Category: All News

  • Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Delayed by GTA 6 Impact

    Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Delayed by GTA 6 Impact

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date Announcement: Hollow Knight: Silksong is set to release on September 4th, 2025, prompting competitors to adjust their launch schedules.

    2. Aeternum Game Studios’ Delay: Aeternum has postponed the release of their game, Aeterna Lucis, to 2026 due to the potential overshadowing by Silksong, acknowledging its influence on their titles.

    3. Development Improvements: Aeternum plans to use the extra time to enhance Aeterna Lucis, while facing challenges in porting to next-gen consoles due to slow authorization from Nintendo.

    4. Gameplay Differences: Both Aeterna Lucis and Silksong feature non-linear gameplay but will differ in environment variety and control difficulty, with Aeternum aiming to improve upon past issues.

    5. Impact of Major Titles: The release of big games like GTA 6 affects other titles’ sales, with EA and other publishers feeling relief from GTA 6’s delay, which is now set for May 2026.

    Hollow Knight: Silksong has been highly awaited at Gamescom 2025, especially after a recent announcement. The release date for Silksong is set for September 4th, causing at least one competitor to delay its launch. According to Twisted Voxel, Aeternum Game Studios has decided to push back the release of their Metroidvania title, Aeterna Lucis.

    Announcement from Aeternum

    The studio communicated with its community via social media. They openly acknowledged that Hollow Knight had a significant influence on Aeterna Lucis, as well as its earlier game, Aeterna Noctis, released in 2021. Initially, Aeternum planned to launch the new game in September, but with Hollow Knight: Silksong’s release on the horizon, they have moved their date to 2026. Given the popularity of Team Cherry’s game, it would likely overshadow Aeterna Lucis, which features a mix of platforming and combat.

    Utilizing Extra Time Wisely

    The development team is taking this extra time to make some improvements. Aeternum also noted that they do not possess the development kits necessary to port the PC version to all next-generation consoles. Reports suggest that Nintendo has been slow in granting authorization for tools to third-party developers, which could pose a challenge for a Switch 2 launch.

    Gameplay Comparisons

    While Aeterna Lucis and Silksong share similar non-linear gameplay styles, there are expected to be some differences between the two Metroidvania titles. Aeterna Noctis had a wider range of environments compared to Hollow Knight, although Team Cherry has expanded the world for Silksong. However, players often found Aeterna Noctis to be quite difficult due to its frustrating controls. Aeternum aims to fix these issues in their sequel.

    Competition from Big Titles

    GTA 6 serves as a clear example of a major title affecting its rivals. EA, among other publishers, is relieved by the delay of GTA 6’s release date to May 2026. With the game likely to take over sales, even the well-liked Battlefield 6 is at risk of losing revenue. After finishing the second open beta, the shooter is set to be released on October 10th.

    The information was shared via Twisted Voxel and Aeternum Game Studios’ X account, as well as on Metacritic.

     

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  • Google Reviews Old Designs: Pixel 10, Tablet, Ring, Flip

    Google Reviews Old Designs: Pixel 10, Tablet, Ring, Flip

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 10 series features fresh colors but maintains a similar design to previous models.
    2. Google plans to introduce a new smartphone design every two to three years, with a revamped look expected by 2027.
    3. Future advancements in Pixel devices are anticipated to focus more on software and artificial intelligence rather than hardware design.
    4. Google holds a modest 3% market share in the US smartphone market and does not aim to dominate it but hopes for growth in Pixel smartphone sales.
    5. Google currently has no plans for a competitor to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7, a smart ring, or further progress on the next-gen Pixel tablet.

    While the Google Pixel 10 series comes in a variety of fresh colors, the design of the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold has not significantly changed from the previous models. In a talk with Bloomberg, Rick Osterloh, who leads hardware at Google, along with Ivy Ross, the head of design, shared insights about the recognizable design. They mentioned that Google aims to introduce a new design every two to three years.

    Future Design Plans

    As a result, we can expect Pixel smartphones with a revamped look to hit the market by 2027 at the latest. Reports say that the design for next year’s models is nearly finished, and work is already in progress for the 2027 versions. However, the real advancements in the future are likely to come from software rather than hardware, since users will mainly engage with their devices through artificial intelligence like Gemini, which will consequently have an impact on hardware aesthetics.

