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Aujourd’hui — 27 février 20251.3 🖥️ Tech. English

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition Review: Featherweight Elegance

27 février 2025 à 20:40
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition Review: Featherweight Elegance Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition Starting at Starting at $2000, On Sale For $2042 At Amazon As Tested Lenovo's latest ThinkPad X1 Carbon is elegant, sleek and lighter than ever, with Intel Lunar Lake processors on board, though it is pricey, even for the enterprise. Incredibly thin and light Generous port selection despite small...

ASUS ROG Harpe Ace Mini Review

Par :pzogel
27 février 2025 à 21:07
Aside from being smaller and lighter at 48 g than the original Harpe Ace, the Harpe Ace Mini also comes with ROG optical switches for the main buttons and ASUS's latest AimPoint sensor. Both 2.4 GHz wireless and Bluetooth are supported, with the former offering up to 105 hours of battery life.

PlayStation VR2 gets a much needed price cut

27 février 2025 à 19:29

The PlayStation VR2 hasn't made very many headlines since launch, in large part due to low sales, which in turn led to a drought of significant game releases. That may finally start to change, as the headset is finally getting a much needed price cut. 

Today, Sony announced that the PlayStation VR2 headset will get a significant price cut. Starting in March, the headset will be priced at £399, a near £200 price cut compared to launch. Sony will be selling a bundle including the headset, controllers, a pair of headphones and a copy of Horizon: Call of the Mountain at this £399 price point.

It is clear that Sony's goal here is to boost adoption of its latest VR headset, which failed to meet initial sales expectations. Nobody really knows why Sony expected to sell millions of these headsets at its original price point, especially when you factor in the fact that it was more expensive than the PS5 console also required to use the headset. However, the situation is now finally starting to improve, with the headset merely costing about as much as a PS5 Digital Edition system.

If you buy a PlayStation VR2 headset now, you won't be restricted to only using it with the PS5. Last year, Sony released an update and a special dongle allowing the headset to be used with PC, so you can access PSVR2 exclusives on console, as well as a much larger range of VR titles available on services like Steam.

KitGuru Says: Would you consider picking up a PSVR2 at its new price point? 

The post PlayStation VR2 gets a much needed price cut first appeared on KitGuru.

Game Freak announces Pokemon Champions for mutltiple platforms

27 février 2025 à 18:30

This year's Pokemon Presents stream didn't have too many surprises but Game Freak did announce a new game – Pokemon Champions, a PvP battle focused Pokemon game with crossplay across Switch and Mobile devices. 

Pokemon Champions takes out all of the exploration and Pokemon-capturing mechanics in order to purely focus on battles. It appears to be a spiritual successor to Pokemon Collesium and Pokemon Stadium but with more modern Pokemon designs and new mechanics like Mega Evolution and Terastalized Pokemon forms.

The game will have a multiplayer focus, with no plans for a single-player campaign. To ensure a broad player base, the game will be available for both Nintendo Switch and mobile platforms, like iOS and Android. There will be full crossplay between the mobile and Switch versions of the game.

On top of all that, the game also connects to Pokemon Home, so you can import Pokemon you've collected from other titles in the series and use them in Pokemon Champions without having to go through any extra effort to unlock them.

There is no release date yet for Pokemon Champions, but we expect to get more information on it later in the year.

KitGuru Says: Would you be interested in Pokemon game purely focused on PvP battles? 

The post Game Freak announces Pokemon Champions for mutltiple platforms first appeared on KitGuru.

Pokemon Legends Z-A gets new gameplay trailer, late 2025 release date

27 février 2025 à 18:00

Today during the annual Pokemon Presents livestream, The Pokemon Company gave us the latest update on their next major game, Pokemon Legends Z-A. Unfortunately, the game won't be coming out as early as we expected, with it now having a late 2025 release window. 

Initially thought to be releasing this summer, Pokemon Legends Z-A is now destined for a late 2025 release date. While not currently announced for the Nintendo Switch 2, the new release window means the game will assuredly be available in enhanced form on Nintendo's new system, which is due to launch later this year. The game will still also be playable on the original Nintendo Switch, but like Arceus, Scarlet and Violet, it is likely to look very rough and run with a very choppy frame rate.

Unlike Pokemon Legends Arceus, which was set well in the past, Pokemon Legends Z-A has a more futuristic setting, with a massive sprawling version of Lumiose city, far different to the version of the city we previously saw in Pokemon X & Y back in the day.

The starter Pokemon you'll get to pick are roughly in line with what you would expect. Players will be able to choose from Chikorita, Totodile and unfortunately for anyone who is a Cyndaquil fan, you'll have to settle for Tepig instead as your fire-type starter.

The battle system in Pokemon Legends ZA has evolved a little from Arceus too. You can see in the trailer that now, Game Freak has implemented dodging and positioning mechanics, so whether you land or miss an attack will be firmly within your control. You'll also be able to try and dodge incoming attacks, adding a new dynamic we've not really seen before in a Pokemon title.

KitGuru Says: I really enjoyed Arceus, but it was rough to play on the Switch console. I am hoping that with the Switch 2, we'll get much better frame rates and more anti-aliasing for Pokemon Legends Z-A. 

The post Pokemon Legends Z-A gets new gameplay trailer, late 2025 release date first appeared on KitGuru.

Former Metro devs reveal new Sci-Fi horror IP ‘La Quimera’

27 février 2025 à 17:30

4A Games is making some internal changes. Previously, 4A Games spanned multiple teams, including a studio based in Ukraine. With 4A Games Ukraine now spinning off to work on a new IP, the studio is rebranding. Now known as Reburn, the studio has revealed an all-new game – La Quimera. 

