1.Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Unveiled: Bringing Flagship Performance Down to Earth
**Snapdragon 8 Gen 5: Flagship Power, Easier to Get**
Qualcomm showed off its Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in November, a big step forward for phone chips. It had a new CPU design (Oryon) that looked to seriously boost speed and save battery. They also mentioned a regular version was coming, basically offering the same goodies as the Elite, but at a lower price for more phones. Now, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is here. It does cut some of the top-end performance, but keeps the key stuff that makes Qualcomm's latest chips special.
**How Fast Is It?**
Qualcomm says the 8 Gen 5 is better than 2023's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, with the CPU being 36% quicker and the graphics 11% better. They're also talking about better battery life because of the design changes since Gen 3. But really, it's more useful to compare it to the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. They use the same Oryon CPU, but the Elite runs at faster speeds.
The 8 Gen 5 has six cores that go up to 3.32GHz, and two main cores that hit 3.8GHz. The Elite version? Those go to 3.62GHz and 4.6GHz, respectively. So, on paper, the Gen 5 isn't quite as fast as the Elite, or even last year's Snapdragon 8 Elite at its fastest. Still, because they're built the same way, apps should run pretty similarly on both. You'll mostly see differences in test scores and when doing really heavy tasks for a long time.
**Staying Connected**
One thing Qualcomm tweaked is the modem. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 has the X80 modem, which might not reach quite the same 5G speeds as the Elite. But for everyday use, things should be solid, with the exact same support for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, satellite stuff, and ultra wideband (UWB). These are things that matter more and more, with phones acting as digital keys, payment tools, and hubs for smartwatches, so UWB and satellite messaging are more than just extras now.
**Graphics and AI**
The Adreno graphics and Hexagon AI in the Gen 5 are also a bit toned down from the Elite. Qualcomm hasn't shared exact numbers, but it sounds like the Gen 5 won't be quite as fast for graphics or AI tasks. Most users probably won't notice, though. Games and camera tricks are made to run well on different kinds of hardware, and the Gen 5 still works with the same software tools. One real limit is it doesn't support UFS 4.1 storage, meaning apps might load a little slower and files might transfer a little later than the Elite. But it still charges just as fast, supports the same screen resolutions, and works with the same camera hardware, so companies can still make great phones.
**Why This Matters**
Qualcomm made a regular Gen 5 because not every top-end phone needs to be the absolute fastest. By having a slightly slower version of its best chip, Qualcomm lets phone companies make phones that are more affordable while still having the latest features. It's like how Intel and AMD sell different versions of the same PC chips for different price ranges.
Motorola, OnePlus, and Vivo are already planning to use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, with phones coming soon. The OnePlus 15R, which is supposed to come out on December 17th, is likely to be one of the first. So, the Gen 5 won't just be in a few special phones, but in regular flagship phones from many brands.
**What It Means for You**
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 makes Qualcomm's newest tech more accessible. The Elite is still there for the most premium phones, but the Gen 5 makes sure features like UWB, satellite messaging, and advanced cameras get to more people. This is really important in places where prices matter a lot. By making it cheaper to get these features, Qualcomm keeps them from being only on phones that cost over $1,000.
Also, phones have become a big deal in culture, and people like to brag about how fast their phones are. The Gen 5 kind of changes that: it says that not everyone needs the absolute fastest chip, but most people want the latest features, so Qualcomm is keeping up with consumers' desire for well-rounded experiences instead of just raw power.
**What’s Next?**
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 shows how Qualcomm is changing in the phone world. By having both Elite and regular versions of its top chip, the company makes a more step-by-step product lineup. This helps phone companies and affects what people expect, making it clear that great experiences can come at different prices.
When phones with the Gen 5 come out, we'll see how close it gets to the Elite in terms of consistent speed and battery life. For now, the message is clear: Qualcomm is making its latest tech more available, so the phones of the future will be faster and more inclusive.
2.Deep Bass Meets Mobile: Poco's New Phone Redefines Portable Audio with Bose Subwoofer
Poco F8 Series: Now with Good Sound
Breaking into the phone market is tough. Xiaomi's Poco is known for giving you good specs for not a lot of money. Now, the new F8 series is trying something new: good sound. Poco worked with Bose to try to give you a better listening experience. Most companies don't really focus on the speakers, so they are trying to make their product stand out.
Is Bose Sound Worth It?
The Poco F8 Pro and F8 Ultra both have speakers that Bose helped make sound great. It's not just a sticker; Bose engineers made changes sound settings. One setting makes the bass louder for music and games, while the other one helps voices sound better for podcasts and movies.
The F8 Ultra even has a small subwoofer inside, which is unusual for phones. Poco claims this makes the bass deeper. If you watch videos and listen to music without headphones, then thats pretty cool. Someone from Bose said they mixed of Bose's sound knowledge with Poco's design to get clear and deep sound thats great.
What’s the Difference? Ultra versus Pro
Besides the sound, the F8 models are very different.
Poco F8 Ultra:
Has a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, which is Qualcomm's best.
Big screen, good for games and videos.
Three cameras on the back, so your photos should be good.
Can charge wirelessly.
Poco F8 Pro:
Has last year's Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, which is still fast.
Smaller screen.
The cameras aren't as good as the Ultra.
No subwoofer, but it still has Bose speakers.
Both phones can take being dunked in water and have batteries that last a while, plus they charge fast. The cheaper Pro model still feels premium, while the Ultra is for people who want the best.
Price and Competition
The F8 Pro starts at $579, and the F8 Ultra is $729. There will be a $50 discount at first, so the Ultra is a good deal at $679. This puts the F8 series in the same range as phones from OnePlus, Realme, and Samsung's FE line.
Most companies push cameras or screen refresh rates, Poco has chosen to sell theirs around sound.
Tablets Too
Poco also showed off two tablets: the Pad X1 and Pad M1. Both are under $400 and have nice screens and Dolby Atmos sound. They're supposed to be inexpensive entertainment devices, which should fit well with the F8 phones because you can use them to give you big screens.
The Big Picture
The Poco and Bose team-up is interesting. Usually, phones don't have good sound, so most people use headphones. By putting Bose tech in the F8 series, Poco is betting that sound matters. Maybe this will change what people care about.
This is similar to how gaming brands sometimes join up with fashion brands.
Who Are the Rivals?
The F8 Ultra's Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip will go head-to-head with top smartphones in 2025. The Pro's older chip keeps the price down but still allows excellent performance.
Big batteries and IP68 ratings also work in Poco's favor. Those features are showing up in more mid-range devices, but they are always welcomed
The Final Word
The Poco F8 series wants to shake things up with sound. The pairing with Bose gives Poco a to way distinguish themselves. That subwoofer and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in the Ultra model will for sure draw people, while the Pro version balances low price with good features.
With the Pad X1 and Pad M1 tablets, Poco wants to build a system centered around entertainment and a good deal. We will see if the plan works, but Poco is trying something new.
3.ChatGPT Goes Hands-Free: Voice Mode Now Fully Integrated for Effortless Conversations
ChatGPT's Voice is Now Way Easier to Handle
OpenAI just rolled out a cool update for ChatGPT, making voice mode a breeze. Starting today, November 25, 2025, you can use ChatGPT Voice right in the regular chat – no need to bounce around. Seems small, but it changes how we chat with AI since switching between voice and text is super simple.
No More Jumping Around
Before, if you wanted to talk to ChatGPT, you had to leave the text chat for a different screen. There was a moving blue thing while the chatbot spoke, buttons for mute and record, and an X to go back to typing. Did the job, but wasn't great. Missed something? You had to exit voice mode to see it.
But now it's sorted. Now, when you chat with ChatGPT, the answers show up in the usual chat box. So you can talk, see the replies right away, and check older stuff or even look at pictures or maps without leaving the chat. It feels more user-friendly, so it’s easy to go between voice and text.
Why This Is Good
Mixing voice and text gets rid of a pain. Talking is great when you're busy or just up for a chat, but, typing is still needed for details, searching, and doing a few things at once. By mixing the two, OpenAI lets you do both easily.
This feels more normal. We talk and read all the time. ChatGPT’s new thing is like real life, which makes it helpful in different ways – like when you’re cooking and asking for a recipe, looking at a map while driving, or doing homework that has both talking and writing.
Coming Soon to Everyone
OpenAI said the new voice setting is now the main one and is coming to everyone on phones and web browsers. Just update your app. If you liked the old voice thing, you can turn on Separate mode in Settings. So, if you liked the old screen, you can still use it.
A Few Small Things
Even though the new setup is great, there are a couple of little things. To stop a voice chat, you still have to hit end before you can start typing again. Might feel a little odd. But it’s much smoother, and seeing text and pictures makes up for it.
What This Means
This update is more than just a tweak. By mixing voice and text, OpenAI is making ChatGPT a better helper that works with you. It’s becoming more than just a spot to ask stuff.
It hints at a bigger thing. As AI gets better, people want to use it in lots of ways. Typing, talking, or seeing pictures, it should all be simple. OpenAI’s update gets ChatGPT closer to that.
How It Can Be Used
People say that voice is the future, but most still type because it’s easier to see and check. By mixing the two, OpenAI might get more people to use voice with the safety of text.
Could change how AI is used at work and school. Imagine students doing research, asking questions out loud while seeing written text. Or workers using voice to brainstorm but jotting stuff down to see later. The new ChatGPT Voice helps with all this.
What's Next
This update has good timing. By showing it’s making things easier, OpenAI is showing it’s in charge of simple AI.
Future versions could make it simpler to switch between modes, get rid of the “end” tap, and add more things. Right now, putting voice into the main chat makes AI helpers feel more like chat buddies and less like tools.
Basically
ChatGPT’s voice mode update is nice. By letting you talk, see answers, check old texts, and view pictures all in the same chat, OpenAI has solved that issue. Now it's like talking to someone real.
Means it's easier to use. Also points to AI that uses different ways to talk, like voice, text, and pictures. So, ChatGPT Voice is a step forward.
4.Apple Cracks the Foldable Screen Crease: iPhone Fold Enters Early Production
**iPhone Fold: Apple Might Have Fixed the Crease**
So, Apple's been messing around with a folding iPhone for a while, and it might actually happen soon. They're testing some models right now. The cool part? They might have figured out how to make a folding screen without that crease. If they did, it would be huge for folding phones.
**Why Folding Phones Aren't Great Yet**
Folding phones have been around for a bit. Samsung, Huawei, Motorola – they all tried it. They're kind of neat, but there's one problem: that crease in the middle when you unfold them. It looks odd, and people worry the screen will break. That's why folding phones haven't really taken off.
Apple's been working on foldable phones for a while, but they didn't like Samsung's early versions because they weren't good enough. Now, Apple seems to like how things are going. They've been trying to get rid of that crease.
**How Apple's Doing It**
UDN says Apple helped with the screen and how it folds. Samsung's making the screens, but Apple helped put it all together. The result should be a screen without the crease that other folding phones have.
Apple teamed up with New Rixing and Amfeno for the hinges. The screen and hinge work together, and the screen doesn't crease as easily. This shows Apple considers design even when working with big screen companies.
**Testing Now**
They're testing the iPhone Fold now. They're making about a hundred phones that are almost done. They'll test these to see how well they last and what people think.
Sources say Foxconn even has a line just for the folding iPhone, so things are going well. This testing is important because Apple seems pretty sure of their design and is building phones.
**What's the Name? How Much?**
People are already guessing the name. Some are saying iPhone Fold; others think iPhone Ultra sounds better. Either way, it won't be cheap. Rumor has it'll be around $2,400, much more than regular iPhones and other folding phones.
That price shows you how tough the tech is and how Apple wants to be seen as a high-end brand. It'll be expensive, and only big Apple fans might buy it.
**What It Means for Phones**
If Apple gets into folding phones, things could get interesting. Samsung and Huawei have put a lot into them, but not everyone's buying them. Apple is known for its design, so getting involved could make folding phones popular.
A phone without a crease might make other companies try harder. Like how Face ID made phone security better, the iPhone Fold could do the same for folding screens.
**Why This Matters**
The iPhone Fold is a big deal. Early folding phones felt like the future, but they weren't ready. But Apple getting involved means the tech is finally good enough for them. People might want folding phones now, instead of seeing them as weird things.
That price will make it a status symbol. Like the first iPhone, the Fold could set a new standard for phones.
**What's Next?**
If the iPhone Fold comes out next year, it'll be Apple's biggest phone change in a while. By using Samsung's screens and Apple's design, they might create a folding phone that's worth the hype.
This testing is a good sign, but there are still things to figure out. Making crease-free screens is hard, and they need to test the phone to make sure it won't break. People are excited about a folding iPhone, maybe called the iPhone Ultra. At $2,400, it's not for everyone, but it could change what we expect from smartphones.
5.$29 Off! The AirPods Pro 3 Just Hit Their Lowest Price Ever for Black Friday
The AirPods Pro 3 are down to $220. This is, like, the lowest price we've seen since they launched. Usually, they're $249, so you save $29. The best deal before this was $239, so if you've been thinking about grabbing a pair, now might be the time. Apple usually doesn't do huge discounts, so jump on it.
Slight Tweaks, Big Difference
Apple didn't totally redo the AirPods Pro with the 3rd gen. Instead, they made a bunch of small changes that make everything better. They still look and feel the same – small, comfy, and easy to pocket. But inside, they bumped up the sound, battery, and noise cancellation. It’s a real step up.
We tested them out and were impressed. The audio is richer, and the noise cancellation works even better than before. These are still the go-to earbuds if you have an iPhone and want things to just work with great sound.
Live Translation Is Seriously Cool
The coolest new thing is probably the Live Translation, which they talked about at the iPhone 17 event. It uses Apple's H2 chip, Voice Isolation, noise cancellation, and special mics to translate stuff in real-time through Siri. If you travel a lot or work with people from other countries, this is a game changer.
If it’s noisy around you, you can also see a written translation in the iOS Translate app. That way, you can understand what's being said even if things are crazy. This translation thing shows how Apple wants its stuff to be super useful for everyone around the world.
Better Battery and a Smarter Case
They also made the battery last longer, which is always awesome. You get up to eight hours of listening with noise cancellation, and the case gives you another 24 hours. Perfect for long trips or when you are working long hours.
The MagSafe case has Apple’s U2 chip now, which makes the Find My thing work even better. You can find the case from farther away, which sucks less when you lose your earbuds. If you use Find My all the time, this is a nice improvement.
Sound: More Bass, Clearer Highs
The sound is really what matters. Apple did a solid job here. There are new speakers inside that make things clearer, but the biggest change is that they made the airflow better. This makes the bass sound deeper and the overall sound bigger and more alive.
Whether you're listening to podcasts, classical music, or songs with heavy bass, the AirPods Pro 3 sound better and pull you in more.
The Apple Price Tag
The only thing that's not so great is the price. At $249, the AirPods Pro 3 are pretty expensive. That's why this $220 deal is awesome – it makes them more affordable without losing any of the cool stuff.
If you've got an iPhone and want easy setup, awesome noise cancellation, and a comfy fit, the AirPods Pro 3 are still the best around. But Apple has some cheaper options, too.
Other Apple Audio Deals
AirPods 4 with ANC: $100 (were $179). If you want noise cancellation without spending a ton, these are a very good option.
Regular AirPods 4: $69 (were $129). These are great if you just want Apple's stuff to work together without breaking the bank.
AirPods Max: Some colors are $400 (were $549). The over-ear headphones from Apple are still really good for people who love sound quality. And they look amazing.
Apple has a range of audio products at different prices, so there’s something for everyone.
What It All Means
Adding Live Translation is Apple's way of putting useful tools like this into its devices. Just like AirPods made wireless earbuds and noise cancellation common, the Pro 3 might make real-time translation normal. This could change how people travel, do business, and talk to each other if they speak different language.
The better sound and battery also show that Apple likes to make small but good changes to its products. Others might try to completely redesign things all the time, but Apple’s way makes each new version familiar and yet better.
Bottom Line
At $220, the AirPods Pro 3 are a steal. They sound better, cancel noise better, last longer, and now translate in real-time. They are the best earbuds Apple has ever made, and this discount makes them a lot easier to buy, especially if you have an iPhone.
6.Feel the Bass: Poco's New Phone Delivers Concert-Level Sound with Bose Subwoofer Integration
## Poco F8 Series: Great Sound Without Crazy Prices
In the phone world, you've got to be different. Poco, from Xiaomi, wants to give you the most for your money. Their new F8 series is all about sound. They've partnered with Bose to really improve your listening and get noticed.
### Why the Bose Partnership Matters
The Poco F8 Pro and F8 Ultra both have stereo speakers tuned by Bose. It's not just a sticker – Bose helped make two sound modes:
* **Dynamic mode:** More bass, great for music.
* **Balanced mode:** Clear voices, good for podcasts or movies.
The F8 Ultra even has a subwoofer (rare for phones!). Poco says the bass is deeper and stronger. If you watch videos a lot without headphones, the Ultra might be for you. Nick Smith from Bose said they combined Bose's sound knowledge with Poco's designs for a clear, full sound.
### Ultra vs. Pro: What's Different?
Sound is important, but the F8 phones also have other differences, so you can choose the best one.
**Poco F8 Ultra:**
* Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip – Qualcomm's newest.
* Big 6.9-inch OLED screen – good for gaming and movies.
* Three 50-megapixel cameras on the back.
* Wireless charging.
**Poco F8 Pro:**
* Snapdragon 8 Elite from last year – still fast.
* Smaller 6.59-inch screen.
* Cameras aren't as good as the Ultra's.
* No subwoofer, but Bose stereo speakers.
Both phones are good: they resist water and dust (IP68), have big batteries (over 6,000mAh), and charge very fast. The Pro feels high-quality, even though it's cheaper.
### Price and Who They're For
The F8 Pro starts at $579, and the F8 Ultra is $729. If you're fast, you can get $50 off, making the Ultra $679. This is around the same price as OnePlus, Realme, or Samsung's FE phones, without being too expensive.
Poco wants to be unique by focusing on Bose sound. Other companies talk about cameras or screens, but Poco thinks great sound will attract people who like videos, music, etc.
### What About Tablets?
Poco also showed two tablets, the Pad X1 and Pad M1. Both are under $400 and have good screens and Dolby Atmos speakers. They're made for games, videos, and relaxing, and they work with the F8 phones. They're good for students, streamers, or families on a budget.
### What It Really Means
This Bose partnership is a big deal. Usually, phone sound isn't great, so people use headphones. Bose in the F8 phones shows that sound matters. Other companies might start doing better with their speakers.
Companies are also working together more. Like gaming and fashion brands, Poco and Bose are combining tech and premium listening. This makes the phones more interesting to young people and shows audiophiles that Poco cares about quality.
### How They Compare
The F8 Ultra’s fast chip means it can compete with top phones. The Pro uses last year's chip to save money, but it's still fast.
Big batteries and IP68 water resistance help Poco. Some phones in this price range don't have these things, but Poco knows they're important. Good sound, great battery, waterproof: the F8 series is worth a look.
### In Conclusion
The Poco F8 series wants to be known for its great sound. Working with Bose has helped them create a memorable phone. The Ultra with its subwoofer is for those who want the best, while the Pro gives you good sound for less.
With the Pad X1 and Pad M1 tablets, Poco is creating an entertainment lineup. It's not clear if it will be successful, but Poco is trying to show they care about quality. With Bose, they want you to hear them.
7.Beyond ChromeOS: Google's Aluminium OS Aims to Redefine Android's Desktop Future
Google's working on Aluminium OS, which could be a desktop version of Android.
Google's been secretly cooking up something big: a possible shift in how their platforms work. Job postings and stuff inside the company point to them building Aluminium OS, which seems to be a new OS based on Android, but meant for PCs. The name might just be a temporary one they're using while they develop it. This shows Google wants to go further than ChromeOS and create a real desktop platform that uses their Gemini AI models.
So, how do we know about Aluminium OS?
