Category: Gaming

  • Ayaneo Flip 1S Launch Date Announced for New OLED Handhelds

    Ayaneo Flip 1S Launch Date Announced for New OLED Handhelds

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo plans to release the Flip 1S handheld gaming device in July, following competitors like GPD Win Mini 2025 and OneXPlayer G1.
    2. The Flip 1S features a redesigned model with dual screens and built-in keyboard options, similar to its previous version.
    3. Both variants of the Flip 1S have 7-inch OLED displays with a 144 Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 800 nits, while the secondary display is a 3.5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels.
    4. The Flip 1S models include TMR joysticks and a CNC-machined top cover, though the body may be made from plastic.
    5. The Flip 1S DS and Flip 1S KB will be available for pre-order on Indiegogo between July 7 and July 13.


    Ayaneo seems to be sticking to its commitment of releasing the latest clamshell gaming handheld in July. Following competitors like the GPD Win Mini 2025 and OneXPlayer G1 (currently priced at $1,419.95 on Amazon), the Ayaneo Flip 1S will feature both dual screen and built-in keyboard options similar to its previous model.

    Redesigned for a New Generation

    As mentioned before, Ayaneo has revamped the Flip for the new 1S version instead of just upgrading to a stronger APU. Additionally, both variants of the Flip 1S showcase 7-inch OLED displays with a refresh rate of 144 Hz and can reach peak brightness of up to 800 nits. The secondary display of the Flip 1S DS is an IPS screen that measures 3.5 inches, offering a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels and a 3:2 aspect ratio.

    Features and Construction

    Both models of the Flip 1S come with TMR joysticks and a CNC-machined top cover. However, it’s possible that the rest of the body is made from plastic. Nevertheless, Ayaneo has announced that the Flip 1S DS and Flip 1S KB will be up for grabs between July 7 and July 13. As is common practice, the company plans to launch both versions on Indiegogo first, and the campaign is already accessible in its preview mode.

    Ayaneo’s new handheld promises to bring exciting features and improvements, keeping gamers eagerly awaiting its release.

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  • Alienware 18 Area-51 Beats Most Gaming Laptops: Benchmark Results

    Alienware 18 Area-51 Beats Most Gaming Laptops: Benchmark Results

    Key Takeaways

    1. Two gaming laptops with the same GPU may perform differently due to factors like thickness, CPU, and RAM.
    2. Larger gaming laptops, like the Alienware 18 Area-51, often deliver better performance than smaller models.
    3. The Alienware 18 consistently outperforms competitors with the same RTX 5090 GPU by 5 to 15 percent in various games.
    4. While some models, like the SCHENKER Neo 16 A25 and MSI Titan 18 HX, can compete with the Alienware 18, such instances are rare and show minimal differences.
    5. The performance benefits of the Alienware 18 come with the trade-off of being one of the biggest and heaviest 18-inch laptops available.


    More often than not, two gaming laptops with the same GPU might not function exactly the same due to variances in thickness, CPU, RAM, and other factors. Generally, a bigger model tends to outperform a smaller one in this aspect.

    Performance Comparison

    The Alienware 18 Area-51 perfectly illustrates why opting for thinner and lighter designs isn’t always the best choice. The Dell laptop surpasses most other gaming laptops equipped with the same RTX 5090 GPU in nearly all tested games, as demonstrated by the comparison charts below. The difference is quite small, ranging from 5 to 15 percent depending on the game, but those who are serious about performance will surely value the additional frames whenever they can get them.

    Competing Models

    There are a few laptops that can beat the Alienware 18, such as the SCHENKER Neo 16 A25 or MSI Titan 18 HX, but these instances are rare and the differences would also be minimal. In most situations, the Alienware still leads the pack.

    Size and Weight Considerations

    However, the performance advantages do come at a cost, as the Alienware 18 Area-51 is also one of the biggest and heaviest 18-inch laptops available. For more information on its performance and features, be sure to check out our full review of the system here.