La Quimera (translated as ‘The Chimera' in English), is a new Sci-Fi shooter built by former developers behind the Metro games. Set in Latin America (hence the Spanish title), the game promises an all-new campaign written by Nicolas Winding Refn, who previously wrote Drive and The Neon Demon.

The game will intertwine Latin American folklore with ‘advanced weaponry and technology' influenced by Sci-Fi properties. It is quite the mash up that promises to deliver equal parts horror and action.

The studio behind the game, Reburn, currently has around 110 employees, many of whom have experience working on the Metro and Stalker games. It is also worth noting that while previously part of 4A Games, Reburn is actually an independent studio. Their new game can already be wishlisted on Steam, but there is no release date at this time.

KitGuru Says: As a huge fan of Metro and Stalker, I'll be looking forward to this. The game has already been in development for five years at this stage, so I've got my fingers crossed for a 2025 launch. 

The post Former Metro devs reveal new Sci-Fi horror IP ‘La Quimera’ first appeared on KitGuru.

AMD is bundling Monster Hunter Wilds with range of Ryzen CPUs and Radeon GPUs

27 février 2025 à 17:01

AMD has done very well with its hardware game bundles in recent years and that isn't stopping in 2025. This week, AMD has launched its latest hardware bundle, offering up free copies of Capcom's highly anticipated Monster Hunter Wilds. 

If you are thinking of buying a Ryzen 9000 or Ryzen 7000 series CPU, or a Radeon graphics card, you could be eligible to receive a free copy of Monster Hunter Wilds. On the CPU side, the list of eligible products for this promotion includes:

  • Ryzen 9 9950X
  • Ryzen 9 9900X
  • Ryzen 9 7950X
  • Ryzen 9 7900X
  • Ryzen 7 9700X
  • Ryzen 7 7700X
  • Ryzen 7 7700
  • Ryzen 5 9600X

If you are in the market for a graphics card instead, then you're in luck. The bundle also applies to Radeon RX 7700 XT, RX 7900 XT, RX 7900 XT and RX 7900 XTX graphics cards.

At this point in time, the upcoming Radeon RX 9070 series GPUs are not included in the promotion but we expect that to change when they actually become available in the coming weeks.

This bundle will be running for quite a while, so you have some time to claim it. The bundle will be live until the 26th of April. You can find the list of participating retailers, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Are you planning on picking up a new AMD CPU or GPU soon? Will you be taking advantage of the Monster Hunter Wilds bundle? 

 

The post AMD is bundling Monster Hunter Wilds with range of Ryzen CPUs and Radeon GPUs first appeared on KitGuru.

Cooler Master’s new Hybrid M doubles as a massage chair

27 février 2025 à 16:15

Cooler Master is well known for its peripherals, PC cases, CPU coolers and even gaming monitors. This week, they are adding gaming chairs to that list, but this isn't your standard racing seat affair. Instead, Cooler Master has opted to release one of the few gaming chairs on the market with a massage function. 

The new Hybrid M chair from Cooler Master has one big selling point that sets it apart from others on the market. The Hybrid M comes with its own massage function with a number of settings to target key muscle groups. Precision massage heads are used and Cooler Master has also taken extra steps to make sure they don't get too noisy. When not in use, the massage heads completely retract to preserve the sleek gaming chair aesthetic.

Speaking on the new chair, Cooler Master CEO, Jimmy Sha, said: “We saw a big opportunity to do more for our customers. Gamers, creators, and enthusiasts are multitaskers— they balance work, play, and creativity every day. So why not offer them a chair that multitasks, too? The Hybrid M provides premium comfort with its ergonomic design while delivering a variety of massage programs that rejuvenate the body and keep users performing at their best.”

The Hybrid M features a 14,400 mAh rechargeable power bank to power the massage system, so you'll need to charge it up once in a while depending on how often you use it. The upside to this is you won't need to run a cable from your chair to an electrical outlet and potentially hinder your movement. Using Cooler Master's mobile app, you can also create your own presets and customise settings.

Here are some of the key features of the Cooler Master Hybrid M chair:

  • Ergonomic 3D armrests, an integrated headrest, and a magnetic lumbar support provide optimal comfort and adjustability.
  • MuscleFlex mesh backrest and perforated PU seat base enhance breathability, ensuring long-lasting comfort.
  • Cold-molded foam cushioning adapts to the user’s body shape, offering tailored ergonomic support.
  • A reinforced steel frame and aluminum base ensure lasting structural integrity, built to withstand years of use.

The Cooler Master Hybrid M will be available starting this week, priced at €899.99.

KitGuru Says: I do like this idea, but I would also like to see more gaming chairs offering a retractable footrest to go with the common recline function. Add one of those and this would potentially be one of the most comfortable, do-it-all chairs on the market. 

The post Cooler Master’s new Hybrid M doubles as a massage chair first appeared on KitGuru.

Nvidia RTX 5060 Ti expected to launch in late March in 8GB and 16GB variants

27 février 2025 à 09:39

Nvidia's upcoming GeForce RTX 5060 Ti could launch with two memory configurations like its predecessor. Recent reports suggest that Nvidia will launch the GPU with 16 GB and 8 GB, each with different memory configurations and potentially even different power connectors.

According to Wccftech, the 16 GB variant, identified as PG152 SKU 15, will feature GDDR7 memory clocked at 28 Gbps. As for the 8 GB model, designated as PG152 SKU 10, will reportedly use GDDR6 memory. Both cards are rumoured to have a 128-bit memory bus, resulting in a total bandwidth of 448 GB/s for the 16GB model.