Well, someone spotted a job listing on LinkedIn that talked about Google working on a new Aluminium, Android-based operating system. This pretty much confirms it's a real thing. References to non-Aluminium ChromeOS internally suggest it's a separate project.
Google's being careful here. They want to show that Aluminium is a fresh direction but aren't ready to say if it will be a totally separate OS or part of ChromeOS.
Why does Google even need this?
Good question. Android rules phones and tablets, and ChromeOS does well in schools and with cheap laptops. But Google hasn't really cracked the regular PC market; Microsoft's Windows and Apple's macOS still dominate.
ChromeOS hasn't been able to make it into higher-end computers. People see it as basic compared to other desktop systems. Aluminium OS looks like Google's attempt to fix this. It would be an Android version made for desktops, mixing what's good about mobile with what PCs can do.
AI is important
What's interesting is that AI seems to be a core part of Aluminium OS. The job listing and internal docs say Google's putting Gemini AI features right into the OS. This means it's more than just a simple update to ChromeOS.
With AI built-in, Google could have things like smart multitasking, help that knows what you're doing, and live translation. Gemini could let Aluminium OS handle text, voice, and images without problems, which would make it an OS designed for AI, not just something with AI added on.
What about the hardware?
Google's plans mention categories like AL Entry, AL Mass Premium, and AL Premium. These are next to the Chromebook and Chromebook Plus names, which means Aluminium devices might be around at the same time as ChromeOS machines for a while.
Also, Aluminium isn't just for cheap computers. It looks like it can be used on everything from student laptops to fancy PCs, which fixes ChromeOS's problem of not being good enough for high-end users. This would let Google compete with Windows and macOS laptops while still selling to schools.
How will they switch over?
Google says they want to move from ChromeOS to Aluminium with business continuity. This means they won't switch over suddenly. ChromeOS will probably still be supported for years, mostly in schools. Aluminium OS will be for new markets and better computers and eventually become their main desktop platform.
This is like what Google does in other areas: keep the old systems going while introducing new ones. By doing this, they don't upset the people who already use their products, but they can still grow.
What about the name?
Aluminium works as a temporary name, but it might not be what they call it when it's released. It's not as catchy as ChromeOS or Android. Google might market Aluminium as part of ChromeOS to keep things simple or create a totally new name to show it's something different.
For now, Aluminium is just what they're calling it while they're working on it. The first devices with the OS are supposed to come out in 2026. Then, Google will need to pick a name that people like.
What does this mean for the market?
If Aluminium OS is good, it could change the PC market. By combining Android apps with desktop features, Google could give Windows and macOS a run for their money. The AI integration would also make it different, with abilities that other OSes are just starting to add.
For computer makers, Aluminium OS creates new opportunities. They could make everything from cheap laptops for students to expensive ultrabooks, all using the same AI platform.
How will this affect people?
Besides the tech stuff, Aluminium OS is a shift in how Google thinks. ChromeOS has always been about being simple and affordable, but Aluminium shows they're more ambitious. By putting AI in the core and aiming for better hardware, Google's showing they want to be a big player in the PC market.
For regular people, this could mean more choices and new technology. An Android desktop system with Gemini AI could make phones, tablets, and PCs work together better. It also shows that operating systems are becoming more than just basic platforms; they're turning into AI-driven environments.
In short
Google's Aluminium OS is more than just a name; it's a plan for the future of desktop computers. By building a PC operating system on Android and adding Gemini AI, Google is trying to fix what's lacking in ChromeOS and grab a bigger piece of the PC market.
The switch will be gradual, with ChromeOS and Aluminium existing side by side for a while. The name might change, but the direction is clear: Google's getting ready to challenge Windows and macOS with a new platform that combines mobile, desktop, and AI.
With the first devices coming in 2026, Aluminium OS could be Google's biggest platform move since ChromeOS.
8.Copilot Departs WhatsApp: Microsoft Shifts AI Focus to Telegram and Native Apps
Microsoft's Copilot is getting kicked off WhatsApp. After January 15, 2026, you won't be able to use it there anymore. This is happening because WhatsApp changed its rules, saying no more general AI chatbots are allowed through its Business API. If you got used to chatting with Copilot on WhatsApp, this is definitely a change.
Why is Copilot Leaving?
Well, it's not just Microsoft's call. WhatsApp's owner, Meta, is behind it. Last November, WhatsApp said it wasn't letting just any AI chatbot use its Business API. They want those resources for businesses helping their own customers, not for random AI assistants.
Basically, companies can still use AI for better customer service, but WhatsApp doesn't want to be a place where anyone can just put their AI chatbot. This hits Microsoft, OpenAI, and other companies that had their assistants on WhatsApp.
No More Easy Access
For Copilot users, WhatsApp was an easy way to use the AI without another app or website. You could just chat with Copilot where you already talked to everyone else. Now, you'll have to use Microsoft's Copilot apps or the website.
Copilot itself will still work the same, but this shows how important it is where you can find something. If it's easy to get to, more people will use it. WhatsApp had tons of users, which gave Copilot a big reach.
Your Chats Won't Move Over
One annoying thing is that your chats won't move when you switch from WhatsApp to Microsoft's platforms. Since Copilot on WhatsApp didn't need you to log in, your chats weren't saved to an account that could be moved.
Microsoft says to save your chats using WhatsApp's save options before January 15 if you want to keep them. That way, you don't lose anything important. Still, it's not ideal that the chats can't just move over seamlessly.
What About Other AI Companies?
Microsoft isn't alone here. OpenAI already said they were stopping their WhatsApp thing in January because they saw this coming. Other AI companies that used WhatsApp will have to change their plans too.
This might make apps and websites more competitive. Companies will have to work harder to get people to use their stuff instead of relying on WhatsApp. For us, it means picking which apps to install and who to trust with our conversations.
Why Did WhatsApp Do This?
WhatsApp wants to keep its platform clear and under control. If any AI chatbot could use the Business API, it would be hard to tell the difference between customer service bots and regular assistants. It could also cause issues with privacy and data.
By limiting the API to business uses, WhatsApp makes sure its system is helping companies serve customers, not just being a place for any AI service. This fits with Meta's plan to keep a tight grip on how others use its platforms.
What Does This Mean for Us?
For us, it's both annoying and clearer. Losing Copilot on WhatsApp means fewer choices in one app. But using Microsoft's apps might be better in the long run, with accounts, saved chats, and closer stuff thing with Microsoft.
If you use Copilot a lot, you'll have to change how you do things. Make sure to save your chats before January 15 if you want to keep them.
What's Next?
Copilot leaving WhatsApp is part of a bigger picture: AI assistants are becoming key to tech companies, and those companies want to stay in control. Microsoft will probably focus on its own apps and website. WhatsApp will focus on business AI stuff.
Expect more competition among AI platforms in 2026 as companies try to get users who used to rely on WhatsApp. Microsoft's Copilot, OpenAI's ChatGPT, and others will need to be different using various ways.
In short, Microsoft's Copilot leaving WhatsApp isn't just a small change. It shows how AI companies and platforms are changing. WhatsApp wants its Business API for customer service. This forces AI assistants to find new places to live. For users, save your chats and get ready for new apps or websites.
The big deal? AI assistants are now core products, not just extras. Their future depends on making finding the right balance.
9.Go Big or Go Home: 98-Inch TVs Hit Unbelievable $999 Price Point in Black Friday Sale
Black Friday 2025: Sweet TV Deals You Can Snag Right Now
Black Friday's always been *the* time to get a new TV, and 2025 is no different. Places like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart have already dropped prices super low on tons of TVs – everything from small, cheap ones to massive OLED screens and artsy-looking displays. There are *so* many deals it can get confusing, so we've broken down the best ones by size and what they're good for. This should help you find the perfect TV for your living room, bedroom, or home theater.
Why Buy Now?
Hot TVs usually disappear fast during Black Friday. If you see a deal that says Black Friday deal before November 28, don't wait, hoping it'll get even cheaper on the actual Friday. Stores usually lock in the lowest prices early on, and they might sell out overnight. Plus, if you order now, your new TV could arrive before Cyber Weekend. That way, it's ready to go for watching sports or family movies during the holidays.
Best Small TV Deal
Amazon 32-inch 2-Series Smart Fire TV
Price: $99.99 (Save $50)
Where: Amazon
This small TV is great for bedrooms, kitchens, or small apartments. The picture isn't amazing, but it does what you need: It has Fire TV built-in for streaming services like Apple TV and HBO Max, and it comes with an Alexa voice remote. At under $100, it's one of the cheapest smart TVs you'll find this season. It's so cheap, it almost *feels* like a mistake. It's a surprisingly good choice if you need a TV for a second room.
Best 50-Inch TV Deal
Hisense 50-inch QD6 QLED 4K TV
Price: $199.99 (Save $130)
Where: Best Buy
This deal shows why Hisense has become a go-to for people on a budget. For less than $200, you get a QLED 4K TV that supports Dolby Vision HDR, DTS Virtual X audio, and has Alexa built-in. The quantum dots make the colors better, especially if the room is bright. It's not as good as the fancier QLEDs, but it’s a solid pick for smaller living rooms or apartments. Amazon's already sold out, so hit up Best Buy to get it.
Best 55-Inch TV Deal
Hisense 55-inch U7 Mini LED QLED 4K TV
Price: $499.99 (Save $800)
Where: Multiple Retailers
The U7 series brings Mini LED tech to a more affordable price. It has better brightness, nicer contrast, and local dimming, making movies look better than on cheaper TVs. At $500 (originally $1,300), this is one of the best mid-size deals around. If you're a gamer, the U7 also supports faster refresh rates for smoother game play.
Best 65-Inch TV Deal
TCL 65-inch QM8K Mini LED QLED 4K TV
Price: $899.99 (Save $1,600)
Where: Best Buy
For most people, 65 inches is the perfect TV size. The TCL QM8K is our top pick because it's super bright, has awesome contrast, and fixes backlight issues from earlier models. Someone at Mashable said it keeps details clear in bright and dark rooms. It usually costs $2,500, but this Black Friday deal drops it below $900 – the lowest we've ever seen it. Amazon lists it for two bucks less, but buying directly from Best Buy seems safer.
Best 75-Inch TV Deal
TCL 75-inch QM6K Mini LED QLED 4K TV
Price: $697.99 (Save $302)
Where: Amazon
CNET called the QM6K the “best TV under $1,000 in 2025. It has bright colors, Google TV built-in, and a 144Hz refresh rate for gaming. Under $700, it's even cheaper than on Prime Day, which is a new all-time low. Walmart and Best Buy are sold out, leaving Amazon the only option. It's not as fancy as the QM8K, but it's a great choice if you're looking for something inexpensive.
Best Giant TV Deal
Hisense 100-inch QD6 QLED 4K TV
Price: $1,299.99 (Save $700)
Where: Multiple Retailers
If you want a huge TV, the Hisense 100-inch QD6 makes a statement. At $1,300, it's surprisingly affordable for its size, giving you QLED colors and smart features. It's perfect for home theaters or giant living rooms, and makes huge screens more accessible than before.
Best Deal on The Frame
Samsung 55-inch The Frame QLED 4K Smart TV (2025 model)
Price: $897.99 (Save $300)
Where: Amazon
Samsung’s The Frame is still one of the coolest TVs out there. It's made to look like a picture frame on the wall, with a super thin design and a screen that reduces glare, so it looks like artwork. While OLEDs might have better picture, The Frame looks amazing. At under $900, this is one of the best tech deals this year, especially if you care about style.
Here are some other art TV deals:
Hisense 75-inch S7N Canvas QLED 4K TV — $1,297.99 (Save $1,202)
Samsung 65-inch The Frame Pro Mini LED QLED 4K TV — $1,597.99 (Save $500)
Hisense 85-inch S7N Canvas QLED 4K TV — $1,797.99 (Save $222)
Samsung 75-inch The Frame Pro Mini LED QLED 4K TV — $1,997.99 (Save $1,000)
Best OLED TV Deal
Samsung 65-inch S95F OLED 4K Smart TV
Price: $2,299.99 (Save $1,000 + get a free $100 gift card)
Where: Best Buy
OLEDs are still the king of picture quality, and the Samsung S95F is one of the top ones you can buy. The screen doesn't reflect light, making it great for bright rooms. It also has dark blacks and rich colors, giving you an awesome movie-watching experience. With a $1,000 discount for Black Friday, plus a free $100 gift card from Best Buy, this deal is hard to beat. LG’s C5 is good too, but its sale price hasn't changed in months, making the S95F the better deal right now.
Bottom Line
Black Friday 2025 has dropped TV prices like crazy. Whether you want a cheap TV for a spare room, a solid upgrade for your living room, or a fancy OLED TV, there are some great deals out there.
If you’re on a budget, check out the Amazon 32-inch Fire TV or the Hisense QD6 50-inch.
For something in the middle, the Hisense U7 and TCL QM6K are awesome.
If you want the best of the best, check out the TCL QM8K or Samsung S95F OLED.
And if you love design, you can't go wrong with the Samsung Frame.
Remember, these deals disappear fast. Lots of them are already starting to sell out at the big stores. If you're replacing an old TV, Best Buy will recycle it for free, which is a nice move.
With prices this low, Black Friday is the perfect time to get a new TV, whether you want to watch sports, binge shows, or just enjoy the latest screen technology.
10.OLED Under $1,200: Flagship 65-Inch TVs Hit Record-Low Prices for Black Friday
**Black Friday 2025: Sweet TV Deals You Can't Sleep On**
Alright, so Black Friday's *the* time to finally ditch that old TV, right? I mean, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart – they're basically throwing TVs at us. Need a small one for the guest room? Or maybe you're dreaming of an enormous OLED for your home theater? Chances are, there's a sale with your name all over it.
But, let's be real, all those options can be super confusing. You end up staring blankly, unable to decide whether to buy a mini-LED, or QLED. That's why I put together this guide – to give you a nudge in the right direction and make sure you don't miss out.
**Why Should You Care About These Deals *Now*?**
Here's the thing: those *really* good TVs? They vanish super fast once Black Friday actually hits. So, if you spot a TV you like *before* November 28th, don't assume that the price will magically drop even lower on the big day. Here's why:
* **Early Bird Gets the TV:** All these stores start clearing out their warehouse space early. That dream TV may disappear on you if you let that deal slide!
* **Get it Before the Holiday Rush:** Who wants to wait for ages after Thanksgiving to watch movies on a new TV? Some services will ship the TV right to your door, then install it into your wall!
* **Less Stress!:** Do you know how hard it is to find these deals while families brawl in stores? The solution is to purchase earlier!
See a deal that seems nice? Just grab it now. Plus, who knows? You might be enjoying your new screen before Thanksgiving even arrives! Score for football season or binge-watching holiday flicks! Also, a lot of big stores offer returns if the price drops, so even if it goes lower in price on Black Friday, you are most likely safe.
**My Top Picks:**
**Small TVs**
* **Amazon 32-inch 2-Series Smart Fire TV**
* Price: $99.99 (Save $50!)
* Where: Amazon
* Okay, so this one is great for those small rooms – think bedrooms, kitchens, home offices, whatever. The picture quality is acceptable. It isn't going to blow your mind, but it does the job. It runs on Fire TV, meaning easy streaming for Apple TV, HBO Max, all that good stuff. Plus, has Alexa baked right in. For less than a hundred bucks, you get a smart TV and great capabilities. Plus, TVs go up in price all the time, so this is a great backup.
**A Good 50-Inch TV**
* **Hisense 50-inch QD6 QLED 4K TV**
* Price: $199.99 (Save $130!)
* Where: Best Buy
* If you want a good TV but don't want to empty your bank account, Hisense is normally a great way to go. This QLED 4K TV is super cheap, but still gives you Dolby Vision HDR, DTS Virtual X audio, and Alexa baked in. Want the specifics? The quantum dots make the colors come alive on the screen, which is awesome if your room gets a lot of sunlight. Sure, it may not seem the same as the top-end QLEDs, but this is a deal for your small space. Word on the street is that Amazon has run out, so Best Buy might be where you want to go for this one.
**A Nice 55-Inch TV**
* **Hisense 55-inch U7 Mini LED QLED 4K TV**
* Price: $499.99 (Save a huge $800!)
* Where: Usually multiple places
* The U7 series is a great choice if you are trying to save, but want those Mini LED features. You still get good color and definition, with Mini LED tech improving the dimming quality. Movies and games look as good as ever, so maybe that is why it is on sale. At five hundred, this will lower the price when looking at other high-end TVs. Like games? The U7 comes with fast refresh rates to keep the picture smooth.
**A Nice 65-Inch TV**
* **TCL 65-inch QM8K Mini LED QLED 4K TV**
* Price: $899.99 (Save $1,600!)
* Where: Best Buy
* Sixty-five inches is usually a good size for living rooms. And the TCL QM8K? This TV will have a great picture that that is clearly amazing. It never looks bad -- even in rooms with sunlight. Normally, it costs around $2,500, but is under $900 for Black Friday, and that is as cheap as it can get. Amazon lists two dollars cheaper, but there is no guarantee that it is in stock. So, I would go to Best Buy for this.
**A Solid 75-Inch TV**
* **TCL 75-inch QM6K Mini LED QLED 4K TV**
* Price: $697.99 (Save $302!)
* Where: Amazon
* This TV is a solid offering, with great colors and Google TV. Plus, the 144Hz speeds makes gaming look great. It is the lowest it has ever been. Walmart and Best Buy said that they are out of stock, so Amazon is your best bet. It is not a QM8K, but the price makes the purchase worth it.
**The Best Big TV**
* **Hisense 100-inch QD6 QLED 4K TV**
* Price: $1,299.99 (Save $700!)
* Where: Usually at most big stores
* You can go huge with the 100-inch version of the Hisense QD6. At that price, it is at a great price for the TVs size. The QLED tech makes the colors and picture looks nice, and the smart features handle what you want from it. Great for home theater nerds and those that want to get immersed with their TV.
**The Amazing The Frame TV**
* **Samsung 55-inch The Frame QLED 4K Smart TV (2025 model)**
* Price: $897.99 (Save $300!)
* Where: Amazon
* Samsung's Frame is a TV, yes, but it looks like a cool piece of are. The screen stops glare and light artifacts and has a design that is the smallest it can be without breaking apart.. Don't be scared to try out new places to put this TV. OLEDs are often better, but the Frame still looks good. Under $900, the looks are enough to get one.
**The Best OLED TV**
* **Samsung 65-inch S95F OLED 4K Smart TV**
* Price: $2,299.99 (Save $1,000 + a free $100 gift card!)
* Where: Best Buy
* OLEDs look good, and the Samsung S95F looks great due to not having reflections. Dark colors are great, which should be great if you watch movies. Best Buy said they will give a $100 gift card as well on top of the price. Just check out the LG C5 as well if you still aren't feeling it. If you want a great deal, this is one of them.
**Wrap-Up**
So, Black Friday has some great TV deals for this year. Hopefully, what you need is on this list, whether a backup TV, something in the middle, or the highest quality OLED.
For those looking for cheap, look at the Amazon 32-inch Fire TV or the Hisense QD6 50-inch.
Those who want an upgrade should see the Hisense U7 and TCL QM6K.
If you want a the best picture, the TCL QM8K or Samsung S95F OLED will stand out.
Need good design? Look at the Samsung Frame.
Remember, it does not last forever. If you see something you want, you should buy it before it is gone for good. Best Buy also does appliance pick ups, so you can get somebody to replace you old TV.
11.Wearable Controller: Crocs and Xbox Launch Clog Designed with 3D Joysticks and Buttons
Microsoft slaps the Xbox logo on everything. But these Crocs? Wild. I picture someone at Xbox and Crocs chatting, going, “What if shoes looked like Xbox controllers? And then, bam, Xbox Crocs.
These are real. They have the A, B, X, and Y buttons molded on top. D-pad, analog sticks, and, duh, the big Xbox button right in the center. Think of a shrunken Xbox controller glued to Crocs.
Instead of the usual Crocs logo, the strap is bright green, saying, I LOVE VIDEO GAMES! If you play games all the time, it's a fun way to show it off.
