Category: Technology

• Nintendo Switch 2 release date rumors are gaining traction as the console reportedly enters mass production.
• Analyst David Gibson indicates significant investment in production equipment and automation by Nintendo’s assembler, Hosiden.
• The console is expected to be announced in September 2024, with a potential release in March 2025.
• Backward compatibility for original Switch games has been confirmed, easing the transition for existing users.
• Further details about the Nintendo Switch 2 are anticipated to be revealed soon, possibly addressing many outstanding questions.

https://www.tomsguide.com/gaming/handheld-gaming/nintendo-switch-2-reportedly-in-mass-production-and-this-could-be-the-release-date

• GoPro Hero 13 lens support introduces interchangeable lens capabilities to the latest action cameras, enhancing customization options.
• Two models are available: the Hero 13 Black at $649 with advanced features and the standard Hero 13 at $349 for more basic needs.
• The Hero 13 Black features a 27-megapixel sensor, capable of capturing up to 5.3K video at 60p and supports various aspect ratios and HDR.
• New optional lenses include Neutral Density filters, ultra-wide, macro, and an anamorphic lens, all designed specifically for the Hero 13 series.
• The cameras support additional accessories like mounts and a magnetic charging door, with availability starting in September 2023.

https://www.pickr.com.au/news/2024/gopro-brings-lens-support-to-action-cameras-with-hero-13/

• AI use without disclosure is prevalent in Australian businesses, with a third not informing employees or customers about its implementation.
• The federal government plans to introduce mandatory regulations for high-risk AI tools, aiming to enhance accountability and transparency.
• Many businesses reported immature approaches to responsible AI use, with half lacking risk assessments and no plans for future evaluations.
• Experts warn of potential harms from AI, including discrimination in hiring practices and the misuse of personal data, prompting calls for precautionary measures.
• The Australian government seeks to align its AI regulations with international standards, following similar initiatives from the EU, Canada, and the US.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-05/ai-mandatory-guardrails-laws-business-customer-disclosure/104308250

• Android’s latest update features improvements in text-to-speech, Circle to Search, earthquake alerts, and more.
• New accessibility features include “TalkBack” for audio descriptions of images and “Listen to this page” for reading webpages aloud in Chrome.
• The “Circle to Search” feature allows users to identify songs without third-party apps by using gestures like circling or tapping.
• Android’s earthquake alert system is expanding to all U.S. states, providing alerts for tremors of 4.5 magnitude or higher.
• Wear OS users can now access offline maps and utilize new shortcuts for voice destination searches and quick map access.

https://techcrunch.com/2024/09/03/android-15-release-new-updates/

• PlayStation Concord Game Refund Content follows the decision to take the new game “Concord” offline and issue refunds to players after only two weeks since its launch.
• The game, developed by Firewalk, has seen a significantly low player base, peaking at just 697 concurrent players.
• “Concord” has been compared to “Overwatch,” featuring team-based gameplay with crews of Freegunner space outlaws.
• Players experienced matchmaking difficulties due to the small audience, prompting feedback from the community.
• Refunds will be provided to all players who purchased “Concord,” with different processes depending on the platform used for the purchase.

https://variety.com/2024/gaming/news/playstation-shuts-down-concord-refund-players-1236128208/

• TicWatch Pro 5 Wear OS 4 is being rolled out by Mobvoi, despite the upcoming Wear OS 5 launch for other devices.
• The update will be available in phases starting early September for devices currently on Wear OS 3.5.
• Users will receive notifications on their watches when the Wear OS 4 update is ready for installation.
• The update includes new features like Backup & restore, Phone transfer options, and 25 additional workout types in TicExercise.
• Google and Samsung are preparing to launch Wear OS 5, with Samsung already shipping new models with the updated OS.

https://9to5google.com/2024/09/03/ticwatch-pro-5-wear-os-4/

• Repairable smartphone social media detox is a key feature of the HMD Skyline, which aims to promote digital wellbeing.
• The Skyline offers a retro design, decent hardware, and a unique “Digital Detox Mode” to limit social media usage.
• While it allows for user repairs with iFixit support, the promise of longevity is questionable due to only two years of software updates.
• Compromises include weaker wireless charging, lower water resistance, and a less vibrant screen compared to competitors.
• Overall, the Skyline presents itself as a mid-range phone with a focus on repairability and reducing social media distractions, but may not significantly outperform existing options.