  • macOS Tahoe Update: Play Star Wars Outlaws & More on Apple Silicon

    macOS Tahoe Update: Play Star Wars Outlaws & More on Apple Silicon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple’s macOS Tahoe developer beta, along with Game Porting Toolkit 3.0 and Crossover Preview, improves compatibility for popular Windows games on Apple Silicon.

    2. Games like Starfield and Horizon Forbidden West now run more reliably, achieving good performance without needing community patches or hacks.

    3. New titles like Jurassic World Evolution 2 and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora have become playable on Macs, indicating advancements in DirectX 12-to-Metal translation.

    4. Custom tweaks in Crossover Preview allow the use of modern gaming features like DLSS and AVX emulation on Macs.

    5. Apple is quietly enhancing macOS for gaming, making it a more viable platform for recent AAA titles despite not officially promoting these advancements.


    Apple’s macOS Tahoe developer beta, along with Game Porting Toolkit 3.0 and the newest Crossover Preview (build 0507), is paving the way for popular Windows games to function on Apple Silicon. YouTuber Andrew Tsai has conducted tests showing that games like Starfield, Star Wars Outlaws, and Horizon Forbidden West now start more reliably and perform better. In many instances, these games no longer require community patches or hacks, indicating that Apple has made significant strides in DirectX 12 compatibility within macOS.

    Starfield and Horizon Forbidden West Perform Better

    Starfield now runs on Apple Silicon, and the results are impressively good. The YouTuber demonstrated that the game achieves 60 FPS at 1080p on medium settings with MetalFX upscaling turned on, making use of DLSS and frame generation through Crossover. Horizon Forbidden West, which used to crash when launched, now opens smoothly without needing shader patches or unofficial modifications.

    New Titles Become Playable

    Jurassic World Evolution 2 and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, which were previously unplayable on Macs, now start without issues and run more stably, as highlighted by Andrew. The latest update to Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit seems to have greatly enhanced the DirectX 12-to-Metal translation, bringing Apple Silicon closer to mainstream AAA gaming.

    All of this is tested using Crossover Preview, CodeWeavers’ compatibility layer for macOS, with Andrew Tsai using it to evaluate the new configurations. By manually swapping in GPTK 3.0 files and making some custom bottle tweaks, the setup allows features like DLSS hooks, AVX emulation, and real-time MetalFX. This marks the closest Apple Silicon has ever gotten to supporting modern PC gaming technologies natively.

    Quiet Improvements for Gamers

    Apple hasn’t officially promoted these advancements for gamers, but the capability to play recent AAA titles on MacBooks, such as Horizon Forbidden West, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Star Wars Outlaws, points to a subtle yet steady effort to make macOS a more viable gaming platform.

    As of now, all the games were tested on a MacBook Pro with M3 Max, the macOS Tahoe developer beta, Game Porting Toolkit 3.0 Beta 1, and Crossover Preview. You can find the complete video showcasing these tests below.

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  • Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 Release Date and Availability Details

    Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 Release Date and Availability Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date and Audience: Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 launches on July 11, 2025, aimed at introducing classic skateboarding games to a new audience.

    2. Pre-order Benefits: Pre-ordering the Deluxe Edition grants early access on July 8 and includes extra bonus content, with a demo available for pre-order customers and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers.

    3. Supported Platforms: The remastered collection will be available on all major current and previous-generation consoles and will feature full crossplay for online multiplayer.

    4. Pricing and Editions: Three editions are available for pre-order, each offering access to the Foundry demo, with the Deluxe and Collector’s Editions providing additional content.

    5. Gameplay Features: The new version features classic two-minute challenge runs, enhanced Create-A-Skater and Create-A-Park options, and a New Game+ mode, alongside a lineup of 21 returning skaters and new talents.


    Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 is set to launch on July 11, 2025, bringing back two of the most beloved skateboarding games for a new audience. Created by Iron Galaxy and published by Activision, this collection updates the early 2000s classics with improved graphics, contemporary features, and a diverse group of skaters, including both iconic and emerging talent.