**Pimp Your Kicks**
The shoes aren't the only thing. Xbox and Crocs also made charms. Little icons from *Halo*, *Fallout*, *Doom*, *World of Warcraft*, and *Sea of Thieves*. Stick them on any Crocs.
Crocs are known for letting you add whatever junk you want. Now put symbols from your favorite games on them. Let your feet say, I'm a gamer.
**Comfy Couch Shoes?**
The Crocs site says it all: made for gaming. These are not running shoes. Wear them from the couch to the fridge.
Crocs are comfy, which fits the gaming vibe (unless you play *Dark Souls*).
These shoes get people talking. No one wears Xbox Crocs to fit in. They’re for people who want a laugh. Like those limited-edition sneakers everyone loves.
**How Much? Where Do I Get Some?**
Xbox Crocs cost $80 (US) or £80 (UK). Getting them is tough. It looks like there's a waiting list. So, they're not making many, making people want them more.
They're pricier than regular Crocs, but cheaper than hyped sneakers.
**Gaming: More Than a Hobby**
Crocs has played around with gaming before. Remember the *Animal Crossing* Crocs? They had Blathers and Celeste. Cute, but the Xbox Crocs are hard core.
Gaming is everywhere. Our clothes, music, art. Xbox teaming up with Crocs makes it common.
**Why These Shoes Matter**
Xbox Crocs might look crazy, but they mean gaming and fashion are combining. Wu-Tang Clan Adidas? Xbox wants to be about everyday life. The *Halo* and *Doom* charms? Tie the shoes to classic games.
**Back to the Past**
Good timing, too. The Xbox 360 turned 20! News shows had segments about *Perfect Dark Zero*, *Gears of War*, and *Crackdown*. The Crocs celebrate Xbox history.
**Final Thoughts**
Xbox Crocs aren’t for everyone. More for hardcore video game fans.
At $80, not too bad, and you can customize them with charms. Whether you like them or not, they show gaming is creating cool stuff, being yourself, and not being afraid to be unique.
If gaming grows, we’ll see more partnerships like this. Weird, but they show that gaming is not only for playing games, but is living the life.
12.Save the Subscription: How TCL NXTFrame and Hisense Beat The Frame on Art Library Costs
**Samsung's The Frame: When Your TV Becomes Art**
Alright, let's get straight to it: if you're judging TVs based on the usual stuff – how bright they get, how dark the blacks are, how accurate the colors look – then Samsung's The Frame probably isn't going to blow you away. Honestly, for the price, you can find regular TVs that have a better image than it. These art TVs aren't really trying to be the best at display quality.
**So why would anyone want one?**
Typical TVs can get super bright. The Frame? Not so much. Black levels aren't amazing, and the colors aren't super accurate right out of the box. If you love movies, or if you're a gamer and super picky about picture, that might be a deal-breaker for you.
But that's not the main thing about The Frame. It’s attractive because it makes you think differently about what a TV can do.
**The Hook: Why Art TVs are Catching On**
Think about it: a big TV, especially when it's turned off, just takes up a lot of space in a room. It's basically a big black rectangle. The Frame gets rid of that problem. This TV isn’t a black void. It shows art, photos, anything you want. It makes a pretty boring piece of tech look interesting.
I know some people who are really into The Frame. They have one in the living room and are thinking about getting another for their bedroom. They know they can get a TV with a nicer picture for less money, but they just like the look of The Frame. Being able to show a painting or a photo of their family makes the TV seem like it fits better, instead of just being some electronic thing plugged into the wall.
**What Makes It Different?**
Sure, other TVs and streaming devices let you put up screensavers that show off art or photos. But, let’s face it, it still looks like a TV trying to look like art. That's because of the glossy screen. Also, the plastic frame around the edge makes it seem like too much to handle. The Frame is designed to disappear. Its screen has a matte finish, so you don't get that mirror glare, and you can swap out the bezel (the frame around the edge) to match the way you've decorated. It looks like a real piece of art, even when you're up close.
**Smart Move, Samsung**
Samsung jumped on the art TV idea back in 2017. For a while, they were the only ones doing it, so they kind of cornered that market. The Frame showed that people will pay extra for something that looks good, even if they have to sacrifice a little on performance. It was a bold thing to do, and it changed the way many people thought about TVs at home.
**More Options are Coming**
For a while, The Frame was the only cool choice. Now, there are a few other art TVs around. The newest 65-inch Frame is being sold for roughly \$1,800. Other companies now see that some people would love TVs that can serve as decorations. The market is growing. Hopefully, this will push Samsung to work on upping the picture quality while keeping the cool design. For now, The Frame is still a popular item.
**Art TVs Say Something About What We Want**
The fact that art TVs are becoming popular shows that things are changing. Tech isn't just about how much power it has; it needs to look good and fit into our lives. Phones turned into fashion items, and now TVs are turning into something you want to show off. The Frame is a good example of this. It's for folks who want tech that matches their style.
Being original counts, too. You can pick from a ton of artwork, upload your own photos, or pay for stuff from Samsung’s Art Store. This lets you show off your own style, turning a mass-produced thing into something just for you.
**You Gotta Give Something Up**
If you buy an art TV, it really is a trade-off. You could buy an OLED TV that produces a much better picture on the same amount of money as The Frame. If a top-notch picture is what you want, The Frame isn’t for you. On the other hand, if you care more about how your TV looks when it's off than when it's on, then The Frame can achieve what no other TV can.
**What's Next for Art TVs?**
As more art TVs come out, maybe the picture quality will improve. Hopefully picture qualities get closer to those of regular TVs. Better tech might soon let art TVs both look great and blend into your home. The Frame is a niche product that does well because it's not trying to be the best TV. It's trying to be the best piece of art that just happens to be a TV.
**The Bottom Line**
Samsung's The Frame might not have the best picture you can buy, but it's a great piece of design. It turns a big black TV screen into something interesting. Some people think that's worth paying a bit extra. The Frame proves that TVs are now expected to do more than just show video. They have to mesh seamlessly with our lives and our homes.
Whether you think it's a bit much or really clever, The Frame has changed what we expect a TV to be. With other companies are joining the category, the art TV scene is just getting started.
13.The Case of the Disappearing CTO: Tech Firm Denies Executive Role After Indictment
**Corvex, Brian Raymond, and the Mess After a CTO Got Arrested**
So, this whole thing with Corvex, the AI cloud company, is kinda wild. Four people got busted for allegedly trying to sneak Nvidia GPUs to China, which is bad enough. But then it turned into a head-scratcher about how Corvex is run. Turns out, one of the guys arrested was Brian Raymond, a 46-year-old from Alabama. Corvex themselves said he was their Chief Technology Officer (CTO) in a press release and stuff they filed with the SEC.
But get this – just a few days later, after the arrest, Corvex was all like, Nah, he was never our CTO! Talk about confusing! This whole mess makes you wonder what's really going on at the company. Were they straight and honest about stuff with investors? Could they get in trouble with the law because of all this?
**How It All Went Down**
Okay, here's the timeline to make it make sense:
* **November 10th:** Corvex and Movano Health dropped a press release saying they were merging. Since Movano's a public company, they needed to get shareholders to agree. So, this press release went to the SEC as part of all the paperwork. In the release, they said Corvex was led by Seth Demsey and Jay Crystal, Co‑Chief Executive Officers and Co‑Founders, and Brian Raymond, Chief Technology Officer.” Plus it said that after the merger, those guys and other managers would still be in charge.
* Raymond even posted on LinkedIn that he was now the CTO at Corvex, helping customers use AI. He was listed as one of the top dogs in the SEC filing, so everything pointed to him being a key player.
* **Then, boom – November 13th:** Raymond gets indicted in federal court. Apparently, the Department of Justice thinks he had this electronics company in Alabama and was using it to send Nvidia GPUs to people who were illegally exporting them to China. They charged him with illegal exports, smuggling, money laundering conspiracy, and a bunch of money laundering counts. Each of those export and money laundering charges could mean up to 20 years in jail, and the smuggling charge could be 10 years. He got out on bond after getting arrested though.
**Corvex's Story Changes**
After the arrest, Corvex tried to act like they barely knew Raymond. They told reporters he wasn't an employee, just a consultant who was transitioning into a job, but they took the offer back. Then, they said he was never the CTO at all and asked news outlets to fix their stories – even though those stories were just quoting Corvex's own press release!
It's like, make up your mind, right? They put out official statements saying he was the CTO, but then tried to pretend it never happened. The press release and SEC filings still say he's the CTO, but the company's PR people are saying something else. It's a total mess, confusing investors, reporters, and the people who keep an eye on companies.
**What It All Means Legal-Wise**
Some law professors who know a lot about how companies should be run have said that someone can be an officer of a company without being a regular employee. So, yeah, technically, a CTO could be an independent contractor. But, Corvex saying Raymond was never the CTO at all just doesn't line up with what they filed.
One professor said that saying Raymond wasn't the CTO is kinda like trying to weasel out of it. The professor said that if Corvex's filings listed him as CTO, then he was, regardless of whether he was an employee. He thought that because fancy law firms were part of the merger, it's unlikely the filings were wrong to begin with.
Another law professor said that while it's technically possible for someone to be a high-up officer without being an employee, not making that clear could be misleading. Investors would probably assume Raymond is the CTO means he works there. He said not explaining the difference could be a problem under the SEC's rules about not misleading people.
**Could Corvex Be in Trouble?**
So, if Raymond wasn't really the CTO, Corvex's statements could be a lie. For an AI company, the CTO job is a big deal. Investors thinking about the merger would want to know who's leading the tech side of things. Lying about Raymond's status could get Corvex sued by angry shareholders or the SEC.
The SEC could bring charges for making false statements to investors. Even if they only said it in a press release, the laws about public companies apply to everything they communicate. And since they filed the press release with the SEC, it's even worse. Lying to the government is illegal on its own adding to the risk.
But, honestly, any money they pay out in lawsuits might not be that much. Raymond's arrest made him seem like a burden rather than someone helpful. Shareholders would have to prove they lost money because of it, like if the stock price dropped when the truth came out. If Raymond's involvement didn't really affect the stock, it might be hard to prove damages.
**The Big Picture**
This whole situation shows how important it is for companies to be open and honest. When companies merge, investors count on getting accurate info about the people in charge so they can make smart decisions. If companies lie about their key people, it ruins trust.
Plus, it shows how risky it can be to have anything to do with people facing criminal charges. Corvex's timing was really bad: naming Raymond as CTO right before he got arrested created a PR nightmare. And the fact that the company's story kept changing just made things worse, raising questions about how they're run and who's watching over things.
**In Conclusion**
The story of Brian Raymond and Corvex shows how quickly things can go south when legal issues mess with how a company is run. Whether he was an employee, a contractor, or never really the CTO, Corvex's own documents made it look like he was a key part of the team. Trying to deny that now has just made people suspicious.
It's a lesson for investors, regulators, and the public that openness from companies matters. Lying about who's in charge can have serious consequences, from getting in trouble with the SEC to getting sued by shareholders. For Corvex, this mess might not end with Raymond's case; they might have to explain their connection with Raymond and why their story kept changing.
As the merger with Movano Health moves forward, people will be watching closely. How trustworthy Corvex's leaders are – and how honestly they communicate – might be just as important as the AI part in deciding how well the company does in the future.
14.The $999 98-Inch TV is Here: Massive Discounts on Hisense and Samsung Screens
You're thinking about grabbing a new TV during Black Friday 2025? Smart move! It's definitely the time to see good prices. I've already noticed some price drops on Amazon, and Target's doing the same. You can find what you want here. Looking for a smaller TV for a small space? Done. Need a big OLED TV to make your movies better? Check. What about those Frame TVs that look like art when they're off? Those are there too! There are a lot of TVs so I will break down some TVs.
**Why So Fast?**
Here's the thing: popular TVs won't stay in stock for long. Seriously, if you think the price looks good, and it says Black Friday deal, buy now! Don't wait for lower prices because the TV might not be there!
Buying now means you're all set *before* Cyber Weekend starts. You can relax, watch TV and enjoy the holidays with your new TV.
**Cheap Small TV**
* **Amazon 32-inch 2-Series Smart Fire TV**
* **Price:** $99.99
* **Where to Buy:** Amazon
This is just a normal TV. Great for bedrooms, guest rooms, or if you watch cooking shows. The picture is just okay, not the best, but it works. It's a Fire TV, so it's easy to watch stuff from streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and it works with Alexa.
**A Good 50-Inch Choice**
* **Hisense 50-inch QD6 QLED 4K TV**
* **Price:** $199.99
* **Where to Buy:** Best Buy
Hisense makes great TVs. A QLED 4K TV for around $200. It also has Dolby Vision HDR, DTS Virtual X audio, and Alexa. It will give you colors that are brighter than other TVs. It will be viewable in rooms with light. It's not as good as more expensive TVs.
**Impressive 55-Inch Deal**
* **Hisense 55-inch U7 Mini LED QLED 4K TV**
* **Price:** $499.99
* **Selling Location:** Check different stores
Mini LED used to be only on expensive TVs. It can get the TV to be super bright, dark blacks, and shows the light well. It's around $500 now, and it used to be $1,300. This is a good deal. If you play games, the U7 is fast.
**Good 65-Inch TV**
* **TCL 65-inch QM8K Mini LED QLED 4K TV**
* **Price:** $899.99
* **Where to Buy:** Best Buy
A 65-inch screen is a big picture without being too big. The TCL QM8K TV is great if you watch TV in rooms with a lot of light. It shows colors really well, so the picture is good. Someone from Mashable, Leah Stodart, said things always look nice, even with light. This TV sold for nearly $2,500, but this Black Friday, it’s $900.
**Great 75-Inch TV**
* **TCL 75-inch QM6K Mini LED QLED 4K TV**
* **Price:** $697.99
* **Selling Location:** Amazon
The CNET people said this is one of the top TVs. The colors look good. Google TV works well. The TV is great for those who play games. This TV is around $700.
**How Big Of a TV?**
* **Hisense 100-inch QD6 QLED 4K TV**
* **Price:** $1,299.99
* **Where to Buy:** Many still in stock
If you have a big room, the Hisense 100-inch QD6 is for you. It’s nearly $1,300! It does QLED, with good colors. Cool to watch movies on.
**The TV That's Art**
* **Samsung 55-inch The Frame QLED 4K Smart TV**
* **Price:** $897.99
* **Where to Buy:** Amazon
The Samsung Frame TV’s look nice. When you don't watch shows, it displays art. The TV is glare-free.
**OLED TV Deal**
* **Samsung 65-inch S95F OLED 4K Smart TV**
* **Price:** $2,299.99
* **Where to Buy:** Best Buy
The OLED will give the best picture quality, with this Samsung deal on the S95F. Doesn't glare, and the movies look amazing.
**Conclusion**
Sizes from small to OLED are on this TV guide. If you want a less expensive TV, get the Amazon 32-inch Fire TV or the Hisense QD6 50-inch.
15.LG’s 34" 240Hz OLED Gaming Monitor Slashed to a Shockingly Low Price
**LG 34-Inch UltraGear OLED: Black Friday Score!**
Okay, so let's be honest. Not everyone needs some gigantic display that makes their gaming desk look like mission control at SpaceX. For most folks, something in the 32 to 34-inch neighborhood hits the spot. It's big enough to really suck you into a game, but it's not so huge that it takes over your entire life. Still, size isn’t the only thing that matters, right? What you really desire is a screen that’s fast, looks amazing, and responds instantly when you hit a key or move the mouse.
Right now, for Black Friday, LG's 34-inch UltraGear OLED Curved Gaming Monitor is doing just that. And check this out: Amazon dropped the price from \$1,399 all the way down to \$676! That's insane! That kinda discount makes high-end OLED gaming realistic for a lot more people.
**OLED: Eyes Wide Open!**
The main attraction here is definitely the OLED panel. So, what's the deal with OLED anyway? Unlike regular LCD monitors that have a backlight shining through everything, OLED pixels can just shut off completely. That’s how you get pure blacks and crazy contrast – like, 1.5 million to one! When games have dark areas, they will look deep and real, not just some washed-out gray mess.
And the screen gets super bright, too, up to 1300 nits when you're watching HDR content. So, the bright parts of the image pop right off the screen, while the dark corners stay super dark. It's even got DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification, which means it actually delivers on HDR, unlike some budget HDR monitors that don't really look any different.
The colors are crazy good. The screen can show 98.5% of the DCI-P3 color range, which means you’re basically seeing the same colors the game creators saw when they made the game. Notice small changes in the sky, shadows, and textures, instead of looking like everything’s just one flat color. That's good not just for gaming, but for anyone working with photos or videos who needs to see accurate colors.
**Speed is Key!**
Having great numbers on paper doesn’t always mean you’re gonna win more games, but it can definitely help. The UltraGear monitor has a 240Hz refresh rate and a ridiculously fast 0.03ms response time. The result? Gameplay is really smooth and quick. Problems like input lag and motion blur, which ruin your game in fast-paced action, are practically gone.
Following moving targets is precise, without any annoying trails or blurring. If you’re trying to win every match, this is useful. You might even see things you were missing before, which can help you land those crucial shots.
**Plays Nice with Any Graphics**
Nobody wants weird screen tearing or stuttering when they're in the middle of a game. That’s why this monitor has AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-SYNC. These things sync the monitor’s refresh rate with your graphics card, so everything stays smooth. It doesn't matter if you have an AMD Radeon or NVIDIA GeForce card. Basically, it’ll likely work great with your game PC.
**Get Ready to be Immersed!**
The UltraGear has a really sharp 800R curve, which makes the 3440x1440 screen wrap around your field of view. This means you don’t have to turn your head as much to see the stuff on the edges of the screen, like your health bar or a sneaky enemy coming to get you.
The curve is extra awesome for racing games, flight simulators, and those big open-world games where it's helpful to know what’s going on all around you. The anti-glare coating keeps reflections away, so you stay focused on the action.
**More Than Just a Screen**
Here is a cool feature: this display uses WebOS24, just like a smart TV. You can stream Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and many free channels from LG, all right on the monitor.
You can also play games through cloud services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Amazon Luna, and Blacknut without having to use your PC or console. It makes the UltraGear a useful entertainment center, especially if you just desire to chill and play without turning on everything.
**Plug it In!**
This display has different kinds of to connect to different devices:
* HDMI 2.1 for the newest game consoles.
* DisplayPort 1.4 for PC gaming at top speed.
* USB-C with 65W power, so you can charge your laptop while you’re using it as a display.
LG is also adding a two-year promise for the OLED panel. Plus, it’s got things like pixel cleaning and OLED Care to keep the screen looking good.
**Awesome Screen, Awesome Price!**
At \$676 instead of \$1,399, you’re saving major money. Other OLED gaming monitors can cost way more, and they might not even have the smart TV features and cloud gaming that LG packs in.
This Black Friday deal makes OLED gaming available now for people who couldn't get it earlier. The instant response times and visuals give gamers a boost, and the immersive look of it and smart stuff inside are cool for anyone.
**The Final Word**
LG's 34-inch UltraGear OLED Curved Gaming Monitor is more than just a display. If provides what you require for a nice gaming experience: nice blacks, bright colors, quick response, and that immersive curve. And, it’s also a smart TV and can handle cloud gaming.
With this price, it's a good deal. If you like a display that looks awesome and assists you with winning games, you should buy it before it’s gone.
16.Walmart Drops Price on TCL 85" Roku TV — Free Shipping Included
Walmart's doing its Black Friday thing, and if you're thinking about grabbing a HUGE TV, listen up. They've chopped the price on this TCL 85-inch S4 Series 4K HDR Smart TV. I'm talking it dropped from $698 all the way to $498. Seriously, that's cheap for a screen this size. Ever wished you could feel like you're at the movies without leaving home? Here's your chance.
**Yep, It's a Giant**
Eighty-five inches? Dude, it's massive. Try to imagine watching your favorite movies or binging TV shows on this. It's one of those TVs that will hog all the attention. Family movie nights? Game days with your friends? The TCL S4 is going to make it feel awesome. Your old TV is going to feel dinky after this.