https://www.smh.com.au/technology/can-this-repairable-smartphone-deliver-a-perfect-social-media-detox-20240830-p5k6pl.html

• AMD Ryzen CPU Comparison highlights the differences between the Ryzen 5 9600X and Ryzen 9 9900X, showcasing their performance and suitability for various tasks.
• The Ryzen 5 9600X is an affordable option with 6 cores, a boost speed of 5.4GHz, and a low TDP of 65W, making it ideal for gaming and general computing.
• In contrast, the Ryzen 9 9900X features 12 cores, a top speed of 5.6GHz, and better performance for heavy workloads, though it comes at a higher price of $649.
• Both CPUs support PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 RAM, but the Ryzen 5 is more power-efficient, drawing only 88W under full load compared to the 9900X’s 162W.
• While the Ryzen 9 9900X excels in multi-core performance, the Ryzen 5 9600X offers great value for most users, particularly in single-core applications and gaming scenarios.

https://www.xda-developers.com/amd-ryzen-5-9600x-vs-ryzen-9-9900x/

• Telegram founder Pavel Durov is under a France travel ban after being charged with complicity in managing an online platform linked to illicit activities.
• He was arrested outside Paris as part of an investigation into child abuse material and drug trafficking on Telegram.
• Durov was released on bail of 5 million euros ($8.2 million) and must report to police twice a week while investigations continue.
• French authorities initiated the investigation due to Telegram’s lack of response to judicial requests for data related to crimes against children.
• The arrest has sparked outrage in Russia, with officials claiming it is politically motivated, while French President Macron insists it is part of an independent investigation.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-29/telegram-pavel-durov-banned-from-leaving-france-charges-laid/104283704

• Must-Have Gaming Gear includes peripherals designed for students to balance studying and gaming effectively.
• Back-to-school gaming gear features compact speakers, high-performance headsets, and comfortable chairs for long study sessions.
• The Corsair TC500 Luxe gaming chair offers adjustable lumbar support and a stylish design, making it a worthwhile investment for gamers.
• The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5X headset provides excellent sound quality and connectivity options for multiple devices at an affordable price.
• Essential accessories like the WD P40 Game Drive ensure ample storage and fast data transfer for both gaming and schoolwork.

https://kotaku.com/must-have-gaming-gear-to-level-up-the-school-year-like-1851615859

• The iPhone screenshot method varies by model, with different button combinations for devices with and without a Home button.
• To capture a screenshot on iPhones without a Home button, press the Side and Volume Up buttons simultaneously; for those with a Home button, press the Power and Home buttons together.
• Assistive Touch and Back Tap features offer alternative ways to take screenshots without using physical buttons.
• Scrolling screenshots can be captured in Safari by selecting the Full Page option after taking a screenshot, while Tailor app can stitch multiple screenshots in other apps.
• Screen recordings can be enabled via Control Center settings, allowing users to record their screen and save the videos in the Photos app.

https://lifehacker.com/tech/how-to-take-a-screenshot-on-an-iphone

• Switch Chrome to Firefox for a better browsing experience, as Firefox offers strong privacy protections and does not rely on ad revenue like Google Chrome.
• Google Chrome’s upcoming changes may hinder adblockers and extensions, making Firefox a more reliable alternative.
• Firefox uses its own Gecko engine instead of Chromium, ensuring that it remains unaffected by changes impacting Chromium-based browsers.
• The switching process from Chrome to Firefox is simple, allowing users to import their data, bookmarks, and extensions easily.
• For those seeking enhanced privacy, Mullvad Browser is a notable alternative to Firefox, offering strong anti-fingerprinting features and no data collection.

https://lifehacker.com/tech/how-to-switch-from-chrome-to-firefox-and-why-you-should

