were employed. Interestingly, the researchers also found that these individual quantum machines collaborated effectively.

    Understanding Quantum Proof of Work

    Before diving into the workings of Quantum Proof of Work (PoQ or QPoW), it’s crucial to grasp the basics of blockchain technology. Essentially, blockchain acts as a digital ledger where all transactions related to cryptocurrencies are documented. To add new blocks to this chain, a significant amount of computing power is required to carry out the necessary mathematical operations.

    With PoQ, these operations are handled by a quantum computer using a probability-based process. This method of calculation helps to mitigate errors while ensuring the blockchain remains stable.

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  • Lucid Recalls Floor Mats for Unintended Acceleration Risk

    Lucid Recalls Floor Mats for Unintended Acceleration Risk

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lucid is recalling 4,294 all-weather floor mats due to potential risks of unintended acceleration.
    2. The issue arises from mats that may trap the acceleration pedal, particularly those with model numbers ending in “-00” that lack secure anchors.
    3. The recall follows a report from Europe, but there have been no confirmed accidents related to the floor mat issue.
    4. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that affected owners dispose of the faulty mats.
    5. Lucid will refund customers for the affected mats and provide a newer model that can be safely secured.


    Lucid finds itself in a strange situation where it must recall a small accessory instead of a whole car, which could lead to serious accidents. This decision comes after reports suggested that the floor mat could cause unintended acceleration in their vehicles.

    Potential Risks with the Floor Mat

    The All-Weather Floor Mat has the potential to trap the acceleration pedal. This could mean that when drivers take their foot off the pedal, the vehicle might still continue to speed up. The issue pertains to mats that have model numbers ending with “-00” and lack anchors to secure them to the carpet. These mats can shift around and potentially get caught on the pedal when the car is being driven.

    Incidents and Precautionary Measures

    The first report of this problem came from Europe last year, involving a sales associate who was testing a Lucid Air. Although there have been no confirmed cases of the pedal getting snagged or any accidents resulting from it, Lucid is being cautious by recalling 4,294 units as a safety measure.

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recommended that owners of Lucid vehicles should throw away the affected floor mats. To compensate, Lucid has promised to refund customers the full price and provide a newer model that can be securely fastened.

    Lucid’s Offerings

    Lucid manufactures the Air sedan and the Gravity SUV. The Air, in particular, stands out as one of the electric vehicles with the longest driving ranges, achieving 512 miles on a single charge. Additionally, it has a quick charging capability, allowing it to gain approximately 200 miles of range in just 12 minutes.

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  • Garmin Fenix 8 Beta Update: Over 60 New Features and Changes

    Garmin Fenix 8 Beta Update: Over 60 New Features and Changes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched beta version 15.16 for Fenix 8 series and Enduro 3 smartwatches, following the stable version 13.35.
    2. New features include a Rucking activity, voice command support for various functions, and enhanced Daily Suggested Workout options in the Garmin Connect app.
    3. Improvements were made to Climbing, Jump Rope activities, and the design of Garmin Coach and Morning Report weather interface.
    4. Two features were removed: Distance Targets for Jump Rope and the Resume Option for finished Guided Meditations, alongside various bug fixes.
    5. Users can update their smartwatch via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, but ECG and Dive functions are disabled for Fenix 8 models in this beta release.


    Garmin has launched beta version 15.16 for its Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Fenix E, and Enduro 3 smartwatches. This marks the inaugural release in the 15.xx testing series, succeeding the stable update version 13.35, which was released in March and included various bug fixes.

    New Features and Improvements

    This beta version introduces a new Rucking activity and incorporates support for Rep-Counting 3.0 on the Fenix 8 line and related smartwatches. Users can now operate features like Jumpmaster, Plan Dive, Reference Point, and Trolling Motor using voice commands. Additionally, the Garmin Connect app now shows more Daily Suggested Workout options. Enhancements have also been made to the Climbing and Jump Rope activities. There are updates to the design of Garmin Coach for race day, along with a refreshed Morning Report weather interface. Furthermore, the Body Battery summary graph has been upgraded to display data over a 24-hour period, and the Calendar now includes suggested workouts for both running and cycling.