    Market Position and Future Devices

    In its home turf of the US, Google only captured a modest 3% of the market share in the second quarter. Osterloh currently doesn’t think that Google will ever dominate the smartphone market, but he is optimistic about the company’s growth and continued sales of Pixel smartphones. On the downside for flip phone enthusiasts, Google presently has no plans to create a competitor to the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7. Additionally, there are no intentions to develop a smart ring, and work on the next-gen Pixel tablet has been “paused.”

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  • Apple TV+ Price Increase Coming Soon in the USA

    Apple TV+ Price Increase Coming Soon in the USA

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple TV+ price increased from $9.99 to $12.99, a rise of over 30%.
    2. The service offers only one plan, with no ad-supported version available.
    3. Price hikes often start in the US and may spread to other countries, including Europe.
    4. Apple justifies the increase by highlighting its growth in original content and the Apple One bundle.
    5. While Apple TV+ has fewer titles, it is praised for its original content quality.

    Apple has raised the price of its Apple TV+ streaming service in the US, as noted by 9to5Mac. This move shows that Apple is joining the global trend of increasing prices. Typically, this price hike begins in the US before it spreads to other countries.

    New Pricing Details

    With a jump of more than 30%, the price for Apple’s streaming service has gone up from $9.99 to $12.99. The service still has only one plan, meaning there are no different options based on resolution or HDR. There’s also no cheaper version with ads available from Apple.

    Normally, Apple sets the eurozone price similarly to the US dollar price. However, the weaker US dollar could lead to lower prices, a strategy Apple has used before. But this doesn’t apply to iPhones right now. For instance, the iPhone 16 Pro is priced at $999 (without sales tax) in the US and €1,199 (including VAT) in Europe. Therefore, if you’re hoping the Apple TV+ price hike won’t hit Europe, you might be disappointed.

    Justification for the Increase

    In a response to 9to5Mac, Apple explained that the price rise is due to the increase in original content they are offering, and they also pointed out the Apple One bundle. This package costs $20 by itself and includes several services along with Apple TV+.

    While Apple TV+ has fewer titles compared to other streaming platforms, it boasts a significant amount of original content, and many of its shows and movies have received positive reviews from critics. For those who don’t watch often, Apple TV+ could be a decent choice. On the other hand, for avid viewers who are always on the lookout for new content, the service can be seen as pricey given the relatively limited selection.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Specs Leak: Affordable Flagship Details

    Samsung Galaxy S25 FE Specs Leak: Affordable Flagship Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S25 series includes the S25, S25+, S25 Edge, and S25 Ultra, with the S25 FE expected to launch in September as a budget-friendly option.
    2. The Galaxy S25 FE will feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a maximum brightness of 1900 nits, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+.
    3. There is uncertainty about the chipset; the S25 FE may use the Exynos 2400, instead of the previously rumored Exynos 2400e, and will include an improved cooling system.
    4. The smartphone is anticipated to have a triple rear camera setup (50MP main, 8MP telephoto, 12MP ultrawide) and a 12MP front camera, along with a 4,900mAh battery supporting 45W fast charging.
    5. The S25 FE is expected to come in multiple colors and be priced similarly to last year’s S24 FE, starting at €749 for the 12/128GB model.

    The Galaxy S25 series marks Samsung’s top-tier smartphone collection. This lineup includes the regular S25, S25+, S25 Edge, and the S25 Ultra. Anticipation is building for the release of the Galaxy S25 FE in September, which aims to be a budget-friendly alternative within the series.

    Specifications Leaked

    A recent leak on the social media platform X has unveiled crucial details about the Galaxy S25 Fan Edition. According to this information, the smartphone will feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display boasting a 120Hz refresh rate and a maximum brightness of 1900 nits. Samsung is likely to implement Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back of the device.

    Chipset Confusion

    There has been some doubt regarding the chipset that will power the phone. Earlier reports suggested the possibility of Samsung utilizing the Exynos 2400e, the same chip used in the S24 FE. However, the latest leak indicates that the S25 FE will be equipped with the Exynos 2400. Furthermore, the source hints that the device will be enhanced with an improved cooling system.

    Camera and Battery Features

    The Galaxy S25 FE is anticipated to come equipped with a triple rear camera arrangement, featuring a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP telephoto lens offering 3X optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide shooter. For taking selfies, it is believed to have a 12MP front-facing camera. In contrast, the S24 FE (currently priced at $549 on Amazon) utilizes a similar rear camera setup, but with a 10MP selfie camera.