Interestingly, some RTX 5060 Ti cards are said to feature the new 12V-2×6 power connector, while others will stick with the traditional 8-pin connector. This suggests a tiered approach, with higher-end models adopting the new connector and more budget-oriented variants retaining the older standard. Both models are expected to have a 180 W TDP.

The timing of the RTX 5060 Ti launch date is also reported. According to Wccftech, the 16 GB variant of the RTX 5060 Ti will arrive in the second half of March, with the 8 GB model following in April. However, VideoCardz sources claim otherwise, with the same date for the RTX 5060 Ti (no mention of which model) and the RTX 5060 launching in April.

KitGuru says: Will Nvidia launch two RTX 5060 Ti cards as it did with the RTX 4060 Ti, or will it simply launch it with 16 GB and have an RTX 5060 with 8 GB?

The post Nvidia RTX 5060 Ti expected to launch in late March in 8GB and 16GB variants first appeared on KitGuru.

Amazon slashes Apple's M4 Max 16-inch MacBook Pro by $370

Marking the lowest price of 2025 at Amazon, this premium 16-inch MacBook Pro with Apple's M4 Max chip is discounted to $3,129.

MacBook Pro 16-inch laptop showing forest wallpaper. 'Daily Deal' badge in red and white appears at the corner.
Save $370 on this M4 Max MacBook Pro.

The steeper price cut drops the Space Black model to $3,129, which provides the cheapest entry point into an M4 Max spec. This particular configuration has a 14-core CPU and 32-core GPU for higher performance. It also has 36GB of unified memory and 1TB of storage, making it a highly capable machine in the business world or for personal use.

Buy for $3,129


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New Apple age assurance features help parents and developers protect children

Apple is launching a series of protections for children regarding the use of age-appropriate apps in the App Store, including providing verification through a developer API.

Man and girl with tablet, sitting together. Symbols of hourglass, PG rating, and Wi-Fi are nearby.
Detail from Apple's child protection white paper — image credit: Apple

While Apple has previously announced Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM) protections and then dropped them, the company says that it is now strengthening how the App Store prevents children seeing age-inappropriate content.

The new extra protections are rolling out in stages, with the first starting now, and the rest following at an as-yet unspecified time in 2025. Apple has published a white paper detail its plans, and the initial launch introduces:


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Apple may be hit with a big antitrust fine in France over App Tracking Transparency

27 février 2025 à 18:00
France is probably going to issue an antitrust fine against Apple in March, as the country's consumer watchdog gears up to rule on whether Apple abused its position over App Tracking Transparency.

Smartphone screen showing tracking permission request with options to allow or deny tracking across apps and websites.
An example of an App Tracking Transparency prompt

In July 2023, the French Competition Authority, the Authorite de la Concurrence, said it would open an antitrust investigation into Apple and App Tracking Transparency. Over a year and a half later, the regulator may be concluding its probe.

Two people with knowledge of the regulator's plans told Reuters on Thursday that a ruling will be arriving in March. "The decision is expected in the spring," the regulator confirmed, but declined to comment further.


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Apple faces fresh legal attack over its carbon neutral Apple Watch claim

Seven Apple Watch buyers are suing Apple over how it allegedly made false and misleading claims that certain models are carbon neutral.

Smartwatch with a colorful display, showing the date 'Thu 28' and time hands over a dark screen, on a textured gray strap.
Apple Watch Series 9 was the first model to be described as carbon neutral

Apple first made a claim about carbon neutrality with the launch of the Apple Watch Series 9 in 2023, and immediately faced criticism. First a Chinese environment research organization called it "climate-washing," and then European consumer groups agreed.

Now according to Reuters, a case has been filed by seven users of the Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. They claim they would not have bought the watches, or would have paid less, if they had not been misled.


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Congo loses war crimes case against Apple in France

The Democratic Republic of Congo has reportedly lost its case over Apple suppliers using conflict materials in the iPhone, at least as far as one court has decided.

Apple has been asked to verify that it doesn't use
France appears to have dismissed a complaint that Apple has been using "conflict minerals" in the iPhone

For months in 2024, Apple was accused of allowing its suppliers to allegedly use the so-called 3T Materials — tin, tungsten and tantalum — from the Congo, and thereby funding violent groups. Lawyers representing the Republic first asked Tim Cook and Apple's French subsidiary for a response, then in December 2024 they took the matter to court.

According to a first and very brief report by Reuters, it appears that French authorities have dismissed the case. Specifically, a report seen by the news agency says that the Paris prosecutor has closed the case against Apple.


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HTC's Viverse Worlds could one day be the YouTube for VR content on Apple Vision Pro

27 février 2025 à 15:00
HTC has declared its Viverse platform will be the YouTube for VR content, but while it doesn't support the Apple Vision Pro at the moment, users could one day turn to Viverse Worlds for new immersive experiences.

Glowing abstract logo in blue and purple above the word 'VIVERSE' on a dark background.
Viverse logo - Image Credit: HTC

Enjoying virtual reality experiences is a somewhat nonlinear experience. While Apple Vision Pro users can easily get content from the App Store and from Apple-curated apps, accessing other online VR content requires a bit of effort.

This is not a problem just felt by Apple Vision Pro users, as each VR headset ecosystem has its own siloed content. You aren't able to access stuff made just for the Meta Quest headset line on the Apple Vision Pro, for example.


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Apple's C1 modem breaks no records for speed, but is exceptionally power efficient

The first real-world tests of Apple's C1 modem in the iPhone 16e say that has comparable performance to previous 5G chips, but achieves that with significantly less battery power.

