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Apple Watch tech gives NHL refs an edge with real-time alerts

NHL referees won't need to visually scan for a clock during Saturday's Stadium Series game — they'll feel it on their wrist.

Ice hockey sticks lined up on the ice with players wearing yellow and blue uniforms and skates in the background.
The NHL is incorporating Apple Watch

The National Hockey League (NHL) has teamed up with Apple and Presidio to introduce the NHL Watch Comms App, a real-time notification system running on Apple Watches configured specifically for on-ice officials. The technology provides haptic alerts for key in-game events like period and power play countdowns.

While the software has been in use throughout the 2024-2025 season, it will debut in an outdoor setting at the upcoming Detroit Red Wings vs. Columbus Blue Jackets match at Ohio State University's football stadium.


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Microsoft blew $8.5 billion on Skype only to spend 14 years killing it

Skype will be closed down in May 2025, but it really died in 2011 when it was bought by Microsoft. It's just been a death by a thousand slow-motion cuts.

Screenshoft of an old version of Skype for the Mac
How we used to live. This is Skype on the Mac back in prehistory

You didn't know Skype was still a thing, and in a few weeks' time, it won't be. Once a revolutionary app that brought free voice calls over the internet, it was important enough and valuable enough that in 2006, eBay bought it for $2.6 billion.

If it seems peculiar that eBay would be the one that bought it, give the auction site some credit — it flipped the service and sold Skype on in 2011 for a huge profit. Five years is a long time to have it on "Buy it Now," but Microsoft eventually snapped it up for $8.5 billion.


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ESR is ready with the best iPhone 16e case & screen protector options

Apple's latest iPhone has just launched, and ESR revolutionizes protection and brings MagSafe functionality to the iPhone 16e. Here's a look at the best iPhone 16e case options available.

Three objects: a mint green phone case package with a pull tab, a black phone case, and a smartphone with a clear case displaying a glossy screen.
ESR is ready for iPhone 16e with MagSafe cases and screen protectors. Image source: ESR

It's been a long time coming, but the iPhone 16e is here and it features a classic design, single rear camera, and notched display with Face ID. The device may look similar to an iPhone 14, but legacy cases won't fit.

It can be frustrating when Apple releases altered product designs, because it can mean customers will go without must-have protection at launch. However, ESR isn't leaving customers hanging by offering its latest cases and screen protectors today.


Continue Reading on AppleInsider

iPhone 17e, Siri's faults, and Apple Intelligence on Apple Vision Pro, on the AppleInsider Podcast

Siri is getting worse before it gets better, Bono is getting a film, and the Apple Vision Pro is at last getting Apple Intelligence, on the AppleInsider Podcast.

Smartphone screen showing a notification about meeting Zac Wingate at Cafe Grenel and a calendar event for a production catch-up on July 3.
The type of answer Apple promises Siri will be able to answer with Apple Intelligence. Image source: Apple

The developer beta of iOS 18.4 is out and so far has none of the improvements that were promised for Siri from the very start of Apple Intelligence — and somehow Siri is even worse than it was a week ago. But there are other things to enjoy in iOS 18.4 and which will be publicly available in April, starting with the very well done Apple News+ Food.

Plus host Wes Hilliard will point out both that he said it here and that actually, despite other rumors to the contrary, it was obvious — Apple Intelligence is coming to the Apple Vision Pro. So is U2's Bono.


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Inside Apple Shortcuts - the best feature that can revolutionize how you work

Next time your Mac is too slow, or you're having to keep repeating the same steps on your iPhone, learn Shortcuts and it will dramatically improve your speed — and even accuracy.

Apple Shortcuts icon and an iPhone displaying various colorful shortcut options like 'OK Google,' 'Lumos,' and 'What star is that.'
Shortcuts on an iPhone

Shortcuts take one, ten, or a hundred different steps and have your Mac, iPhone, and iPad instantly do them all for you, after you've tapped or clicked a single button. Open a dozen documents, turn them into PDFs, email them to your clients — and play some music at the same time.

It takes a little effort to learn how to exploit Shortcuts. But then they do everything you need, quickly, flawlessly, and over and over again.


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Best iPhone 16e cases available right now

If you're planning on purchasing an iPhone 16e, make sure to grab the perfect phone case to protect your new purchase. Here are some great choices, from clear to rugged and everything in between.