**Pretty Pictures!**
It's not just about bigness; the picture rocks, too. It's 4K Ultra HD, so things look super sharp. Plus, it has HDR, which makes the colors explode off the screen and gives you more detail in dark and light scenes. Got some old shows that aren't 4K? No worries! It bumps them up, so they look even better.
If you're into sports or video games, this TV is solid, thanks to Motion Rate 120. Everything looks clear and smooth when things get wild, so you won't have blurry action anymore!
**Smart TV? Super Easy**
The TCL S4 runs on Roku, which is a pretty simple smart TV system to use. You get a zillion apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, the whole shebang.
There's more, too: 250+ free live channels, a home screen you can mess with to make it your own, and a basic remote. They even put shortcut buttons for your favorite apps. Oh, and it plays nice with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri for your voice commands, or just use the Roku app to control it.
**Plug It In!**
Even though it’s huge, setup is pretty simple. The TV isn't bulky, so it fits well in a small space. If you want to hook other gadgets up to the TV, there are plenty of ports. You've got:
* Four HDMI ports (one with eARC) for hooking up game consoles, Blu-ray players, speakers, and more.
* It's got Wi-Fi and a spot for an Ethernet cable.
* They say TCL's soundbars pair nicely, for better sound.
The speakers built in are okay, but if you want killer sound, especially with a big screen, you should get a soundbar or something to plug into it.
**What People Say**
People who've bought it seem pretty happy. They say the picture is great - super clear - and it pulls you right into everything. Lots of folks suggest a soundbar, which makes sense for a TV this size.
All told, you get a lot for under $500.
**Walmart is Cool**
The offer gets even better. Walmart offers shipping and return for free until January 31st. Also, free installation for a limited time.
**Why this Matters**
Usually, TVs this big cost a ton of money. To get an 85-inch 4K HDR Smart TV for under $500 is a sweet deal. If you want a huge screen without spending a fortune, this TCL deal is worth checking out.
Plus, TCL is known for making decent TVs that don't break the bank. This S4 has nice features like HDR, Roku, and plenty of HDMI ports.
**Last Word**
Think about that TCL 85-inch S4 if you are thinking about getting a new TV. It has a great picture, HDR, an super Roku interface, and looks stylish in the living room. It's hard to beat the pricing.
At $498, it could put a big-screen TVs more at your fingertips. Walmart offers free shipping, setup, and returns. For Black Friday, you can not go wrong.
17.WhatsApp Moves to Block ChatGPT and Copilot Integrations
**ChatGPT and Copilot Say Goodbye to WhatsApp: Meta Changes the Rules**
Get ready for a shakeup in how we use AI! Starting January 15, 2026, you won't find OpenAI's ChatGPT or Microsoft's Copilot hanging around on WhatsApp anymore. Why? Meta, the company that owns WhatsApp, is changing its policies, which means these AI helpers have to leave.
Basically, Meta is putting a stop to other companies using WhatsApp's special business tools to let their AI chatbots loose on the app. So, after that date, the only AI you'll find inside WhatsApp will be Meta's own.
**The Countdown to Departure**
It was earlier announced this month that ChatGPT was the first to announce of departing Whatsapp in January. Not so long after, Microsoft followed suit, making the same decision because of the policy shift.
Good news is that you have time until the deadline, January deadline, to talk to ChatGPT and Copilot through WhatsApp. OpenAI is letting ChatGPT users connect their accounts so conversations can move to other apps. But heads up, Copilot users won't get that. Everything you talked about in WhatsApp? It's not going anywhere else.
**What's Meta Up To?**
Back in October, Meta said it was changing WhatsApp's rules. The main point is that AI companies can't that let people have chatbots when the company itself is AI. Businesses can still have AI take care of customer support, but no using the app for random things.
A Meta rep told TechCrunch, WhatsApp wants to help businesses talk to customers and give them updates. They're focused on helping those businesses use the app.
In short, Meta wants WhatsApp to be for businesses talking to their customers, not a place for other AI companies to get to users.
**What It Means for You**
Less options for users will be available inside of WhatsApp. Both ChatGPT and Copilot have been liked for conversations, getting things done, and for fun, users enjoy its AI assistance inside the messaging app. Once access is lost, user has to shift.
Using OpenAI’s account moving option for chats, ChatGPT users dont have to worry about losing the history of their conversations. Talking to Copilot users, that will be tough as they will face a harder time not knowing that conversations in WhatsApp cannot be saved. Microsoft tells the Copilot users to begin migrating towards the Copilot mobile application or through the web interface, despite the lacking of history, users can still be frustrated.
**Who Wins?**
There is a obvious reason for the policy change. Meta is making sure that Meta AI is the only one inside of WhatsApp by restricting all 3rd party AI chatbots. It holds the potential of handing over Meta an edge when one thinks about the extensive range of users around the globe WhatsApp has.
Perplexity, is believed to be having other AI companies to also departing soon. What will occur is the only AI assistant that is inserted in WhatsApp is controlled by Meta, forcing competitors to resort to websites and the companies apps.
**Why the Change?**
Meta is strategic and technical. Meta effectively operated competition on their software when letting competitions AI companies do things on WhatsApp. The Business API is limited to customer service roles and Meta can maintain complete control over the users experience and keep the application from being the spot for competitions AI assistants.
This is in line with the AI across Meta. WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Meta AI are inserted into the program and restricting the users of 3rd party, users will come across Meta default assistants.
**How it Affects Everyone**
The ChatGPT and Copilot exiting from WhatsApp emphasized the rising importance of channel to which one can give access through in the AI industry. Its only a small step from building a powerful model; it is as important getting the model to users. The platform was useful for companies to have WhatsApp and its billions of users, howver policy shift, can indicate risks of depending on 3rd party application to be accessed through.
For both OpenAI and Microsoft, the change can make someone more aware for needing to strengthen the ecosystems. OpenAI is serious about its standalone ChatGPT and has formed partnerships with platforms like Apple. Microsoft will keep adding Copilot into Office, Windows, and mobile applications. Its a way for ensuring that users can still have access to their assistance, through WhatsApp cannot be optioned.
**What's Next?**
Getting to January 15, 2026, Meta AI will be what is available in WhatsApp. Elsewhere, Both ChatGPT and Copilot can continue, but their lack of access in WhatsAp, is a turning point on how things are given to people.
The change strengthens metas ability, making its competition stable. What is a reminder for OpenAI, Microsoft and other companies is that the models do not matter. The AI industry is going a stage where integration and access will be fiercely challenge just as how the technology itself is.
**In Conclusion**
It can be seen that the ChatGPT and Copilot exiting WhatsApp is not just a update but there is changes in the balance of power in the AI application. Customer service will have a channel to use WhatsApp instead of gateways for AI assistants from competition due to the decision of Meta restricting Business API.
Users must move to other websites and platforms to continue using ChatGPT and Copilot. But highlights the bigger reality that as AI is in peoples lives, taking control is like the beginning stages.
18.Samsung Reportedly Prepping One UI 8.5 Beta for Launch on This Date
Word on the street is that Samsung might finally drop the One UI 8.5 beta in December. Apparently, their software plans were a bit messy this year. They wanted to get the beta out for the Galaxy S25 series back in November, but it got delayed. People are saying it's because the Galaxy S26 launch got pushed back or something.
But hold tight! Some folks on X (you know, Twitter) are saying the beta program could start as early as December 8th. That means Galaxy users might get an early peek at Samsung's next big update!
They usually do this thing where they roll out the beta in stages, and it sounds like 8.5 will be the same. The first countries to get it are supposed to be the US, UK, Korea, and Germany. These are like Samsung's go-to spots for testing since they have lots of users and tech-savvy folks.
Then, the rumor is that around December 22nd, they'll open it up to India and Poland. At the same time, those first countries will probably get a second beta version with some bug fixes and changes based on what people are saying. Doing it this way helps Samsung keep things organized, so they can fix problems before too many people see them.
A Samsung insider, Tarun Vats, thinks they could release at least three beta versions. He's guessing the third one will be out in the first week of January. But with beta stuff, anything can happen. There are always bugs and performance issues that pop up, so the dates could change.
To make things even more interesting, some early versions of the software have leaked online. Last month, someone found One UI 8.5 firmware for the Galaxy S25 Ultra. And recently, what looks like the first public beta version also leaked. This makes it look like Samsung is pretty close to being ready.
Here's a weird thing: some One UI 8.5 firmware for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 has leaked too. So, who knows which devices will actually get the beta? The Galaxy S25 series is probably the main focus, but Samsung might let foldable phones and other top-end devices in on the action to get more testers.
So, what can you expect for One UI 8.5? Usually, Samsung's updates have some visual changes and new stuff. They are expected to do the same in this version. People are saying there will be some AI features, like smarter photo editing, better voice assistant stuff, and recommendations in different apps. Samsung's been adding AI to their phones for a while, and this could be a big step in making it easier to use every day.
Besides the AI stuff, expect the usual tweaks, like smoother animations and changes to the apps that come with the phone. Samsung likes to test out design changes in the beta, so you might see different icons, menus, and notifications.
Why the delay, though? It sounds like it has something to do with when the Galaxy S26 is coming out. Samsung likes to line up software testing with new phone releases to get things ready to ship. Pushing back the S26 might mean they had to rework their beta plans to make sure everything is stable.
It might be annoying for people who are eager to test the new software, but it shows that Samsung wants to release a polished product. Rushing things out could lead to bugs and a bad experience, and they don't want that.
For Samsung, One UI is a big deal. It's what sets them apart from other Android phone makers. They've put a lot into making it easy to use, customizable, and connected across their devices. Each new version is a chance for them to make their ecosystem stronger and keep people interested.
Adding AI to One UI 8.5 is also a sign of what's happening in the industry. Companies like Google and Apple are adding AI everywhere. Samsung needs to ensure their AI tools are helpful and easy to use, not just gimmicks.
So, the possible December 8th start for the One UI 8.5 beta is something to watch out for if you're a Samsung fan. With the beta rolling out in stages, expected multiple versions to be released, and early software leaking, it seems like it will happen soon.
Of course, nothing is 100% certain yet. But it looks like the wait is almost over. If you want to test out Samsung's latest software – and especially those AI features – One UI 8.5 could bring some cool upgrades and visual improvements.
Just remember that beta software usually has bugs, and things could change. But if you're willing to deal with that, the One UI 8.5 beta could give you a look at what Samsung has planned for the future of their phone software, before everyone else sees it.
19.OnePlus Co-Engineered Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 With Qualcomm, Debuts in 15R
OnePlus is getting the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 first on their 15R phone.
Qualcomm just took the wraps off its newest Snapdragon chip, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. Think of it as the true follow-up to 2024's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Now, everyone's already buzzing about the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 because it's super fast. But, honestly, the regular Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is likely going to be much more relevant to most people. The big surprise? The first phone to get it is the OnePlus 15R, and OnePlus is saying they had a big hand in helping Qualcomm make this chip.
So, at the announcement, Qualcomm said that OnePlus is one of their main partners for the launch. This basically confirms the rumors that the OnePlus 15R will be the first to arrive with the new hardware. But OnePlus went a step further. They're saying they were involved from the very beginning. According to them, they went to Qualcomm soon after the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 came out and said, Hey, let's work together on the next one.
By December 2025, they'd nailed down all the details. Now, OnePlus is calling themselves the global first launch partner, which is just a fancy way of saying the 15R will be the first phone you can actually buy with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 inside. They also talked about seven things they really focused on when helping with the chip: how fast it is, gaming, camera stuff, AI, the screen, how it connects to things, and the network performance. Basically, everything that matters in a phone processor! OnePlus is convinced that those two years of teamwork helped them get the chip just right for how people use their phones every day.
How is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 anything special?
Most of the core stuff is the same as the Elite version, but they've turned down the CPU speed so it’s not running at max. This makes the chip use less power. That also means phone companies can put this chip in their high-end phones without pricing going crazy.
Like the chips that came before, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is still great at graphics, AI, and staying connected. You can count on the graphics being better for gaming, the AI working quicker in the background, and screens looking even smoother. The camera is also getting better, so pictures and videos should look awesome.
Think of it like this: the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 gives you almost all the good stuff from the Elite version, but at a price that makes more sense for most top-tier phones.
Why does it matter that they worked together?
It's not very often you hear about a phone company helping make a chip. Usually, they just buy the chips from Qualcomm and that's it, maybe tweak them a little for their specific phone. But OnePlus is saying they actually had some say in how the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 was tuned.
What does that mean? Maybe they did things to help the phone run games for longer without getting too hot. Maybe they tweaked how the chip works with OnePlus's screen or camera. If that's true, the OnePlus 15R might feel extra smooth and polished compared to other phones that use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 later on.
A follow up to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
A lot of Android phones in 2025, including the OnePlus 13R, ran on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. People liked how well it performed, but some said it used a lot of power sometimes. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is trying to fix that while still being great like the last chip.
If you thought the Elite Gen 5 was overkill, this version is more balanced. It can still hang with the big dogs, but it doesn't sacrifice battery life to do so. That would make it the default choice for Android phones coming out in 2027.
What might happen with pricing?
If lots of companies use this chip, it could change how much top-end phones cost. The Elite Gen 5 will probably stay in the really expensive phones, but the normal version might let companies be more aggressive with their prices without gutting the performance.
The big question is: will those savings go to you? If phone companies can use the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 to make phones that cost less than $800 but still have awesome features, 2027 might be a great year for deals. If prices stay high, it might not matter so much.
What's next
The OnePlus 15R is the first phone with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, so its the starting point for Qualcomm's next series of phone processors. It also shows that OnePlus want to have a bigger position than just a customer. They want to help shape the future of how phones work.
Once other phones come out with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, we'll see if OnePlus was important to the chip or not. But it does help show what this chip can do.
In conclusion
Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is a practical step forward, giving you most of the Elite gear without sacrificing the battery. The OnePlus 15R being the first to use it makes the launch more interesting.
For you, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 can mean more affordable top-end phones in 2027, but only if the company passes savings. As the follow up to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it promises improved speed, gaming, visuals and AI features. The upcoming months will expose if they delivered or left a bad taste in our mouths.
20.Walmart Slashes AirPods Pro 2 to Their Lowest Price Ever for Black Friday
**AirPods Pro 2: Stupid Good Deal at Walmart!**
Yeah, Apple just put out the AirPods Pro 3, and they're cool and all. But for a good while, if you were an Apple nut and needed some amazing wireless earbuds, you probably went for the AirPods Pro 2. They were a little hard to find after the new ones showed up. But hey, Walmart's Black Friday sale is bringing them back with a seriously good price.
Right now, Walmart's got the AirPods Pro 2 for only $139. Usually, they're like $249! That's a huge discount – we're talking over $100 off! I don't think I've ever seen them this cheap before. Last year, Black Friday deals had them around $155, so this year's price is something else.
**Why Bother with the AirPods Pro 2, Anyway?**
Simple. If you want almost everything the Pro 3's offer, but don't want to drop 100 extra bucks, then the AirPods Pro 2 are where it's at. These are still awesome earbuds. They cut out noise like a boss , and the sound quality is on point!
And here's a cool thing: after a system update the Pro 2 even have Apple's new Live Translation thing working! Hook them up with the Translate app on your iPhone (if you have iOS 26 or newer), and you can hear foreign stuff getting translated right into your ears while people are talking. Seriously sweet! People thought this feature was only for the Pro 3, but turns out Pro 2 can do way more than we thought.
**Battery That Doesn't Suck and That Handy Case**
The AirPods Pro 2 also do pretty well on battery life. You’re looking at around six hours if you’re using noise cancelling, which is more or less the same amount of time you get with the Pro 3. But what’s interesting is that the Pro 2’s charging case gives you more listening time than the Pro 3's – like 30 hours total, opposed to only 24 hours.
If you get annoyed having to charge the earbuds all the time, then the Pro 2 might be for you. The case can also charge without wires, which is super useful if you already got your Qi chargers or use Apple’s MagSafe.
**Loaded Features because of the H2 Chip**
The AirPods Pro 2 use Apple's H2 chip, so they share a lot of things with the Pro 3. That includes how easy they are to connect, how simple it is to switch between devices, ordering Siri around without even touching anything, and how well they generally play along with your Apple gadgets.
You’re also getting most of the same Apple health-monitoring stuff too, but the Pro 2 won't track your heart rate like the Pro 3 can. Sure, the Pro 3 noise cancelling and sound might be a little bit better, but most people probably won't notice. That cheaper sticker price on the Pro 2 is really tempting.
**What are you giving up compared to the AirPods Pro 3?**
Alright, so the Pro 3 have a bit better sound and noise cancelling, and they can get your heart rate. If you are seriously into fancy sound, or want to have as many metrics as possible, then the Pro 3 are going to be the move for you. But for the rest, the Pro 2 are basically everything you want plus saving you some money.
Seriously, it all boils down to this: Are slight upgrades going to cost you between $80–$100? Lots of folks might not even need those, and just getting a good price, strong performance, and plenty of features out of their Pro 2's.
**Some more AirPods deals**
Walmart's not limiting the deals to the Pro 2. Here's what else they are putting up, and some of the best prices I've ever seen.
* AirPods 4: $69 (usually $200)
* AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation: $110 (usually $179)
* AirPods Pro 3: $220 (usually $249)
You can get deals for all the kinds of Apple earbuds, from the cheapest to the latest flagship. If not going broke is on your radar, then the AirPods 4 at $110 are a great pickup. And the Pro 3 are the cheapest they've been since being released, perfect is you want the latest and greatest.
**Why Everyone That is into Apple Will Enjoy These**
If you're locked into Apple, then AirPods are always a solid decision. They pair well with iPhones, Macs, and iPads. Features like Find My, spatial audio, and changing between devices are just way more seamless with them than on other earbuds, even if other brands can sound just as good.
As of right now, picking up Pro 2's are one of the strongest moves you can make in the Apple ecosystem. You get great features and support without paying a ton.
**Final Thoughts**
Walmart's Black Friday deal on the AirPods Pro 2 is one of this season's stronger tech deals. Only $139 for great noise cancelling, awesome sound, strong battery, and translation features from Apple. It's hard to disagree with the deal!
Yeah, the Pro 3 may be a little better in some areas. But the Pro 2 are a fantastic option for many folks, especially if they want earbuds that save you a trip to the poor house. Don't forget that AirPods 4 and Pro 3 are also being tossed around for a great price, so Walmart's got the right Apple earbud solution for everybody.
If you are on Apple, go and grab an upgrade or backup set for workout, travel, or as a gift. Prices as low as this don't happen that often!
21.AlphaFold Turns Five: A Half-Decade of Transforming Science
**AlphaFold2: AI's Impact on Protein Science and How It Helps with Making Babies (and More!)**
So, there's this biochemist, Andrea Pauli, over at the Research Institute of Molecular Pathology in Vienna. For almost ten years, she was stuck on a really tough question: How exactly do sperm and egg recognize each other when it's time to make a baby? It’s a pretty fundamental thing in biology, right? Back in 2018, her lab found this protein on zebrafish eggs called Bouncer, and it turned out to be super important for fertilization. But they still didn't know *how* it worked. What did Bouncer do to talk to sperm proteins and make the magic happen?
The answer didn't come from the usual lab experiments. Instead, it came from a big change in how we use computers in biology. Around the end of 2020, some people at Google DeepMind showed off AlphaFold2. It's an artificial intelligence (AI) system that's really good at figuring out what proteins look like. The older version, AlphaFold (from 2018), wasn't that great, but AlphaFold2? It could make 3D models that were almost as good as the ones you'd get from experiments! It totally crushed the competition in this thing called the Critical Assessment of Structure Prediction (CASP) challenge, and everyone in science was blown away.
**AlphaFold2: A Total Game Changer**
In 2021, they released the code for AlphaFold2, and they also started building this huge database of protein structures that it had predicted. It was like night and day for molecular biology. Now, scientists could get pretty accurate guesses of what almost any protein looked like. This meant they didn't have to spend years doing tricky experiments with crystallography or cryo-electron microscopy.