Close-up view of a black circuit board with a central chip labeled with an apple logo and 'C1' in white text.
Apple's C1 modem — image credit: Apple

Apple's $1 billion acquisition of Intel's modem business, plus over five years of development, have paid off. Following stories of Apple finding it hard to develop its own 5G modem for the iPhone — or even giving up entirely — the company's C1 is straight out of the Apple Silicon playbook.

Chinese YouTube channel Geekerwan has been testing the C1 in the new iPhone 16e using laboratory conditions and then real-world usage to check out Apple's claims. Significantly, the C1 does not support mmWave 5G as the other models do, but mmWave penetration is low in the US, and lower still everywhere else.


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Monster Hunter Wilds PC Benchmark Deep Dive: What You Need To Slay Beasts

27 février 2025 à 18:50
Monster Hunter Wilds PC Benchmark Deep Dive: What You Need To Slay Beasts The latest entry in the venerable Monster Hunter game series is set to launch tomorrow. Known as Monster Hunter Wilds, it's the next mainline title and marks the beginning of the sixth generation of Monster Hunter games. Wilds brings a great many innovations to the storied franchise, including a persistent mount, the ability to equip two weapons

Halo, Balatro and more join GeForce Now this week

27 février 2025 à 15:30

The next wave of games heading to GeForce Now have been announced. This week will see seven games joining the library, including the PC Game Pass version of Halo: The Master Chief Collection, and the deck-building rogue-like hit, Balatro. 

Balatro was one of the best games of 2024 and has only grown in popularity since thanks to the release of console and mobile ports. Just this week, the game landed on PC Game Pass, so now, you can freely stream it via GeForce Now. The Steam & Xbox App versions of Halo: The Master Chief Collection are also joining the library, so you can finish the fight anytime, on any device.

Here are the games joining GeForce Now this week:

  • Balatro (New release on Xbox, available on PC Game Pass)
  • The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Tactics (Xbox, available on the Microsoft Store)
  • The Evil Within 2 (Epic Games Store, Steam, and Xbox available on PC Game Pass)
  • Halo: The Master Chief Collection (Steam and Xbox, available on PC Game Pass)
  • Murky Divers (Steam)
  • Somerville (Xbox, available on the Microsoft Store)

Nvidia has also given us a preview of what's coming to GeForce Now next month. There are 17 guaranteed games, excluding any surprises that may pop up in the coming weeks:

  • Dragonkin: The Banished  (New release on Steam Mar. 6)
  • Split Fiction (New release on EA App and Steam, Mar. 6)
  • Split Fiction: Friend’s Pass  (New release on EA App and Steam, Mar. 6 App)
  • Assassin's Creed Shadows (New release on Steam and Ubisoft Connect, Mar. 20)
  • Wreckfest 2 (New release on Steam, Mar. 20)
  • Killing Floor 3 (New Release on Steam, Mar. 25)
  • Atomfall (New release on Steam and Xbox available on PC Game Pass, Mar. 27)
  • The First Berserker: Khazan (New Release on Steam, Mar. 27
  • inZOI (New release on Steam, Mar. 28)
  • City Transport Simulator: Tram (Steam)
  • Dave the Diver (Steam)
  • The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak II (Steam)
  • Motor Town: Behind The Wheel (Steam)
  • Potion Craft: Alchemist Simulator (Steam)

KitGuru Says: Are you thinking of subscribing to GeForce Now for a month to give it a try?

The post Halo, Balatro and more join GeForce Now this week first appeared on KitGuru.

Nvidia rolls out new Game Ready driver for Monster Hunter Wilds

27 février 2025 à 15:00

Monster Hunter Wilds is launching this week, complete with support for DLSS and other RTX features. As a result, it is also time for a new Game Ready driver.

The latest Nvidia Game Ready driver is now available to download. This update brings a few notable additions. For starters, we have day-one optimisations for Monster Hunter Wilds, which launches tomorrow with support for DLSS Frame Generation, Ray-Traced Reflections and Nvidia Reflex to reduce latency.

The second big addition is Multi-Frame Generation support for NARAKA: Bladepoint. The PvP game now supports Nvidia's RTX 50-exclusive Multi-Frame Gen technology to boost frame rates further. According to Nvidia's own tests, the RTX 5090 can run the game at over 900 frames per second at 1080p with Multi-Frame Gen enabled.

This week's driver update also adds support for 29 more G-Sync Compatible displays, including models from Acer, AOC, Asus, LG and Philips. You can find full details on that, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Are you picking up Monster Hunter Wilds tomorrow? Have you installed the new driver in preparation? 

The post Nvidia rolls out new Game Ready driver for Monster Hunter Wilds first appeared on KitGuru.

8bitdo unveils the Ultimate 2 wireless controller with TMR joysticks

27 février 2025 à 14:00

8BitDo is expanding its controller lineup with an interesting product, the Ultimate 2 Wireless. This new gamepad introduces cutting-edge “TMR” (tunneling magnetoresistance) technology for its thumbsticks, promising precision and responsiveness that surpasses even the most advanced Hall effect sensors.

Hall effect sensors have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their resistance to stick drift, but TMR technology represents a significant leap forward. TMR sensors offer superior sensitivity and responsiveness by using tiny electromagnets to detect thumbstick position, which will help it become the new standard for gaming controllers.

The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 is designed for PC and Android platforms. This is a notable departure for 8BitDo, whose original Ultimate controller was specifically designed for the Nintendo Switch. The upcoming release of the Switch 2 might explain this shift in focus, as the company may be holding back on new products for the aging Nintendo console.