Three smartphones with cases: one white with smooth texture, one clear showing the Apple logo, and one black with a textured triangular pattern.
Best iPhone 16e cases

No matter what kind of case you're looking for, chances are it's out there somewhere. From extreme drop protection to kickstands and a wide array of designs, there's a lot of variety in the case market.

AppleInsider has rounded up many popular cases you can buy to protect your new smartphone. The list isn't exhaustive of the entire market, as there are more expensive and unusual items, but it is a good starting point to find your ideal iPhone case.


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iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: A new Apple Intelligence-powered entry-level option

Apple's update to the iPhone SE adds a new design and Apple Intelligence, as well as a new name: iPhone 16e. Here's how it compares to yesterday's budget option — the iPhone 16.

Two smartphones side by side on a gradient background showing front and back views, featuring circular patterns on screens.
iPhone 16e [left], iPhone 16 [right]

Arriving just shy of three years after the third-generation iPhone SE, the newly-rebranded iPhone 16e has arrived as the new entry-level model for consumers. This is a major modernization effort, with a new design and a considerable specifications bump to match modern smartphones.

With the introduction of a new low-cost smartphone on Apple's roster, this leaves consumers wondering if they should get it instead of the slightly more expensive iPhone 16.


Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

AMD Radeon RX 9070 Series Technical Deep Dive

AMD's next-generation of GPUs is launching very soon. We have all the details on the architecture and the new models. Our preview article also talks about new new FSR 4 upscaling algorithm, AMD's new naming scheme, Radeon Software and the improvements for HYPR-RX.

Sapphire reveals RX 9070 Nitro+, Pure and Pulse series graphics cards

It is AMD launch day, with the company revealing the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT graphics cards in full. As always, Sapphire is hot on the heels of the launch with its own custom-cooled models, and they look to be their best yet. 

Sapphire has new Nitro+, Pure and Pulse RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT graphics cards hitting the market. The Nitro+ version will cost a little more, but you'll get the fastest out-of-box clock speeds, a beefy triple-fan cooler and a dual-layer all-metal black plate that lets you hide your power connector.

The Sapphire Pure model is for fans of all-white graphics cards offering a sleek white and black aesthetic with a hint of ARGB on the logo. Finally, the Sapphire Pulse model offers a slimmer all-black cooler.

The Sapphire TriXX software has also received a significant upgrade, introducing clean UI design to help gamers quickly find settings for overclocking, hardware monitoring, performance and efficiency profiles, as well as adjustments for the ARGB LEDs on your graphics card.

You can find the technical specifications for RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT in the table below:

GPU Sapphire RX 9070 Nitro+ Sapphire RX 9070 XT Nitro+
RDNA 4 Compute Units 56 64
HW RT Accelerators 56 64
HW AI Accelerators 112 128
Peak AI TOPS 1165 1557
Boost Clock Up to 3010 MHz Up to 3060 MHz
VRAM 16GB 16GB
Total Board Power 220W 304W
Connectivity & Display PCIe 5.0, DisplayPort 2.1a, HDMI 2.1b PCIe 5.0, DisplayPort 2.1a, HDMI 2.1b

The Sapphire Pulse and Pure models offer the same specs, but with different clock speeds. For instance, the RX 9070 XT Pulse and Pure models offer up to 3010MHz boost clock speeds out of the box, and up to 2700MHz on the RX 9070 version.

Sapphire's RX 9070 series graphics cards will be available starting on the 6th of March.

KitGuru Says: Sapphire has an excellent reputation for its custom AMD graphics cards and that looks to continue with the new RX 9070 series models. Are you thinking of making the jump to AMD's latest GPU? 

The post Sapphire reveals RX 9070 Nitro+, Pure and Pulse series graphics cards first appeared on KitGuru.

AMD announces $599 RX 9070 XT, RX 9070 at $549

First announced at CES last month, today AMD is finally launching its new generation RX 9070 series graphics cards. Based on the RDNA 4 architecture, these new GPUs aim to offer improved AI performance and RT acceleration at a lower price than an RTX 50 series GPU. 

The new RDNA 4 GPUs at the heart of the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT feature up to 64 Compute Units / 4096 Stream Processors. Clock speeds can boost up to 3GHz and AMD has made the wise choice to pair the GPU with 16GB of 20Gbps DDR6 memory and 64MB of Infinity Cache, so gamers won't have to worry about hitting VRAM limits.

Compared to RDNA 3, AMD has enhanced the memory subsystem, improved Scalar Units, and increased efficiency to reach higher clock speeds. According to AMD, RDNA 4 delivers 2x raytracing Throughput per CU. On top of that, AMD has also enhanced the architecture with new AI Accelerators, delivering 2x FP16 performance and 4x INT8 performance.

