Category: Gaming

  • Sony Blocks 4th Largest Publisher on PS Store, Targets Shovelware

    Sony Blocks 4th Largest Publisher on PS Store, Targets Shovelware

    Key Takeaways

    1. ThiGamesDE was a top seller on the PlayStation Store with 1194 PS4/PS5 titles, but all their games have now been removed.
    2. The cause of the delisting is unclear, raising questions about whether it was Sony’s decision or ThiGamesDE’s.
    3. The company was known for creating “shovelware” games, often cheap imitations of existing titles, using generative AI tools for easy production.
    4. Trophy collectors are concerned about the potential loss of achievements from the removed games, while others welcome the reduction in low-quality titles.
    5. The issue of shovelware is not limited to PlayStation; other platforms like the Nintendo eShop are also struggling with similar problems.

    One of the biggest sellers on the PlayStation Store is a name that many gamers may not know. ThiGamesDE has filled the marketplace with 1194 PS4/PS5 titles, placing it fourth among publishers. With new games appearing all the time, it has gained a reputation as a shovelware titan. However, all those games have now vanished from PSN.

    Sudden Delisting Raises Questions

    RobThanatos, a PlayStation trophy enthusiast, informed fans about the unexpected removal via social media. As of now, it’s unclear if Sony took this action or if ThiGamesDE chose to pull their own games. Regardless, many players who have been vocal about the influx of low-effort games on the PS Store are rejoicing.

    Controversial Titles face Removal

    The company was known for such “classics” as The Jumping Spaghetti and The Jumping Ice Cube. Critics often pointed out that similar versions of essentially the same game would frequently pop up.

    Shovelware games are typically cheap imitations of existing titles. They often imitate popular games that appear on wishlists. The use of generative AI tools has made it even easier to create familiar visuals that mislead players.

    Trophy Collectors and Their Concerns

    Players who are keen on collecting trophies usually gravitate towards games that can be completed quickly. Whether these achievements will be wiped from their profiles is still unknown. Meanwhile, other buyers are pleased to see a reduction in the number of generic games flooding the PS Store.

    This recent delisting isn’t the first instance of Sony possibly removing questionable PS4 or PS5 games from its store. Back in April 2025, PlayStation Lifestyle reported that titles like R.E.P.O.: Ghost Haul and Supermarket Simulator 2025 disappeared as well. Nevertheless, it seems that PlayStation is struggling to keep a handle on the issue, with an endless stream of copycats ready to take their place.

    The Bigger Picture of Shovelware

    PlayStation isn’t the sole gaming giant dealing with this problem. The Nintendo eShop has also been overwhelmed with shovelware, sometimes featuring near-explicit content. Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo recently revealed an update on their collective effort for safer gaming experiences. However, many of these low-quality knock-offs still adhere to platform guidelines.

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  • PS Plus January 2026 Game Catalogue Officially Revealed

    PS Plus January 2026 Game Catalogue Officially Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has officially announced the PlayStation Plus Game Catalogue lineup for January 2026.
    2. The lineup includes six games, available for PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members.
    3. These titles will remain accessible until Sony decides to remove them, unlike monthly Essential games.
    4. All new Game Catalogue titles will be available for download starting January 20, 2026.
    5. This announcement reinforces Sony’s commitment to providing value and variety to its subscribers.

    Sony has made it official by unveiling the lineup for the PlayStation Plus Game Catalogue for January 2026. This announcement confirms the games that will be accessible to PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members. The news follows closely after a leak that occurred yesterday, which turned out to be correct.

    Game Lineup Details

    As anticipated, the total number of games in this lineup is six, and the complete list is provided below:

    Distinct from the monthly PlayStation Plus Essential games, these titles belong to the Game Catalogue. This signifies that they are not restricted to just one month. Once they are added, they will be available for play until Sony opts to remove them from the service at a future date. Additionally, all of the newly announced Game Catalogue titles will be ready for download and play starting January 20, 2026.