The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless has a magnetic charging station and a wireless 2.4GHz USB dongle. Thanks to its “8Speed” wireless technology, the Ultimate 2 offers a 1000Hz polling rate in wireless and wired connections. Further enhancing its versatility, the controller features trigger mode switches that users can adjust the trigger travel distance, enabling faster presses for competitive gaming. Two back buttons and an additional set of bumpers provide further customization options, all programmable to execute your preferred in-game actions.

The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless is one of the few controllers to feature TMR joysticks, but from what we know, it's the cheapest. Priced at £49.99/$59.99, it's now available to pre-order in black, white and blue.

KitGuru says: Are you in the market for a new PC controller? Does the new 8bitdo Ultimate 2 meet your criteria?

The post 8bitdo unveils the Ultimate 2 wireless controller with TMR joysticks first appeared on KitGuru.

be quiet! Pure Base 501 DX Review

27 février 2025 à 14:51
The be quiet! Pure Base 501 DX is a refresh of the 500 series, which was released more than half a decade ago. The refresh uses the same frame, with a slew of updates and improvements. These modernizations go a long way to keep the body relevant, allowing the refreshed design of the Pure Base 501 DX to shine confidently.

Find My network can be tricked to track any Bluetooth device

27 février 2025 à 14:10
Hackers have worked out how to exploit Apple's Find My network, by abusing Bluetooth on a device to effectively turn anything into a trackable AirTag.

A hand holds a small round device with a logo in the center, set against a blurred natural background.
AirTag

The Find My network is considered to be an extremely useful service, allowing users to track down a mislaid iPhone, lost luggage, or even a stolen car adorned with an AirTag. However, while Apple has done what it can to make the network as secure and as trustworthy as possible, security researchers have apparently managed to work around the protections.

George Mason University researchers, associate professors Qiang Zeng and Lannan Luo and PhD students Chen and Xiaoyue Ma, created "nRootTag" as an attack that takes advantage of Bluetooth addresses. It does so by tricking the Find My network into thinking a device is a missing AirTag.


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Rumors about a 2026 iPhone 17e have already started

A day before the iPhone 16e hits store shelves, the rumor mill is already churning about whether Apple will debut an iPhone 17e in 2026.

Smartphone with a white frame, horizontal orientation, displaying a dark screen featuring a glowing orb in the center against a black background.
The new iPhone 16e

The iPhone SE that the new iPhone 16e replaces was only updated three times in nine years. But beginning with Tim Cook's tweet welcoming the iPhone 16e as the newest member of the iPhone family, there's been an idea that Apple may update this new model annually.

That suggestion has now been strengthened by two separate sources that say there will be an iPhone 17e released in February 2026. However, neither source has details and only one seems to have real grounds for the claim.


Rumor Score: 🤔 Possible


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Biwin launches the world’s first dual EXPO profile DDR5 memory

27 février 2025 à 13:15

Biwin has partnered with OC Lab to launch the new OC Lab Gold Edition DW100 RGB DDR5 memory kits, the world's first dual EXPO profile DDR5 memory sticks. Whether you choose the EXPO DDR5-8000 CL34/36 profile or the DDR5-6400 CL28 profile, changing between the two is as simple as flipping a switch.

According to TechPowerUP, the Biwin OC Lab Gold Edition DW100 DDR5-8000 is available in CL34 and CL36 with a 32GB (2x 16GB) capacity. For those seeking a balance of speed and responsiveness, the kits also include a secondary EXPO profile at DDR5-6400 CL28, prioritising low latency for smoother gameplay and faster application loading.

Biwin claims these kits have undergone rigorous tests and die selection to minimise the trade-off between frequency and latency that often plagues high-performance memory. The company added that these modules can be manually overclocked even further, reaching an impressive 8400 MT/s with CL34 latency. The secondary EXPO profile at DDR5-6400 CL28 adds another layer of versatility. Optimised timings and efficient voltage control provide further overclocking headroom while maintaining stability, allowing users to achieve even lower latencies. As per Biwin, reaching 8000MT/s at CL30 and 6400MT/s at CL26 under optimal conditions is possible.

Beyond raw performance, the Biwin OC Lab Gold Edition DW100 prioritises stability and reliability. A sophisticated 10-layer PCB design minimises electromagnetic interference and ensures stable data transmission. An unlocked PMIC (Power Management Integrated Circuit) dynamically adjusts voltage based on demand, guaranteeing consistent power delivery and aiding in thermal management. The three-fin heat spreader design further enhances cooling, maintaining optimal operating temperatures even under heavy loads. Stress testing at 1.45V and 1.50V revealed average temperatures below 50°C, showcasing the kit's exceptional thermal performance.

The Biwin OC Lab Gold Edition DW100 series also makes a visual statement with its sleek black design accented by gold elements, adding a touch of luxury to any build. Customisable RGB lighting with eight zones allows further personalisation, creating a cohesive and dynamic aesthetic. These new kits will join the Biwin DW100 family and will be available in late March, starting at $169.

KitGuru says: Should other companies follow the approach of adding distinct EXPO profiles for different use cases?

The post Biwin launches the world’s first dual EXPO profile DDR5 memory first appeared on KitGuru.