You can find the technical specifications for RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT in the table below:

GPU RX 9070 RX 9070 XT
RDNA 4 Compute Units 56 64
HW RT Accelerators 56 64
HW AI Accelerators 112 128
Peak AI TOPS 1165 1557
Boost Clock 2.52GHz 2.97GHz
VRAM 16GB 16GB
Total Board Power 220W 304W
Connectivity & Display PCIe 5.0, DisplayPort 2.1a, HDMI 2.1b PCIe 5.0, DisplayPort 2.1a, HDMI 2.1b

Compared to an RTX 3080 at 4K, the RX 9070 is said to be as much as 26 percent faster. This is the average score based on benchmarks across 30 games. You can also see RX 9070 vs AMD's previous gen RX 7900 GRE in the slide above, showcasing big improvements in titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Starfield, Final Fantasy 16, and more.

These new graphics cards will also be the first to support AMD's new FSR4 technology, which utilises AI accelerators to improve visuals and performance for the first time, bringing the technology closer to matching the bar set by Nvidia's competing DLSS technology.

Board partners like Sapphire, XFX, Acer, PowerColor, Asus, ASRock and Gigabyte are already confirmed to be launching custom-cooled versions of these graphics cards. They will become available worldwide starting on the 6th of March, with prices starting at $549 for the RX 9070 and $599 for the RX 9070 XT.

KitGuru Says: Are you considering making the jump to an RX 9070 or RX 9070 XT? 

The post AMD announces $599 RX 9070 XT, RX 9070 at $549 first appeared on KitGuru.

AMD RDNA 4 Deep Dive: Exploring The Tech That Powers Radeon RX 9070

AMD RDNA 4 Deep Dive: Exploring The Tech That Powers Radeon RX 9070 AMD RDNA 4 And Radeon RX 9070 Series: Radeon RX 9070 - $549, 9070 XT - $599 MSRP A look under the hood of RDNA 4 tells us AMD's Radeon RX 9070 and 9070 XT target the midsection of the PC gaming market, where the volume is, and appear poised to make a big splash at very competitive price points. 2 x Ray Tracing Throughput Numerous Software...

A Minecraft Movie gets ‘Final Trailer’ ahead of April premiere

For over a decade, work has progressed on a Minecraft film adaptation in one way or another. Finally, we got our first official trailer last year. While quite controversial in its execution, further previews have painted the film in a greater light. Ahead of its premiere on the 4th of April, the ‘Final’ trailer for A Minecraft Movie has now been released.

While the film still appears to suffer from rather obvious use of greenscreen, the final trailer for A Minecraft Movie presents what could be a solid enough time for families and fans of the game – appearing much more like a film about Minecraft and its world, compared to the initial showing which seemed somewhat less in touch with the core of the series itself.

It will be interesting to see how the film performs at the box office when it releases, as due to the overwhelming popularity of Minecraft as a brand it could very well give the Super Mario Bros. film a run for its money.

Regardless, A Minecraft Movie will likely wind up as the second highest-grossing adaptation all time at the very least, taking the spot from the current runner-up (Sonic the Hedgehog 3’s $483 million) – though whether it will beat Mario’s $1.3 Billion haul is yet to be determined. We will have to wait and see.

KitGuru says: What did you think of the final trailer? Could the film be solid? How much do you think it’ll make at the box office? Let us know down below.

The post A Minecraft Movie gets ‘Final Trailer’ ahead of April premiere first appeared on KitGuru.

Forza Horizon 5 will include ray tracing on PS5 Pro

Ever since Microsoft began to support the PlayStation with its games, the question has arisen as to whether the company would utilise all of the unique hardware in its competitor’s console. It seems they are supporting all of it and more, with the upcoming Forza Horizon 5 confirmed to offer DualSense haptics on PS5 as well as ray tracing support for the PS5 Pro.

Taking to their blog, the team at Playground games officially detailed the upcoming PS5 release for Forza Horizon 5, confirming that the title will launch on the 29th of April – or the 25th with ‘Advanced Access’.

More interestingly, we’ve gotten details on the PS5-specific features, with the studio confirming that Horizon 5 will make full use of the DualSense and its haptics/triggers. Beyond this, the PS5 is set to get two graphics modes: Performance (60fps) and Quality (30fps).