    Removed Features and Bug Fixes

    With this update, Garmin has eliminated two features: Distance Targets for Jump Rope have been removed, and the Resume Option for finished Guided Meditations is no longer available. The change log for beta version 15.16 contains 66 notes, many focusing on bug fixes that address problems with Passcode, Morning Report, and skin temperature readings, among others. The complete release notes can be found below.

    How to Update

    To update your smartwatch, simply download the update via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check For Updates. As is typical with all beta updates for these devices, the ECG and Dive functions are turned off for the Fenix 8 smartwatches (47mm AMOLED model currently priced at $984.95 on Amazon).

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  • Dolphin Emulator Supports All Wii, GameCube, and Virtual Console Games

    Dolphin Emulator Supports All Wii, GameCube, and Virtual Console Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dolphin emulator can now boot every playable Wii game, achieving full compatibility with the Wii library.
    2. Booting a game does not guarantee full playability; a game is considered “playable” if it runs well with minor glitches.
    3. The only software that cannot be booted on Dolphin is the Wii U Menu, with no other titles listed as “Broken.”
    4. Approximately 97.3% of Gamecube, Wii, and Virtual Console games are classified as playable or perfect, with 69.4% being perfect.
    5. Dolphin is compatible with multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS (if jailbroken), and Xbox consoles.


    The Dolphin emulator stands out as the leading option for emulating Gamecube and Wii games, and there’s a solid reason for this: it can now successfully start every game that was playable on an actual Nintendo Wii.

    Recent Developments

    On March 24, a user named u/error521 shared on Reddit that Dolphin had achieved the milestone of being able to boot all Wii titles, overcoming the last obstacle in boot compatibility. For some time now, Dolphin has successfully booted every Gamecube title and Virtual Console game, which means that any game playable on the Nintendo Wii can also be launched through Dolphin.

    Understanding Playability

    However, it’s important to note that booting a game doesn’t guarantee that it’s fully playable. According to Dolphin’s compatibility chart, a game is deemed “playable” if it “runs well [with] only minor graphical or audio glitches.” As per Dolphin’s definition, playable titles are those that can be completed from start to finish.

    Current Limitations

    At this point, the only software that still can’t be booted on Dolphin is the Wii U Menu. It’s a bit puzzling why the menu for the Wii’s successor is included in the compatibility list for the Wii. Aside from this, the “Broken” section, which lists software that fails to boot, is completely empty.

    There are a few games that only manage to get through the boot sequence before reaching a menu (about 0.3% of the Wii’s library, including Gamecube games). Approximately 2.0% of Wii games can start but are prone to crashes or significant graphical/audio issues. Nevertheless, an impressive 97.3% of Gamecube, Wii, and Virtual Console games are classified as either “playable” (with minor glitches) or “perfect” (with no gameplay issues). Out of these, 69.4% are regarded as “perfect.”

    Availability and Platforms

    Dolphin is the most well-known emulator for Nintendo Gamecube and Wii, essentially because it’s the only widely accessible emulator for the Wii. It is compatible with Windows 10 and later, macOS Catalina and later, Linux, Android 5.0 and later (64-bit only), iOS (if jailbroken or using AltStore, with JIT required), Xbox One, and Xbox Series S|X.

    For additional information about Dolphin, you can visit the project’s official website.

    Dolphin Compatibility List

    u/error521 on r/emulation

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games Spark Upgrade Cost Questions

    Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games Spark Upgrade Cost Questions

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo introduced the Virtual Game Card feature, allowing players to convert digital games into physical cards for easy sharing between consoles.
    2. The Switch 2 will be backwards compatible, but only games linked to a Nintendo Account can use virtual game cards, raising concerns about how upgrades will work.
    3. There may be special “Switch 2 Edition” games that are exclusive to the new console, leading to speculation about their features and potential costs.
    4. Optimized versions of older games might be released, taking advantage of new technologies like DLSS and a 120Hz display to enhance gameplay.
    5. Upgrade costs for Switch 2 Edition games remain unclear, with speculation that Nintendo may adopt a pricing model similar to Sony’s enhanced versions.