Biostar Z890A Silver Motherboard Review – Entry-Level Price With White Aesthetics

27 février 2025 à 12:50

The Intel LGA 1700 platform was launched three years ago in 2021 and it has since seen a total of 3 generations of CPUs, Alder Lake (12th Gen), Raptor Lake (13th Gen), and Raptor Lake Refresh (14th Gen). We have seen at least three generations of motherboards, first with the 600-series which had Z690 as the top SKU, and then two generations of 700-series based on the top Z790 chipset which included a soft refresh for the 14th Gen lineup. Intel has now introduced its next-generation 800-series chipsets and with the Core Ultra 200S CPU series, the company is also […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/review/biostar-z890a-silver-motherboard-review-entry-level-price-white-aesthetics/

NetEase responds to Marvel Rivals layoffs

27 février 2025 à 12:30

In the past week, Marvel Rivals saw its first major controversy when it was revealed that one of the support studios for the highly-successful live-service title was pulled from the project, with its developers being laid off as a result. In the wake of this, publisher NetEase has shared its latest fiscal earnings reports, with revenue surpassing $11 Billion.

As part of the company’s latest fiscal earnings report, NetEase revealed that during FY2024 the publisher made over $11.5 billion in revenue. Of course, this didn’t all come from the success of Marvel Rivals, but the live-service hero shooter was certainly a major component – with them confirming the title has been downloaded over 40 million times so far.

In discussing Marvel Rivals specifically, during the company’s conference call CEO Ding Lei stated: “If we launch a game product that isn't suited for market demand, we will aggressively and decisively discontinue it; we will also boost our investment in projects that meet quality and efficiency standards.”

NetEase Marvel Rivals

Lei continued, “Game production is time-consuming and it may take three or more years to ship a game. So, during the entire process, from the start of the project to its completion, it is critical to constantly adapt to the market. Depending on the circumstances, support for a project may be increased or withdrawn entirely.”

The lack of a more concrete and candid response is a shame to see, but not surprising. Hopefully this won’t be the last time that NetEase addresses this disturbing situation.

KitGuru says: What do you think of the whole Marvel Rivals situation? Has it soured your opinion of the game? Let us know down below.

The post NetEase responds to Marvel Rivals layoffs first appeared on KitGuru.

Nacon Connect 2025 officially announced

27 février 2025 à 11:45

In the past few years, publisher Nacon has developed a following thanks to their string of unique and fun games which typically manage to do a lot on a AA budget. As part of their annual tradition, the publisher/accessories manufacturer has confirmed their next Nacon Connect is set to go live in a week’s time.

Releasing a teaser trailer onto YouTube, the team at Nacon officially announced the 2025 edition of their Nacon Connect livestream.

Set to go live on the 6th of March at 6PM UK time, the stream will include many upcoming games, including but not limited to:

  • Hell is Us
  • Edge of Memories
  • Dragonkin: The Banished

Being a hardware manufacturer, fans can also expect a couple new accessory announcements – in particular on the controller front.

As mentioned, Nacon has amassed a reputation in recent years for their high quality AA releases. That said, the publisher has had a few stinkers in the past, most recently the critically panned Lord of the Rings: Gollum.

On the other hand, the company has also been responsible for the likes of The Sinking City; the WRC series; Steelrising and RoboCop: Rogue City – so all-in-all a mixed bag, but an interesting one nonetheless.

KitGuru says: Are you looking forward to the showcase? What are your expectations for Hell is Us? What’s your favourite 3rd party accessory manufacturer? Let us know down below.

The post Nacon Connect 2025 officially announced first appeared on KitGuru.

Apex Legends reportedly trying to replace its voice actors with AI

27 février 2025 à 11:00

Call of Duty recently saw itself in some hot water when it was discovered that a number of the game’s voice actors were replaced in response to their requests for protections against AI. Unfortunately, it seems as though wanting to replace VAs with AI is the latest trend, as EA’s Apex Legends has now found itself in a similar controversy.

As posted by the French voice actor for Apex Legends character Wraith (Pascale Chemin), the artist claimed that a new agreement was shared which would require the actors to allow for their performances to be used for generative AI purposes, writing on Instagram (as translated by ResetEra user Rouk’):

“Before being even called in for a recording session of a video game, the studio sent me (and the 31 other VA in the casting) a mail containing an annex of confidentiality and handover directly from the publisher. I needed to accept these terms before being able to go work. I thought so when I read through them and a legal expert specialised in audiovisual confirmed it: these terms weren't acceptable. I was now forced to give up the role I had been working on for almost 6 years. In no way could I force the rest of the casting members to do the same, but one thing was certain: if we all refused, it could maybe have an impact. Otherwise, it would have been in vain.”

Apex Legends voice

Chemin continued, “Without any hesitation, the 31 other VAs all refused to sign this annex. We wrote a collective letter of refusal that we sent to the publisher and are waiting for an answer. If we aren't united now so that a clause that protects our voices can be officially added in our contracts – and not just for us here, but for every video game dubbing studios – we'll never get one and we'll be heading for a disaster.”

The message concluded with: “Of course, to refuse to work in the present day is nonsensical. There is barely any work available for some (many) of us, if any, and we are increasingly struggling with money. Yes, a salary would be welcome. But we aren't simply asked to work. We are asked to give up our expertise to train the generative AI that will replace us tomorrow. We are asked to agree to what we specifically fight against. We are asked to shoot ourselves in the foot. We are asked to support AI.”

While the VA didn’t explicitly name the game being referred to, the claim that the title released 6 years ago (and the list of other French VA’s named) all but confirms that they are referring to Apex Legends.

As mentioned, it seems as though all major game publishers are now pushing for any and all uses of AI in their games for the sake of money. Hopefully those affected continue to speak out against it.

KitGuru says: What do you think of the recent influx of generative AI? Will this cause the bursting of this current gaming bubble? Let us know down below.

The post Apex Legends reportedly trying to replace its voice actors with AI first appeared on KitGuru.