Forza Horizon 5 Pro

Being the first Microsoft game to come to the console since the release of the PS5 Pro, Playground Games have also confirmed that both modes will see a boost on the Pro system, with Performance mode upping the overall ‘visual fidelity’ while the Pro’s Quality mode adds ray traced car reflections to Races and Free Roam – a first for the series on console.

Arbitrary early access aside, Forza Horizon 5 represents the biggest Xbox game to come to PlayStation so far, and as such it will be interesting to see how the game’s overall reception pans out.

KitGuru says: What do you think of the PS5 Pro features? Which mode would you pick? Let us know down below.

The post Forza Horizon 5 will include ray tracing on PS5 Pro first appeared on KitGuru.

Montech HyperFlow Silent 360 AIO – we helped them fix it!

Approximately nine months ago, Montech launched its first AIO CPU cooler – the HyperFlow ARGB. It was available in 240mm and 360mm sizes, in black or white colour schemes and was reasonably priced at around £85 for the 360mm version. Now Montech is back with a new HyperFlow Silent which, according to Montech, has whisper-quiet performance but ditches the RGB lighting. It’s a budget AIO for the cooling purists, but does its low noise output mean performance is compromised? Let's find out.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro
01:18 Overview and pricing
03:01 Close up look
07:54 Compatibility / Accessories
09:12 New AMD Test platform
11:37 Testing Thermals and Noise output
13:24 First Anomaly
13:41 Checking deeper
14:31 James works out the problem
15:46 James tests out his ‘solution’
16:35 Montech response to our findings
17:48 Closing thoughts

Features:

  • According to Montech the HyperFlow Silent offers whisper-quiet performance from a reduced noise pump and fan blades capable of achieving 45.18dBA noise output while its 27mm thick radiator and 72.3 CFM of airflow provide optimal heat transfer.
  • The innovative ring-type fan blades reduce noise output to 24.8 decibels even at their maximum speed of 2200 RPM.
  • HyperFlow Silent is available in 240mm and 360mm size in black or white. The pump block has a metal finish for a sleek look and pre-installed fans for a quick and simple installation process.
  • The versatile design means that the HyperFlow Silent is compatible with the latest AMD and Intel desktop platforms and comes with a 6-year extended warranty for peace of mind.

Specifications:

  • CPU Socket Compatibility: Intel LGA1151/1200/1700/1851/20XX, AMD AM3/AM4/AM5
  • Radiator Material: Aluminium
  • Radiator Dimensions: 397 x 120 x 27 mm
  • Radiator Tube Length: 400mm
  • CPU Block Dimensions: 68.8 x 68.8 x 53 mm
  • Pump Speed: 3100 RPM +/- 10% PWM
  • Cold Plate: Copper
  • Pump Connector: 4-pin PWM
  • LCD Screen: N/A
  • Pump Noise: 28.8 dBA
  • Pump LED: N/A
  • VRM Fan: N/A
  • Fan Dimensions: 120 x 120 x 28 mm
  • Fan LED: N/A
  • Fan Speed (PWM): 2200 RPM +/- 10% PWM
  • Fan Max Airflow: 72.3 CFM
  • Fan Max Air Pressure: 3.12 mmH2O
  • Fan Noise: 24.8 dBA
  • Fan Bearing: Rifle
  • Fan Connector: 4-pin PWM
  • Warranty: 6 years
The post Montech HyperFlow Silent 360 AIO – we helped them fix it! first appeared on KitGuru.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 has been added to the Microsoft Store

Following the conclusion of the purchase of Activision Blizzard by Microsoft, the console maker began to bring a number of the publisher's back-catalogue to its Xbox Game Pass subscription service. While we’ve yet to see any classic CODs come to Game Pass, the Microsoft Store on PC has seen a ton of activity – with the OG Black Ops 1 having now been added.

Available right now on the PC Microsoft Store for $39.99, 2010’s Call of Duty Black Ops 1 has been added; though is seemingly missing its DLC.

Interestingly, while much of the game’s description remains the same from decades past (including the reference to “last year’s” Modern Warfare 2), the top of the page does note the fact that “This is a classic Call of Duty experience, cross-platform Multiplayer is not supported.”

Black Ops Microsoft Store

As mentioned, this isn’t the first Call of Duty to be added to the Microsoft Store, and like those prior additions, there has yet to be any official wording on a Game Pass launch.

Given its lack of cross-play, paying for the Microsoft Store version of any older Call of Duty seems like an unwise decision.