• PS5 SSD 8TB capacity has been announced by Western Digital, priced at $999, which is double the PS5 console’s cost.
• The new WD_Black SN850P SSD can store up to 200 PS5 games, addressing the storage limitations of the console’s standard hard drive.
• The drive is marketed as “Designed for serious gamers” and aims to meet the growing storage needs due to larger game file sizes.
• It includes a one-month trial of PlayStation Plus Premium, although the price is high enough to buy six years of the service.
• The WD_Black SN850P will be available for purchase through Western Digital and other retailers later this month.

https://www.tomsguide.com/gaming/playstation/ps5-ssd-with-8tb-capacity-announced-and-the-price-is-eye-watering

• Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold features a key security upgrade with improved face recognition technology.
• The new face unlock is more secure, making it harder to deceive compared to the original Pixel Fold.
• Users can unlock secure apps and the device itself using the enhanced face recognition feature.
• The Pixel 9 Pro Fold likely includes class 3 biometric protection, offering robust security through an additional depth sensor.
• The device’s face unlock technology aims to match the accuracy and reliability found in Apple’s Face ID system.

https://www.techradar.com/phones/google-pixel-phones/a-key-security-upgrade-for-the-google-pixel-9-pro-fold-has-just-been-revealed

• Middle Click Windows Shortcuts can significantly enhance productivity by utilizing the middle mouse button for various tasks in Windows 11.
• Middle-clicking allows users to open links in new tabs, enabling continued reading without losing the current article.
• Users can automatically scroll through pages by middle-clicking on an empty space, adjusting scrolling speed based on cursor movement.
• The middle-click function also facilitates closing tabs and windows quickly, as well as opening bookmarks and suggestions in new tabs.
• Refreshing a page with a middle-click on the refresh button opens the page in a new tab, allowing for easy comparison of content changes.

https://lifehacker.com/tech/10-useful-middle-click-shortcuts-in-windows

• Google foldable Pro phone is part of the new Pixel 9 line-up, which includes three Pro versions and a standard model.
• The Pixel 9 Pro Fold features an 8-inch LTPO display and a design that allows it to function as a standard-sized phone when closed.
• All Pixel 9 phones are powered by the new Tensor G4 chip, with enhanced AI features for photography and screenshot analysis.
• Google also introduced a new smartwatch and updated Pixel Buds Pro, focusing on fitness and advanced AI capabilities.
• The Pixel 9 series promises long battery life, with the Pro Fold expected to last over 72 hours on a single charge.

https://www.smh.com.au/technology/google-adds-a-foldable-smaller-pro-model-to-its-pixel-smartphone-line-up-20240813-p5k1yl.html

• Google Chrome is killing the uBlock Origin ad blocker extension due to a new update that disables it automatically.
• The update shifts Chrome’s extension support from Manifest V2 to V3, affecting features that uBlock Origin relies on.
• Google aims to improve privacy, security, and performance, which has led to a crackdown on ad-blockers across its products.
• Developer Raymond Hill has introduced uBlock Origin Lite as a compliant alternative, but it offers less dynamic functionality.
• Users still have the option to switch to other browsers like Firefox or Edge, where uBlock Origin remains functional.

https://mashable.com/article/google-chrome-killing-ad-blocker-ublock-origin

• Susan Wojcicki dies cancer at the age of 56 after a two-year battle with lung cancer.
• She was a prominent figure in tech, serving as the CEO of YouTube and holding various roles at Google since 1999.
• Wojcicki played a crucial role in the development of Google and was among its first employees before YouTube’s acquisition.
• After stepping down from YouTube in 2023, she focused on family, health, and personal projects, leaving a significant legacy.
• Google CEO Sundar Pichai and others paid tribute to her dedication and philanthropy during her illness.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-10/former-youtube-ceo-susan-wojcicki-dies-aged-56/104209928

• iPhone video music shooting will be possible with iOS 18, allowing users to listen to music while recording videos.
• Previously, the iPhone paused music when accessing the video tab, but this feature is being updated to accommodate modern usage.
• Users can enable this feature by upgrading to iOS 18 and adjusting the settings in the Camera app to allow audio playback.
• A workaround for older iOS versions includes using the QuickTake feature to record videos while listening to music.
• The QuickTake feature is available on iPhone XS and newer models, allowing for quick video capture without navigating to the video tab.