Biwin Black Opal X570 PRO 4TB Gen5 SSD Review

27 février 2025 à 10:16

Biwin has entered the Gen5 SSD arena with the X570 PRO, a drive which sits in the company's Black Opal premium gaming product line. Rated at up to 14,000MB/s for Sequential reads, it is the current flagship of the company's SSD range.

Powered by a Silicon Motion SM2508 8-channel controller, the X570 PRO uses 232-layer 3D TLC NAND together with an LPDDR4 DRAM cache chip (the size of which is based on drive capacity at the ratio of 1GB per 1TB). At launch, the X570 PRO range consists of three capacities; 1TB, 2TB and a flagship 4TB (the drive we are reviewing here) model.

Biwin rates the Sequential read performance of all three capacities as up to 14,000MB/s. As for Sequential writes, the 1TB and 2TB drives are rated up to 13,000MB/s and the 1TB drive, 10,500MB/s.

Random reads are quoted as up to 2000K IOPS for the 4TB and 2TB drives with the 1TB drive getting a rating of up to 1600K IOPS. Random writes are quoted as up to 1600K IOPS for all three drives.

The endurance figures quoted for the range are impressive with the 4TB drive getting a 3,000 TBW rating, 1,500 TBW for the 1TB drive and 750 TBW for the 1TB model. The drives are backed by a 5-year warranty.

Physical Specifications:

  • Usable Capacities:  4TB.
  • NAND Components: 232-layer TLC NAND.
  • NAND Controller: Silicon Motion SM2508.
  • Cache: 4GB LPDDR4.
  • Interface: PCIe Gen 5 x4, NVMe 2.0.
  • Form Factor:  M.2 2280.
  • Dimensions: 80 x 22 x 2.5 mm.
  • Drive Weight: 9g.

Firmware Version: FWX1221A

The post Biwin Black Opal X570 PRO 4TB Gen5 SSD Review first appeared on KitGuru.

Angry Bird studio’s Sonic Rumble has been delayed to Spring

27 février 2025 à 10:15

Sonic Rumble is SEGA’s take on the party game genre, with the upcoming free-to-play title adapting the Fall Guys style of gameplay – but with a heavy dosage of Sonic. Initially planned to release sometime during this past Winter season, the team has now confirmed that Sonic Rumble is instead launching in Spring.

Making the announcement on the game’s official site, SEGA confirmed that “Sonic Rumble is coming this spring! Before it crosses the global release finish line, we're packing it with some exciting new content and features to deliver the best experience for our players.”

They continued, “We would like to extend a huge thank you to our players and Sonic fans for their patience in waiting for the global launch of Sonic Rumble. The team is committed to delivering a memorable experience for Sonic fans with even more new game mechanics, new features, and more exciting content to look forward to.”

Sonic Rumble Spring

Alongside the delay, the team shared an updated roadmap, showcasing some of the features planned ahead of and during the global launch, including but not limited to:

  • Quick Rumble (single round quick play)
  • Rival Rank (ranked mode)
  • New Crews feature (aka clans)

Given that this is the first game from the Angry Birds team (Rovio) since they were acquired by SEGA, it will be interesting to see how Sonic Rumble performs when it launches on mobile and PC some time this Spring.

KitGuru says: Are you looking forward to Sonic Rumble? Could it be a success? What’s your favourite Sonic mobile game? Let us know down below.

The post Angry Bird studio’s Sonic Rumble has been delayed to Spring first appeared on KitGuru.

be quiet! launches Pure Rock 3 CPU cooler

27 février 2025 à 09:27

be quiet! is breathing new life into its popular Pure Rock CPU cooler series with the launch of five new models: Pure Rock 3 Black, Pure Rock 3 LX, Pure Rock Pro 3 Silver, Pure Rock Pro 3 Black, and Pure Rock Pro 3 LX. This refresh introduces exciting new features, including the company's first foray into dual-tower air coolers for mainstream systems, new fan configurations, and enhanced compatibility with the latest CPUs.

Leading the charge are the Pure Rock Pro 3 models, marking be quiet!'s first dual-tower air coolers designed for mainstream users. Despite their compact size, these coolers boast a 250W TDP, thanks to a combination of six high-performance heat pipes, a nickel-plated base, and optimised fan configurations. The standard Pro 3 has a silver and black aesthetic, while the Pro 3 Black offers an all-black stealthy look. Both models feature two Pure Wings 3 120mm PWM fans with funnel-shaped air inlets for enhanced airflow and quiet operation. The Pro 3 LX, also sporting an all-black design, comes equipped with two Light Wings LX 120mm PWM fans, featuring ARGB lighting while packing similar cooling performance. Even at full speed, all Pure Rock Pro 3 models maintain a maximum noise level of 34.8 dB(A).

Thanks to a user-friendly mounting kit, installation is a breeze. The asymmetrical design and adjustable front fan height ensure excellent compatibility with RAM and VRM heatsinks. AMD AM5 users can use the offset mounting option, which centers the cooler's base plate over the CPU's hotspots for optimal thermal performance. Moreover, the Pure Rock Pro 3 coolers can be used with liquid metal thermal paste for those looking to improve their cooling setup further.

For those seeking a more traditional single-tower design, be quiet! offers the Pure Rock 3 Black and Pure Rock 3 LX. Both models feature an all-black aesthetic and four high-performance 6mm heat pipes with HDT technology, delivering a 190W TDP cooling capacity suitable for many modern CPUs. The Pure Rock 3 Black includes a pre-installed Pure Wings 3 120mm PWM fan, while the Pure Rock 3 LX has a Light Wings LX 120mm fan with customisable ARGB lighting, complementing the all-black heatsink and heat pipes. Given they only come with one fan, the noise level is lower, as both models generate no more than 31.2 dB(A) at maximum fan speed.