    Availability and Access

    PlayStation Plus members can look forward to an exciting selection of games, ensuring that there’s always something new to enjoy. By having access to these titles, players can explore a variety of genres and experiences. This move highlights Sony’s commitment to providing value to its subscribers, keeping the gaming experience fresh and engaging.

    In summary, the January 2026 lineup for PlayStation Plus Game Catalogue brings in fresh content that is not to be missed. With the confirmed titles set to enhance the gaming library, players can mark their calendars for the download date and get ready for some fun.

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  • Asus 14-Inch Gaming Laptop Now Features 48 GB VRAM Upgrade

    Asus 14-Inch Gaming Laptop Now Features 48 GB VRAM Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus introduced an updated TUF Gaming A14 at CES 2026 with new processors, including a model without Nvidia dGPU.
    2. The TUF Gaming A14 features the Ryzen AI Max+ 392 processor with 12 cores, 24 threads, and Radeon 8060S iGPU.
    3. The updated model supports up to 64 GB of RAM and a 2 TB SSD, allowing 48 GB to be allocated as VRAM for the iGPU.
    4. The Nvidia option remains available, but it continues to use the GeForce RTX 5060 laptop GPU from the previous year.
    5. Pricing and availability details for the new configurations are currently unclear.

    During CES 2026, Asus unveiled an updated version of the TUF Gaming A14, featuring new processors, including one model that eliminates the Nvidia dGPU entirely. Like in previous years, there will still be an Nvidia option available. However, this model continues to use the same GeForce RTX 5060 laptop GPU from last year’s version, which is currently priced at $1,549 on Amazon.

    Exciting New Features

    One standout model is the FA401EA variant from Asus, which has outpaced the ROG Zephyrus G14 in adopting AMD’s Strix Halo platform. Asus has chosen the Ryzen AI Max+ 392 for this model, introduced at CES 2026, boasting 12 cores, 24 threads, and a Radeon 8060S iGPU. Although this CPU is not as powerful as the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 found in the ROG Flow Z13, the TUF Gaming A14 is expected to provide comparable GPU performance to its 2-in-1 rival.

    Memory Upgrades

    Originally, Asus announced the TUF Gaming A14 FA401EA would support up to 32 GB of RAM. However, the company has quietly made an adjustment, now showing a second memory configuration on Geekbench. As illustrated below, the TUF Gaming A14 will support up to 64 GB of RAM and a 2 TB SSD. This means the FA401EA can allocate 48 GB as VRAM for its Radeon 8060S iGPU. Unfortunately, details about pricing and availability are still unclear at this time.

    Asus’s

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  • Forza Horizon 6 Release Date and Pre-Order Info Leaked Before Xbox Event

    Forza Horizon 6 Release Date and Pre-Order Info Leaked Before Xbox Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date Leak: Forza Horizon 6 may be available for early access on May 15, with a full release on May 19, breaking the typical fall release trend.
    2. Xbox Developer Direct Anticipation: Updates about Forza Horizon 6 and the Fable reboot are expected during the Xbox Developer Direct on January 22nd.
    3. Vehicle Variety: The game will feature over 550 vehicles at launch, including a pre-order bonus car, with potential expansions to add more.
    4. Stunning Locations: Set in Japan, the game will showcase famous locations like Tokyo and Mount Fuji, focusing on specific, well-known sites.
    5. Timed Exclusive: Forza Horizon 6 will be a timed exclusive for PC and Xbox, with a later release for PlayStation users.

    Most Forza racing games usually come out in the fall, but the latest one might break that trend. Thanks to Xbox Era, an image shared on the Xbox Infinite social media account has been found in Forza Horizon 5. This leak suggests that players who buy early access could get their hands on Forza Horizon 6 around mid-May.

    Anticipated Announcements

    During the Xbox Developer Direct on January 22nd, gamers are looking forward to updates about Forza Horizon 6 as well as the Fable reboot. It’s expected that Microsoft will also announce when the new open-world racing game will be available. If the leaked image is accurate, those with early access can start racing on May 15th, while everyone else will have to hang tight until May 19th.