    Moreover, the S25 FE is said to house a 4,900mAh battery, supporting 45W fast charging, a step up from the previous model which had a 4,700mAh battery with a 25W charging capability. Other significant features that have leaked include an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, alongside WiFi 6e support. On the software side, the smartphone might arrive with One UI 8.

    Color Options and Pricing

    The device is expected to be available in various colors such as black, white, navy, and light blue. A prior leak hints that the pricing will be in line with last year’s S24 FE, which made its debut at €749 for the 12/128GB model.

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  • In-App Purchases: Why Free Games Can Cost You More

    In-App Purchases: Why Free Games Can Cost You More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Concerns about in-app purchases in free games targeting kids and teens, leading to high bills.
    2. Legal guidelines in Germany state that kids under seven cannot legally make purchases, and those aged 7-18 need parental permission.
    3. The EU’s Consumer Protection Cooperation Network requires clear price indications for in-game purchases to protect consumers, especially children.
    4. Recommended preventive measures for parents include disabling in-app purchases, avoiding carrier billing, and using prepaid credits.
    5. Awareness and education about in-app purchases are crucial, especially during major gaming events, rather than solely relying on legal actions against developers.

    On the subject of in-app purchases, the European Consumer Centre Germany (EVZ) has raised concerns that many free games lure kids and teenagers into spending money via microtransactions and time-waiting mechanics. The centre has recorded instances where bills range from several hundred euros to even more than €1,200.

    Expert Insight

    Alexander Wahl from the EVZ legal team remarked on how these games persuade individuals to part with their money.

    In Germany, kids younger than seven are deemed not legally capable, and those aged 7–18 need parental permission. The “pocket money clause” (§ 110 BGB) does not apply here. This clause states that a contract made by a minor can be valid if they use money given by their parents for personal use, but it doesn’t hold if the amount is excessively high or if a subscription is involved. The EVZ recommends that parents quickly object if unauthorized charges occur.

    Regulatory Measures

    At the regulatory side, the EU’s Consumer Protection Cooperation Network (CPC) has already put out guidelines requiring, among other things, that prices are clearly and transparently shown in real currency amounts: “Price indication should be clear and transparent.” These suggestions are designed to highlight the economic impacts of in-game currencies and to better safeguard vulnerable groups like children.

    The practical steps mentioned by the EVZ involve technical and administrative actions, such as turning on password protection or entirely disabling in-app purchases, avoiding carrier billing (billing through mobile phone bills), and setting up a third-party block with the mobile provider. Additionally, using prepaid credits from app stores can help to manage spending. Another straightforward tip is to not save payment information on children’s devices.

    Awareness and Education

    The EVZ notes that this issue becomes particularly important during major gaming events like Gamescom, where free games with new monetization strategies are heavily advertised, leading to a spike in young subscribers. Nevertheless, the EVZ emphasizes that raising awareness and educating is more effective than engaging in legal battles with game developers.

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  • iPhone 18 Series to Feature Enhanced Camera Control

    iPhone 18 Series to Feature Enhanced Camera Control

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple may stop the Camera Control feature due to negative feedback but may keep it with modifications for future iPhone models.
    2. The iPhone 18 series might replace the current capacitive button with a fully pressure-sensitive design.
    3. Apple may draw inspiration from competitors like Vivo and Oppo, who have added similar camera buttons to their smartphones.
    4. The current hybrid design of the Camera Control button in the iPhone 16 series is seen as costly and not very user-friendly.
    5. The new pressure-sensitive Camera Control is expected to be revealed in the iPhone 18 Pro series, but no updates are planned for the iPhone 17 series.

    Apple is said to be planning to stop the Camera Control feature that was introduced in the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max due to negative reactions towards its new smartphone button. However, this isn’t entirely true, according to the well-informed leaker Setsuna Digital.

    Future of Camera Control

    The tech giant from Cupertino may still keep the Control for a few more generations, but with some modifications. The upcoming version for the iPhone 18 series is rumored to eliminate the current capacitive aspect of the button, making it fully pressure-sensitive instead.

    Inspiration from Competitors

    Apple may take cues from Vivo and Oppo, which have added similar buttons to their smartphones like the X200 Ultra and Find X8 Ultra. However, it could also be that the hybrid design used in the 16 series is too costly and has developed a reputation for being imprecise and not very user-friendly.