Janet Thornton, a bioinformatician at the European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), said it was like structural biology was being born again. For people like Pauli, AlphaFold2 was like a treasure map, pointing them to answers they might never have found otherwise.
Pauli's team used AlphaFold2 to figure out that a protein called Tmem81 helps hold two sperm proteins together. This creates a little spot where Bouncer can grab on. Then, they did some experiments, and guess what? The model was right! Pauli said that AlphaFold helps them find things faster. Now, they use it for basically everything they do.
This is a great example of how AI can help us come up with ideas and test them out. It brings together what computers predict and what we see in experiments.
**Everyone's Talking About It**
Scientists are really excited about AlphaFold2. Pauli's paper from 2024, the one about Bouncer and Tmem81, is just one of almost 40,000 articles that mention the big 2021 paper in Nature that explained AlphaFold2. Unlike a lot of science papers that got popular during the COVID-19 thing and then faded away, people are still citing AlphaFold2 all the time.
That's because it's just so useful. John Jumper from DeepMind, who shared the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry with Demis Hassabis for creating AlphaFold, is really happy that it's making a difference. He wondered if someone might even win a Nobel Prize just for using AlphaFold to make some big discovery.
**Available to Anyone, Anywhere**
One of the reasons AlphaFold2 has become so popular so quickly is that it's easy to get. DeepMind made the code and instructions freely available, so scientists all over the world can use it. The AlphaFold Protein Structure Database (AFDB), which is run by EMBL-EBI, now has over 240 million predictions of protein structures. That covers most of the proteins we know about!
Since it started, over 3.3 million people in 190 countries have used the database. And here's a cool thing: over a million of those users are from countries with less money, like China and India. This means that you don't have to be at some fancy, rich university to do top-notch structural biology. It's open to everyone.
AlphaFold is not just a tool, but also a way to make research fairer, allowing scientists who don't have a lot of resources to participate in new findings.
**Big changes for Structural Biology**
Structural Biology has been changed a lot by AlphaFold2. A study revealed that those using AlphaFold released about 50% more protein structures to the Protein Data Bank (PDB) than those who did not use it.
This increase shows how AlphaFold predictions help with experimental ways. By providing correct models, AlphaFold helps researchers see raw information from X-ray studies and cryo-electron microscopy. AlphaFold, trained on PDB data, now supports the very scientists who added that data.
**Protein Science Revolution**
AlphaFold2's effect goes past just the research on fertilization. Its predictions are used to study enzymes, receptors, and structural proteins in different organisms. Drug developers are using AlphaFold models to find targets and design inhibitors. Agricultural scientists are using the tool to understand plant proteins that help with stress resistance.
The being able to guess structures at scale has made the research run faster. What used to take years of work can be done in days, so scientists can use their time testing ideas.
Also, AlphaFold has caused new AI tools and teamwork. Other systems like RoseTTAFold and ESMFold have come out, while researchers are connecting AlphaFold predictions with molecular dynamics simulations to study how proteins move.
**What's Next?**
AlphaFold2 has changed biology a lot. By making protein structures easy, it has helped findings across all studies, from fertilization to drug design. Scientists can use AI to grow information.
There are still issues. Predicted structures, even if they are right, are not perfect. actions, protein groups, can make predictions hard. Experiments are still very important. Yet, AlphaFold created a new starting point for structural biology, giving a base to build discoveries.
For Andrea Pauli, AlphaFold showed the way sperm and egg act, solving a question. For science, it has opened doors to different questions. The next Nobel Prize may be for someone whose work was supported by AlphaFold.
**In result**
AlphaFold2 is a revolution in structural biology. By opening the way to proteins, quickening new findings, and keeping interest, it has changed how science is done. From fertilization to drug , its effect is important.
As people say its name AlphaFold has showed it has changed protein science, enabling ideas that were impossible.
22.Every Mario Game Discounted on Nintendo Switch for Black Friday 2025
**Black Friday 2025: Rad Nintendo Switch & Mario Deals Are Coming!**
Hey everyone! Calling all Nintendo fans! If you're still glued to your Switch or if you are hyped for the Switch 2, listen up! There are some great Nintendo deals coming up, and you absolutely don't want to miss them. Seriously, who doesn't want more Mario? That superstar is still making awesome games for us. And the best part? Black Friday is right around the corner, so the prices are gonna get a lot lower!
I'm not kidding, these deals won't last long! Nintendo stuff *rarely* goes on sale, and we all know it. So, when you see any stuff that you want, get it fast before somebody else snags it.
Some ridiculously good deals vanished from Amazon already. Not unexpected at all. But don't freak out! Stores like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy still have some cool things. Let's just jump into some great Mario and Nintendo Switch deals to all save some cash:
**Sweet Game Steals:**
* **Super Mario Odyssey – About $30 (Normally $60):** *Odyssey* for thirty bucks? Seriously? So many players think it's one of the best Nintendo Mario ever made. You get to jump into Mario's quest to prevent Bowser from marrying Princess Peach and his crazy wedding plans. Plus, you can check out some crazy kingdoms.
Oh, and Mario’s hat from outer space, Cappy, is here! With him, Mario can control other creatures and objects. You can even get to be a T-Rex, solve puzzles, and play some insane levels! If you have a Switch, this game is a must-purchase. Seriously, do it.
* **Luigi’s Mansion 3 – $30.00 at Walmart (Usually $60.00):** I'm sure we like Luigi, the scaredy-cat, right? Okay, he has to be brave in *Luigi's Mansion 3*. He, Mario, Peach, and Toad are invited for a resort trip, but things don't turn out well. Luigi must rescue everyone, get through each level, win against these annoying ghosts, and crack some codes. Then there’s Gooigi, Luigi's cool clone, who can pass through metal and walk on spikes. He's also here!
The game is kind of goofy, sweet, and makes you think. For that price, Walmart is the place to go. You might catch it at Best Buy and Target for as much as $40.
* **Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door – About $30 (Normally $60):** They're offering this GameCube remake for half the cost! It’s an RPG, with way better updated graphics to appear more modern.
And there's this ring thingy that allows you to use new characters. If you are into the RPG thing, this is easy.
* **Princess Peach: Showtime! – About $30 (Usually $60):** Peach has her mission! She must protect a stage from these terrible people by taking on great jobs. She can be a fighter or a karate master.
This game is amazing. This version has some original maps. The fights are crazy fast.
* **Mario + Rabbids Dual Pack – Around $15 (Usually $30):** To any and all strategy game fans, today’s your lucky day! Kingdom Battle and Sparks of Hope are discounted. It’s like XCOM games except there are Nintendo characters.
* **New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – Around $49 (Usually $60):** This side-to-side game is so fun if you play with your friends. But the discount is around ten bucks!
* **Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games: Tokyo 2020 – About $30 (Usually $60):** You can play all types of mini-games, with Mario characters. They worked them well to play homage to elements from the first games.
* **Other Nintendo Switch Black Friday Sales:**
* Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Game – $499 at Amazon (Save $30).
* Nintendo Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends: Z‑A Game – $499 at Walmart (Save $20).
* Samsung microSD Express Card (256GB) – About $40 at Amazon (Save 33%).
* Final Fantasy I‑VI Collection Anniversary Edition – Around $40 at Amazon (Save 47%).
* Dragon Quest III HD‑2D Remake – About $35 at Amazon (Save 42%).
* Dragon Quest I & II HD‑2D Remake – Almost $50 at Amazon (Save 17%).
* Nintendo Switch Sports – $30.00 at Walmart (Save 50%).
* Splatoon 3 – $30.00 at Walmart (Save 50%).
* Donkey Kong Country Returns HD - Less at Walmart
Great discounts on RPGs and party games!
**So, Should You Buy or Not?**
Nintendo games almost never go on sale. The prices for *Super Mario Odyssey* and *Luigi's Mansion 3* are hardly ever so cheap. Waiting for Black Friday may benefit you.
You got a Switch, right? Buy these games!
**In Conclusion**
Hey, Mario people, be ready for Black Friday 2025. Try to find these Luigi and Peach games. There are many cool accessories, package deals, and RPGs to be found. Let's try to get some savings!
If you are looking for Switch or Switch 2 games, act right now. You're not gonna catch these nice costs for a while.
23.Cyberpunk 2077 Surpasses Expectations With Faster Sales Than The Witcher 3
Cyberpunk 2077 has sold over 35 million copies, which is pretty insane! CD Projekt Red, the guys behind The Witcher series, made the announcement. They even pointed out that Cyberpunk hit this sales mark faster than The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. They dropped the news on X and went into all the financial details in their earnings report. Their CFO, Piotr Nielubowicz, even made a video explaining everything.
Nielubowicz mentioned that Cyberpunk is actually performing even better than The Witcher 3 did at the same point after launch. It's bringing in most of their money right now, and they're trying to make it available on more platforms so more people can play.
It's crazy to think about where Cyberpunk 2077 started. Everyone remembers that launch in December 2020 – what a disaster! It had tons of bugs and ran terribly for almost everyone. But CD Projekt Red didn't give up. They kept patching the issues, releasing expansions, and porting it to different consoles. Now, it's one of their biggest successes ever. Talk about a comeback!
Cyberpunk 2077 had a busy year, too. It came out on the Nintendo Switch 2 earlier this year. I have no idea how they got Night City running on a handheld without it looking terrible. They also released a version for Macs, so Apple users could finally play.
They even put Cyberpunk 2077 on PlayStation Plus. Millions of console gamers could play it without paying full price. That seriously helped CD Projekt's profits, even more than the Phantom Liberty expansion and the big update in 2023.
About Phantom Liberty, the one with Idris Elba as Solomon Reed – critics praised the story, and CD Projekt fixed a lot glitches. That expansion helped win back some trust from their gamers and got some good reviews. All of those platform releases also helped boost Cyberpunk's comeback.
So, what is CD Projekt Red up to next? Cyberpunk 2 is officially in development. They have about 135 people working on it so far.
No one knows much about the game right now, but expectations are high. People want a great story, deep role-playing, and a game that works well from day one. CD Projekt has said they want to avoid the mistakes they made with the first Cyberpunk 2077 launch. To prevent this, they are putting more money towards the overall experience, to make it worth it.
Even with Cyberpunk getting a ton of attention, it seems like The Witcher 4 will be their main project. Around 447 developers are working to create another chapter in Geralt's story.
People are extremely hyped about The Witcher 4.
They displayed a tech demo running on Unreal Engine 5 at 60 FPS on PlayStation 5, and it looked amazing.
CD Projekt hasn't even started their marketing just yet.
One major question with The Witcher 4 is who people will play as. CD Projekt has confirmed that Ciri will be the main character. She was playable in The Witcher 3.
But will Geralt be playable again? Or will he just help Ciri in her story? CD Projekt hasn't revealed that yet.
Making Ciri the main character makes sense for the storyline and how the game will be.
CD Projekt is putting in the work on Cyberpunk 2 and The Witcher 4. Both games show a unique style for their respective genres. They both have grown the company overall.
Balancing these two games is the challenge. CD Projekt has to do well on both ends making sure that they are good games. The Witcher is special due to high ratings, so they need to make another game that continues that legacy.
The news about Cyberpunk 2077 selling 35 million is definitely a win for the company.
Because of Cyberpunk 2 being created, the company is at an advantage.
While people are waiting for updates on both franchises, the company will continue to create many more role-playing games.
24.Secret Lair x Monster Hunter™ Returns for a Fresh Round of Designs
That Secret Lair x Monster Hunter thing they announced last week? It's been put on hold. Wizards of the Coast basically said, Yeah, this isn't good enough, and they're going back to the drawing board before launching it again in 2026.
Why? Because people weren't happy. Like, at all. They didn't like the cards they picked, how Monster Hunter was mixed in, or just how the whole thing was put together. Wizards admitted they messed up and didn't live up to what fans expect from these special Secret Lair team-ups.
These Secret Lair drops are supposed to be awesome, collectible items that celebrate cool crossovers and unique art. They're usually pretty wild, teaming up with everything from pop culture icons to video game favorites. The Monster Hunter drop was meant to be one of those big deals, you know, bringing in Capcom's mega-popular series with all those crazy monsters, teamwork-based gameplay, and deep stories.
But Wizards basically said they got too excited and missed the point. The cards they picked didn't resonate with fans, and the Monster Hunter stuff felt tacked on. Instead of feeling like you were actually hunting monsters, making gear, and surviving huge battles, the cards just felt disconnected from what makes Monster Hunter, well, Monster Hunter.
The good news is that Wizards heard the complaints and decided to fix things instead of just rushing it out the door. They even said that We aren’t going to pull Superdrops back unless we really have to, but we’re committed to doing better.
Now, here's something else: Capcom is still on board. The guys who make Monster Hunter are still excited about putting their world into Magic: The Gathering, which is good news for everyone.
This is kind of a big deal. Monster Hunter is one of Capcom's biggest series, right up there with Resident Evil and Street Fighter. It's got this awesome mix of action, strategy, and playing with others that's made it a hit all over the world. Magic players were hoping to see monsters like Rathalos, Zinogre, and Nergigante turned into awesome cards.
So, the fact that Capcom is willing to give Wizards another shot says they think the reworked drop will actually capture what makes Monster Hunter special. The partnership is still secure.
Secret Lair has become a major part of Magic, offering those limited-edition drops with cool art, different themes, and those crossovers, like The Walking Dead, Street Fighter, and Doctor Who. People like them because they're something different from the regular Magic sets.
The Monster Hunter drop was supposed to be a home run, bringing together two huge gaming groups. Putting it on hold shows how important it is to get these crossovers right. People don't just want names on cards; they want a good mix that respects Magic and the source material.
By hitting pause, Wizards is saying they care about Secret Lair and are willing to wait to make sure it's done well.
So, what went wrong?
Basically, here's what people were complaining about:
Card Choices: The cards they picked didn't really match the spirit of Monster Hunter. People wanted to see the iconic monsters and weapons, but the cards were just random.
Mixing in Monster Hunter: What makes the game so special didn’t translate into Magic.
Overall: It all felt rushed and not as good as other Secret Lair team-ups.
It just felt like a marketing gimmick instead of a celebration of Monster Hunter.
So, what's next?
Wizards says they'll share more info and a new release date soon. The reworked drop will probably show up in 2026, giving them time to rethink the cards, how they play, and how it looks.
Hopefully, we'll see cards that are real monsters, gameplay that feels like hunting and making gear, and art that captures the style of Monster Hunter. With Capcom still involved, this could be great.
Putting things on hold like this isn't something wizards does often, but it shows they do care about the quality better than anything.
In short, putting the Secret Lair x Monster Hunter Superdrop on hold is a big deal for Magic: The Gathering. Wizards said it wasn't good enough, and they're starting over. It is a rare move for the company. By listening to fans, working with Capcom, and aiming for better, they have a chance to make a crossover that does both franchises justice.
It's a bummer now, but it shows they want to get things right. When the new drop comes out in 2026, everyone will be watching to see if Wizards can really bottle that Monster Hunter magic.
25.LEGO Black Friday 2025: Sets You Shouldn’t Miss
**LEGO Black Friday 2025: Keep An Eye Out!**
Okay, so, LEGO is supposedly planning a huge Black Friday sale in 2025, and LEGO fans are already trying to predict what sets will be on sale. Black Friday is on November 28th, but there have been rumors for weeks about what might go on sale. Obviously, treat this all as a rumor, but it sounds good for LEGO fans.
Because there's a lot of rumors, we made a list of ten sets that look more likely. Whether you are into Harry Potter, Star Wars, LEGO Ideas, or the Botanical sets, there might be something for you. Now is the time to make a list of sets you want, so you will be ready to buy when the sale starts!
**Sets to Watch**
* **77037 Aloy & Varl vs. Shell-Walker & Sawtooth:**People have loved this set since it was released. The set has Aloy and Varl characters, plus some brick-built creatures. At around \$40, it's a steal, and if the rumors about 20% off are true, it's even better, notably if you enjoy Horizon Zero Dawn. The Aloy and Varl characters are fun to play with, as are the creatures. People who like it have said that the creativity that went into the set is well worth the price.
* **76433 Mandrake:**If you enjoy Harry Potter but don't want a big Hogwarts set, the Mandrake is a good option. It's a funny plant to pull out of its pot, and it makes a funny face. If it really gets a 30% discount, it would be a welcome addition to any shelf, and a cheap way to discover Harry Potter. You can put it in different places, and it's a good conversation piece for anyone who likes Harry Potter.
* **10370 Poinsettia:**People want seasonal sets, and the Poinsettia is rumored to have 20% off. It's a part of the LEGO Botanicals series, so it looks real but it won't die. It would be a nice decoration for all the Winter holidays. Display it on the table or window, and it will look great.
* **21343 Viking Village:**People say that the Viking Village will retire at the end of 2025, so a 30% discount is important. The minifigs are cool, and the village setting looks detailed, perfect if you have the Pirates or Castle LEGOs. This might be your last time to get this set without having to pay a lot. The longhouse looks good, and the details are what sets this kit apart.
* **21342 The Insect Collection:**The Insect Collection is another LEGO Ideas set that will be gone soon, and it focuses on nature with brick-built bugs. If there's a 30% discount, then buy this if you want something to display. If you want it to look like art, then you will need this as a display model! Each bug looks great, and they all have their own unique personalities.
* **75331 The Razor Crest:** The UCS Razor Crest is important in the LEGO Star Wars world, and people are saying there might be 30% off. It has over 6,000 pieces and Din Djarin's ship. It is popular and expensive, so this is might be the last time to get this model cheap. The finished model looks very imposing, and it has fun hidden secrets that any fan would enjoy.
* **42203 Tipping Dump Truck:**If you enjoy LEGO Technic, then think about buying the Tipping Dump Truck. The rumor says it will be 20% off. This isn't a sports car, it's a truck with moving parts. It's good for kids, but grown-ups can use this as well. The parts are durable, and it simulates a real-life dump truck.
* **75376 Tantive IV:**The Tantive IV is another Star Wars set that will be retiring soon. If the rumors are real, it might get 40% off. This is a good discount! This midi-scale model offers one of the best possible deals. If you enjoy the original Star Wars, this is a way to get Star Wars history without paying too much. This set has several hidden guns to blast the Empire!
* **75403 Grogu with Hover Pram:**With The Mandalorian becoming a movie, people will want Grogu stuff. The Grogu with Hover Pram set has over 1,000 pieces and recreates Grogu. If it gets a discount, buy it then. Everyone will want this one. Everyone loves Grogu! He's cute and this is the only set that features this character.
* **10340 Wreath:**Lastly, the LEGO Wreath is believed to get a 30% discount, like the Poinsettia. It's a Christmas decoration that you can show off every year. You can put this with other LEGO Botanicals, and you can decorate anytime you want with LEGOs. You can modify this to be whatever you want, and it fits in with all your decorations.
**Why Is Everyone Talking About This?**
LEGO rarely puts its sets on sale, mostly the sets that are licensed or from the Ideas series. Black Friday is the time where you will save money, and if over 100 sets are going on sale, then this year might be the biggest Black Friday yet!
And for the sets that are retiring, like the Viking Village and the Insect Collection, you can get these for retail price. Once a set retires, then expect the price to increase. Go get these sets while you can!
**In Conclusion**
While these are rumors, this LEGO Black Friday 2025 sale is worth checking out. No matter if you enjoy Star Wars, Harry Potter, or holiday sets, there will be something for everyone. If you make your list of things you want now, then you'll be ready when the sale starts on November 28.
Hopefully the rumors are true, and next LEGO Black Friday is a sale that everyone remembers. Keep checking the LEGO site for news, and buy stuff quick, because the good sets will sell out!