    Vehicle Variety

    The image also reveals the number of cars players can expect at launch. In addition to a pre-order bonus featuring the Ferrari J50, there will be over 550 vehicles to choose from. The last game had a similar starting count, but it grew to over 900 with downloadable content.

    It’s no surprise that Forza Horizon 6 will include a nice variety of Japanese cars. However, the pre-order information already mentions an Italian Passion Car Pack that will be available in the future. Players who opt for the Premium Edition will gain access to two upcoming expansions, which will probably include even more vehicles.

    Stunning Locations

    Set in the “stunning landscapes of Japan,” Playground Games has shared insights about the game’s environments. The landscapes are expected to be varied, showcasing both the streets of Tokyo and rural race tracks. Instead of trying to capture the entire country, the game will focus on specific, well-known locations like Mount Fuji, depicted in a realistic manner.

    As a timed exclusive for PC and Xbox, PlayStation users will need to remain patient. Even though the previous Forza game was successful on its console, the release of Forza Horizon 6 for the PS5 will come later. Nonetheless, during the Xbox Developer Direct, there are whispers that Microsoft might reveal a multi-platform launch for the Fable reboot.

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  • Thunderobot Zero Air: 15-Inch OLED Gaming Laptop Under 1.6 kg

    Thunderobot Zero Air: 15-Inch OLED Gaming Laptop Under 1.6 kg

    Key Takeaways

    1. Thunderobot’s Zero Air gaming laptop was showcased at CES 2026 and is expected to launch in April 2024 in China.
    2. The laptop weighs 1.58 kg and is 15.9 mm thick, comparable to other 14-inch gaming laptops.
    3. It features a 15.3-inch OLED display with a 2.5K resolution and a 165 Hz refresh rate.
    4. The Zero Air is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 386H processor and includes an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 GPU with 8 GB of GDDR7 VRAM.
    5. The combined performance of the RTX 5070 and the Core Ultra 9 386H offers a total of 160 W.

    Thunderobot has revealed more information regarding its Zero Air gaming laptop. Initially presented at the end of last year, the company indicated that the full launch would happen at CES 2026 in Las Vegas from January 6 to January 9. With that event now concluded, Thunderobot is focusing on when its lightweight gaming laptop will hit the market.

    Design and Display

    The Zero Air is reported to weigh 1.58 kg and measures only 15.9 mm thick at its slimmest point. In comparison, the Zero Air has a similar weight to the Acer Predator Triton 14 AI, Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (currently priced at $1,594 on Amazon), and other comparable 14-inch gaming laptops. What sets the Zero Air apart is its 15.3-inch OLED screen that boasts a 2.5K resolution, a refresh rate of 165 Hz, and complete DCI-P3 color space coverage.

    Performance Features

    Additionally, Thunderobot has integrated a Core Ultra 9 386H processor from Intel’s Panther Lake series. This 16-core processor uses a 4 Xe3-core integrated GPU instead of Intel’s top-tier Arc B390. However, the Zero Air also includes an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 laptop GPU that comes with 8 GB of GDDR7 VRAM and a 115 W TGP, which supports Dynamic Boost technology.

    Thunderobot states that the combination of the RTX 5070 and Core Ultra 9 386H provides a total performance of 160 W. As of now, the company anticipates launching the Zero Air in China this April. There has been no information released yet regarding its availability in other regions.

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  • Battlefield 6 Season 2 Delayed: Community Frustration Grows

    Battlefield 6 Season 2 Delayed: Community Frustration Grows

    Key Takeaways

    1. Delay for Quality Assurance: Season 2’s delay is intended to give developers more time to refine the game and ensure quality, with a release set for January 20.

    2. Season 1 Reflection: Season 1 was described as “packed” with new content, but developers admitted it did not reach its full potential, leading to mixed community feedback.

    3. Extension Update Features: The upcoming Extension Update will introduce new weekly challenges, a bonus path, and focus on selected Portal experiences while keeping the current Battle Pass active.

    4. Community Criticism: Many players are frustrated with the delay, criticizing the REDSEC battle royale mode and expressing concerns about the lack of substantial content and technical issues.