    At the Switch Direct event on March 27, Nintendo unveiled its innovative Virtual Game Card feature. This new capability lets players turn their digital games into physical cards, making it easy to share or transfer them between consoles. Yet, the promotional page for this feature includes some important details in small print, hinting that there will be special Switch 2 Edition Games available for either upgrades or new purchases.

    Backwards Compatibility Confirmed

    Many Switch users found comfort in Nintendo’s January announcement regarding the Switch 2 being backwards compatible. However, the recent reveal of the Virtual Game Card feature has sparked worries about how current games will upgrade. Nintendo stated, “Compatible systems must be linked to a Nintendo Account to use virtual game cards. Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games can only be loaded on a Nintendo Switch 2 system.” The use of “Switch 2 Edition” has raised questions and speculation among fans.

    Optimized Versions On The Horizon

    Gamers were aware that most of the physical and digital games from the current Switch generation would still work with the Switch 2. These games might even benefit from some features unique to the new console. However, there is now speculation about independent optimized versions of older games. Reports about the Switch 2 have hinted at features like DLSS and a 120Hz display, which could enhance the experience of playing older titles. Nintendo might leverage these new technologies as a reason for players to buy Switch 2 Editions.

    Upgrade Costs Remain Unclear

    A major concern for Switch gamers is how much these upgrades will cost. Microsoft and Sony have very different approaches to this. Xbox offers Smart Delivery, allowing customers to get the best version of a game for their console without extra charges. Conversely, while most PS4 games are playable on the PS5, some publishers have opted to sell enhanced versions at an added cost. With Switch 2 Edition titles, it seems that Nintendo might adopt a model similar to Sony’s for backwards compatible games.

    With the recent Switch Direct, Nintendo inadvertently raised more questions about the new console. Viewers also noticed the unclear joy-con C button featured in a promotion for the Nintendo Today! App. Fans are hopeful that the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2 will shed light on the controls for the Switch 2 and the options for upgrading games.

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  • Common Laptop Manufacturing Shortcuts to Avoid When Shopping

    Common Laptop Manufacturing Shortcuts to Avoid When Shopping

    Key Takeaways

    1. Price Differences: Cheaper laptops may have altered features to justify lower prices, making it essential to compare models carefully.
    2. Display Quality: Discounted models often have lower-quality screens with reduced color coverage, which may not be clearly stated in specifications.
    3. RAM Configuration: Some laptops may come with single-channel RAM instead of dual-channel, affecting performance, especially in gaming.
    4. Integrated Graphics Impact: RAM performance is crucial for integrated graphics, and single-channel memory can lead to a poorer user experience.
    5. Specification Scrutiny: Always examine laptop specifications closely, especially during sales, to avoid hidden downgrades.


    Shopping smart usually means searching for the best prices for any specific model. For instance, if you find the 2025 HP Envy x360 15 for $200 less at one store compared to another, most people will likely choose the cheaper option. However, it’s not rare for laptop manufacturers to subtly alter certain features of the less expensive version to offer those appealing “sale” prices.

    Differences in Display Quality

    One of the most common differences we notice when comparing laptops sent by companies and those bought on sale is the quality of the display. Discounted models sometimes come with lower-quality screens that cover significantly less than 100% sRGB, while the higher-priced version maintains better color coverage. Although wide color coverage is often promoted, it’s typically not highlighted in the specs on retail websites, making this downgrade easy to overlook. The previously mentioned HP Envy x360 15 serves as a clear example: it’s priced at $1000 at Sam’s Club, but $1250 directly from HP. However, Sam’s Club neglects to inform customers that their cheaper option uses a lower-quality panel that doesn’t support full sRGB colors.