https://lifehacker.com/tech/iphones-can-shoot-video-while-playing-music

• Logitech mouse release date is not relevant as the company clarifies that the ‘forever mouse’ is merely a sustainability concept, not an actual product.
• The CEO’s comments sparked backlash, leading Logitech to confirm there are no plans for a subscription model for mice.
• The ‘forever mouse’ was described as a high-quality, long-lasting device, likened to a wristwatch, but not intended for market release.
• Logitech’s communications head emphasized that the idea was part of internal brainstorming on sustainable consumer electronics, not a product in development.
• The discussion highlighted challenges in monetizing hardware, with Logitech favoring traditional models of innovation and upgrades over subscription fees.

https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/6/24214857/logitech-subscription-mouse-decoder-podcast-hanneke-faber

• GTA 6 beta scam warning highlights how scammers exploit excitement for the game with fake beta access ads on Facebook.
• Fraudulent advertisements promise early access to GTA 6, deceiving users into downloading malware.
• The scam was investigated by Bitdefender, revealing a fake installer that infects devices with a Trojan virus.
• Rockstar Games has not announced any beta access for GTA 6, emphasizing the importance of relying on official sources.
• The game is set for release in 2025 and will feature new protagonists, locations, and activities, enhancing the gaming experience.

https://tech.hindustantimes.com/gaming/news/gta-6-scammers-exploit-hype-with-fake-beta-ads-experts-warn-of-fraudulent-schemes-71722671170896.html

• The Xbox 360’s pioneering online store has gone offline, marking the end of a gaming era
• The Xbox 360 digital store shutdown took about 220 games with it, highlighting the importance of game preservation
• The Xbox 360 Marketplace was ahead of its time, enabling the indie renaissance and changing the console gaming landscape
• The transition to digital storefronts was gradual, with Xbox Live Marketplace playing a significant role in shifting towards the digital future
• The closure of the Xbox 360 Marketplace signifies a shift in the way games are bought and played, reflecting on the nostalgia of a bygone era

https://www.theguardian.com/games/article/2024/jul/31/pushing-buttons-xbox-360-marketplace

• Replace File Explorer default on Windows by switching to alternatives like XYplorer or OneCommander and setting them as default via registry hack
• Alternative file managers offer modern interfaces, tabbed browsing, file previews, and integrations with cloud services like OneDrive and Google Drive
• XYplorer provides tab support, dual-pane layout, powerful search functionality, customization options, and script support for automation
• OneCommander simplifies setting itself as the default file manager by handling registry hacks automatically, offering advanced filtering and customization options
• Total Commander is a comprehensive file manager with features like disk searches, file comparisons, batch processing, and quick previews; registry edits can set a chosen file manager as default, but caution is advised due to potential Windows issues

https://lifehacker.com/tech/how-to-replace-file-explorer-as-the-default-on-windows

• Portable PC gaming console: Asus ROG Ally X, a refined version of the ROG Ally, offers a portable Windows-based machine for $800
• Hardware features: Bright seven-inch display, 1080p resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, full-size controller feel, large buttons, and joysticks
• Software interface: Armoury Crate SE acts as a game launcher, centralizing installed games, with bugs and slow performance noted
• Performance and specs: AMD Z1 Extreme APU, 24GB RAM, 1TB NVMe storage, 80Wh battery, USB Type-C port, suitable for mid-range gaming
• Gaming experience: Comfortable for short sessions, heavy, warm during gameplay, good for immersive gaming on the go

https://techcrunch.com/2024/07/21/the-asus-rog-ally-x-turns-pc-gaming-into-a-portable-console/

• Intel’s ongoing CPU troubles with the 13th and 14th Gen CPUs, particularly the 13900K and 14900K models, facing instability issues and reports of high failure rates.
• AMD introduces new game-specific technology that can reduce install sizes by up to 70%, potentially decreasing game sizes significantly.
• AI models being trained on downloaded YouTube data from popular channels, with companies like Apple and NVIDIA using this data for training, against Google’s terms of service.
• Microsoft develops an AI voice generator that sounds indistinguishable from a real voice but decides not to release it for undisclosed reasons.
• Latest rumors on GeForce RTX 50 Series, including Skyrim running on a GeForce RTX 4090 with over 3100 mods, transforming the game’s appearance significantly.