    5. Expectations for Season 2: Players are demanding significant improvements, including new maps, and are prepared to abandon the game if Season 2 does not meet their expectations.

    According to a post from the official Battlefield subreddit on January 13, the delay aims to provide the development team more time for refining and ensuring quality before Season 2. The developers took this opportunity to express gratitude to the community for their ongoing support and feedback since Battlefield 6’s launch last October, which Electronic Arts has called the most successful release in the series’ history.

    Looking Back on Season 1

    Reflecting on the past, the publisher has described Season 1 as “packed,” highlighting the introduction of the REDSEC battle royale mode, narrative content focused on the California Resistance, the year-end Winter Offensive event, and numerous stability and gameplay enhancements. Nevertheless, the developers have admitted that Season 1 did not reach its full potential.

    Upcoming Extension Update Details

    The Extension Update, set to be released on January 20, is designed to fill the gap before Season 2 and keep players engaged through additional content. The current Battle Pass will stay active but will receive new weekly challenges, an added bonus path, and several double XP periods. Furthermore, the update will focus more on selected Portal experiences. Complete patch notes will be available separately in the “Game Updates” section of the official Battlefield 6 website.

    Despite Electronic Arts presenting the delay as a crucial move for quality assurance, the response on Reddit has been mostly negative. Numerous players have expressed their frustration, comparing it to previous issues within the series. Some commentators have labeled the delay as another mistake in the franchise’s live service approach. Specifically, the publisher’s claim that Season 1 was “packed” has resonated poorly with many. Critics have noted the limited number of new maps, few weapon additions, and an overemphasis on temporary events instead of lasting content. Bugs and technical problems, some have commented sarcastically, seem to be the only consistent “content” throughout this season.

    Criticism of REDSEC Mode

    The REDSEC battle royale mode in Battlefield 6 has received notably harsh criticism. Many players consider it a misallocation of development resources and feel overlooked as paying customers of the main game. The increased focus on the free-to-play aspect is viewed by some as a sign that traditional Battlefield modes like Conquest and Rush have been sidelined. Progression systems have also faced criticism, with complaints about overly complicated, overlapping paths, excessive grinding, and rewards that are either missing or incorrectly awarded, leading to rising frustration among players.

    A tiny fraction of players think the delay of Season 2 will bring about significant improvements. Many are demanding at least three to four large maps upon launch, but hope remains low. Instead, players worry about a repetition of reskins and fleeting game modes. For numerous community members, Season 2 is becoming a crucial point for Battlefield 6. If the update does not meet expectations, a growing group of fans claim they are ready to abandon the game completely.

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  • Asus ROG GR70: Mini PC with Ryzen 9, 96GB RAM, RTX 5070

    Asus ROG GR70: Mini PC with Ryzen 9, 96GB RAM, RTX 5070

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ROG GR70 will launch globally by February 2026, with a starting price of approximately $2100 in China, potentially higher in Europe and the US.
    2. The design targets gamers, featuring the ROG logo and a compact size of 282.4 × 187.7 × 56.6 mm.
    3. It is powered by an AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D APU and a mobile Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, with a maximum power draw of 115 watts.
    4. The device includes 32 GB of DDR5 RAM, expandable to 96 GB, and comes with a 1 TB M.2 SSD.
    5. Connectivity options support up to five 4K monitors, WiFi 7, and Ethernet up to 2.5 GBit/s.

    The Asus ROG GR70 made its debut at CES 2026, and reports suggest that it is set to launch in global markets by February. However, details regarding its pricing and availability remain unclear. In China, this model is priced at roughly $2100, indicating that the price might be even higher in Europe and the US.

    Gaming Aesthetic and Power

    The Asus ROG GR70 shares some similarities with the company’s NUC lineup, but its design clearly targets gamers. The ROG logo is prominently displayed in multiple areas. Despite its small size of just 282.4 × 187.7 × 56.6 millimeters, Asus has packed in a robust AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D APU along with a dedicated Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070. As expected, the GPU is the mobile variant. It can draw up to 100 watts, and with Dynamic Boost, it can get an extra 15 watts. However, the 6 GB of GDDR6 VRAM is on the smaller side.

