While the details aren't clear, one thing is certain, a two-part documentary on Oprah's life will never air after she bought back the rights from Apple TV+ — halting its distribution.
Oprah worked with Apple on a book club
The Apple TV+ documentary was announced in 2021, which would chronicle the 25 years of American history through the lens of Winfrey in two parts. Kevin MacDonald and Lisa Erspamer headed the project.
After years of silence on the documentary, Page Sixhas shared that Oprah has bought back the rights to the documentary from Apple TV+ after its completion. There are differing stories from the various sources in this story, but it is certain that the documentary will never air.
Professional photographer Austin Mann put the iPhone 16 Pro to the test in Kenya, touting the features of the 48MP Ultra Wide Camera and Camera Control.
Photographer Austin Mann reviews iPhone 16 Pro
Austin Mann may have skipped out on the iPhone 15 lineup, but he's back to discuss the incremental but impactful upgrades to iPhone 16 Pro. He notes that he misses the radical hardware upgrades every few years, but pro photographers and filmmakers benefit each year despite iterative changes.
The detailed iPhone 16 Pro camera review can be found on Austin Mann's website. There are plenty of example photos and descriptions of real-life use cases, even if some are well beyond what the average user might encounter.
The reason for that aphorism is because this new take on Battlefield will involve teams from DICE, Motive, Ripple Effect and Criterion. They are all owned by EA but all have very…
If you built up a YouTube channel over the years as a labour of love, devoting untold hours of your time to creating something to share with the world, the new Inspiration…
Sony has been making a habit of producing remasters that nobody asked for during the current console generation. We've already seen remasters for both The Last of Us titles, Until Dawn is about to re-release and next, it looks like Horizon Zero Dawn will be getting a fresh release.
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered has now been rated for both PS5 and PC by the ESRB, indicating that an announcement and release date is just around the corner. Sony has long been rumoured to be holding a State of Play later this month, so this new remaster should appear during that stream.
Unfortunately, we don't know much else about this remaster at this stage, or how comprehensive it will be. While Zero Dawn's sequel, Forbidden West, did have a decent number of graphical upgrades, we're more likely to see something along the lines of The Last of Us Part 1 in scope, which didn't deliver all of the extra graphical goodness found in The Last of Us Part 2.
With LEGO Horizon Adventures also just around the corner, Sony will be looking to cash in on renewed interest in the series.
KitGuru Says: Horizon Zero Dawn launched on PC just a few years ago, so the need for a remaster is already drastically reduced. At least in the case of The Last of Us Part 1, that was the first time the game had ever been made available on PC. However, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered will not have that same luxury.
Some users have observed significant latency between cores in the Ryzen 9000 series processors with dual-CCD. Before the release of AGESA 1.2.0.1, cross-CCD core-to-core latency was measured at approximately 200ns, marking a substantial increase compared to the previous generation of Ryzen CPUs. However, the new AGESA firmware update reduces latency to double-digit figures.
Core-to-core latency results are interesting in some reviews of the Ryzen 9000 series processors using a BIOS with AGESA 1.2.0.1. When going from one core to another within the same CCD, latency rarely exceeds 25ns. However, when moving from one core to another in a different CCD, latency shoots up 200ns.
Previously, Geekerwan stated that AMD would fix this in an upcoming firmware, but it wasn't clear when that would happen. As it seems, it's already here. Some motherboard manufacturers have already launched a beta BIOS with AGESA 1.2.0.2 firmware for their 600-series motherboards. Despite its unofficial status, enthusiasts who flashed this firmware have reported a notable improvement in core-to-core latency on the Overclock.net forum (via HXL).
Data from “domdtxdissar” using the CapFrameX core-to-core latency tool indicates a reduction to 75 ns at peak. This data was gathered using the Ryzen 9 9950X and the Asus ROG Crosshair X670E Gene motherboard. However, it's important to note that results may vary across different Ryzen SKUs and motherboards. For example, HardwareLuxx also tested the beta BIOS with the AGESA 1.2.0.2 firmware, reporting a decrease in core latencies from 200 to 95ns.
KitGuru says: Do you expect any noticeable performance gains from this fix?
Logitech has introduced its latest Pro Series gear at Logi Play, updating and expanding its lineup of professional-grade peripherals. The new lineup includes the Pro X Superlight 2 Dex gaming mouse, the Pro 2 Lightspeed gaming mouse, and the Pro X TKL Rapid gaming keyboard.