https://www.tweaktown.com/news/99423/tt-show-episode-43-intel-cpu-troubles-and-amds-exciting-new-game-tech/index.html

• Galaxy AI on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 allows for incredible AI photo edits
• Galaxy AI can add a variety of objects to photos with photorealistic results
• Sketch to Image feature in the Samsung Galaxy Photos app enables creative manipulation of images
• Users can draw simple sketches to generate companion objects in photos
• Galaxy AI’s Sketch to Image process is quick, creating generative options in seconds

https://www.techradar.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-phones/i-made-these-10-incredible-ai-photo-edits-with-galaxy-ai-on-the-samsung-galaxy-z-fold-6-and-ill-never-be-lonely-again

• The global computer outage affecting airports, banks, and other businesses on Friday is linked to a software update by CrowdStrike, a major US cybersecurity firm.
• CrowdStrike acknowledged the issue caused by a defect in a software update for Microsoft Windows systems, not due to a security breach or cyberattack.
• The outage affected CrowdStrike’s Falcon software, used by Fortune 500 companies for cybersecurity, requiring deep-level access to scan for hacking threats.
• CrowdStrike’s stock fell 9% as engineers worked to fix the problem, impacting the company’s global business operations and investigations.
• CrowdStrike is known for tracking major hacks, including the Russian interference in the 2016 US election, and has been the subject of conspiracy theories since then.

https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/19/tech/crowdstrike-update-global-outage-explainer/index.html

• OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro offer flagship-level sound for just $79, released alongside other new OnePlus products in the U.S. and Canada markets
• The buds feature BassWave tech, Hybrid ANC with up to 49dB noise cancellation, and Crystal Clear Call technology with triple microphones
• Available in Starry Black and Soft Jade colorways, the buds promise up to 12 hours of music listening on a single charge, with a total of 44 hours with the charging case
• Additional features include Master EQ with three modes, fast charging for 11 hours of playback in 10 minutes, Bluetooth 5.4, dual connections, and IP55 water and dust resistance
• Interested consumers can purchase the Nord Buds 3 Pro on the OnePlus website starting July 16, with support for Google Fast Pair for Android phones

https://www.androidcentral.com/accessories/oneplus-nord-buds-3-pro-launch

• Best Amazon Prime Day Deals on Desktops include pre-built PCs and computer parts
• Amazon Prime Day 2024 offers money-saving opportunities on tech products
• Sign up for a free 30-day trial of Amazon Prime to access exclusive deals
• Featured desktop deals include Acer Aspire TC, Acer Aspire C24, mini PCs, Skytech gaming PCs, Asus ROG Strix, and CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme
• Stay updated on Amazon Prime Day 2024 Deals coverage for more discounts and promotions

https://au.pcmag.com/desktop-pcs/106220/best-amazon-prime-day-deals-on-desktops

• Amazon Prime Day is here, offering a range of laptop deals from brands like Asus, LG, Samsung, and more
• Prime Members can access exclusive discounts and benefits, with a 30-day free trial available for new sign-ups
• Asus VivoBook 16 and TUF Gaming F15 offer budget-friendly options for daily use and gaming
• Samsung Galaxy Books cater to those in the Galaxy ecosystem, featuring portability and productivity
• LG gram, HP 14, and Asus ROG Strix G16 provide diverse options for different computing needs, from work to gaming

https://au.pcmag.com/laptops/106221/best-amazon-prime-day-laptop-deals-asus-lg-samsung-and-more

• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 offers substantial upgrades, including a new 50MP main camera, larger battery capacity, and auto-zoom for selfies.
• The Z Flip 6 is positioned as the best foldable flip phone in the market, with improvements over the Z Flip 4 and Z Flip 5.
• The Z Flip 6 features the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and promises seven years of OS updates.
• The device boasts a vapor chamber for cooling, enhancing performance, and a larger battery capacity for improved battery life.
• The Z Flip 6 is considered one of the best phones of 2024, showcasing the maturity of the foldable phone market with incremental but significant improvements.