Installation is straightforward, thanks to a pre-installed mounting bridge and convenient screw placement. Offset mounting is also supported to enhance compatibility with the latest AMD Ryzen CPUs. The Pure Rock 3's compact footprint maximises compatibility with RAM and VRM heatsinks, making it an ideal choice for space-constrained builds. The entire Pure Rock 3 lineup will be available for purchase starting March 11th starting at £27.99/$34.90/€34.90.

KitGuru says: Of all new Puro Rock 3 CPU coolers, would you consider any as an upgrade for your setup?

The post be quiet! launches Pure Rock 3 CPU cooler first appeared on KitGuru.

Klevv CRAS C910 2TB SSD Review

27 février 2025 à 09:30

Klevv's CRAS C910 is a Gen 4 SSD aimed at the mainstream market. It combines decent performance at a competitive price point, landing at under $100 for the 2TB model we are reviewing today. UK availability is more scarce, but is this drive one to consider?

The CRAS C910 model range consists of four capacities: 500GB, 1TB, 2TB (the drive we are reviewing here), and a flagship 4TB model. The drive uses Essencore-branded 3D TLC NAND, which is looked after by a Realtek RTS5772DL, a PCIe 4 x4 eight-channel controller with a rated interface speed of up to 1600MT/s.

Klevv rates the C910 Sequential read performance as up to 5,000MB/s for the 500GB and 1TB drives and up to 5,200MB/s for the 2TB and 4TB models. Sequential writes are quoted as up to 3,700MB/s for the 500GB drive and up to 4,800MB/s for the other three models.

Random 4K read performance is rated as up to 545,000 IOPS for the 500GB drive, 620,000 IOPS (the fastest of the range) for the 1TB drive, up to 560,000 IOPS for the 2TB drive and 540,000 IOPS for the 4TB drive. When it comes to random writes, the 1TB and 2TB drives are the fastest at up to 615,000 IOPS, next up is the 4TB drive at up to 600,000 IOPS and the 500GB drive gets 510,000 IOPS.

The endurance for the 2TB drive is rated as 1,400 TBW.

Physical Specifications:

  • Usable Capacities: 2TB.
  • NAND Components: Essencore 3D TLC NAND.
  • NAND Controller: Realtek RTS5772DL.
  • Cache: none, HMB technology.
  • Interface: PCIe Gen 4 x4, NVMe 1.4.
  • Form Factor: M.2, 2280.
  • Dimensions: 80 x 22 x 3.4mm (with heatshield).
  • Drive Weight: 10g (with heatshield).

Firmware Version: VF001C4E.

The post Klevv CRAS C910 2TB SSD Review first appeared on KitGuru.

How to use SVG on the Mac and on the web

27 février 2025 à 04:58
Scalable Vector Graphics are a common resizable image format for the web. Here's how to use them in macOS.

SVG allows graphics to be smoothly scaled to any size.
Scalable Vector Graphics are now widely used on the web.

Modern web browsers and image apps have the ability to scale images using mathematical calculations, such as Bezier curves. This is as opposed to fixed bitmap graphics, which don't scale well and offer a blocky, pixelated appearance at times.

Scalable (or "vector") graphics use math-based descriptions of images. When an image is resized, it can be fully recalculated at the new size with no visible loss of quality.


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iPhone 16e review roundup: an okay, if compromised, device without a market

Initial reviews and impressions for the iPhone 16e are here, and they're middling at best as everyone misses MagSafe.

Two stacked, white smartphones with visible side buttons, camera lenses, and reflective screens displaying colorful light reflections.
iPhone 16e reviews are in, and they're just okay. Image source: Apple

Apple discontinued the iPhone SE and introduced a whole new device at a higher price called the iPhone 16e. It has a series of compromises to make the price $200 lower than the base iPhone 16.

Reviews are out at a very odd 9 p.m. EST on a Wednesday, and there's a lot to say about this odd iPhone. While no one outright hates the iPhone 16e, it's a tough sell when used and refurbished models might offer a better deal.


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Ugreen 100W GaN Mini MagSafe Power Station review: Compact & powerful

Ugreen's GaN-based power station packs a lot of juice inside a compact body with multiple USB ports and an Apple-certified adjustable MagSafe puck.

The Ugreen 100W GaN Mini MagSafe Power Station
Ugreen 100W GaN Mini MagSafe Power Station review: The Ugreen 100W GaN Mini MagSafe Power Station

In a world filled with niche chargers, it's hard for them to stand out. Everyone's needs are different, which is why such a varied number of chargers are able to success on the market.

Recently, we've been testing Ugreen's GaN MagSafe tower that is great for our studio setup, or shared charging stations in a home.


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Analyst repeats 12GB RAM rumor for iPhone 17 Pro models, which may at least be half correct

Analyst Jeff Pu has shared once again that he expects both iPhone 17 Pro models to have 12GB of RAM, but more reliable sources say otherwise.

Close-up of a white smartphone's rear camera on a dark gradient background, showcasing its lens and flash.
iPhone 17 Slim to get 8GB of RAM, while iPhone 17 Pro to get 12GB of RAM

Rumors are ramping up for Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 lineup, which is expected in September 2025. This time, it isn't about the controversial camera bar update, but instead about the included RAM.

According to an analyst note seen by 9to5Mac, Jeff Pu believes that both the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will have 12GB of RAM. Such an upgrade would contribute to more powerful AI features exclusive to those devices.


Rumor Score: 🤔 Possible


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