    Memory and Connectivity Options

    On the memory front, there is 32 GB of DDR5 RAM built in, and users can expand this up to 96 GB using the two available slots. The device comes with a pre-installed 1 TB M.2 SSD. Users can connect up to five 4K monitors at once, which could be beneficial for those who prioritize multitasking. Connectivity options include WiFi 7 and Ethernet supporting speeds of up to 2.5 GBit/s. More details are accessible on the product page here.

    Asus, Ad Hoc News’

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  • Asus ROG Strix XG27UCS Monitor Gets 324Hz Dual-Mode Upgrade

    Asus ROG Strix XG27UCS Monitor Gets 324Hz Dual-Mode Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus launched the ROG Strix XG27UCS Gen 2 (XG27UCSR) in early 2024, featuring dual-mode support with a FHD resolution mode at 324Hz refresh rate.
    2. The 4K resolution mode maintains a refresh rate of 160Hz, with consistent specifications from the first-generation model, including a 27-inch Fast IPS display.
    3. The monitor boasts a 0.3 ms response rate and Smart Pixel technology for high clarity and sharpness, along with ELMB to reduce ghosting and tearing.
    4. It includes a USB-C port with DP Alt mode and PD for easy connectivity, but has removed the smartphone slot from the Gen 1 model.
    5. Pricing and availability for the XG27UCSR have not been announced, while the previous version is priced around $400.

    Asus has launched the ROG Strix XG27UCS in the beginning of 2024, and this gaming monitor is a strong pick for anyone in the market for a 27-inch screen featuring a 4K IPS panel. In tests conducted by Notebookcheck, the monitor performed quite well, showcasing impressive adaptive sync technology and picture quality.

    New Variant Released

    Now, there’s a new version of the same monitor that Asus has quietly listed on its site. Named the ROG Strix XG27UCS Gen 2 or XG27UCSR, the standout feature is its dual-mode support. This new addition includes a FHD resolution mode, which boasts an impressive 324Hz refresh rate.

    Specifications Remain Consistent

    The 4K resolution mode continues to provide a refresh rate of 160Hz, and other specifications appear to be the same as the first-generation model. This includes the 27-inch display size, with Asus emphasizing that the screen uses a Fast IPS panel.

    With a response rate of 0.3 ms, the company claims that its Smart Pixel technology guarantees high clarity and sharpness, even when using the FHD mode. There is also ELMB, which, when combined with variable refresh rates, aims to eliminate ghosting and tearing during gameplay.

    Design and Connectivity Features

    This updated version of the ROG Strix XG27UCS still includes a USB-C port with DP Alt mode and PD, making it easy for users to connect with laptops and gaming devices. The overall design remains unchanged, and the new gaming monitor comes with an adjustable stand, though it appears to have lost the smartphone slot that was included with the Gen 1 model. Asus has not yet revealed the pricing and availability for the XG27UCSR, but it’s important to mention that the previous version sells for about $400.

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  • RedMagic 11 Air: Official Photos Reveal Design and Display Details

    RedMagic 11 Air: Official Photos Reveal Design and Display Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. RedMagic will launch the budget-friendly gaming smartphone, RedMagic 11 Air, in China on January 20, 2026.
    2. The smartphone will be available in three colors: “Stardust White,” “Quantum Black,” and “Aurora Silver” with unique orange accents.
    3. It features a dual-camera system, an active cooling fan, and a hole-less display with 1.25 mm bezels for an immersive viewing experience.
    4. The display will have a “1.5K” resolution, a 144 Hz refresh rate, and 2,592 Hz PWM dimming, enhancing gaming performance.
    5. Anticipated specs include RGB lighting, curved glass design, capacitive shoulder buttons, Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, a robust battery, and 100 W fast charging support.

    RedMagic is preparing to introduce a new gaming smartphone, which aims to be budget-friendly while delivering strong performance. The company has recently announced that the device, known as the 11 Air, will be officially launched in China on January 20, 2026. More revelations about the smartphone have surfaced through additional teasers.