https://www.xda-developers.com/samsung-galaxy-z-flip-6-vs-z-flip-5-vs-z-flip-4/

• Save $600 Off the New Alienware Aurora R16 RTX 4080 SUPER Gaming PC
• Powerful gaming PC for 4K gaming with high framerates and ray tracing
• Equipped with Intel Core i9-14900F CPU, GeForce RTX 4080 SUPER GPU, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and 1TB M.2 SSD
• R16 chassis is 40% smaller with improved airflow design for better cooling performance
• Dell’s Alienware gaming PCs offer customization options, quality build, and solid customer service

https://www.ign.com/articles/save-600-off-the-new-alienware-aurora-r16-rtx-4080-super-gaming-pc

• Logitech has launched the G515 Lightspeed TKL wireless gaming keyboard for Rs 14,195
• The keyboard features PBT keycaps and customizable lighting and keys
• It has low-profile keys, sound-dampening foam, pre-lubricated switches, and integrated stabilizers
• Logitech’s Keycontrol technology allows for various customization options
• The keyboard offers 36 hours of battery life and comes in black and white color options

https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/gadgets/logitech-launches-g515-lightspeed-tkl-wireless-gaming-keyboard-for-rs-14195-9442936/

• Microsoft employees in China banned from using Android phones on company network, must use Apple iPhones instead
• Google Play Store not available in China, leading to security concerns with Android devices
• Microsoft’s Secure Future Initiative aims to enhance security measures for employees in China
• Employees with Android devices to receive iPhone 15 as a one-time purchase
• Initiative includes increased security for software, cloud patches, network, and tenant environments

https://www.cyberdaily.au/security/10804-microsoft-employees-in-china-banned-from-using-android-phones

• The Fairwork trio, James Muldoon, Mark Graham, and Callum Cant, discuss the dependency of AI on human work in their book ‘Feeding the Machine: The Hidden Human Labour Powering AI’
• They reveal the exploitative nature of big tech companies using repetitive labor, often in poor conditions, to fuel the creation of artificial intelligence
• The trio conducted fieldwork in Kenya and Uganda on the data annotation industry, uncovering horrendous working conditions
• Fairwork evaluates companies based on principles of decent work, prompting some companies to improve their practices
• The concept of the “extraction machine” highlights how big tech profits off the physical and intellectual labor of humans, creating new forms of inequality and exploitation

https://www.theguardian.com/technology/article/2024/jul/06/james-muldoon-mark-graham-callum-cant-ai-artificial-intelligence-human-work-exploitation-fairwork-feeding-machine

• African workers Mercy and Anita are driving the AI revolution for just over a dollar an hour, processing social media content and AI training data in outsource centers in the global south
• Workers like Mercy face long hours, low pay, and exposure to disturbing material as they manually moderate content and label data for computer algorithms
• The demands of the job are intense, with workers expected to meet stringent performance targets based on speed and accuracy, leading to psychological damage and devastating consequences
• Many workers are on insecure contracts, face oppressive surveillance, and are discouraged from questioning management for fear of losing their jobs
• Data annotation work is essential for AI development, with workers like Anita in Uganda reviewing footage for autonomous vehicles, earning around $1.16 per hour and facing physically and psychologically draining conditions

https://www.theguardian.com/technology/article/2024/jul/06/mercy-anita-african-workers-ai-artificial-intelligence-exploitation-feeding-machine

• Game Delayed For 22 Years: Kien, an RPG developed for the Game Boy Advance over two decades, has finally been released, offering physical cartridges for purchase.
• Long Development History: Started in 2002 by a group of friends in Italy, Kien faced challenges with costs and lack of publisher interest, leading to a 22-year delay.
• Persistence of Developer: Despite setbacks, game designer Fabio Belsanti remained dedicated to Kien, eventually partnering with Incube8 for its release in 2024.
• Nostalgia and Revival: Belsanti attributes the resurgence of interest in retro games to nostalgia and curiosity, driving the decision to bring Kien back to life.
• Available Now: Kien is now available for purchase in physical form for the Game Boy Advance or as a digital version playable on emulators, marking a long-awaited milestone in its journey.

https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/07/game-delayed-for-22-years-is-finally-out/