    Pre-order Benefits

    As previously stated, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 will be available worldwide on July 11, marking just over 20 years since the originals were released on the PlayStation 2. Those who choose to pre-order the Deluxe Edition will gain early access starting July 8, along with additional bonus content.

    For those eagerly awaiting the game, a demo of the Foundry level is currently accessible for pre-order customers and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. This demo allows players to use Tony Hawk and Rayssa Leal as characters, with additional characters like Doom Slayer and Revenant available for those who buy the Deluxe version.

    Supported Platforms

    The remastered collection will be available on all major current and previous-generation consoles, and it will support full crossplay for online multiplayer gaming.

    Players on Xbox Series X|S can already begin to pre-load the game, with other platforms expected to follow in the days leading up to its release. The pre-load file size is around 43.89 GB.

    Pricing & Editions

    Pre-orders for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 are now open, and there are three different editions to choose from.

    Here are the prices listed on Amazon –

    All editions provide access to the Foundry demo, while the Deluxe and Collector’s Editions come with additional skaters and cosmetic items. Members of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate also receive demo access without the need to pre-order.

    Unlike the original Pro Skater 4’s free-roaming Career Mode, this new version focuses on classic two-minute challenge runs. However, it enhances the Create-A-Skater and Create-A-Park features and adds a New Game+ mode for greater replay value.

    With a lineup of 21 returning professional skaters alongside newcomers like Jamie Foy, Yuto Horigome, Chloe Covell, and the return of Bam Margera, this remake promises to be more than just a standard remaster.


  • Lenovo Legion 5 15 Launches with Top OLED Display

    Lenovo Legion 5 15 Launches with Top OLED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo has improved the image quality of their laptops, particularly with the new OLED displays.
    2. The Legion 5 15 features a 15.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a refresh rate of 165 Hz.
    3. The display reaches impressive brightness levels of around 500 nits in SDR mode and over 1,000 nits in HDR mode, enhancing the gaming experience.
    4. The included X-Rite Color Assistant software provides pre-calibrated color profiles, allowing for accurate color management for photo and video editing.
    5. The Legion 5 15 offers one of the best screens in a gaming laptop, outperforming many more expensive competitors.


    Lenovo has not always stood out for the image quality of their laptops in previous years, however, this year, the company has made significant improvements to their OLED displays. We’ve already looked at a few multimedia laptops featuring this latest generation of OLED screens. In particular, the maximum brightness level is impressive, which also applies to the newly reviewed 15-inch gaming laptop, the Legion 5 15.

    Display Details

    The 15.1-inch OLED display offers a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a refresh rate of 165 Hz. The overall image quality is excellent, with vibrant colors enhanced by the glossy surface of the panel. We didn’t notice any graininess in bright areas; instead, users can experience true blacks, high contrast ratios, and incredibly quick response times. The brightness performance is also impressive, reaching around 500 nits in SDR mode and over 1,000 nits in HDR mode. This is an area where many competitors struggle, and HDR games on the Legion 5 15 look absolutely breathtaking. The only feature that could enhance this experience would be G-Sync.

    Software and Performance

    For a gaming laptop starting at $1300, these results are already commendable, but Lenovo goes a step further by including the X-Rite Color Assistant software with the device. This software offers pre-calibrated color profiles for sRGB and P3, and our analysis showed that the colors are very accurate. Therefore, the Legion can easily manage photo and video editing, which is why we would have appreciated the inclusion of a card reader. We did notice some PWM flickering, but it uses DC-Dimming with a small amplitude across a wide brightness range, and flickering occurs above 1 kHz at lower brightness settings.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Lenovo presents one of the finest screens available in a gaming laptop, outperforming many pricier competitors. For more in-depth information, feel free to check out our review of the Legion 5 15, which includes a thorough analysis of the display.