    Color Options Revealed

    In the latest images, RedMagic has disclosed that the 11 Air will come in three distinct colors: “Stardust White,” “Quantum Black,” and “Aurora Silver.” Among these, the Aurora Silver variant features unique orange accents, setting it apart from the other two. Despite this, all three colors maintain a similar overall design.

    Impressive Features Confirmed

    The shared images also indicate that the RedMagic 11 Air will include a dual-camera system on the rear. In line with its predecessor, it will have an active cooling fan for optimal performance. Moreover, the brand has revealed the front design of the gaming phone, which boasts a hole-less display.

    One teaser has indicated that the 11 Air will have bezels measuring just 1.25 mm. With the under-display selfie camera, users can expect an “immersive” viewing experience. Additionally, the display is said to feature a “1.5K” resolution, a refresh rate of 144 Hz, and 2,592 Hz PWM dimming.

    More Exciting Specs

    Recent teasers have also pointed out the presence of RGB lighting on the back, curved glass, and capacitive shoulder buttons. While details are not yet confirmed, it’s anticipated that the RedMagic 11 Air will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the previous generation’s flagship SoC. This could result in a more budget-friendly price compared to the non-Air models in the series. Further reports suggest it will come equipped with a robust battery and support for 100 W fast charging (the 160 W Anker Prime charger currently retails for $105.99 on Amazon). More information is expected to be revealed leading up to the January 20 launch.

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  • Steam Machine Launches Flexible Steam Deck Verification Program

    Steam Machine Launches Flexible Steam Deck Verification Program

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Steam Machine is more powerful than Valve’s handheld device, but some games may not run smoothly in a living room setting.
    2. Game compatibility will be assessed similarly to the Steam Deck verified program, with easier requirements for developers.
    3. Compatibility with input devices, especially Valve’s new game controller, is crucial, and Windows games must run on Proton or properly in Linux.
    4. The Steam Machine’s specs include a 6-core AMD Zen 4 processor and RDNA 3 graphics, but there are concerns about system and GPU memory affecting performance at higher resolutions.
    5. Game studios may face less strict standards for compatibility, and there are speculations about a potential delay in the Steam Machine’s launch due to rising storage and memory costs.

    The Steam Machine is much stronger than Valve’s handheld device. However, some games might not provide a smooth experience in the living room. In an interview with Game Developer, a designer from Valve explained how the company will assess game compatibility. This process is similar to the Steam Deck verified program, but developers should face easier requirements.

    Compatibility Considerations

    Lawrence Yang mentioned that most candidates with the Steam Deck verified badge are likely to get approved. Still, the company will evaluate each game’s performance on the compact gaming PC. For mobile devices that have 7 or 7.4-inch screens, text should be easy to read. Since the Steam Machine is made for larger TVs, this isn’t as big of a concern.

    Similar Requirements

    Many of the requirements for the Linux-based handheld and the soon-to-be-released cube will be alike. Being compatible with input devices, like Valve’s new game controller, is also very important. Even more crucial, Windows games will need to either run on Proton in SteamOS or function properly in Linux. Unfortunately, DRMs will still block popular games like Battlefield 6 and Black Ops 7.

    Specs and Concerns

    The specs for the Steam Machine, which include a 6-core AMD Zen 4 processor and RDNA 3 graphics, should be able to handle most games. However, there are concerns about the amount of system and GPU memory before it even launches. The 8GB of VRAM may create challenges for achieving 4K at 60fps.

    It’s uncertain if Valve will clarify when demanding games struggle with higher resolutions. Even for some games that are verified on Steam Deck, the company might recommend better settings. Players have noted that the green checkmark doesn’t always mean smooth gameplay without adjustments.

    Future Outlook

    Given Yang’s description of the process, it appears that game studios won’t need to meet very strict standards. Unfortunately, he did not share any updates on whether the mini PC is still expected to launch in early 2026. Some insiders have speculated that there could be a delay because of increasing prices for storage and memory. A delay would provide developers ample time to resolve any issues.

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