Starting with the Pro X Superlight 2 Dex gaming mouse, it features an asymmetrical, right-handed design based on feedback from esports players (Counter-Strike and Valorant). The mouse uses the upgraded Lightspeed wireless technology, a re-engineered Hero 2 Sensor, and Lightforce switches, making it a technical powerhouse with unparalleled performance.
Expanding its offerings further, Logitech G has introduced the Pro 2 Lightspeed gaming mouse, which builds upon the original ambidextrous design of the original Pro wireless gaming mouse. Featuring the same eight programmable buttons and Lightforce switches, the updated version takes some of the best features of the original model, adding the Hero 2 sensor to make it more precise.
Lastly, we have the Pro X TKL Rapid gaming keyboard, Logitech G's first magnetic analogue keyboard with customisable actuation points and quick trigger capabilities. Key Priority (Logitech's SOCD) is another key feature of this keyboard, allowing users to assign one or more pairs of keys to measure and compare actions (travel distance, last press, and neutral or absolute priority). This, alongside other settings, can be configured via G Hub. Alternatively, actuation points and rapid trigger settings can be adjusted without G Hub.
The Pro X Superlight 2 Dex, Pro 2 Lightspeed, and Pro X TKL Rapid Gaming Keyboard will be available in pink, black, and white colour options. The Pro X Superlight 2 Dex and Pro 2 Lightspeed will be available on September 17th for $159.99 and $129.99, respectively. The Pro X TKL Rapid is set to be available in December for $169.99.
KitGuru says: Looking to upgrade your keyboard or mouse? Are you interested in any of Logitech's new Pro gaming peripherals?
Apple has brought out another update for the AirPods Pro 2, barely a week after its previous release, as well as firmware for the AirPods 4.
AirPods Pro 2
On September 10, Apple released firmware affecting the AirPods Pro 2. Just eight days later, a second firmware release has been issued for the personal audio gear.
The earlier update brought the AirPods Pro 2 firmware to 7A294, but the new release is firmware 7A302.
Amazon's October Prime Day is coming, but there are dozens of deals in effect now to save you hundreds on Apple products and accessories.
Fall Prime Day is coming, but Apple deals are in effect now.
Thousands of items are on sale at Amazon heading into Prime Big Deal Days, and we've rounded up top choices well ahead of the event, which starts Oct. 8.
In iOS 18, Apple quietly enabled the Thread radio found on recent iPhone models to directly control Apple Home and Matter devices.
The Thread-enabled Nanoleaf Essentials bulb
Thread is a new IP-based smart home connectivity standard that has slowly been increasing in adoption in recent years. It's an alternative to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Zigbee and is incredibly low-power and fast.
A lawsuit claiming that Facebook parent company Meta concealed how Apple's iOS privacy settings would hurt advertisers, has been dismissed.
App Tracking Transparency
Apple's introduction of App Tracking Transparency (ATT) in 2021 immediately hurt social media income. Ultimately, Meta said that Facebook alone would earn $10 billion less in 2022 than expected, solely because of Apple's then-new privacy settings in iOS.
Now according to Reuters, a lawsuit was brought against Meta by shareholders over the issue. The suit alleged that Meta had defrauded shareholders by concealing the extent of how ATT would affect advertising.
Consumer advocacy group Euroconsumer is launching a coordinated class-action suit in Belgium, Italy, Spain, and Portugal, alleging it was Apple's fault that music services raised subscription charges.
Euroconsumer files class action suit against Apple over 'unfair profits'
"Apple didn't play fair," reads the Euroconsumer class action suit page. "As a big tech player, Apple abused its power to impose up to 30% extra charges on non-Apple music streaming services like Spotify, Deezer, YouTube Music, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Tidal, and Qobuz through its Apple App Store."
It then points out that third-party streaming services raised prices on iOS customers to help cover the lost revenue. Euroconsumer claims those increased prices led to customers paying excessive fees of roughly 3 euros per month to use their service of choice.
Apple's iPhone 16 launch grabbed headlines, but it's the quiet stars of the show, the new Apple Watch and AirPods, that affect how iPhone buyers stay connected to the Apple ecosystem.
Ultramarine iPhone 16
During Apple's "Glowtime" event, the company unveiled a new Apple Watch and the latest generation of AirPods. These two accessories, which have become integral to the Apple ecosystem, introduced some exciting new features.
For many Apple customers, particularly those who invest in the latest iPhone models, these accessories enhance their experience within the Apple ecosystem.