  • Why Third-Party Nintendo Switch 2 Docks Fail: USB-C Testing

    Why Third-Party Nintendo Switch 2 Docks Fail: USB-C Testing

    Key Takeaways

    1. The USB-C port on the Nintendo Switch 2 has compatibility issues with many third-party docks and accessories.
    2. Official Nintendo docks use special communication messages that most third-party devices do not send, causing them to malfunction.
    3. The Switch 2 may limit video output through encryption, raising concerns about potential firmware restrictions.
    4. Users have reported issues with the official Nintendo dock, including unexpected Ethernet disconnections and ventilation problems.
    5. Unlike Apple, Nintendo’s new console is more compatible with third-party accessories like controllers and headsets.


    Gamers were excited that the USB-C port on Nintendo’s latest console would work with third-party docks for the Switch 2. In theory, it was possible for users to link USB-C to HDMI adapters or a variety of other gadgets. Sadly, many of these products only partially function or don’t work at all. Sean Hollister from The Verge tested the handheld’s port and found out how Nintendo is preventing these devices from connecting properly.

    Communication Protocols

    When an accessory is plugged into a USB-C port with power delivery, it sends structured messages for communication. This process makes sure that a gaming handheld or laptop receives the right amount of power and remains safe from damage. Moreover, other modes, including one that can send video signals, might be activated.

    Hollister tried connecting a USB-C charging tester to various Switch 2 dock options and a Windows PC. He discovered that the official Nintendo dock uses special messages to connect to the console. Third-party Switch 2 devices do not send these specific codes, which is why most do not function with the handheld. The $36 Antank S3 Max TV dock is a rare exception, as the Switch 2’s USB-C port surprisingly understands its signals.

    Potential Restrictions

    The Verge might have shown that the Switch 2 limits its video output using encryption. While the S3 Max TV dock is a current option, Nintendo could potentially restrict it by updating the firmware of the official dock.

    Nintendo could say that they are worried about damage from docks that do not supply the right voltage. However, their own accessory costs $120 and is not always available. Additionally, gamers have reported problems with the Nintendo Switch 2 dock. Users have noted that the Ethernet port sometimes disconnects unexpectedly. Other owners feel that the design hinders the console’s ventilation, which may cause overheating problems.

    Industry Comparisons

    Critics have pointed out that Apple has a pattern of using proprietary ports. Thankfully, the new console is more friendly towards other third-party Switch 2 accessories, such as pro controllers and headsets.

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  • Steam Summer Sale Boosts Indie Game Rivaling Pokémon to 6-Month High

    Steam Summer Sale Boosts Indie Game Rivaling Pokémon to 6-Month High

    Key Takeaways

    1. Palworld’s collaboration with Terraria led to a peak of 122,512 simultaneous players on Steam after the Tides of Terraria update.
    2. The game is currently discounted by 25%, bringing its price to $22.49, contributing to the increase in player count.
    3. Palworld has a Gold rating on ProtonDB, indicating excellent performance on devices like the SteamOS-based Lenovo Legion Go S.
    4. The Tides of Terraria update introduces new island types, a new boss, additional crafting options, and Terraria-inspired weapons and armors.
    5. In-game settlements have been redesigned to feel more immersive, with more NPCs offering quests, enhancing community interaction and gameplay experience.


    Palworld has recently achieved its full collaboration with Terraria, coinciding with a significant discount during the Steam Summer Sale. This partnership appears to have caused a major increase in the number of players. SteamDB reports that Palworld reached a peak of 122,512 simultaneous players right after the Tides of Terraria update was launched on Steam. Since then, the player count has remained relatively stable, averaging around 100,000 players over the following weekend. This surge is likely influenced by the 25% price cut, bringing the game down to its lowest ever price of $22.49.

    Performance and Compatibility

    Palworld has earned a Gold rating on ProtonDB, suggesting it runs nearly perfectly on devices such as the SteamOS-based Lenovo Legion Go S, currently priced at $829.99 from Lenovo US.

    New Features and Content

    Prior to the collaboration, Palworld already featured a busy gaming environment, with aspects like creature collection battles, open-world exploration, and complex co-op crafting and survival mechanics. However, the collaboration with Terraria, which launched on June 24 as part of the Palworld v0.6.0 update, elevates the experience further. The Tides of Terraria brings a wealth of new, Terraria-inspired activities to the game.