    Upcoming Changes

    The new pressure-sensitive Camera Control might be unveiled in the iPhone 18 Pro series, and possibly the Air, but there is no indication yet that any similar updates will be made for the upcoming 17, 17 Air, or 17 Pro series at this time.

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  • Gigabyte MO27Q28G Release Date and Price vs LG UltraGear OLED

    Gigabyte MO27Q28G Release Date and Price vs LG UltraGear OLED

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gigabyte has launched its first Primary Tandem OLED gaming display, the MO27Q28G, initially introduced in China.
    2. The MO27Q28G is priced 37% lower than its LG competitor, the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A, and aims to be more affordable in the US market.
    3. It features modern connectivity options, including DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, and a four-port USB hub.
    4. The monitor boasts a 1440p resolution, a refresh rate of 280 Hz, and a response time of 0.03 ms, with peak brightness reaching 1,500 nits in HDR.
    5. Gigabyte plans to release the MO27Q28G worldwide on September 30, with availability expected around mid-October, maintaining a price of $499.99.

    Earlier this week, we shared that Gigabyte has launched its first Primary Tandem OLED gaming display. It was first introduced in China, and TFT Central had mentioned a few months ago that the monitor would be available in the US by the end of August. Recently, the site provided new details about its availability, claiming these were shared officially by Gigabyte itself.

    Monitor Features Overview

    The Gigabyte MO27Q28G utilizes the same Primary Tandem OLED panel as the LG UltraGear OLED 27GX700A, which is already available in China and Hong Kong. However, the MO27Q28G debuted in China at a price that is 37% lower than its LG equivalent. Interestingly, it appears that the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A will come at a much higher price in the US compared to the Gigabyte MO27Q28G.

    Modern Connectivity Options

    Despite this, the MO27Q28G is equipped with modern DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 connections to support its WOLED display, along with a four-port USB hub. The panel reaches a brightness of 335 nits in SDR mode and can peak at 1,500 nits in small sections when HDR content is being viewed. Additionally, the MO27Q28G offers a resolution of 1440p combined with a refresh rate of 280 Hz and 0.03 ms GtG response times on a 27-inch screen.

    In essence, while the MO27Q28G may not be as quick as the Aorus FO27Q3 (currently priced at $699.99 on Amazon), it shines brighter than its QD-OLED rival. Plus, the MO27Q28G is considerably more affordable than the Aorus FO27Q3. According to TFT Central, Gigabyte plans to keep the price of the MO27Q28G at $499.99, even with the tariffs resulting from the current tensions in the China-United States trade situation. It seems Gigabyte now aims to release the monitor worldwide on September 30, with availability projected for ‘around mid-October’.

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    Gigabyte MO27Q28G Release Date and Price vs LG UltraGear OLEDGigabyte MO27Q28G Release Date and Price vs LG UltraGear OLED

     

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  • Zotac Zone Pro Launch Date Unveiled: Steam Deck OLED Competitor

    Zotac Zone Pro Launch Date Unveiled: Steam Deck OLED Competitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Zotac Zone Pro is a new gaming handheld showcased at Gamescom 2025, featuring optional 32 GB RAM and an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU.
    2. The design and features of the Zone Pro are similar to the original Zotac Zone, indicating minimal changes from the previous version.
    3. Zotac plans to release the Zone Pro in October, coinciding with the launch of other gaming handhelds like the ROG Xbox Ally.
    4. Pricing and availability details for the Zotac Zone Pro are currently unclear and have not yet been disclosed by the company.
    5. Both Handheld Boss and PC Games Hardware are monitoring updates on the Zotac Zone Pro’s developments.

    Instead, the company has showcased its latest gaming handheld at Gamescom 2025, named the Zotac Zone Pro, to set it apart from the previous version we assessed last year. One of the reasons for the ‘Pro’ label is the device’s optional 32 GB RAM and the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, which it has in common with other contemporary gaming handhelds, such as the OneXFly F1 Pro (currently priced at $1,439 on Amazon). Not much else seems to have changed from the original Zotac Zone, for better or worse.

    Launch Plans

    As reported by PC Games Hardware, Zotac is aiming to release the Zone Pro this coming October. Coincidentally, this month also marks the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X. However, the complete pricing and availability details for Zotac’s next gaming handheld are still not clear at this point. It also remains uncertain when the company will disclose these important facts as well.

    Conclusion

    Handheld Boss & PC Games Hardware have both been keeping an eye on the developments surrounding this new device.