The first reviews of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus have started to arrive, with reviewers seeing smaller updates in a device getting closer to the Pro line, albeit without Apple Intelligence.
iPhone 16
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus introduce a few changes to the smartphone, including a new A18 chip that is made to power Apple Intelligence, when it becomes available. There are also new buttons on the sides, macro photography, and even Spatial Photos support thanks to the movement of camera sensors.
In the initial wave of reviews for this generation, reviewers consider it a much more gradual update, with mixed results for the Camera Control. The lack of Apple Intelligence also leaves some questions open as to whether it will be a truly worthwhile update.
The initial reviews for Apple's iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are arriving, with most reviewers saying that the improvements are small, or at least will be until Apple Intelligence launches too.
Apple's iPhone 16 Pro Max
Apple said during the "It's Glowtime" event that Apple Intelligence features would be rolling out in stages. The first will be in October 2024, for users in the US, with further stages expected in December.
For now, the chief features of the new iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max that are getting most attention are the cameras and the chassis.
Leo reviewed the original Fractal Eraover four years ago and he quite liked the case for its stylish good looks and excellent build quality. However, the thermal performance – especially with the solid top panel option installed – wasn’t ideal to say the least. So now Fractal has gone back to the drawing board and completely redesigned the internal layout to improve cooling and hardware support, giving us the Era 2.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
00:42 The Era 2 pricing and details
01:44 James Thoughts
02:18 Removing panels – a look inside
03:45 Radiator / Fan support
04:59 ‘Central spine’ system / riser cable
06:28 GPU install
07:10 Fan intakes / cooling
07:56 Up close inside / PSU
10:27 Accessories
10:36 Test System / Install
12:23 Thermal & Noise Performance testing
13:49 Closing Thoughts
Fractal Era 2 Features:
Compatible with 3 slot graphics cards up to 326mm long and 63mm thick in max GPU configuration mode.
Optimised for AIO CPU cooling with support for up to 280mm radiator installation.
ERA 2 features tool-free chassis access, a single-piece slide exterior panel, and a push-to release top bracket for quick and simple assembly.
Equipped with a sliding central wall offering 15mm of movement for build flexibility allowing for larger graphics cards or taller CPU coolers.
Included with the Era 2 is a PCIe Gen4 riser cable, dedicated mounts for up to four 2.5-inch storage drives and a front I/O panel with two USB 3 type-A ports and a USB Type-C 20Gbps port.
Specifications:
Case Type: Small Form Factor
Dimensions (WxHxD): 366mm x 165mm x 314 mm
Net Weight: 4.64 kg
Material: Steel, Aluminium, Plastic, Walnut
Motherboard Support: Mini-ITX
Expansion Slots: 3
Storage Bays: 4 x 2.5”
Max GPU Length: 326mm
MAX GPU Height: 137mm
MAX GPU Thickness: 63mm (Max GPU Config) 48mm (Max CPU Cooler Config)
Max CPU Cooler Height: 70mm (Max GPU Cooler Config) 55mm (Max CPU Cooler Config)
Max PSU Size: Standard SFX/SFX-L
Pre-installed fans: 2 x 120mm Fractal Aspect 12 PWM(Floor)
Fan Support: (Front) N/A (Top) 2 x 120/140mm(Side) N/A (PSU Shroud) N/A (Bottom) 2 x 120mm (Rear) N/A
Font I/O: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, 2x USB 3.0 Type-A, 1x CTIA Combined headphone/mic audio jack, Power button with LED
LCD Screen: N/A
Thermal Performance Testing
To simulate thermal demand we run the Cinebench R23 multi-thread benchmark and 3DMark Speed Way stress test simultaneously in a loop for 30 minutes to load the system fully. This gives the CPU and GPU enough time to reach constant steady-state temperature. With this data, we can compare how the system handles the thermal demand and measure peak noise levels.
Thermal performance is measured with the case in various configurations, such as the default, with the tempered glass left-hand side panel removed and with the front panel removed to see how these configurations affect the CPU and GPU temperature. During testing, only stock case fans are used unless otherwise specified. All water pumps are set to maximum RPM and fans are set to a custom RPM curve by the Motherboard software/BIOS.
All temperature measurements are presented as Deltas – meaning the ambient temperature has been deducted from the CPU temperature giving us a Delta. Data shown in the charts represent the average component temperature over the length of the test as measured by HWiNFO and then the last 15 minutes of the data are calculated to get the average. The ambient temperature during thermal tests is between 19-20⁰C.