• Nintendo has officially ended repairs for the Wii U in Japan due to a parts shortage, marking the end of the console’s repair services.
• The announcement of the cessation of repairs for the Wii U was made through posts on Nintendo Japan’s social media accounts.
• The closure of repair services for the Wii U follows the shutdown of the 3DS and Wii U online shops in April.
• Despite Nintendo no longer offering repairs, there are still independent electronics professionals who can assist with Wii U repairs.
• Second-hand Wii U consoles are available for purchase on platforms like eBay for under $200 AUD, offering an alternative for those seeking the console.

https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/07/nintendo-says-its-runs-out-of-wii-u-parts-cant-repair-them-anymore/

• Garmin Fenix 8 release date leaks hint at September 2024 launch with various sizes and colors
• Leaker Florian suggests discontinuation of Epix name and inclusion of AMOLED screen in Fenix 8
• Potential pricing details for Fenix 8 and a cheaper model with MIP screen mentioned
• Updates needed for Fenix 8 include improved AMOLED screen, heart rate sensor, and AI integration for Garmin Connect
• Garmin may introduce a Solar model with Power Glass technology for extended battery life

https://www.techradar.com/health-fitness/first-garmin-fenix-8-leaks-hint-at-release-date-and-more-for-apple-watch-ultra-rival

• The Best Sales From Amazon, PS Store & More include deals for the PS5 in Australia.
• PS5 consoles are now readily available with discounts in stock online and in person.
• On-sale titles for the PS5 include games like Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, Dragon’s Dogma 2, and Tekken 8.
• Amazon Prime Day may offer discounts on PS5 consoles.
• Deals are available for PS5 games, controllers, accessories, and storage upgrades.

https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/07/best-ps5-deals-sale-australia/

• Nintendo has no interest in using generative AI for game development due to intellectual property issues, as confirmed by Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa.
• Furukawa emphasized that Nintendo will continue to create games that cannot be achieved through technology alone, prioritizing unique value for customers.
• The decision to avoid generative AI sets Nintendo apart from other companies in the industry, who have been exploring AI technology for game development.
• Despite the prevalence of AI in the game industry, Nintendo seems content with their current approach and expertise in creating optimal gaming experiences.
• While other companies like Ubisoft and PlayStation are embracing AI, Nintendo’s focus remains on delivering value through their traditional methods, potentially sparing gamers from AI-driven content in the future.

https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/07/nintendo-has-no-interest-in-generative-ai-saving-us-all-from-the-darkest-timeline/

• Reports suggest more Activision games will be added to Game Pass, with Call of Duty titles still missing
• Xbox finalized a deal to purchase Activision Blizzard King for $US69 billion in January 2023
• Only one Activision game, Diablo IV, has been added to Game Pass so far
• Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy rumored to arrive on Game Pass in August, with other titles potentially following
• Xbox is taking time to bring the full Activision back catalogue to Game Pass, unlike the quick integration of Bethesda games

https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/07/report-more-activision-games-coming-to-game-pass-call-of-duty-still-mia/

• Google Pixel 6 users experiencing bricking after factory reset, leading to boot looping issues
• Users advised to hold off on factory resetting Pixel 6 due to reported bricking problem
• Error messages indicating corrupt data and missing critical files after factory reset attempts
• Issue appears to be software-related, Google aware and investigating
• Pixel 6a and Pixel 6 Pro not affected, no indication of bug on newer models like Pixel 8

https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/google-pixel-phones/google-pixel-6-is-reportedly-getting-bricked-after-factory-reset

• Lenovo Legion Go is currently on sale at Centrecom for its cheapest price in Australia, offering a $300 discount.
• Available both online and in-store at Centrecom, the Lenovo Legion Go Z1 8.8″ WQXGA 144Hz is priced at $1,199, including free shipping and click and collect options in select regions.
• The deal also includes three months of Game Pass, allowing users to build their gaming library upon purchase.
• The discounted price brings the Legion Go closer in range to other handheld gaming devices like the ROG Ally and locally available Steam Decks.
• While awaiting the official launch of the Steam Deck in Australia, the Lenovo Legion Go provides a viable alternative for gamers looking for a handheld PC.