26.Dell, HP and Others Warn AI Boom Could Strain Memory Chip Supply
**Tech Companies Sound the Alarm: AI Craze Could Mean Fewer Memory Chips**
So, all this crazy growth in the AI world is starting to put a strain on how everything is made and shipped. One of the first things we're likely to see? Not enough memory chips to go around. Big names such as Dell and HP are already saying they're not sure they can get enough memory modules to meet demand. This could mean prices go up and it might be hard to even find what you're looking for next year.
Companies that make phones and gadgets, such as Xiaomi, are feeling the same squeeze. Word is Lenovo is even buying up chips now, trying to get ahead of those rising prices. Some analysts at Counterpoint Research think memory module prices could jump by half by the middle of next year. That really shows how big a deal this is for the tech world.
**Why are Memory Chips so Important?**
Memory chips – especially those called DRAM and NAND flash – are everywhere. They're inside your phone, your laptop, the computers that run the internet. They're the parts that actually hold and work with all the information that makes things happen.
AI needs them even more. If you're training those big AI models, or running things such as image recognition, you need a ton of memory capacity. All this AI development means demand for memory chips is way higher than usual. It's not just folks buying new phones; it's everyone building AI systems.
**The AI Boom Explained**
This isn't just some regular tech upgrade cycle. Cloud companies, regular businesses, and even people who make your home gadgets are throwing money at AI. Data centers, where information is stored, are being rebuilt to deal with AI stuff, which requires serious memory.
It's not just fancy servers, either. Your phone, your laptop, even your smart toaster are getting AI features such as instant translation. All these little things add up, needing more memory. It puts even more pressure on the supply chains.
**How Companies are Dealing**
Different tech companies are trying different things to handle this shortage.
Dell and HP are telling everyone that their computers might get more expensive if memory costs go up.
Xiaomi is worried about how this will affect phones and other gadgets, where they don't make much profit to begin with.
Lenovo is trying to buy up chips now, hoping to avoid getting hit by price changes and keep making stuff.
These different moves show how uncertain everyone is. Some are getting ready for higher prices, while others are trying to secure their supplies, which might make things even worse for everyone else.
**What the Experts are Saying**
Counterpoint Research says memory prices could jump 50% by mid-2026. That would be a big shock to the whole tech world, hitting everything from big business computers to the gadgets you buy at the store.
Memory prices usually go up and down. The AI craze will mean demand stays high. Prices might not just be temporarily higher, but stay higher for a while.
**What it Means for You**
You'll probably end up paying more for your next laptop or phone. Companies will try to eat some of the cost increase, but prices will likely reflect at least some of the higher costs.
You might also have to wait longer for new products, or some models might not be available. The high-end stuff that needs more memory will probably get made first, while cheaper models might be harder to find.
**What it Means for Businesses**
If you're a business building AI systems, get ready for higher costs. Memory is key to servers and data centers, and if it costs more, setting up AI will be a lot more expensive. Smaller businesses might have to postpone their AI plans, or at least rethink how they're spending money.
Big cloud companies might be able to handle the costs better, but they'll still have to plan carefully. They might run into delays if they cannot get enough memory.
**The Big Picture**
The memory chip problem shows how hard it is to scale up AI. Everybody talks about fancy processors, but memory is just as important. Without enough memory, even the best processors just cannot do what AI needs.
This whole thing also shows how connected the world is. Only a few companies make memory chips, and if something goes wrong in one place, it affects everyone. To keep enough chips flowing, companies and governments will need to work together.
**In Conclusion**
Dell, HP, Xiaomi, and Lenovo are all saying the same thing. The AI boom is changing the memory chip market, which could cause shortages and higher prices. Since memory module costs could go up 50% by mid-2026, people should be ready to pay more and possibly wait longer to get what they want.
27.December 2025 PlayStation Plus Free Games Officially Announced
Gamers, check out the PlayStation Plus freebies dropping for December 2025! Sony's really mixing it up this month with what might be the most all-over-the-place selection we've seen in ages. Starting December 2nd, if you're a PS Plus member, you can snag these five games without spending any extra cash: Lego Horizon Adventures, Killing Floor 3, The Outlast Trials, Synduality Echo of Ada, and Neon White. Pretty cool, right?
And if you're rocking the PS Plus Extra or Premium tiers, you're in for a bonus. Skate Story is hitting the Game Catalog as a day-one download starting December 8th. Remember that you have until January 5th, 2026, to claim these games. So, don't sleep on it!
**Let's break down the games:**
**Lego Horizon Adventures**
First up, we've got Lego Horizon Adventures. Think Horizon Zero Dawn but... Lego. Sounds wild, I know! It's a playful take on Aloy's story, putting her in a Lego world. It's got that familiar post-apocalyptic vibe, but with all the goofy charm you'd expect from Lego.
You'll still be running around as Aloy, piecing together the story of the world and facing off against robot dinosaurs. The Lego style means it's probably cool for the whole family. If you're a Horizon fan, this is a fun way to see the story in a totally different light.
**Killing Floor 3**
Next, Killing Floor 3 – the newest game in the Killing Floor series, where you and up to five friends blast away waves of super gross monsters called Zeds. It's all about working together, tricking out your weapons, and trying not to get eaten.
Expect a lot of blood, and fast-paced chaos perfect if you like shooting games with a horror twist. Being on PS Plus means there should be plenty of people to team up with too!
**The Outlast Trials**
Into scary stuff? The Outlast Trials is a co-op horror game that will mess with your head. It's in the same universe as the other Outlast games. You will have to survive some seriously messed up trials.
It's first-person, and you'll need to sneak around, using your environment to your advantage.. It's all about working together to make it through. Seriously, this one's creepy so it is only for fans of horror games.
**Synduality Echo of Ada**
Sci-fi fans, this one's for you. In Synduality Echo of Ada, you play as a Drifter whose job is to collect rare stuff called AO Crystals. Of course, there are giant creatures in your way called Enders. Luckily, you have a mech suit to fight back with.
Get ready to explore, fight, and manage your resources in a futuristic world. The mech thing makes it feel different from other action games. If you're into anime-style sci-fi, this could be right up your alley.
**Neon White**
Then we have Neon White, which is like a visual novel mixed with a super fast shooter. You're an assassin who's trying to win a competition in Heaven to kill demons. It’s weird, but cool!
This game is designed for people who like to be fast, always finding new ways to run through levels. The game is designed with speedrunners in mind; the card-based combat system is unique..
**Skate Story (PS Plus Extra and Premium)**
And for the Extra/Premium folks, Skate Story is coming on day one! You play as a glass skater in the underworld.
It's got cool skating mechanics, but it's also a weird, artistic game. It's a good example of Sony putting cool stuff on the higher-tier subscriptions.
**Variety is the spice of life**
This group of free games is amazing!. From Lego Horizon for the family to the crazy horror of Outlast Trials, Killing Floor 3 for those who like guns, Synduality Echo of Ada for mech people, and Neon White for people who like to go really fast, there must be something for everyone this month.
Skate Story being added to Extra and Premium is excellent, and makes sure everyone has something to look forward to.
**In summary:**
PlayStation Plus rocks, December 2025 won't be any different. Five different games for everyone, and a day-one release for the guys at the top, there is a balance of great games balanced with new and great gameplay.
Get ready to play Lego Horizon, deal with spooky tests, fight hordes of monsters, use mechs, or speed through challenges. December is going to be an awesome month for gaming.
Do not forget to claim November's free games before December 2, and then dive into this new bath, that is available before January 5, 2026. It is going to be lots filled with fun, terror, speed, and some action for fans of PlayStation!
28.Patch 20251127 for Marvel Rivals: Changes, Fixes and New Features
Rivals fans, get ready! We're about to drop a HUGE update for Marvel Rivals to celebrate our first birthday. The patch goes live on November 27th, 2025, at 9 AM UTC. The best part? No server downtime! Just log in after the update, and you're good to go.
This update is jam-packed. We're talking new stuff, events, free goodies, and fixes. Basically, it's one of the biggest things we've done since the game came out. Here's the lowdown:
**Rivals’ Day 2025: Happy Anniversary!**
Can you believe it? Marvel Rivals is a year old! It’s been a wild ride with awesome wins, tough losses, and tons of battles we won't forget. This anniversary is our way of saying thanks for sticking with us and letting you know we've got even cooler stuff planned.
Phase One kicks off on November 27th at 9 AM UTC, and we've got events and rewards galore. Then, on December 4th, Phase Two drops with even more cool bonuses.
**Loads of Free Stuff:**
* **Log In and Get Rewarded:**
Just log in during the event, and BOOM! You get 1,500 Units. It's our way of saying thanks for playing. It is quick and easy!.
* **Rivals Assemble!**
Tell your friends—old or new—to join you in Marvel Rivals! By playing with any other player, you can grab up to 600 Units Plus the Bright Future emote.
* **Times Square Countdown:**
When the Times Square countdown ends, log in for 200 Units and the Rivals’ Day 2025 title. You even have 72 hours AFTER the countdown to snag the reward, so no need to stress about time zones.
* **Jeff’s Break Time:**
This is a fun one! You can get Jeff the Land Shark’s Business Shark costume JUST by playing! There are also unlockable parts for Jeff. And if you want even MORE, there are costumes for Invisible Woman (Disappearing Dessert) and Mister Fantastic (Dad‑tastic Reed). It’s all about having fun and making your heroes your own.
**Phase Two Goodies (Starting December 4th):**
Phase Two gives you another 200 Units just for sharing your Rivals Rewind report. Here's the breakdown of what you can earn during the whole anniversary bash:
* 1,500 Units for logging in
* 600 Units from Rivals Assemble
* 200 Units from the Times Square Countdown
* 200 Units from Rivals Rewind
That's a lot of free stuff!
**New Mode: 18 vs. 18 Annihilation**
Get ready for chaos! We're adding a new mode where it's 18 vs. 18 on the brand-new Grand Garden map. This is a Domination mode, so get ready for huge battles that will test your teamwork and skills.
If you like HUGE battles, then this is the mode for you.
**Season 1 Battle Pass is Back!**
Did you miss out on the Season 1 Battle Pass – Darkhold? Well, you're in luck! It's back for a limited time from November 27th to December 11th. Find it in the Battle Pass area by hitting Nexus to open the Reality Link Point. It's a second shot at some awesome early content.
**Black Friday Deals!**
It's Black Friday, so we're having our first-ever sale! From November 28th at 2 AM UTC to December 2nd at 00:00 UTC, get a sweet 20% off select items.
Plus, every time you buy something, you get a coupon for an even BIGGER discount on your next purchase. Think of it as stacking savings like Infinity Stones! The sale includes all Season 3 and earlier stuff that's currently available.
**Fresh Bundles in the Store**
We've got new bundles coming to the store:
* Venom – Gummy Surprise Bundle
* Blade – Restful Recovery Bundle (Available November 28th to December 26th)
* Marvel Unlimited Bundle (Available November 28th onward)
More ways to customize your roster and show off your favorite characters!
**Bug Squashing Time!**
We've been working hard to fix some issues:
* Times Square Identity Crisis: Names and characters are now matching in game.
* Gambit’s Wild Deck: Cards can now be detected correctly.
* Cloak & Dagger’s Dimensional Dilemma: Fixed bug during Ultimate Ability.
* Peni Parker’s Web Domain: Her ultimate and team-up speed has been restored.
* Mister Fantastic’s Elastic Oddity: His are now retracting.
* Rocket Raccoon’s Beacon Bloopers: Beacons work correctly now.
* Jeff the Land Shark’s Overhealed Encore: He no longer makes the sound of overhealing.
* Peni Parker’s Trap Trouble: Arachno-Mines don't disappear anymore.
* Doctor Strange’s Cloak Chaos: His speed is normalized.
* Jeff the Land Shark’s Wall Slide: Hide and Seek bug fixed.
**Wrapping Up**
This November 27th patch is a big one. We've got anniversary events, a new game mode, old content returning, store sales, and bug fixes. Seriously, with 2,500 Units up for grabs, new costumes, and 18 vs. 18 Annihilation, there’s a ton to do.
The Black Friday sale and new bundles are the icing on the cake, and the bug fixes will make the game smoother. We are ready for Marvel Rivals' second year, which will be full of fun.
Phase Two arrives on December 4th, so stay tuned! Get ready for even more battles, stories, and friendships in Marvel Rivals!
29.Think Twice Before Snapping Up the $549 M1 MacBook Air This Black Friday
That M1 MacBook Air going for around $550 this Black Friday? Yeah, I see why people are excited. When it first came out, it was a big deal. First Mac with Apple's own chip, super quick, battery lasts forever, and no noisy fan!
Remember when Walmart practically gave away M1 MacBook Airs last year for $700? People freaked out because MacBooks are usually super expensive. Now it's dropped to $550 for Black Friday 2025! A brand new MacBook for that price? Sounds too good to be true. still, before you jump the gun and buy it, consider some stuff.
Why You Should Possibly Reconsider The M1 Deal:
Okay, so here's the thing: that M1 MacBook Air is about five years old. I know, the one you buy will be shiny and new, but the tech inside is getting old. Apple usually supports Macs with macOS updates for around five to eight years. That means the M1 is nearing its end.
Since Apple Silicon Macs are sort of new, how long Apple will keep supporting them is uncertain. The M1 might get updates for a while, but it could stop sooner than you think. If you buy it now, you're betting it won't stop getting updates in a year or two.
And another thing: the M1 only has 8GB of RAM. Even in 2020, that was a bit small. Now, in 2025, it feels super limited. If you only use your laptop to browse the web, watch stuff, and type documents, 8GB might be enough. But if you do anything more intense, like run multiple apps, consider playing video games, or dabble in trendy AI programs, that 8GB might feel lacking.
These days, AI is everywhere, and it uses up a lot of memory. If you want a laptop to keep up, you'll want at least 16GB of RAM. It's pretty much standard now. The M1 MacBook Air just doesn't have that.
So, why is everyone hyped about $550?
Let's be real: $550 for a MacBook Air is an incredible deal. They almost never cost less than $1000, so this is a big win. If you're a student, just need a simple laptop, or want the cheapest MacBook, the M1 Air is a fine choice. It has awesome battery life, a great display screen, and macOS is often reliable.
Also, if you're only using it occasionally, or for someone who doesn't need the latest tech, the M1 MacBook Air might be all you need. It's not a bad laptop, just an older one.
Better Choices To Make:
The good news is that the M1 isn't the only MacBook getting a price drop for Black Friday. If you have some room in your wallet, there are better laptops that will last you longer.
M4 MacBook Air – Around $750 on Amazon
This one has 16GB of RAM, twice as much as the M1! Plus, it looks nice and modern, with smaller screen edges, a bigger, brighter screen, a better camera, and MagSafe charging. It's $200 more than the M1, but that extra memory and updated design make it worth it in the long run.
M2 MacBook Air – Around $650 at Best Buy
If $750 is too much, the M2 MacBook Air is a good option. At $650, it has the same benefits as the M4: the updated look, MagSafe, and better screen/webcam just with a slightly older chip. It's still way quicker than the M1 and will last you longer, so it's worth the extra $100 for most people.
Next Steps:
You should think about how much you want to spend and what you need in a laptop. If you just want the cheapest MacBook, the M1 Air for $550 is hard to beat. It can still handle the basics just fine, and the price is good.
But if you can pay a bit more, the M2 for $650 or the M4 for $750 will be a better decision. You'll see a big improvement in speed and with 16GB of RAM. Spending a little more now can prevent you from needing to buy another laptop soon.
Final Thoughts
The M1 MacBook Air at $550 is a great Black Friday deal, but you should know what you're getting. It's an older laptop with only 8GB of RAM, it won't get macOS updates forever and might struggle with newer apps. It's alright. if you just need a basic laptop, but the M2 or M4 MacBook Air will last longer if you can afford the extra cost.
30.The Frame Art TV Showdown: Samsung vs Hisense vs TCL
Let's talk about the Samsung Frame and other TVs that try to be art.
First off, let's be clear: if you're hunting for a TV with a mind-blowing picture, the Frame isn't it. Seriously, if you want super-bright images, crazy-good darks, and colors that explode off the screen, there are way better options for the same cash. The Frame's picture is just...okay. It doesn't get super bright, and the blacks aren't that impressive, even when you compare it to other regular LCD TVs. You might even find yourself fiddling with the color settings to get things looking right.
So why do people buy them?
Well, people who buy the Frame, or any of these art TVs, aren't obsessed with having the absolute best picture. They're looking for something different.
I personally know folks who are head-over-heels with their Frame TVs. They've got one in the living room, and they're thinking about getting another for the bedroom. This is in spite of fact that I told them they could buy even much less expensive TVs that are better at being TVs. But hey, I get it.
Think about it: a huge TV, like a 65-inch or bigger, takes over a room. When it's off, it's just a gigantic black rectangle that feels like wasted space. But the Frame? When it's on—even when you're not watching anything—it turns into wall art. Instead of a blank screen, you can show a painting, a photograph, or something from a digital gallery. Suddenly, that TV becomes a conversation piece. It brings a touch of style and personality to the room.
Sure, lots of TVs and streaming sticks have screensaver modes that show artwork or your photos. But because the screens are reflective and the TV looks like a TV, you know it's just faking it. The Frame is different: it has a matte screen that cuts down on reflections, and you can swap out the frames around the edge to make it look like a real framed picture. That small detail makes a huge difference.
How it Started
Samsung basically invented the art TV thing with the Frame back in 2017. For a long time, this was the first and only way you could get a TV of this nature. The Frame sold well, proving that some people cared more about how a TV looked than how well it performed.
Samsung has launched newer Frames, and other brands have jumped in with their own versions. The idea is catching on because not everyone needs the most amazing picture. Some people just want a TV that doesn't look horrible when it's off.
The Trade-offs
If you buy an art TV, there are definitely some trade-offs to consider. A 65-inch Frame goes for about $1,800, which is a lot when you consider what you're getting in the performance area. You could spend the same—or even less—and get a killer OLED or QLED TV that gets way brighter, has much better contrast, and shows more accurate colors.
But, these TVs are TV looking devices when off which is not the vibe people want to put out. The Frame is trying to not look like a TV. For some, that's worth the cut back on the features side. It's not about watching movies in a pitch-black room and capturing every single bit of detail. It's about having a TV that doesn't dominate the room when it's off.
What’s the Hook?
Art TVs are attractive because they have to do with lifestyle and design. They're for people who are picky about their homes and how everything looks and feels. They want their gadgets to go with a room instead of taking away from it.
In some respects, the Frame isn't just a TV also a piece of interior design. It acknowledges that TVs are huge and that they tend to be the focus point of a room, whether you requested that or not. With the ability to swap the screen into an art display, the Frame has an ability to transform a room.
This can be a great fix if one person wants a big TV, but the other person isn't as thrilled about the idea. With the Frame, everyone sort of wins. There's a big screen for movies, shows, and beauty when you aren't using it.
What's Coming Up?
More companies are selling art TVs. They're going to be working and trying to make them work better alongside looking good. Newer versions of the Frame have already been upgraded with nicer screens that reduce glare. Other companies are doing the same sort of this, trying to make TVs that turn the device more friendly.
It’s possible that Art TVs may not ever perform comparatively to OLEDs or mini-LEDs when considering picture quality. But, that's okay. Because the entire premise has to do with appearance moreso than performance. If you'd rather have style, it could be worth the change for you.
What's the Deal?
When looking at the TV's functions alone the Samsung Frame wouldn't be the very top choice. However, one would be lying if they claimed it wasn't a great design. In order to provide you with design it does take advantage of lacking in brightness, contrast, and the quality of colors. The benefit provides the user with an art piece design. Certainty for buyers this is a much bigger value compared to having the nicest technical specifications.
The market has competition since Samsung's release back in 2017. While it may have some competition, it changes what people think a TV can be.
At around $1,800, it's more expensive on a side by side comparison. If home visuals & room atmosphere is of high interests and turning that boring screen into something amazing can be worth it. The goal isn't to be the top model TV on the market, but to be the top model art TV. As of right now the Frame is doing an amazing job.