    With the Tides of Terraria update, players can now discover three new island types—tropical, iceberg, and shipwreck. They can explore the Terraria Dungeon, battle a new boss called the Moon Lord, craft a fishing rod to catch fish and gather ocean materials, and team up with a new ally through Zoe’s Special Mission. Additionally, the update introduces six new weapons and seven armors inspired by Terraria.

    Settlements and Community Interaction

    The in-game settlements have been redesigned to be “larger and feel more lived-in,” now featuring more NPCs who offer quests for players. For a comprehensive overview of all the updates to Palworld with the Terraria collaboration, players can refer to the Steam update notes.

    The feedback on Steam also saw a positive shift on June 25, following the Terraria update, with numerous players commending the game and its developers for the extensive content, which can be viewed as a “free DLC-sized update.” This addition enhances the game’s replayability and offers rewarding exploration opportunities.

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  • Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 and 4 Join Game Pass in July

    Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 and 4 Join Game Pass in July

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass will feature Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 on day one for Ultimate and PC subscribers starting July 11, 2025.
    2. The lineup includes both new indie titles and returning fan-favorite games.
    3. Six games will be leaving the service mid-month, with a 20% discount available for subscribers on those titles.
    4. July 2025 offers a diverse selection of action, adventure, horror, RPGs, and nostalgic classics.
    5. The update continues Microsoft’s commitment to providing a varied content library for Xbox Game Pass.


    Microsoft has revealed its first batch of Xbox Game Pass games for July 2025, showcasing an exciting blend of action, adventure, horror, RPGs, and nostalgic classics. The highlight of this lineup is Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, which will be available on day one for Ultimate and PC subscribers beginning July 11.

    New and Returning Titles

    Alongside this major release, the update also reintroduces several fan-favorite games and includes fresh indie titles. Below is the full list of games coming to Game Pass this month –

    According to the official statement, six games will be leaving the service in the middle of the month. Subscribers to Game Pass can enjoy a 20% discount on these games before they are taken off, so those interested should hurry.

    A Diverse Lineup

    July’s impressive selection aligns with Microsoft’s commitment to providing a varied content library. Last month, titles such as World of Warcraft Classics, Crash Bandicoot 4, and Call of Duty: WWII were added to the platform. With a great mix of classic franchises, remastered games, and new indie experiences, July 2025 is poised to be one of the most diverse months for Xbox Game Pass.

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  • PS6 Release Date Still Years Away, Says PlayStation Architect

    PS6 Release Date Still Years Away, Says PlayStation Architect

    Key Takeaways

    1. Excitement is building around the potential early release of the PS6, with speculation suggesting a launch in 2027 or 2028.
    2. Mark Cerny, the lead architect for Sony consoles, emphasizes the focus on enhancing current PlayStation systems rather than rushing new hardware.
    3. AMD FSR 4 upscaling is expected to be available on the PS5 Pro by 2026, showcasing ongoing improvements for existing consoles.
    4. There is conflicting information from Sony leaders, with Hideaki Nishino hinting at a “next generation console strategy” while Cerny suggests a longer preparation time.
    5. Gamers express mixed feelings about upgrading to the PS6, citing concerns over the availability of exclusive games and whether the investment will be worthwhile.


    Recently, talk about a new PlayStation console has been increasing a lot. People are getting excited that the PS6 might come out sooner than expected. Some hints about the system even came from Hideaki Nishino, the CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment. However, Mark Cerny, who is the lead architect for several Sony consoles, now indicates that hardware isn’t what the company is focusing on right now.

    Insights from Cerny

    In an interview with Tom’s Guide, Cerny mentioned that AMD FSR 4 upscaling will be available on the PS5 Pro by 2026. He added that “What I’m trying to do is prepare for the next generation of consoles, so my timeframe is multi-year here.” Cerny appears to be more focused on improving the current PlayStation consoles and games through updates rather than rushing to release new hardware.

    Speculation on the PS6 Release

    The term “multi-year” has ignited more discussion about when the PS6 might be released. Based on previous patterns of PlayStation console launches, many insiders predict that the system will come out in 2027 or 2028. Additionally, a new handheld device supporting PS5 games could also be launched around the same time. Cerny’s comments suggest that the earliest we might see the PS6 is in 2027, but it could also be released later than what some fans are hoping for.

    Conflicting Views on New Hardware

    Cerny’s remarks seem to contradict a recent discussion with investors where Hideaki Nishino talked about how many gamers are ready for new hardware. The PlayStation leader mentioned a “next generation console strategy” and stated that “the future of the platform is top of mind.” While there are gamers who are excited about a new console, others believe that the PS5 still has room to grow. Some fans have criticized Sony for not having enough exclusive games and are uncertain if there will be sufficient innovative titles to make upgrading to the PS6 worth it.

    Although it requires a big investment, the PS5 Pro might be a significant upgrade for many consumers. Cerny is hopeful to offer performance improvements that will make the console even more appealing to buyers.

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  • Microsoft Cuts 9000 Jobs, Xbox Division Faces Major Layoffs

    Microsoft Cuts 9000 Jobs, Xbox Division Faces Major Layoffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is laying off approximately 9,000 employees, representing nearly 4% of its global workforce, to simplify its structure for fiscal year 2026.
    2. The gaming division, especially the King division known for Candy Crush, is significantly impacted, with about 200 job cuts (10% of its workforce).
    3. This is the fourth round of layoffs in the Xbox division over the past 18 months, following previous cuts totaling around 10,000 jobs in 2023.
    4. The layoffs are part of Microsoft’s strategy to adapt to a changing market and to prioritize the best opportunities for future success.
    5. Microsoft aims to streamline its management structure by reducing layers between executives and employees.


    Microsoft has decided to lay off around 9000 staff members, impacting nearly 4% of its total global workforce across different teams and locations. This decision represents another phase of layoffs as the company seeks to simplify its structure at the beginning of its fiscal year for 2026. The software giant from Redmond usually makes organizational changes at the start of each fiscal cycle.

    Company Statement

    “We are continuing to execute the necessary organizational changes to position the company and teams for success in a changing market,” said a spokesperson for Microsoft.

    Impact on Gaming Division

    The gaming sector is one of the most significantly affected areas. According to Bloomberg, workers from Microsoft’s gaming division, including the Xbox team, were notified about the job cuts early Wednesday. Specifically, the King division, based in Stockholm and famous for the widely played game Candy Crush, is cutting about 10% of its workforce, which translates to around 200 jobs lost. Other layoffs have been confirmed in European gaming offices, with further announcements expected for U.S. divisions later today.

    Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, addressed the layoffs through an email to employees, stating:

    “I understand that these changes occur at a time when we have more players, games, and gaming hours than ever. Our platform, hardware, and game plans have never been more robust. The success we are currently experiencing is a result of difficult choices we’ve made in the past. We must make decisions now to ensure continued success in the coming years, and a crucial part of that strategy is the discipline to prioritize the best opportunities.”

    Recent Layoff History

    This is the fourth round of cuts in the Xbox division over the last 18 months. Last year, Microsoft cut nearly 2000 jobs in the gaming sector, including positions at Xbox and Activision Blizzard, and also shut down three ZeniMax game studios after acquiring them in 2021. These actions are part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to integrate following its $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard in October 2023.

    The latest layoffs come after several rounds of job reductions this year. Earlier, in January, Microsoft let go of less than 1% of its workforce based on performance assessments. In May, the company laid off over 6000 employees, followed by 300 more positions cut in June. By June 2024, Microsoft had around 228000 employees globally. In 2023 alone, the company had already decreased its workforce by 10000.

    As with the layoffs in May, Microsoft aims to streamline its management structure by minimizing the layers between top executives and individual contributors.

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