We tested the case thermals with a 240mm AIO CPU cooler installed in the roof and with the case in several different configurations.
Thermal performance with the case in its default configuration with all panels installed is good. The CPU temperature average of 68°C over ambient means that it's just 9 or 10°C hotter than the 7800X3D in our launch review, but this is using a smaller radiator inside an enclosed case with GPU heat introduced.
Removing the top panel and bottom dust filter had little effect on the temperature of both the CPU and GPU so they are not too restrictive. Even removing all the side panels to make the case an open frame did little to the CPU or GPU temperature so the case in its default configuration does a good job of keeping internal components cool and running at optimal speed.
Noise Output
During the noise tests, we noticed some unusual resonating or vibrational noise which meant that the case showed some high readings under load.
When fan speeds increased due to component temperature rising the noise output with this resonating noise hit 60dBA, which became quite distracting. At lower fan speed when the system was idle the noise dropped back to a normal reading of around 36 decibels.
Closing Thoughts
Taken as a whole, we like the Fractal Era 2. It still has excellent build quality and a premium feel with the anodised aluminium shell and solid walnut top panel like its predecessor, but now Fractal has improved hardware support, especially for larger graphics cards. The quick panel removal process means it's very easy to take apart to install and access internal hardware. It's also a fairly simple case to build in albeit quite tight for space, which is expected in compact ITX cases.
The lack of ATX power supply support isn’t a problem as the cost of SFX/SFX-L units is coming down and the power rating of SFX is increasing all the time, it is not uncommon now to see SFX power supplies rated for 1000W or more (like this Corsair SF1000 unit) which should be more than enough for any ITX build. Removing ATX PSU support has opened up the possibility of installing bigger, better and faster hardware which is always a positive.
The only minor negatives are noise levels that can be high using certain fans due to a resonating/vibrating noise being transferred to the chassis. This isn’t the case with all fans though and may just be limited to the Cooler Master SickleFlow Edge 120 fans we used in thermal testing. We later tried some Fractal Aspect 12 fans on the AIO and the resonating noise was almost eliminated so it was more of a problem with the case/fan combination rather than just the case.
Other than that there is little to complain about, only that the cable management can throw up some complications during the build process. Some pre-managed cables may need re-routing depending on motherboard connector locations and the front panel power button cable was a little short for us to do a neat job of routing it using the MSI MPG B650i Edge WiFi motherboard, but that was not a big deal.
Era 2 is compact with a relatively small footprint so good for fitting in small desk spaces. Thermal performance is good, hardware support is improved from the previous Era chassis and the case still has the premium look and feel that we have come to expect from Fractal. The only problem with that is the Era 2 comes with a premium price tag of £195 MSRP. However the case is very well built, it uses high quality and natural materials and comes with a PCIE Gen4 riser cable so it may be worth paying that little extra for.
The Fractal Era 2 is expected to be available in October 2024 in the UK. However, there's no specific date set yet for sales to go live.
Effortless side panel removal – this can be done one-handed.
Good thermal performance.
Cons:
Cable management can be tricky.
Unusual resonating noise using an AIO cooler with some high-speed fans.
A little expensive.
KitGuru says: The Fractal Era 2 is a stylish compact ITX PC case with good hardware support, so it's ideal for those who need to minimise size but without compromising on performance or looks.
Biwin has unveiled the DW100 RGB DDR5 OC memory, featuring a unique CUDIMM technology that allows it to operate up to 9200 MT/s with CL42. Moreover, the memory received a Red Dot 2024 award and a French Design Gold Award for its design.
To operate at such high speeds, Biwin's OC Lab uses CUDIMMs (Clocked Unbuffered Dual Inline Memory Modules), allowing the memory to adjust clock frequency and voltage based on the workload. While the standard DDR5 speed is 6400 MT/s, the Biwin DW100 RGB DDR5 can be overclocked to 9200 MT/s with CL42.
These modules use a 10-layer PCB that reduces electromagnetic interference and mitigates the risk of instabilities. Additionally, the Biwin DW100 RGB DDR5 memory offers good thermals through its three-fin cooling design, maximising air contact area with the heatsink. Reinforced by an electrophoresis coating, the aluminium alloy heatsink dissipates heat and allows the memory to deliver consistent performance even under high loads.