31.NES Classics Get CRT Filter Makeover in Latest Switch Online Update
**Nintendo Switch Online: Revamped Old School Games**
So, Nintendo just dropped a Nintendo Switch Online update. Everyone's chatting about how they lumped all the old NES and Game Boy games into one Classics spot. But there’s this other thing that's actually neat.
Besides adding new games and *finally* letting you change the button layout (score!), Nintendo tweaked the CRT filter in those retro game apps. If you are a fan of old-school gaming and like things looking authentic, this little change is so nice.
**Retro Games in One Place**
Nintendo wanted to combine all the NES and Game Boy games into one place, dubbed Classics. It feels like they’re making Switch Online easier to handle. Rather than searching through a bunch of apps for varied systems, you can just one place for all your old games.
This, makes it way easier to find, start, and keep tabs on games if your a Switch online for mainly the old games. And with fresh NES and now Game Boy games, this Classics area feels complete.
**CRT Filter: Why is it even necessary?**
An update is the upgraded CRT filter. For a while, Nintendo’s filters made games seem like they’re running on old TVs. But the NES and Game Boy apps used old versions that weren't good. Now, the CRT filter in those apps matches. You might not notice it, but it enhances that old-school vibe:
* **Edges:** Old filter used clean lines but new one is enhanced with curved sides. That makes it feel like old CRT sets.
* **Subtle Curve:** The image has a small curve, like glass on those vintage CRTs curved the image. It makes it feel like you're playing on the real deal.
* **Screen size:** New filter fills the screen, so you avoid the squished look from the old one.
* **Color and image:** The colors are vivid, and the image is perfect. This gives it a nice feel.
Look at the filter updated, to see how well the game on an actual CRT. If you grew up palying the game during the 80s and 90s, the look is correct.
**What happened with CRT Filters?**
If your are coming as new gamer, the purpouse that the game is fuzzy is weird. But, monitors provide clarity, The CRT filter gives an initial version of the game.
Those older video games are on CRT TVs. The gamemake made the games feel authentic. They played around with with scan lines, color mixing, and round screens. Games with out these filters look bad on the screen.
The revamped CRT makes the game an initial format. And that makes the game how it was supposed.
**Slowly**
The speed of Nintendo is slow. They aren't adding extra things or changing the retro game apps. But, they are fixing apps: combining apps, changing buttons, and filters.
The changes make the game better for the fan. The update is proof that progress is there. It look better in general for retro-game.
**What Players Are Saying**
So far, players are liking it. Some are sharing images on old filters, color, and perfect image. Good memory of younger times is what fans say and some just like the style.
However, players don't like CRT filters. They like the style on the today's screens. But the new update is okay.
**To Complete**
The Nintendo update doesn't change retro. People know updates are coming. By, mixing games together from NES and Gameboy, Nintendo combine to add controller features. A refreshed CRT is delivered.
When the vintage CRT filter bends mild, give full image, and bright colors to Gameboy and NES match with current the apps. The change shows nostoliga for vintage hardware styles.
The game players that old can expect more. Nintendo's deliver new on old systems.
When the old NES and Game Boy on Nintendo Switch online are started, the update on CRT is noticed. A small difference does great thing.
32.Pokémon TCG Pocket: Mega Absol-EX Deck List and Winning Strategy
**Mega Absol ex: Dark & Tricky**
These Mega Evolution Pokémon ex cards are really shaking things up in TCG Pocket. They’re super strong, sure, but there’s a big catch: if your Mega Evolution guy gets Knocked Out, your opponent grabs three points. That can lose you the whole game in a heartbeat, so playing them is a risk, but they definitely can shift the game in your favor if you play your cards right.
We talked about Mega Blaziken ex before, how it can burn through enemies, but Mega Absol ex is a different beast. It doesn’t smash as hard as other Mega Evolution cards, but it messes with your rival's plans, which makes it a sneaky threat. This plan shows you how to use Mega Absol ex without blowing it all at once.
**Deck List**
* 1× Mega Absol ex (Mega Rising: Mega Gyarados)
* 2× Deino (Mega Rising: Mega Gyarados)
* 1× Zweilous (Mega Rising: Mega Gyarados)
* 2× Hydreigon (Mega Rising: Mega Gyarados)
* 1× Cleffa (Wisdom of Sea and Sky: Lugia)
* 2× Professor’s Research (Promo)
* 1× Copycat (Mega Rising: Mega Gyarados)
* 1× Cyrus (Space-Time Smackdown: Palkia)
* 1× Mars (Space-Time Smackdown: Palkia)
* 1× Lillie (Celestial Guardians: Solgaleo)
* 1× Giovanni (Genetic Apex: Mewtwo)
* 2× Poké Ball (Promo)
* 2× Rare Candy (Celestial Guardians)
* 1× Repel (Extradimensional Crisis)
* 1× Giant Cape (Space-Time Smackdown: Dialga)
**How To Play: Don't Rush Things**
Mega Absol ex is the big star, but don't jump the gun. Because it gives up three points if it gets clobbered, tossing it out too soon is a bad move. Instead, get points with Hydreigon first, then bring in Mega Absol ex to wrap things up.
Here’s how it should go:
1. Cleffa gets things kickstarted with its Twinkly Call attack.
2. Hydreigon scores some Knock Outs with Hyper Ray (one or two).
3. Mega Absol ex comes in with Darkness Claw to close the match.
This forces your opponent to fight through multiple Pokémon for a five-point game – one for Cleffa, one or two for Hydreigon, and then three for Absol. By the time they land on Mega Absol ex, you should be in a position to win.
**Cleffa: The Little Helper**
Cleffa is simple and super useful. It doesn’t cost anything to bring in, and it doesn't require any energy to do damage. While Cleffa wasn’t that great when it first came out in Wisdom of Sea and Sky, here, it's important.
Its Twinkly Call attack helps you get Hydreigon out super quick. Also, Cleffa means you probably won’t start with Mega Absol ex, which would really suck if it got destroyed right away. So, Cleffa makes sure your plans stay on track.
**Hydreigon: The Heavy Hitter**
The mid-game strength is Hydreigon, which comes from Deino and Zweilous. Since it’s a Stage 2 Pokémon, it takes some time to get it out, but Rare Candy speeds things up so you can use its Hyper Ray.
Hyper Ray needs three Darkness Energy and makes you get rid of them. That’s a lot, but Hydreigon’s Roar in Unison Ability gives you two Darkness Energy per turn – it does 30 damage to Hydreigon, though.
The reward is great: Hyper Ray can deal with strong Pokémon like Giratina ex, which is weak to Darkness. With Giovanni, Hydreigon can even finish Giratina’s friend, Darkrai ex, super fast. Hydreigon’s job is to grab points and soften things up before Absol shows up.
**Mega Absol ex: The Ending**
Once Hydreigon has done a lot of damage, Mega Absol ex can come in. The best way to do this is to Knock Out your own Hydreigon with Roar in Unison, so you don't have to Retreat, and the other player won't get a point.
Mega Absol ex’s Darkness Claw attack does 80 damage, which isn’t that much compared to other Mega Evolutions. But the extra effect is awesome: you get to peek at your rival’s hand and toss away an important card. This can mess up their plans and keep them from drawing cards or making good choices near the end.
Save Mega Absol ex for the last Pokémon in the group. If it gets beat too early, you lose those three points and probably the game with it. But if you wait for the right moment, Absol can mess with your opponent and win for you.
**Other Important Cards**
This deck has normal supporter cards, but these are pretty useful:
* Copycat: Helps you get more cards, especially if they are are adding to their hand with Suicune ex or Sylveon ex.
* Repel: Moves hard-to-hit Pokémon out of the way, so Hydreigon can beat some weaker ones.
* Giovanni: Makes attacks stronger, so Hydreigon can finish even the hard-to-beat threats.
* Professor’s Research, Cyrus, Mars, and Lillie: Keeps the cards coming, so you can always make good moves.
Giant Cape can help your guys stay alive for a little longer in close fights.
**How to play**
This deck is good because it has offense and ways to mess with your opponent. Hydreigon does the big damage, while Absol stops your rival from getting what they need. Cleffa helps you get what you need, and other supporter stay with you the match.
Timing is important. If you put Absol in right away, you can lose easily. Wait and let Hydreigon get points, and Absol will be the perfect finisher. The ability to get rid of supporter cards that opponent is holding gives you a good chance to win, turning a normal attack into an big victory.
**In conclusion**
Mega Absol ex might not be as strong as Mega Blaziken ex, but it's good for disturbing your rival's play in TCG Pocket. Be smart about how you play Cleffa, Hydreigon, and Absol, you can beat people by playing to five points and winning just at the perfect time.
This deck needs patience and good timing. Cleffa prepares the battle, Hydreigon does the damage, and Absol ends it by disturbing the opponent. Supporter cards like Copycat and Repel keep you ahead of everyone.
If you're someone who likes tricky style, Mega Absol ex is fun to use. Just remember to keep Absol out of the early fight. Handle it with thought, and the disaster Pokémon will turn a potentially very bad time, into a win.
33.AI-Generated GTA 6 “Leaks” Go Viral, Racking Up Millions of Views
There's this whole thing going on with fake leaks, especially around the game GTA 6, and it's sort of a big deal for how we see stuff online.
Basically, this account on X (used to be Twitter), called Zap Actu GTA6, posted something that looked like gameplay from the new Grand Theft Auto. It said GTA 6 ALERT – EXTREMELY SERIOUS SITUATION. People went nuts! Like, millions watched it super fast.
The crazy part? It wasn't real. Not a leak, not actual gameplay, just some AI-made stuff. Even with a note telling people it was fake, it still got shared a ton. It just shows how simple it is now to make fake stuff look real, and how hard it is for social media to stop it.
This Zap Actu GTA6 account has been doing this a while, posting these fake clips that look like they're from GTA 6. And because everyone's so hyped for that game, these videos get tons of views.
Later on, the account said, Yeah, I don't have ANY real info about GTA 6. It's all AI. I just wanted to show how easy it is to trick people into thinking it's a real leak.
That's what’s scary; even when the person says it's a joke, a lot of people already believe it. The account even said that about half the people watching thought it was real. Think about that!
It’s not just about games, either. It's way bigger. Celebs, scientists, all sorts of people are getting hit with these AI deepfakes.
Like, the physicist Brian Cox was saying how there are videos of him online saying crazy things about comets that he never said.
Keanu Reeves is dealing with AI versions of himself pushing products. He has to pay a company just to get them taken down from places like TikTok.
Tom Hanks had to warn people about an AI version of him in an ad for dental stuff.
Morgan Freeman had to thank people for letting him know about fake AI versions of his voice floating around.
Jamie Lee Curtis even asked Mark Zuckerberg to take down an AI ad that used her without her okay.
It really means that AI is being used to trick people by taking faces and voices that they recognize. It causes misinformation and unauthorized endorsements.
The big social media places are having a tough time keeping up. YouTube said they were going to fix things to stop fake stuff, especially videos that make money off AI, but there are still tons of fake trailers and deepfakes there.
The notes you see on X sometimes help, but usually, by the time people see them, the video's already gone everywhere. Plus, the way these sites are set up, the stuff that gets the most attention, real or not, is what gets pushed.
We probably need some actual rules for these kind of situations. People are saying that AI content should be labeled and that there should be laws about using deepfakes without getting permission first. The better AI gets, the harder it’ll be to tell what's real and what’s not.
The government in Japan asked OpenAI not to break copyright laws after people used its video maker, Sora 2, to make videos with anime and game peeps that already have copyrights. But the CEO of OpenAI, Sam Altman, said that these videos are okay since it's like interactive fan fiction.
Sora 2 can make 20-second videos. Quickly after it was released, social media was full of clips with One Piece, Demon Slayer, Pokémon, and Mario characters. The ability of this program is wild, but how people misuse the program brings up ethics and legal questions.
For people who make videos, actors, game companies, all these AI fakes make it hard for people to trust things. If fans see a convincing GTA 6 video that is fake, they might think it's real and be disappointed later. For celebs, these unauthorized deepfakes can really mess up their reputation or be used to make money without their permission.
It's not just about reputations either. It affects people. Like Keanu said, It's not fun when a machine is impersonating you, leaving you powerless to do anything.
So, what can we do about this?
We need the platforms to step up, make some rules, and for people to be more aware. The social media sites have to be better at catching and removing fake AI videos, especially the ones that are trying to make money. People have to learn to be less gullible and realize that what looks real might not actually be real.
Until then, people with bad intentions are just going to keep using AI to get views, followers, and money. This whole GTA 6 thing is an example of how easily people can be tricked. It’s going to get even harder as the tech gets better.
Basically, that GTA 6 leak was just a prank using AI. It spread fast and shows how hard it is to control wrong information and how easy it is to trick people with AI.
From video games to celebrities, AI abuse is becoming more common. Without stronger rules and people being more aware, consumers will still be easily fooled.
As Zap Actu GTA6 said, the test showed how easy it is to trick people. Half of the people thought it was real. This says a lot about how much we can trust stuff we see online — and we need to address this quickly before everything just becomes fake or not.
34.Samsung T7 2TB SSD Slashed 68% — Grab It While It Lasts
## Samsung T7 Portable SSD: This Black Friday, Ditch the Lag!
Samsung knows storage. They've been in the solid-state drive game for ages, and they usually get it right. This is super for me. The Samsung T7 Portable SSD? It's a pretty sweet piece of kit if you need portable storage. If you remember the days of dragging files onto old-school external hard drives and waiting *forever*, switching to something like the T7 is like night and day. What used to take forever will not take long.
And right now, leading up to Black Friday, Amazon's got the T7 (the 2TB version) at a seriously tempting price. I saw it for $168! Normally, you're looking at closer to $200, so there is a discount. The original was way more than that! For anyone who deals with large documents, this is a must.
### Why SSDs Blow Old Hard Drives Out of the Water
External hard drives (HDDs) are old school. They use spinning disks. This is cheaper but slow. SSDs? They got zero parts and are so much faster. Once you go SSD, you won't ever go back. I am one of those folks.
The Samsung T7 zips along with speeds reaching about 1,050MB/s. To me, that translated into copying a full-length 4K movie in under one minute! With an old HDD, you might be waiting five minutes, or even ten for that to happen. For anyone who edits videos, works with photos, or likes to install huge games, it makes a huge difference. If you had asked me years ago, I would of said that this sounds crazy.
### Actual Performance You Can Feel
The T7 uses a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port. It can move data super fast. Quick writing. Fast reading. So fast that I could consider doing video without moving it to my computer. This has helped me keep my computer free. Now my SSD doesn't overload.
This model packs a solid 2TB of space. Think of it as space for videos and photos and others. It depends on how large your files are. This is great for my videos. I do not have to worry about deleting files or saving them in the cloud.
### Pocket-Sized Toughness
Size is a big deal. The T7 is super small. The metal casing looks nice and offers some peace of mind if you accidentally knock it off your desk. I am glad that they tested it from two meters.
I still would prefer you don't throw it around, for fun. But it's durable. The durability is useful if you work on the go, or travel a lot. I can throw this in my backpack and forget it.
### Keeps Its Cool
Moving big files can make components get hot, which can slow things down (or, in extreme cases, cause problems). Samsung thought of this, though. The T7 has stuff in it to prevent this. It doesn't get all hot. This makes editing videos or installing games seamless.
### Security You Can Trust
It's very important to keep your files private. The T7 has password and encryption built in. If you lose it, others cant look at it,.If you work with confidential info, or just want to keep your files safe, this is useful.
### Plays Well with Others
The T7 works on both Windows and Mac. It also works on Android and consoles. I don't have to worry about compatibility. It just works.
It comes with two cables: USB-C to USB-C, and USB-C to USB-A. You have options to connect this to modern laptops and older laptops.
### Software Bonus
Samsung has a program called Magician. With it, I can check on the drive and what's up. The program keeps it fast and effective with updates and settings.
Plus, it comes with a three-year to cover random fails. Samsung has a good rep,. This makes the T7 a solid buy.
### Why You Should Pay Attention
The T7 at $168 for 2TB is a super sale. With the quick speeds and hard shell and safety features, it's worth considering. Get this, if speed is important.
One thing to remember: The colors are leaving. They are all basically gray. Act fast so you do not lose out.
### The Real Deal
The Samsung T7 Portable SSD is known for speediness, staying power, and the ability to move around without problems. With super fast read/writes, a compact size, security to keep your data safe, and the ability to connect to most computers and some other gadgets, it's a must-have option for people who want the storage to be easy.
This sale for Black Friday is worth checking out. The T7 is simple to set up. Samsung is popular with SSD fans.
35.Epic CEO Slams AI Disclosures, Says They “Make No Sense” for Gaming
*Tim Sweeney, AI, and Seeing Through the Hype in Games**
You know how sometimes tech people say things that just make you roll your eyes so far back you could see your brain? A lot of people may agree with this. The latest head-scratcher comes from Tim Sweeney, the top person at Epic Games. He's been chatting about AI in gaming, and basically thinks platforms like Steam shouldn't bother with those Made with AI labels on games.
Now, Sweeney isn't necessarily anti-AI. He actually seems pretty confident that this tech *could* be a game-changer. He seems to think it could help smaller teams create big, cool game worlds that look as good as something out of *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild*. Earlier this year, he even said AI could spark creativity, speed things up, and lead to better games all around.
A few weeks ago, Matt Workman, who designs stuff for movies, mentioned that those Made with AI labels are kind of pointless. Sweeney jumped in real quick, saying such labels don't make sense because AI will probably be part of pretty much every game sooner or later.
**Why All the Excitement Might Be a Little Overblown Right Now**
It's easy to get excited about a new invention. AI *could* really shake up creativity, and new tech has helped artists evolve a bunch of times. But right now, AI in gaming is a mixed bag of things. Even Sweeney has said he has some doubt, since AI still has a bit of a bad reputation because of how it has been used this far.
Why is that? Well, often AI isn't being used to help creators be even better; it's trying to take their place. Big companies are always trying to grow, and in gaming, that often means saving money. We've already seen a lot of layoffs happening, and AI is often mentioned as one of the reasons why. Plus, people have pointed out that AI often borrows content without consent to train its models.
**Is AI Just a Copycat, Really?**
Here's the hard truth: the gaming world is using AI in ways that seem to value money more than art. It's less about true passion for games. If that doesn't change, nothing will. Games may be at risk.
There needs to be a clear difference between art made by humans and AI-generated stuff in games. When AI replaces human ideas, you often end up with something boring and generic. Both players and game developers can tell the version. That's why it's extra important to be upfront about how AI is being used.
**Why Being Honest Is So Important**
Gamers and game makers are busy online chatting about how AI is affecting the industry. Saying something about AI upfront is now super important when people are deciding which games to support. Check it out:
* Dan Houser's new game studio said they're messing around with AI.
* Brendan Greene (the mind behind *PLAYERUNKNOWN*) said he supports players who are pushing back on the current usage of AI.
* The *Outer Worlds 2* team was happy to announce they *didn't* use AI.
All these opinions matter because they let players know what's up, giving them the control to make decisions on their own.
**Steam's Angle So Far**
Steam now says developers need to tell people if they've used AI in their games, either during testing or once the game is live. If they do, there will be a label present to alert gamers,.
There has been a report that maybe 8,000 Steam games use AI in some way. At the Steam Next Fest demos, when people saw what seemed like AI-created content, people were upset, since they enjoy original ideas and concepts better. Gamers seek new horizons.
**Why Sweeney's View Could Be a Problem**
Sweeney believes these labels should go away because AI will eventually be everywhere. And yeah, AI is learning fast like never before, but that doesn't mean we should stop trying to be truthful.
As it is being used, we all should be familiar with how. AI has been in video games for a while now, like when characters use it to navigate. But AI that starts coming up with new content is a bigger deal than that. Players would want to know when AI is being put to work as a replacement for human skills.
**What Needs to Happen Going Forward**
AI will keep growing and be in more games. If gamers do not care to spend money on poor stuff, then they should be notified. The disclosure tags are there to inform players when they're deciding what to buy.