    RAM Performance Issues

    Another significant downgrade can be found in the RAM configuration. Some laptops come with single-channel RAM instead of dual-channel, which is another detail that can be overlooked since most retailer sites only list the total amount of RAM without specifying the mode. The performance of RAM plays a crucial role in integrated graphics, so playing games on a laptop with single-channel memory can significantly impact your experience. Luckily, newer Intel laptops are moving away from this issue, as most Lunar Lake models do not offer a single-channel option. Yet, you can still find single-channel 8 GB or 16 GB RAM in various laptop deals, from multimedia to gaming. It’s essential to examine the specifications carefully before making a purchase, especially on popular deals.

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  • Dell 14 Plus and 16 Plus Series Now Available for Purchase

    Dell 14 Plus and 16 Plus Series Now Available for Purchase

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dell is now selling the 14 Plus, 16 Plus, 14 Plus 2-in-1, and 16 Plus 2-in-1 laptops directly, with high base configurations suitable for office use.
    2. All models feature Lunar Lake V-series CPUs and a minimum 1200p IPS display, with upgrade options including Core Ultra 9 288V and 32 GB of RAM.
    3. Only the 16-inch models offer 2.5K mini-LED HDR600 90 Hz display options.
    4. Dell has simplified its product naming by moving away from traditional names like Latitude and XPS to “Plus” and “Pro.”
    5. Anticipated performance includes excellent battery life and efficiency, especially in graphics, with full reviews expected soon.


    Announced at CES just two months ago, Dell is now selling the 14 Plus, 16 Plus, 14 Plus 2-in-1, and 16 Plus 2-in-1 directly. Here are the starting prices:

    The base configurations of these laptops are impressively high. Even the least expensive models should meet the needs of users in office settings or those who prefer Latitude devices. All four versions are equipped with Lunar Lake V-series CPUs and at least a 1200p IPS display. Additionally, they can be upgraded to include the Core Ultra 9 288V and 32 GB of soldered RAM. Notably, only the 16-inch models have the option for 2.5K mini-LED HDR600 90 Hz displays.

    Naming Changes and Consumer Reactions

    The introduction of the 14 Plus and 16 Plus series received a mix of reactions. Dell is moving away from its traditional Latitude, Inspiron, and XPS names, opting instead for simpler terms like “Plus” or “Pro.” The intention behind this is to create shorter names with fewer specific terms, making it easier for regular shoppers to understand the product lineup.

    Performance Expectations

    From our experience with other Lunar Lake laptops, we anticipate that these four Dell models will provide remarkable battery life and great performance-per-watt efficiency, particularly in graphics when compared to AMD. Full reviews of these models will be available in the next few weeks.

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  • Order Dell Pro 13 Plus, 14 Plus, and 16 Plus with AMD Processors

    Order Dell Pro 13 Plus, 14 Plus, and 16 Plus with AMD Processors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dell has expanded its Pro series laptops to include customizable options with AMD processors, offering Ryzen 200 and 300 series CPUs.
    2. The Ryzen 200 series features older Zen 4 architecture, resulting in lower prices compared to Intel models, but with less powerful integrated performance.
    3. The Ryzen 300 HX series, built on Zen 5 architecture, delivers significantly better performance than both Ryzen 200 series and Intel’s V-series and U-series CPUs.
    4. For battery life and efficiency, the energy-efficient Intel V-series may be a better choice compared to AMD options.
    5. Color customization is limited; only the AMD Pro 14 and Pro 16 models offer black or silver options, while other AMD configurations are restricted to silver.


    Dell has just expanded its Pro 13 Plus, Pro 14 Plus, Pro 14, Pro 16, and Pro 16 Plus series with a significant increase in customizable options, as they now support AMD processors. Customers can choose from the latest Ryzen 200 and 300 series CPUs, starting from the Ryzen 3 210 all the way up to the Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370 for the Plus models, or the Ryzen AI 7 350 for the non-Plus versions.

    Performance Insights

    The Ryzen 200 series, unlike its 300 series counterpart, utilizes AMD’s older Zen 4 architecture, which comes with less powerful integrated NPUs and only up to the Radeon 780M integrated GPU. As a result, these models are priced a few hundred dollars lower compared to their Intel equivalents, depending on the specific model chosen.