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  • Aokzoe Mini PC with Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Launches Globally

    Aokzoe Mini PC with Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Launches Globally

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aokzoe is developing a mini-PC featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, popular for high-performance gaming.
    2. The company plans to launch the mini-PC globally but has not provided specific details about the release date or pricing.
    3. The mini-PC will likely be named the Aokzoe Mini PC.
    4. It will include various ports such as Ethernet, DisplayPort, HDMI, an SD card reader, a 3.5 mm audio jack, and USB Type-C ports.
    5. Aokzoe recently introduced the A1X gaming handheld, featuring advanced specs and priced at $1,749.

    Almost three months ago, Aokzoe hinted at the development of a mini-PC. At that point, they released some product images, but all were taken from the same angle. They also mentioned that this unnamed device would come with the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, which is quickly becoming the favored processor for high-performance gaming mini-PCs, similar to the GMKtec EVO-X2.

    Global Release Plans

    About six weeks later, Aokzoe announced plans to launch its gaming mini-PC worldwide. However, they chose not to provide more details in their Weibo post. Instead, they introduced the A1X gaming handheld, showcasing OCuLink connectivity, an 8-inch VRR display, a 72.7 Wh battery, a Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, and 64 GB RAM, currently priced at $1,749 on Amazon.

    Name and Features

    It appears that Aokzoe has finally decided on a name for its inaugural mini-PC. The device will likely be called the Aokzoe Mini PC, rather than opting for something more creative. Nevertheless, this mini-PC is still expected to launch globally with the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU. Furthermore, the company has confirmed that the Aokzoe Mini PC will include rear-facing ports like Ethernet, DisplayPort, and HDMI, along with an SD card reader, a 3.5 mm audio jack, and USB Type-C ports located on the front panel. Sadly, Aokzoe has yet to reveal any details regarding the price or release date for its first mini-PC.

    Awaiting More Information

    Fans are still left wondering about the specifics of when the Aokzoe Mini PC will become available and how much it will cost.

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    Aokzoe Mini PC with Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Launches Globally

     

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  • Dyson Unveils Powerful V8 Cyclone Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

    Dyson Unveils Powerful V8 Cyclone Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Dyson V8 Cyclone Cordless Vacuum Cleaner offers 99.5% dust pickup with enhanced suction power of 150 air watts, a 30% improvement over previous models.
    2. It features a user-friendly design with three suction settings (Eco, Medium, Strong) and a handheld mode for versatile cleaning.
    3. The vacuum has a longer operating time of 60 minutes, compared to 40 minutes for the V8 Advanced, and weighs 2.37 kg (5.2 lbs).
    4. In Taiwan, the price is TWD 14,900 (approximately $488), and in China, it is CNY 2,999 (around $418).
    5. Availability in other markets is still unknown, while the older Dyson V8 Plus is priced at $469.99 on Amazon.

    The Dyson V8 Cyclone Cordless Vacuum Cleaner has made its debut in Taiwan and China. This latest addition stands out as the pinnacle of the V8 series, featuring numerous enhancements over the previous model, the V8 Advanced.

    Powerful Suction Technology

    The V8 Cyclone boasts an impressive 99.5% dust pickup capability. This is achieved through its 110,000 rpm digital motor, which provides up to 150 air watts of suction power, marking a 30% boost from earlier models. Its fully sealed filter system captures 99.99% of fine dust and PM0.3 particles. The vacuum utilizes Root Cyclone Dust Collection technology, which employs 15 conical cyclones to generate significant centrifugal force that pulls dust into the vacuum’s bag.

    User-Friendly Features

    Equipped with a single button, the Dyson V8 Cyclone allows users to choose from three suction settings: Eco, Medium, and Strong. It includes a Fluffy soft lint roller brush designed to effectively collect dirt. Additionally, a handheld mode comes with various attachments for cleaning tight spots or fabric surfaces. Notably, it offers a longer operating time of 60 minutes, surpassing the 40 minutes provided by the V8 Advanced. Dyson states that it weighs 2.37 kg (approximately 5.2 lbs), features a 0.54 L dustbin, and fully charges in four hours.

    Pricing and Availability

    In Taiwan, the Dyson V8 Cyclone Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is priced at TWD 14,900 (around $488), while in China, it is available for CNY 2,999 (about $418). It’s not yet known when this new model will be available in other markets, where the older Dyson V8 Plus Cordless Vacuum is currently priced at $469.99 on Amazon.

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