Changes can be made. Removing disclosure would be a step back. Honesty makes things that of fairness, and helps developers stay responsible. This helps the industry put the focus on the real human creativity that makes games awesome for users.
**In General**
There are a bunch of hopes on AI like that of Tim Sweeney. This has great potential and hope more creativity in the gaming scene. Though, a few negatives to think about include potential layoffs, and having low-quality creations being made.
Steam puts information that is beneficial.
If there is little to no understanding behind the developer’s perspective, there is a possible future where human and algorthim games merge until there is no defining factor. This requires transparency so that gamers can make better decisions.
36.Xbox Unveils Quirky Gift Collabs With Nacon, Hallmark, and Crocs
Xbox is really pushing the boat out this holiday season with some crazy gift ideas. I'm talking stuff from Nacon, Hallmark, and even Crocs!
The Xbox 360 just turned 20, and to celebrate, they're giving fans a load of goodies, from sweet controllers to... Crocs and Xmas ornaments. Seriously, there's gotta be something for most Xbox fans – you know, for those who feel a bit nostalgic mixed with a bit of craziness.
**Nacon Revolution X Unlimited Anniversary Edition Controller**
First, check out the Nacon Revolution X Unlimited Anniversary Edition Controller. The story is that this thing is a throwback to the Xbox 360, but it still works with the new Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. Oh, and your PC too.
People seemed to like the normal Revolution X Unlimited when it first dropped back in September because it felt comfortable to hold, and you could tweak all sorts of options. Now, Nacon’s reworked it with an Xbox 360 design. So, it's got that old-school vibe, but it's still a fully modern controller.
It's gonna set you back either $199.90, £179.90, or €199,90. You can preorder it on Nacon’s website, but fair warning that itdoesn't ship until February 16, 2026. So, it won't arrive in time for Christmas gifts or something like that. But if you're a die-hard fan, it might be worth the wait. It's nice thing for both collecting and gaming, showing off where Xbox came from as well as where it's headed.
**Crocs Xbox Classic Clog**
Now, if the Nacon controller is aimed at more into gaming, the Crocs Xbox Classic Clog is the complete opposite. These things came out just back in November 24, 2025, and people online are already freaking out about them. Some think they're hilarious, others think they're horrible – but everyone seems to have a take, which is kind of the point.
The design is just something else. Black Crocs with massive Xbox Series X|S controller buttons and joystick bits stuck all over them, plus bright green Xbox logos on the straps. And they changed the Crocs logo to have the Xbox symbol, too. It all feels kind of ugly, and kind of cool.
They're $80, £80, or €80 a pair, which isn't what you'd call cheap, but at least the shipping is free. I wouldn't wear them out of the house, but if you're a genuine Xbox fanatic, maybe you'd rock them around the house.
**Hallmark Halo 3 Christmas Ornament**
If you want your Xbox stuff to be more festive, take at a look at the Hallmark Halo 3 Christmas Ornament. They were showing this earlier in the year, but the Xmas season is the best time for it to come along.
The design is a little Master Chief sticking out of the Halo 3 Xbox 360 box. Anyone who played that game back then will get the reference instantly. The people who got the old Xbox 360 ornament from Hallmark before were very happy to see this because of the sound from Halo 3.
The ornament costs $24.99, and you can only get it in the US from Hallmark's website. People abroad are not very happy about that because some countries have Hallmark stores where people can’t find it. If you're in the States and a Halo fan, a purchase is needed to add some good memories to your Christmas tree.
**Other Xbox Gift Ideas**
Aside from that above, Xbox is adding a few other surprise. You can now custom SpongeBob Movie theme for your controllers using the Xbox Design Lab if you appreciate color and are fans of cartoons. Also, Xbox wants people to acknowledge how important 360 is by making people tell their experiences on TrueAchievements, which is a great way to remind us all for the past 20 years.
With what's been offered by Xbox, there is something for everyone. No matter if you're a pro gamer or just enjoy Halo, there are many options.
**Takeaway**
Having Xbox themed Crocs or ornaments seem a bit strange, and funny, but its great. They allow people to freely display who they are. Gaming is an entire lifestyle and culture, and a time for creating good memories. These gifts give fans ways to let other know exactly what they feel passionately about.
Microsoft is making all the right moves with all these things. Having Xbox on other things other than games puts the brand in peoples heads. Whether someone sees a controller or a Xmas ornament, it reminds people that Xbox is part of our world.
**In Conclusion**
What Xbox offers for the end of the year of 2025 is all over the place, but in a great way. Fans have a lot of ways to celebrate the holidays and the Xbox 360's 20th birthday from a fancy controller, Crocs, and the Halo ornament.
These are gifts that are both fun and practical. If there is one main thing these all have in common, it's that Xbox fans love gaming and having a great time. Whether you get it for yourself or somebody else, you will be given a gift of more than a video game, but a lifestyle to admire.
37.Valve Adds Context After Horses Game Steam Ban Sparks Controversy
**Valve Says No to 'Horses,' and it's Causing a Stir**
So, Valve, the company behind Steam, decided not to sell a game called Horses on their platform. Horses is a first-person adventure horror game from an Italian developer named Santa Ragione. This whole thing has sparked a big discussion about being upfront, letting artists do their thing, and just how much control these big online stores should have over what games we get to play.
Santa Ragione, the folks who made Saturnalia, Mediterranea Inferno, and Mirror Moon EP which won awards, described Horses as a three-hour story that looks at tough issues like family problems, strict moral codes, power trips, and taking responsibility for your actions. They worked with a director, Andrea Lucco Borlera, to make the game. It's got black-and-white visuals, real-life video clips, and things you can interact with to make a weird vibe.
The game is about a world where people are kept as livestock, and they’re called horses. It's definitely a bold idea, but the studio says it's not meant to be sexually arousing.
**Why Valve Said No**
Back in 2023, Valve wouldn't put Horses on Steam. Santa Ragione said Valve wanted to see an unfinished version of the game, which is unusual. The message they got back basically said Steam doesn't allow content that appears to show sexual behavior involving kids.
Santa Ragione thought it might have been because of a scene where a young girl rides on the shoulders of one of the horse women. They said it wasn't meant to be sexual at all. They even changed the character to be in her twenties and made it clear that everyone in the game is over 20. But even after all that, Valve wouldn't change their mind and still wouldn’t let the game on Steam.
**Santa Ragione's Not Happy**
Santa Ragione is really upset about Valve’s refusal to change their mind. They believe this decision puts their future in danger, since Steam is pretty much the biggest place to get PC games. Horses is going to be sold on other sites like Epic Games Store, GOG, Humble Store, and Itch.io, but not being on Steam, which has a giant audience, is a big problem.
The studio is also annoyed that Valve hasn't been clear about why they won't allow the game. Pietro Righi Riva, who founded the studio, said in interviews that the game has changed a lot since Valve looked at the early version. He feels like they should have looked at the finished product before making a final decision.
**Valve's Side of the Story**
After the ban got some attention and Santa Ragione said they might have to shut down, Valve gave a statement to give more background. They said they checked out the game in 2023 because they were concerned about what was on the store page. Valve mentioned that they sometimes ask to see early versions of games if the store page makes them think the game might break their rules.
After playing the early version, Valve decided they couldn't sell the game on Steam. When Santa Ragione asked them to reconsider, Valve said their content review team talked about it at length before deciding to stick with their original decision. But Valve didn't say exactly why they wouldn't review the final version, or if Santa Ragione ever got specific reasons for the rejection.
This lack of detail is making developers and players think that Valve's way of deciding what's okay and what's not is confusing and doesn't always make sense.
**What This Means for Everyone**
The Horses situation brings up some good questions about how much rules should control artistic expression. Steam is the biggest online store for PC games, so what they decide has a big effect. If Valve bans a game, it can really hurt its chances of selling well, even if other stores allow it.
For small studios like Santa Ragione, this can be a make-or-break situation. If they can't reach Steam's audience, even good games might have a hard time earning enough money. This shows that we need clearer communication and review processes, especially when these decisions can decide whether a small studio survives or not.
**Walking a Tightrope**
Valve is in a tough spot. They need to have rules to keep harmful stuff off their platform. But if they're too strict or secretive, they risk stopping innovation and upsetting developers.
Santa Ragione says Horses isn't meant to be pornographic. That shows how hard it can be to judge art that pushes boundaries. Games that deal with sensitive topics can be valuable because they make us think about difficult ideas. But when these kinds of games are banned without a good reason, it makes you wonder if there's censorship and whether creative expression is being limited.
**What's Next?**
Even though Valve said no, Horses is going to be released on other platforms on December 2, 2025, for around $5. The fact that it won't be on Steam is still a significant blow.
For players, this is a good reminder to support different stores. For developers, it's a warning not to rely too much on one platform. And for Valve, it shows that there's a growing need for them to be more transparent about their content rules.
**In Conclusion**
The Horses ban is more than just a disagreement between a studio and a store. It's an example of the tension between artistic freedom, making money, and the responsibility of platforms. Santa Ragione's frustration with Valve's secrecy reflects how the gaming industry feels about choices being made behind closed doors.
As Horses gets ready to launch elsewhere, the debate will continue. This whole thing is a stark reminder that in the online marketplace, the gatekeepers have a lot of influence and that this can determine whether unconventional art ever gets seen.
38.Plex Restricts Free Remote Playback, Roku TV App First to Feel the Change
Plex is messing with how we watch our own stuff when we're not at home, and Roku is the first to get hit.
For those who don't know, Plex is like your own personal Netflix. You load up a computer at home with all your movies, TV shows, music, whatever, and then you can stream it to pretty much any device, anywhere in the world. Want to show your friend that embarrassing home video from 10 years ago? Do it on your phone while waiting in line – that's the kind of thing Plex let you do, without costing extra.
But now, Plex is changing the rules. They're starting to restrict that free access when you're away from your home network, starting with the Roku app on TVs. So, if you want to use your Roku to watch your home Plex library while you're out and about, you might have to pay up. This could really change how people use Plex.
**So, what's the deal with remote playback?**
Remote playback just means you can watch your Plex stuff even when you're not on the same Wi-Fi as your server. Visiting relatives across the country? Instead of being stuck with their boring TV, you could stream those movies from your computer back home. It was completely free, which is why so many of us loved it – it was a way to watch what you wanted without needing to sign up for another streaming service.
Now, Plex is setting a price on something that used to be free. Roku users are the first to be affected, but it sounds like other devices will follow.
**Why the change, Plex?**
It probably comes down to money. Plex has always had a free option, but they also have Plex Pass, a paid subscription that gives you extra features like offline downloads, higher video quality, and extra movie info. Remote playback was part of that free tier, but it costs Plex money to keep it going.
Think about it: they're paying for bandwidth, keeping the servers alive, and dealing with licensing. Plus, Plex is trying to get into live TV, ad-supported streaming, and partnerships. They need to make more money somehow, and charging for remote playback is one way to do it.
**How does this affect Roku owners?**
Roku is huge. Tons of people use Roku TVs for streaming. By starting with Roku, Plex is sending the message that they're serious about this change. So, if you have a Roku and use Plex to watch your media away from home, get ready to pay for Plex Pass.
If you only watch Plex at home, you won't notice anything different. But for people who use Plex specifically for streaming while traveling, it's a big deal. It changes what Plex is all about, and they'll have to think if Plex Pass is worth it.
**What does this mean for Plex's future?**
We have to wonder what Plex's long-term plan is. Are they becoming just another subscription service and ditching the community who liked it because it was free? Some people worry that Plex is forgetting its supporters to get bigger profits.
But Plex has to keep the lights on somehow. Maybe free remote streaming for everyone isn't possible. By charging for it, they can make the service better: faster loading, better security, and more device support. The key is to be open about the changes and keep users trusting them.
**What if you don't want to pay?**
If Plex Pass isn't for you, there are other options. Emby and Jellyfin do similar things, and Jellyfin is completely free and open source. They might be a little harder to set up, but you get free remote playback.
You could also check out VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) or remote desktop software. They're not as easy as Plex, but show people really want to watch their own content without limits.
**The subscription problem.**
Plex's change comes when many feel overloaded with streaming subscriptions. Netflix, Disney+, and everything else keep raising prices, and it's hard to find everything you want in one place. Plex helped with that letting users combine their media with free channels.
But, if Plex starts cutting back on their free service, they might lose subscribers who chose Plex to escape subscription fees. They need to be careful so they don't become another company asking for monthly payments.
**Final thoughts**
Plex limiting free remote playback, starting with Roku, could really shake things up. If they start packaging features that once were free into the Plex Pass. For some, it won't change anything. For others who stream, it changes a lot.
Once this change hits every device, people will decide if Plex Pass is worth or if they should switch to something like Jellyfin. Plex needs to stay finacially stable and maintin the trust of it's users.
That means nothing will ever be free on streaming forever. Platforms are going to change, even the ones we love. Will Plex users pay for the comfort they enjoy? Or find another way to stay entertained for free?
39.Google’s Nano Banana Pro AI Model Sparks More Doubts About Photo Trustworthiness
**Google's Nano Banana Pro AI Image Generator: Are We Losing Touch With Reality?**
It's getting harder to tell what's real online these days. Google just released its Nano Banana Pro, an AI that's seriously good at creating images. It's based on their Gemini 3 Pro tech, and honestly, it's getting tough to spot the difference between a real photo and something this AI cooked up. Remember when AI-generated images looked a bit off? Maybe too perfect, or just plain weird? Well, those days are almost over. Now, the images can be so realistic they can probably fool most people.
Jeremy Carrasco, a content creator, told NBC News straight up: You're going to get tricked by an AI photo, and you probably already have without even knowing it. He's right. It's getting harder to get around on the internet. There are a lot of fake images out there, and they are getting hard to tell them apart from what's actually real.
**A Big Step Forward for Realistic AI Images**
Nano Banana Pro has seriously stepped up the game when it comes to how real the images look. Older AI models had issues. You could usually tell because of weird lines, strange lighting, or something just off about how people looked. But Carrasco says they've fixed a lot of those problems. Now, the images look real, even if you look closely. This opens the doors wide open on how people can make digital art and possibly how fake news can be delivered too.
So, how can you play around with it yourself? Well, you can subscribe to Google AI Pro for about $20 each month. Or the other option is that you can create 2 free images per day. That means millions of people can now get their hands on these really great pictures. What's good is that it helps a lot of people become more creative, but it also means that there can be more risks.
**Trying to Stay Safe – But Is It Enough?**
Each time Nano Banana Pro makes an image, it puts in a SynthID, like a secret Google watermark within the actual image plus a typical watermark you've seen before. The idea is it helps everyone spot when something's AI-generated, Google mentions this.
But some people are freaked out that these safety options aren't very good. It's easy to crop or blur the watermark that are within the picture, also a lot of platforms can't even read them. Anyone can also create images of politicians or celebrities without their consent, and that's a risk. Carrasco said that “The idea that someone can become almost like a professional ‘Photoshop artist overnight and use celebrities or politicians' faces is scary.”
**Putting It to the Test: Famous Photos**
PetaPixel tried out recreating some famous photos. Results? A little creepy.
* *Migrant Mother* (Dorothea Lange, 1936): Nano Banana Pro created a similar image of a tired lady and two kids alongside the car. Although, what was noticeable was how weird the background looked.
* *Lunch Atop a Skyscraper* (1932): Overall, this one wasn't great. The faces looked morphed. What looked great was how it looked like an early 1900s image with the film and negative scratches.
These images showed how great, and not so great, the model is. It could create those copies, even if it's not perfect replicas of some of the old pictures, that is a major jump on how great visuals are now.
**What People Are Saying**
People all over the place on X (Twitter) and Reddit, are sharing what they’ve created. One user showed how a Nano Banana Pro model compared to the non-Pro version that showed how the Pro version is usually better. But even with these high-quality depictions, the bartender's hands were off on how they held.
Another Reddit user with pictures of realistic Silicon Valley tech figures, raised questions around how ethical it is to create a picture of a person without their consent. The whole conversation points to how Nano Banana Pro has both freaked out and fascinated many people.
**Things Are Heating Up in the Fake Image World**
People are calling Nano Banana Pro a game-changer. Previous AI models were blurring the lines between what's art and what's real. The fact that it’s available for many people shows how it's not just for professionals anymore. People can make use of daily free generations or a subscription.
Therefore, we all need to think about how we deal with fake images being so common. And how can we get individuals to take accountability if they use another person's image?
**Why Labeling AI Images is Necessary**
Now that AI images are so real, labeling is more important than anything. Google's Gemini 3 has a feature where you can ask if an image was made by AI. Although that is something, it means people need to make an effort to check. Some people won't care when they're just scrolling through a post.
The risk of bogus data gets bigger if people don't have a good way to label things automatically. Political ads, celebrity endorsements, and historical images can all be easily hurt if they're not real. Being truthful is very important, and we need to keep being truthful about what is actually real. So, we can still trust what happens to be truth.
**What's Next?**
Nano Banana Pro is a good example of what AI is capable of both in good and bad. It would be great to help people make great images, even if some of them are not true professionals. But it makes it harder to know what's true and what's not, which makes society have some new thoughts about what to believe when they see something.
What must be ensured is that platform and developer leaders keep up with AI model development. SynthID and watermarks might be something that developers are taking care of, but the world could use some better options, like strict labeling rules and better regulatory oversight.
The main thing that people must know is they must always be skeptical while surfing the internet. It's possible it's not real, understanding this possibility is your first thought to keep in mind.
**To Close**
In conclusion, Google's Nano Banana Pro is a turning point in AI photography. It's more accessible and realistic than any other model before it.
If AI images can even fool the pros, being crystal clear is even more important. To come along with these rapid advances in technology, we need better ways to tell fake from reality through education, watermarks, and labeling options. Or, else the truth may be another convincing illusion that can harm the viewer.
40.Bungie Leakers Claim Destiny 3 Is in “Extremely Early” Development
Destiny 3 rumor article, rewritten to sound more like a human wrote it. I've cut out the AI-sounding fluff and tried to make it read more naturally:
The Destiny community is buzzing again, this time about a possible Destiny 3. A couple of leakers, who've been right about things before, are saying that Destiny 3 is in extremely early development. Bungie hasn't said anything officially, but a lot of fans think it makes sense, especially with the game's player base dropping.
How Likely Is It?
Right now, I'd say there's a good chance it's happening – maybe 70%. That's because a couple of different sources are saying the same thing, even though Bungie is staying quiet.
What the Leakers are Saying
First, Bungie_Leaks, who used to leak stuff but stopped to avoid getting sued, came back to share info from another user named starsiza. Starsiza's tweets are private, but Bungie_Leaks said that Destiny 3 is being made and that there's also a Destiny 2 Classic project in the works.
Then, five hours later, another leaker, Colony Deaks (Deakstiny), backed up the story. He tweeted that Destiny 3 is indeed in very early stages. He said he'd known about it for a few weeks but wanted to wait before talking about it since it's so far off.
Deaks also called out other leakers for posting stuff just to get attention and said he'll share more when he has solid info. When someone asked about the Destiny 2 Classic thing, he said he knows a lot about it but is still trying to confirm the details.
Why Now?
The timing of these leaks is pretty interesting. Destiny 2's player numbers on Steam are way down, especially since the Edge of Fate expansion came out. Plus, Sony (which owns Bungie) recently said they lost a bunch of money because Destiny 2 didn't sell as well as they'd hoped.
Because of all the money problem and the low player count from the recent DLC, Bungie and Sony might think that the best way to get people excited again is to make a whole new game. A lot of players have said they'll only come back if Bungie does something completely new instead of just adding on to Destiny 2.
This Isn't the First Time We've Heard About Destiny 3
People have been talking about Destiny 3 since way back in 2018. The rumors came back last year before The Final Shape expansion, which was supposed to wrap up the main story that's been going on for ten years.
But Jason Schreier from Bloomberg said that Destiny 3 wasn't being made back then. Instead, Bungie was working on a secret project called Payback with Luke Smith and Mark Noseworthy (who were in charge of the original Destiny). That project got canceled, and both of those guys left Bungie. