Category: All News

May 10, 2025
Garmin Updates AMOLED and MiP Smartwatches with GPS Fix
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin launched a beta version for Instinct E, Instinct 3 AMOLED, and Instinct 3 Solar smartwatches costing $449.99.
2. New Instinct 3 Tactical Edition smartwatches claim theoretically unlimited battery life.
3. Potential LTE upgrades for Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 detected in the Garmin Connect app.
4. Garmin is releasing new beta builds for Instinct E and Instinct 3 smartwatches, but not confirmed for Tactical Edition.
5. Recent beta updates include bug fixes and improvements, with consecutive updates from Beta Version 9.18 to 9.19.
Roughly two weeks ago, Garmin launched a new beta version for its Instinct E, Instinct 3 AMOLED, and Instinct 3 Solar smartwatches, which currently cost $449.99 on Amazon. While the company hasn’t provided stable software updates during this period, it has introduced several Instinct 3 Tactical Edition smartwatches that boast theoretically unlimited battery life.
Upcoming LTE Models
In addition, potential LTE upgrades for the Enduro 3, Fenix E, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8 have been noticed in the Garmin Connect app, and we have detailed those findings in a separate article. Although Garmin has remained quiet since then, it has started releasing new beta builds for its Instinct E and Instinct 3 smartwatches once again.
Beta Update Availability
It’s important to mention that Garmin hasn’t confirmed whether the Instinct 3 Tactical Edition smartwatches can receive beta updates at this time. Interestingly, Garmin has rolled out updates on consecutive days, with Beta Version 9.19 replacing Beta Version 9.18 earlier today, which includes ‘miscellaneous bug fixes and improvements’. At this moment, Garmin has prepared the following changes from v8.09 in a new stable release:
– All Instinct 3/Instinct E smartwatches
– Solar/E models only
– Solar/AMOLED models only
– AMOLED models only
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Tags: Beta Updates, Garmin Instinct 3, Garmin Instinct E
May 10, 2025
Sony Xperia 1 VII Teasers: Features Alpha & Walkman Technology
Key Takeaways
1. Sony’s new Xperia phone, called ‘Next ONE,’ will be launched on May 13.
2. The device is expected to have impressive camera capabilities influenced by Sony’s Alpha camera line.
3. The teaser images likely show the Xperia 1 VI, not the anticipated Xperia 1 VII.
4. Sony’s upcoming smartphone is hinted to be ‘powered by Walkman,’ suggesting audio features.
5. The Xperia 1 VII may include a 3.5 mm headphone jack, but details on a specific DAC are unclear.
Sony has recently given some new clues about their upcoming Xperia phone, confirming that it will be launched on May 13. Earlier this week, the company hinted that the new device, referred to as ‘Next ONE,’ is influenced by its Alpha camera line. While this might not be taken literally, it certainly highlights the phone’s impressive camera capabilities.
Speculations on the Model
Sadly, it seems that the teaser images from Sony likely feature the Xperia 1 VI (currently $1,049.99 on Amazon) instead of the anticipated Xperia 1 VII. It’s a bit difficult to distinguish, but the design of the camera housing appears to match the older model based on recent leaks. Nevertheless, eager fans can already examine the back design of Sony’s new flagship thanks to a slip-up from a regulatory body.
Walkman Features Teased
In addition, Sony has hinted that its upcoming smartphone is also ‘powered by Walkman.’ However, they haven’t provided much more detail, just showcasing the NW-WM1ZM2 Signature Series along with two previous Xperia models. This likely suggests that the Xperia 1 VII will come with a 3.5 mm headphone jack. Yet, it remains uncertain if Sony will add a specific Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) or if they will rely on the one included in the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.
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Tags: Walkman, Xperia 1 VI, Xperia 1 VII
May 10, 2025
Nintendo can brick consoles for unauthorized use per new agreement
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo’s updated user agreement clarifies that users only have a license to use their Nintendo Account Services, not ownership.
2. The new terms impose strict restrictions against actions like copying, modifying, or circumventing Nintendo services.
3. Violating these rules could result in serious consequences, including the possibility of Nintendo bricking the user’s console.
4. The UK agreement is less detailed but also prohibits unauthorized actions regarding Digital Products, with similar consequences for non-compliance.
5. Nintendo’s privacy policy has been revised to allow recording of video and voice chats for safety and security purposes.
Nintendo is stepping up its fight against piracy and emulation, as shown by the recent changes in the user agreement. The new terms clarify that users do not actually own their Nintendo Account Services; they merely obtain a license to use them. This means that interfering with these services could result in serious consequences, including the possibility of Nintendo bricking your console if you use the services in ways that are not allowed.
Updated Agreement Notification
The modifications to the US Nintendo Account User Agreement were communicated through an email to account holders, providing a link to the updated policy. These changes are set to take effect in May 2025, which means they should be active by now. One significant update is the explanation that Nintendo services are licensed rather than owned, imposing certain restrictions and guidelines that must be adhered to.
Licensing Terms
In the License section, it is stated that according to the EULA (End User License Agreement), users must not publish, copy, modify, reverse engineer, bypass, tamper with, or circumvent any functions or protections of the Nintendo Account Services. There are also additional clauses, and a complete list can be seen in the screenshot below. If users do not follow these rules, Nintendo has the authority to make the account or the console “permanently unusable” or bricked.
UK Agreement Update
The update to the UK EULA is not as detailed, specifying, “In particular, without NOE’s written consent, you must neither lease nor rent Digital Products nor sublicense, publish, copy, modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble any portion of Digital Products other than as expressly permitted by applicable law.” Non-compliance could lead to the Digital product becoming unusable.
Nintendo has also recently revised its privacy policy concerning the Switch 2 and GameChat. If users agree, Nintendo may record video and voice chats saved on the console. The company claims this is to create a safe and secure environment for certain services.
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Tags: EULA, Nintendo, piracy
May 9, 2025
Garmin Updates Forerunner Smartwatches Ahead of Forerunner 970 Launch
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin is set to release new Forerunner smartwatches, likely the Forerunner 970 and 975, along with a budget model, the Forerunner 270.
2. The exact release date for the new Forerunner models is currently unknown.
3. Garmin is actively testing software updates for existing watches through its Beta Program, with v23.xx testing initiated in March.
4. The latest beta update, v23.18, includes five bug fixes for multiple Forerunner models and has been released to 50% of compatible devices.
5. Specific bug fixes in the beta update apply to the Forerunner 165, 255, 955, and 965 models.
Garmin is likely to release new Forerunner smartwatches this season, acting as successors to the Forerunner 265 and Forerunner 965 (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon). Current indications point towards the Forerunner 970 being launched before the Forerunner 975, and there may also be an economical Forerunner 270 introduced alongside them. Although the exact release date for these new models remains uncertain, Garmin is actively working on software upgrades for their current watches through its Beta Program.
Software Testing Updates
To summarize, the company initiated v23.xx testing at the end of March, following the rollout of Stable Version 22.22 in February. Sadly, Garmin hasn’t hinted at when a new stable update might come out. Instead, it has replaced Beta Version 23.15 with v23.18, claiming that this new version has been distributed to 50% of compatible smartwatches in most situations.
Bug Fixes and Changes
From what we understand, Garmin’s newest beta update introduces five main bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 255, Forerunner 265, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. Additionally, the changelogs for Beta Version 23.18 include specific bug fixes for the Forerunner 165, Forerunner 955, and Forerunner 965. The complete list of changes between Beta Versions 23.15 and 23.18 is outlined as follows:
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Tags: Forerunner 965, Forerunner 970, Garmin
May 9, 2025
Doom: Dark Ages PS5 and Xbox Discs Need Huge Downloads
Key Takeaways
1. Physical copies of Doom: The Dark Ages have minimal data storage, requiring substantial downloads for console players.
2. The Xbox version contains only 324 MB, while the PS5 version has just 85 MB on the disc.
3. Players need a good internet connection to download most of the game, which can be challenging for those with limited bandwidth.
4. The trend of physical copies requiring online downloads raises concerns about game preservation and the future of physical media.
5. Xbox users are more accustomed to needing an internet connection for installations compared to PS5 users, affecting gameplay experience.
Shooter enthusiasts might be facing a disappointing revelation regarding the release date of Doom: The Dark Ages. While physical copies are offered for both Xbox and PS5, the discs contain very little data. Players on consoles will need to download almost all of the game’s content before they can experience the much-anticipated title from Bethesda.
Disc Content Details
Those who got their hands on the game early shared that the Xbox version holds just 324 MB of files. In contrast, the PS5 version has even less, with only 85 MB of data stored. As a result, players have to deal with a significant download, which can be a hassle for those with limited internet bandwidth. For digital versions on PS5, Doom: The Dark Ages has a total file size of around 85 GB. Given that Ultra HD Blu-ray discs can hold up to 100 GB, the data should technically fit on the discs. However, Xbox Series X faces a setback, as its Blu-ray discs can only accommodate 50 GB.
Online Connectivity Concerns
Xbox users are generally more used to needing an internet connection to access new titles. Many Series X discs require an online connection for installation and activation. Conversely, this is not as common for PS5 games. These often need updates to the latest versions for unlocking multiplayer options. Nonetheless, single-player games like Doom: The Dark Ages may still operate without a constant online connection.
The Debate on Physical vs. Digital
Many frustrated gamers lament the trend of new releases that feel like digital downloads in disguise as physical copies. While players can still sell or trade these games since they aren’t linked to online accounts, advocates for game preservation express concerns about the long-term viability of servers.
PlayStation users tend to point fingers at Microsoft for the growing trend of installations that require internet access. Doom: The Dark Ages adds to a list of first-party Xbox games that have appeared on the competing PS5. Meanwhile, with the introduction of data-less Game-Key Cards by the Switch 2, the future of physical media seems uncertain.
Full reviews for Doom: The Dark Ages have been posted by Notebookcheck. You can also find a video showcasing laptop performance and gameplay impressions below:
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Tags: Doom: The Dark Ages, PS5, Xbox Series X
May 9, 2025
New Casio x Undefeated Watch Launches in US, European Release Confirmed
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio G-Shock x Undefeated DWE5600UD-1 watch is now available in the US for $230.
2. The watch features a green LCD display, durable black carbon and resin case, and Undefeated branding.
3. It includes three interchangeable resin straps: semi-transparent black, Storm Camo, and opaque Tiger Camo.
4. Key features include a stopwatch, countdown timer, hourly time signals, multifunctional alarm, and water resistance up to 20 ATM.
5. A European launch is planned, with prices set at £209 in the UK and €269 in France, but the release date is still uncertain.
The Casio G-Shock x Undefeated DWE5600UD-1 watch has just been released in the United States. This particular model was revealed earlier in May, showcasing a design that embodies the style of the Los Angeles-based clothing brand.
Availability and Pricing in the US
In the US, the Casio G-Shock DWE5600UD-1 watch is now available for purchase at undefeated.com and in all Undefeated Chapter Stores. It is priced at $230, matching the retail price of the previous G-Shock x J Balvin DWE5600JB-1A9 watch. The watch will be offered through the Casio online store and at the G-Shock Soho store starting May 16th.
European Launch Details
Casio has also announced that the Undefeated x G-Shock collaboration watch will be launched in Europe, where it is referred to as the DWE-5600UD-1. In the UK, the price will be £209, while in European countries like France, it is set at €269. The exact date for the release in this region remains uncertain, but interested buyers can sign up for email notifications regarding the launch.
Features of the G-Shock DWE5600UD-1
The G-Shock DWE5600UD-1 is a digital timepiece featuring a green LCD display and a durable black carbon and resin case. The Undefeated logo is prominently featured throughout the design, including on the vibrant red and white LED backlight. This model offers customization options with three interchangeable resin straps: semi-transparent black, Storm Camo, and an opaque Tiger Camo variant. Its features include a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second, a countdown timer with a 24-hour range, hourly time signals, and a multifunctional alarm. Additionally, it is water-resistant up to 20 ATM, and the battery life is estimated to last for five years.
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Tags: digital watch, G-Shock DWE5600UD-1, Undefeated collaboration
May 9, 2025
Leaked Sony Xperia 1 VII Images Reveal Design and Specs
Key Takeaways
1. The Sony Xperia 1 VII will be officially announced on May 13 and will feature a design similar to its predecessor with a flat display and thicker bezels.
2. It will have a triple camera setup in partnership with Zeiss, including a significantly larger ultrawide-angle lens sensor.
3. The device will feature dual front-facing stereo speakers with a 10% improvement in sound quality and will support Hi-Res Audio.
4. It is expected to have a 5,000 mAh battery, promising up to two days of usage, with potentially improved charging capabilities.
5. The Xperia 1 VII will receive four OS updates and six years of security updates, an upgrade from the previous model’s three OS updates and four years of security updates.
The Sony Xperia 1 VII is set to be officially announced on May 13, but ahead of its launch, some marketing images from Japan have leaked, providing hints about its specifications. This new flagship device from Sony is anticipated to arrive in three color options, keeping a design similar to its predecessor that features a flat display, thicker bezels, and an audio jack.
Specifications and Features
The leaked images, obtained by Android Headlines, reveal various specifications for the upcoming Xperia 1 VII. The phone will continue with a triple camera setup in partnership with Zeiss, and notably, the ultrawide-angle lens will include a sensor that’s 2.1 times larger than what was found in the earlier version. To compare, the Xperia 1 VI (Buy on Amazon) has a 12 MP ultrawide camera with a 1/2.5-inch sensor. The return of the audio jack is also confirmed, and the device will support Hi-Res Audio in both wired and wireless formats, including LDAC and DSEE Ultimate.
Audio Experience Upgrade
When it comes to sound, the dual front-facing stereo speakers have been enhanced, offering a 10% improvement in mids compared to the previous model. Additionally, the Xperia 1 VII is said to be powered by a robust 5,000 mAh battery, promising a two-day lifespan. The Xperia 1 VI also features a 5,000 mAh battery with 30W wired and 15W wireless charging capabilities, so it’s reasonable to expect the Xperia 1 VII will match or exceed these specifications.
Design and Support
In terms of design, this new phone is likely to be available in black, green, and purple. The layout will keep a clean left side, while all buttons, including volume, power, and the camera button, are positioned on the right side, similar to the earlier model. Sony has confirmed that the Xperia 1 VII will be driven by its Alpha camera series and Walkman technology.
The leaked marketing visuals also indicate that this upcoming phone will receive four OS updates along with six years of security updates. To put it in perspective, the Xperia 1 VI is set to receive three OS updates and four years of security updates, making this change a significant improvement.
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Tags: audio features, smartphone specifications, Sony Xperia 1 VII
May 9, 2025
Slime Farming Game on Steam: 120K Positive Reviews Under $5
Key Takeaways
1. Unique Gameplay Mechanics: Players collect and breed vibrant slimes instead of traditional farm animals, utilizing their Plorts as currency.
2. Diverse Slime Characteristics: Each slime has unique traits and abilities, encouraging strategic management and exploration of the game world.
3. Mixed Reviews: While praised for visuals and gameplay, some reviews noted a small world size and repetitive tasks, impacting long-term engagement.
4. Positive Reception: The game scored 8/10 from GamezGeneration and has favorable ratings on Metacritic and Steam, with over 97% positive reviews.
5. Current Pricing: Slime Rancher is currently on sale for under $5, a 75% discount, with a free demo available for potential players.
Slime Rancher offers a unique twist on farming games by immersing players in a colorful, imaginative universe from a first-person perspective. You take on the role of Beatrix LeBeau, a young rancher eager to create her home on the remote planet called the Far, Far Range. Instead of caring for traditional farm animals like cows or pigs, you gather vibrant slimes, breed them, and collect their valuable Plorts, which serve as the game’s quirky currency.
Slime Variety and Gameplay
Each slime features distinct characteristics, preferences, and abilities—some can explode, while others can teleport or merge into more lucrative Largo Slimes. By managing your pens wisely, feeding them strategically, and utilizing helpful upgrades, you can optimize your ranch to increase Plort output. The expansive world invites players to explore hidden treasures, navigate puzzle-filled locations, and discover new slime species.
Mixed Reviews from GamezGeneration
The German gaming site GamezGeneration.de reviewed Slime Rancher, commending its delightful visuals, calming soundtrack, and consistent technical performance. The gameplay was also noted for its enjoyable blend of catching slimes, breeding, upgrading gear, managing the ranch, and exploring the open world. However, the review highlighted some shortcomings. The game’s world was viewed as relatively small, and the limited interactions with NPCs—restricted to email communication—detracted from the depth of the experience. Furthermore, the editors observed that many tasks began to feel repetitive over time, potentially diminishing long-term engagement.
Despite these issues, Slime Rancher received a respectable score of 8 out of 10 from GamezGeneration. On Metacritic, critics awarded it a Metascore of 81, while user reviews rated it at 8.1. The reception on Steam has been even more positive, with over 120,000 reviews, 97% of which are favorable.
Current Pricing and Deals
Initially launched in 2017, Slime Rancher typically retails for around $20. Currently, however, it is available at a 75% discount, reducing the price to under $5. This promotion lasts until May 19. If you are hesitant, there’s also a free demo available for you to try. It’s worth noting that such discounts are common; according to SteamDB, the game was last priced this low in early March during the Visual Novel Fest.
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Tags: Beatrix LeBeau, farming simulation, Slime Rancher
May 9, 2025
Nvidia GB10 Superchip Shows Promise in Early Benchmark Tests
Key Takeaways
1. Asus and Dell have launched devices using Nvidia’s GB10 Grace Blackwell ARM chipset, following Nvidia’s Project DIGITS AI supercomputer announcement.
2. The GB10 chipset has shown varying benchmark results on Geekbench, labeled as ARMv8 despite using ARMv9 cores.
3. Performance metrics for the GB10 are inconsistent; it competes with top ARM and x86 processors but should be viewed cautiously.
4. The GB10’s Cortex-X925 cores can reach clock speeds of 3.9 GHz, but details on Cortex-X725 performance are lacking.
5. Nvidia may introduce N1 and N1X alternatives for desktops and laptops at Computex 2025 later this month.
Almost two months have gone since Asus and Dell introduced the first devices that use Nvidia’s GB10 Grace Blackwell ARM chipset. Prior to this, Nvidia showcased the Project DIGITS AI supercomputer at CES 2025, which it claimed would launch this month at a price of about $2,999.
Benchmark Findings
The so-called ‘superchip’ that supports these three devices has recently shown up on Geekbench with four different benchmark results. It’s important to mention that there are some peculiarities in these results. For instance, Geekbench labels the GB10 as an ARMv8 chipset, even though its ARM Cortex-X725 and Cortex-X925 CPU cores utilize the newer ARMv9 instruction set.
Performance Insights
Moreover, performance metrics are quite inconsistent at this point. To put it simply, we shouldn’t focus too much on these numbers, even though single-core performance competes with top-tier ARM and x86 processors. For context, Apple’s latest M4 generation chipsets are the leaders in this area, especially the M4 Max found in devices like the MacBook Pro 16, currently priced at $3,517 on Amazon.
Geekbench notes that the GB10’s Cortex-X925 cores can clock in at 3.9 GHz. Sadly, there are no details regarding the performance of the Cortex-X725 cores. Even though the GB10 is designed for workstation use, there are hints that Nvidia might be heading to Computex 2025 later this month with N1 and N1X alternatives targeting desktops and laptops.
Geekbench via @9550pro, Hardware Luxx – Image credit.
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Tags: ASUS, Dell, Nvidia GB10
May 9, 2025
Stardew Valley Sequel News: Will the Farming Sim Return?
Key Takeaways
1. Stardew Valley was released in 2016 and has received regular updates from developer Eric Barone (ConcernedApe).
2. Fans are hopeful for a sequel, as Barone hinted at the possibility of Stardew Valley 2 during a podcast, but no concrete plans exist yet.
3. Barone originally intended to focus on his new game, Haunted Chocolatier, but ended up creating update 1.6 for Stardew Valley.
4. Future updates for Stardew Valley may come unexpectedly, as Barone has a history of revealing new content without prior notice.
5. Haunted Chocolatier is still in development and expected to release within the next five years, while a potential sequel remains uncertain and likely distant.
Stardew Valley made its debut in 2016, which means it’s almost been ten years since its release. Developer Eric Barone, who is more commonly known as ConcernedApe, has continually breathed life into the delightful pixelated farming simulation through regular updates. These updates have introduced features such as multiplayer modes, new areas, and unique events like the “Green Rain.” Despite this ongoing support, fans have become increasingly hungry for a sequel, and now, there’s finally a glimmer of hope. For the very first time, Barone has discussed the potential for Stardew Valley 2. In the May 5, 2025 episode of the TigerBelly podcast (starting at minute 43), he hinted that a sequel could possibly materialize, although nothing is finalized yet.
No Concrete Plans Yet
Even with the tease during the podcast, Barone emphasizes that there are no definitive plans for Stardew Valley 2. The sequel is not officially in the works, but for the first time, it seems like it might be a possibility. ConcernedApe is keeping his options open, as always. After the launch of the 1.5 update, he initially aimed to concentrate solely on Haunted Chocolatier – however, he ended up creating update 1.6, which delayed his new project.
Surprising Updates Ahead
Future updates for Stardew Valley could still come as a surprise, as Barone has a history of unveiling new content with little warning. Meanwhile, Haunted Chocolatier is still under development and is expected to be released within the next five years. Barone is also eager to ensure that he is not solely associated with Stardew Valley 2. Should he choose to chase a sequel, it’s probably still quite distant in the future.
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Tags: ConcernedApe, Haunted Chocolatier, Stardew Valley