    Choosing the Right Processor

    On the other hand, the Ryzen 300 HX series, which is built on the Zen 5 architecture, promises a considerable increase in performance compared to the Ryzen 200 series and even better than the Intel Lunar Lake V-series and Meteor Lake U-series. Dell’s offerings are limited to configurations with Intel V-series and U-series CPUs, making the new AMD HX options more appealing for those seeking high performance. However, if battery life and efficiency are key concerns, opting for the more energy-efficient Intel V-series processor may be the better choice.

    Color Customization

    When it comes to color choices, only the AMD Pro 14 and Pro 16 models can be selected in either black or silver, whereas all other AMD configurations are restricted to silver only. Below are links to the product pages for each AMD model.

    Dell Pro 13 Plus product page

    Dell Pro 14 Plus product page

    Dell Pro 16 Plus product page

    Dell Pro 14 product page

    Dell Pro 16 product page

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  • Tencent Invests in Ubisoft Games After Assassin’s Creed Success

    Tencent Invests in Ubisoft Games After Assassin’s Creed Success

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft’s new game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, has surpassed 3 million players, highlighting its success.
    2. Tencent is investing €1.16 billion for a 25% stake in a new subsidiary that will focus on Ubisoft’s top franchises: Assassin’s Creed, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six, and Far Cry.
    3. Ubisoft will maintain control and licensing rights in the new subsidiary, which includes studios in various global locations.
    4. The investment aims to enhance game development speed, reduce net debt, and promote growth for the franchises involved.
    5. There is uncertainty about how the deal will impact Ubisoft employees, but leadership is committed to open communication during the transition.


    Ubisoft has recently celebrated a significant achievement with its newest game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, surpassing 3 million players, though specific sales numbers haven’t been shared. Following this milestone, Ubisoft revealed plans to create a new subsidiary that will encompass its top three franchises: Assassin’s Creed, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six, and Far Cry. Tencent is set to acquire a 25% stake in this venture.

    Tencent’s Investment

    As per the announcement, Tencent will inject €1.16 billion into the new subsidiary, which currently holds an enterprise value of approximately €4 billion. Yves Guillemot, Ubisoft’s Co-founder and CEO, described this agreement as a “foundational step” aimed at speeding up game development, cutting down the company’s consolidated net debt, and promoting growth for these franchises.

    Structure of the New Subsidiary

    While Tencent will hold a 25% share of the new entity, Ubisoft will maintain control, consolidation, and licensing rights. The studios involved in this new structure include locations in Montréal, Quebec, Sherbrooke, Saguenay, Barcelona, and Sofia, along with their existing and upcoming games and back-catalogs.

    Guillemot also mentioned,

    “We are dedicated to creating a sharper, more focused organization where skilled teams will elevate our brands, foster the growth of new franchises, and spearhead innovation in next-gen technologies and services. Our aim is to provide enriching, memorable games that not only meet but exceed players’ expectations while delivering superior value for our shareholders and other stakeholders.”

    Future Implications for Employees

    Tencent’s participation in Ubisoft’s strategy isn’t surprising, especially considering the Chinese technology giant was rumored to be interested in buying out Ubisoft’s entire stake last year when Ubisoft’s market value plummeted to €1.7 billion after a significant drop in stock prices due to the poorly received Star Wars Outlaws. Following this latest news, Ubisoft’s shares traded in the US rose by 20%, according to Bloomberg.

    However, how this deal will affect staff at the various studios remains uncertain. Insider Gaming obtained an internal message from Ubisoft’s Chief Studios and Portfolio Officer, Marie-Sophie de Waubert, which stated,

    “…Naturally, this brings uncertainty and questions. At this moment, we might not have all the specific answers, but we are devoted to communicating with you openly and frequently. Supporting you during this transition is the highest priority for both your local and global leadership teams. Please feel free to reach out to them and stay tuned locally; traditional or special ‘studio times’ will also serve as good platforms to keep you informed and address your inquiries.”

    Only time will tell how effectively this new strategy will enable quicker and higher-quality releases for these beloved franchises.

    Buy Assassin’s Creed Shadows Limited Edition for PS5 and Xbox Series X on Amazon

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