That said, if Microsoft does eventually bring these titles to Game Pass, then a bunch of classic CODs could receive second lives over a decade after their peak.

KitGuru says: Do you think Microsoft is gearing up for a Game Pass release? If not, then why are they being added? Which classic Call of Duty is your favourite? Let us know down below.

The post Call of Duty: Black Ops 1 has been added to the Microsoft Store first appeared on KitGuru.

Apple customers start receiving the iPhone 16e

The iPhone 16e is now available, with shipments of the new budget smartphone starting to arrive on customer doorsteps.

Hand holding a white smartphone with a single camera, ocean and coastline blurred in the background, under clear blue sky.
Launch day iPhone 16e buyer — image credit:geniusmanu_ on Threads

Apple's reincarnation of the iPhone SE line, the iPhone 16e, was opened for preorders on February 21. One week later, and the smartphone is now actually available.

Customers who preordered the iPhone 16e will start to receive their orders on Friday, or will be able to pick it up from the Apple Store. It will also be available to purchase without preorder from Apple, major retailers, and carriers.


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Indiana Jones reportedly coming to PS5 in April

Prior to its release on the Xbox Series X|S last year, Microsoft confirmed that Indiana Jones and the Great Circle would also be swinging its way onto PS5 in 2025. While we have yet to get a concrete release date, one insider has now claimed that the game is planned for launch sometime this April.

In an article discussing Microsoft’s recent increase in adoption of AI for game development, industry insider Tom Warren offered a small tidbit on the planned release timing for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on PS5, writing (paywalled) “we're now waiting to hear if Indiana Jones is going to make Microsoft's target of an April release on PS5.”

As mentioned, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle first released in early December of last year for the Xbox Series X|S and PC. At the time, it was stated that PS5 players would get to enjoy Indy’s latest adventure some time in Spring of 2025.

Indiana PS5

While we have yet to get official confirmation, April would make some sense as it would land somewhat in the middle of Spring. That said, with Microsoft recently confirming that Forza Horizon 5 is launching at the end of April, it would be odd to have both titles release within the same month.

Given how Forza Horizon and Indiana Jones are two entirely different games in completely separate genres however, it’s possible that neither title will cannibalise sales from the other.

KitGuru says: Are you more excited for Forza or Indiana Jones? Will it arrive in April? What enhancements do you expect to see for the PS5 Pro? Let us know down below.

The post Indiana Jones reportedly coming to PS5 in April first appeared on KitGuru.

How to install MAME on your Apple Silicon Mac

MAME is the Multi Arcade Machine Emulator for playing classic games. Here's how to get it up and running on your Apple Silicon Mac.

MAME emulates multiple different retro systems on your Mac.
MAME is the multi-arcade emulator for your Mac.

MAME is a well-known project that allows you to run classic hardware systems and games on modern computers. MAME supports Macs, Windows, Linux, and some Android devices. There are also third-party emulators which use MAME on iOS.

MAME dates back over twenty-five years and was originally created by Italian developer Nicola Salmoria. The project's development has changed hands over the decades, and there was an initial older version for Mac OS 9 called MacMAME.


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Leaker shares more iPhone 17 series CAD designs sporting camera bars

The camera bar seems to be all but guaranteed for iPhone 17 if the latest repeat rumors are to be believed, and some newly leaked CAD designs reinforce this.

Three smartphones with varying camera designs: dual, single, and triple lenses, each in a separate section showcasing different color outlines and styles.
iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air/Slim, and iPhone 17 Pro Max CADs. Image source: Sonny Dickson

Many leakers are talking about the iPhone 17, but there are a few pushing the camera bar rumor repeatedly. Digital Chat Station started the rumor in December in December, Majin Bu showed CADs used by Prosser, claiming it was correct, then Sonny Dickson confirmed it with case renders.

On Thursday, Dickson followed up on the case leak with CADs of his own. It seems possible that Apple will embrace the camera bar after all.


Rumor Score: 🤔 Possible


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Get your hands on an Apple-1, Pippin, or sealed iPhone via latest auction

Apple collectors looking to get sealed first-generation iPhones, EVT and DVT prototypes, and piles of memorabilia like magazines and business cards can join in on an auction running through March 20.

Vintage computer parts including a wooden monitor, motherboard, and keyboard, alongside a boxed smartphone and a magazine featuring a man in a suit.
Apple memorabilia on sale at auction. Image source: RR Auction

Any time old Apple products and collectibles end up on the auction block, they can sell for thousands of dollars. Unopened iPhones and pieces of Steve Jobs' wardrobe tend to be big sellers.