Available in black and white in 48 GB kits (2x 24 GB), the DW100 RGB DDR5 modules offer a range of vibrant colours and lighting effects through their RGB light strip, allowing users to personalise their modules according to their aesthetic preferences. The Biwin DW100 RGB DDR5 OC CUDIMM is set to launch in select regions in Q4, with the pricing yet to be confirmed.
KitGuru says: Do you like the aesthetics of the new Biwin DDR5 modules? Which colour option do you prefer?
Fractal Design's Era 2 stands out in the SFF case market with its stylish, flexible design and included fans. Priced at $200, it offers a balance of aesthetics, functionality, and active cooling. The well-designed interior allows easy management of cables and components, which makes the case a great choice for small form factor enthusiasts.
Ahead of the iPhone 16 launch, resurgent Xiaomi took Apple's global smartphone sales second-place spot, but the slip is only temporary.
iPhone 15 Pro
Apple and Samsung bitterly compete with each other to be the top smartphone brand in the world in terms of market share. Both companies do top sales lists, with the lead exchanging throughout the year.
However, according to a research note from Counterpoint Research seen byAppleInsider, Apple slipped down to third place. The Chinese vendor Xiaomi saw enough growth and Apple saw enough of a dip in August for the two to switch positions.
While in no way the biggest IP in the world, there are many who have enjoyed the Darksiders series over the past 15 years or so. By far the most popular entry in the series is Darksiders II. Following a PS4 remaster back in 2015, the publishers at THQ Nordic have announced an upcoming and surprising free current-gen upgrade.
Making the announcement via a press release, the team at THQ Nordic said “We know many of you are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the Darksiders saga, teased during THQ Nordic’s 2024 August Showcase. Well, we have news—but this isn’t that announcement! With that anticipation set aside, let’s focus on what’s coming very soon: a remastered and enhanced version of Darksiders II Deathinitive Edition, arriving on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X on October 15th.”
Given just how long it’s been since the release of the Deathinitive Edition, this PS5 / Series X update brings with it a bunch of interesting enhancements, including “4K resolution, ray tracing, and enhanced lighting and shadows to harness the power of today’s consoles” – with the PS5 also benefiting from more advanced haptics.
Of course, we will have to wait and see exactly what kind of ray-tracing is being used, but regardless, this update has come as an unexpected yet highly-welcome surprise. It’ll be interesting to see whether they enhance the first Darksiders next.
KitGuru says: What do you think of the Darksiders series? Which entry is your favourite? Let us know down below.
Each month, just as how they bring a bunch of new titles to the PS Plus service, Sony also removes a number of games. For the month of October, subscribers will unfortunately lose access to 8 titles in total – including a bunch of Dragon Quest games.
In going to the PlayStation Plus tab on your PS5, you’ll find a list of 8 titles under the ‘Last Chance to Play’ section. Leaving the service at some point in October (likely mid-month) are the following:
Ultra Street fighter IV
Gotham Knights
LittleBigPlanet 3
Dragon Quest XI
Dragon Quest Builders 1 + 2
Dragon Quest Heroes 1 + 2
Toukiden Kiwami
The Evil Within
It’s interesting to see The Evil Within on the list, as it was previously added and then removed from PS Plus Extra – only to be added once again a couple weeks ago.
Of course, as with all of these titles (first party games included) we are not privy to the specifics of the PS Plus deal, and so any game could theoretically leave at any point.
At the very least Sony does give a bit of warning ahead of time. Still, if you were planning on playing any of these games, you might want to hurry up.
KitGuru says: What do you think of the games leaving? Are you sad to see any of them go? Why do you think Little Big Planet 3 is being removed? Let us know down below.
With Dragon Age: The Veilguard set to release next month, the team at Bioware and EA have been more open regarding the last entry in the series – the now decade old Dragon Age Inquisition. While the game was known to have done well for the publisher, we did not have concrete long-term sales figures…until now.
In a response to one post on Twitter discussing the game’s performance, the executive producer of 2014’s Dragon Age Inquisition – Mark Darrah – surprisingly revealed just how successful the RPG was for EA, saying “Yeah I'm not sure where ‘DAI was a commercial failure’ came from…It's over 12 million at this point. MASIVELY [sic] oversold the internal EA projections.”
Given just how long it's been since the last Dragon Age game, it will be interesting to see how The Veilguard performs – especially in a post Baldur’s Gate 3 world.
KitGuru says: What did you think of Inquisition back in the day? Was it your 2014 GOTY? What are your expectations for The Veilguard? Let us know down below.
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