https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/07/lenovo-legion-go-australia-centrecom-sale/

• Steam users are sitting on roughly $28 billion AUD ($19B USD) of unplayed games, according to new research by PCGamesN and SteamIDFinder.
• The estimated value of unplayed Steam games is more than the GDP of several countries, based on data from around 73 million public Steam accounts.
• The research suggests that the average Steam user has a significant amount of unplayed games in their library, contributing to the overall value of unplayed games.
• The estimate may not account for buying patterns such as sales and bundles, and some users have amassed large libraries through discounts and free games on other platforms.
• The SteamIDFinder tool allows users to check the value of their unplayed games and consider tackling their backlog, though the sheer number of games may be overwhelming for many.

https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/07/steam-shame-pile/

• Apple has integrated Reminders with the Calendar app in the iOS 18 update, allowing reminders with due dates to automatically appear in the Calendar with checkboxes.
• Users no longer need to switch between the Calendar and Reminders apps, as reminders will now seamlessly show up in the Calendar app with due dates and times.
• The integration is simple and effective, with reminders appearing in the Calendar app with checkboxes that can be marked as complete directly from the Calendar.
• Third-party options like ReminderCal offer integration between reminders and the Calendar app, but lack the ability to display reminders as tasks with checkboxes like Apple’s feature.
• Apps like Structured provide a comprehensive solution by combining tasks and calendar events in one app, allowing users to manage reminders and subtasks directly from the Calendar.

https://lifehacker.com/tech/you-can-finally-use-reminders-in-apple-calendar

• Apple Vision Pro launches in mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore, expanding beyond the US market.
• The headset was initially launched in the US in February at a high price of $3,499, leading to concerns about demand.
• Customers are advised to experience a one-on-one guided demo at an Apple Store before purchasing the Vision Pro.
• Apple announced upcoming features in visionOS 2 at WWDC, including new gestures and improvements to the Mac Virtual Display feature.
• Despite a strong app ecosystem, Apple may need to lower the cost of the Vision Pro to compete with other more affordable options like Meta Quest 3.

https://www.thurrott.com/apple/304796/apple-vision-pro-launches-in-china-hong-kong-japan-and-singapore

• HP has created the HP Omen Transcend 14, a quiet gaming laptop that is stylish and sleek, unlike traditional loud gaming laptops.
• The laptop features high-end specs including an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU and Intel Core Ultra 9 185H2 processor for optimal gaming performance.
• It boasts a 2.8k 120hz HDR OLED display with 100% DCI-P3, offering excellent visuals for gaming.
• The laptop comes with up to 2 TB of storage, allowing for ample space to store games and files.
• The HP Omen Transcend 14 includes OMEN Tempest Cooling GO software to control fan speed and monitor heat levels, ensuring efficient cooling during intensive gaming sessions.

https://www.kotaku.com.au/2024/06/hp-made-a-gaming-laptop-they-promise-wont-sound-like-a-jet-engine/

• Steam launches new background gameplay recording and sharing feature into beta, expanding its built-in features
• Two distinct recording modes: Background Recording for continuous gameplay saving and On Demand Recording for user-controlled start and stop
• Features include timeline with event markers, lightweight clipping tools, redesigned interface for editing and sharing footage
• One-click sharing option for posting videos in chat or globally, easy transfer of recordings between devices
• Replay mode accessible from Steam Overlay for quick review of recent gameplay; available in beta with SDK and API for developers

https://www.eurogamer.net/steam-launches-new-background-gameplay-recording-and-sharing-feature-into-beta

• Date, Time & What To Expect: Google announced its Made By Google event for August, showcasing the Pixel 9 and potentially other devices like the Pixel Watch and Pixel Buds.
• The event will take place on August 13, 2024, in the U.S., likely in the early hours of August 14, 2024.
• Previous Made By Google events unveiled Pixel phones, accessories, Android updates, and AI advancements.
• Rumors suggest the Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel Watch 3, updated Pixel Buds, and potential Pixel Fold 2 release at the upcoming event.
• Viewers can watch the event live on Google’s YouTube channel at the company’s headquarters in Mountain View, California.

https://gizmodo.com.au/2024/06/made-by-google-event-2024/