The latest auction, first reported by MacRumors, has a range of Apple historical memorabilia available. RR Auction has a total of 317 lots under the "Steve Jobs and the Apple Revolution" section, which can be bid on until March 20, 7 p.m. EDT.


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Bose Ultra Open wireless earbuds review: Great, but buy AirPods instead

For the last few months now I've been using Apple's (AirPods 4 (ANC), but alongside those, I've been testing another pair of wireless earbuds as well. The Bose Ultra Open earbuds are expensive and weird, and I kinda love them — but you probably shouldn't buy them.

Bose Ultra Open charging case alongside AirPods 4 wireless charging case.
Bose Ultra Open wireless earbuds

Testing two pairs of earbuds simultaneously has the benefit of giving you an easy comparison at the end of it all. But for all their similarities — both are open, so you can hear the outside world — they're also very, very different.

That's something most easily demonstrated by the price. Even the ANC version of AirPods 4 costs considerably less than Bose's earbuds — $179 compared to almost $300.


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AirPods Pro 2, AirPods 4 get new beta firmware

Apple has released a new developer beta firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, though there are currently no details as to what the update contains.

Two white wireless earbuds with silicone tips on a dark textured surface.
Apple has released a new developer beta firmware for AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4.

Thursday's developer beta increases the build number to 7E5080a, up from the previous 7E5067b update, released in January 2025. This beta software release is available for AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2, both the USB-C and Lightning models. The software won't be released for AirPods Max or other non-H2 devices.

Beta software updates are released periodically for nearly all of Apple's platforms, including AirPods. While beta updates for Apple's mobile and desktop operating systems are released much more frequently, developers still rely on beta software for AirPods to test new features before launch.


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Apple thinks the iPhone 16e target market doesn't care about MagSafe

Apple has responded to iPhone 16e critics, and says that engineering choices like a lack of MagSafe that make the device unappealing to the tech-savvy don't matter to the larger market.

Hand holding a smartphone with a charging cable connected, screen displaying a circular pattern and a green battery indicator.
Apple can't say wired charging is better than MagSafe, but it's trying

There's a great line from Jony Ive, said around the time that Apple Park was first opened. There were criticisms of its design and he said he was bemused at them, because of who Apple Park was built for.

"We didn't make Apple Park for other people," he said in Dezeen magazine. "So a lot of the criticisms are utterly bizarre, because it wasn't made for you! And I know how we work and you don't!"


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Microsoft Copilot lands on Mac

Microsoft has just brought its AI chatbot, Copilot, to macOS, if you're looking for yet another AI tool to add to your arsenal.

Chat interface with a photo of bleeding heart flowers, featuring pink heart-shaped blossoms and green foliage, illuminated by sunlight.
Microsoft Copilot comes to macOS

Copilot is Microsoft's AI chatbot. Like most other chatbots, it can provide you with text, generate images (Generative AI, or GenAI), help you get organized or cook, look things up or locate things for you, play music, and even write code.

Until now, Mac users have been required to use Copilot in-browser on Microsoft's site. However, as of Thursday, a standalone app has finally landed on macOS.


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Apple users prep for 24/7 survival mode for winter storm blackout, hurricanes & outdoor adventure

Keep your Apple gear going through any storm with Bluetti's range of portable power stations and backup power solutions. Your iPhone, Mac, and iPad can stay charged for days with these big batteries.

Living room with a heater, two power units, a TV showing an animated cartoon, a table, and decorative plants.
Bluetti can help Apple users stay prepared for any emergency. Image source: Bluetti

Winter storms, hurricanes, or backcountry adventures— when power fails, Apple users risk more than dead devices. Over 475k U.S. homes went dark this week: CPAP machines disconnected from Health app data, HomeKit cameras blinded during storms, MacBooks dying mid-Zoom.

Bluetti's portable power stations, fitting with Apple's ecosystem, turn chaos into control. Power AirTag-tracked gear through blackouts, sustain HomePod tornado alerts, or render wildfire maps offline.


Continue Reading on AppleInsider

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

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

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

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

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

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. 

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

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

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? 

 

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

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.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

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

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.

Warner Bros Murders Monolith

Warner Bros have done something awful, again.  They've closed Monolith after 30 years of successful game publishing and the reasoning is even worse than you think.  The quote from Rock, Paper, SHOTGUN…

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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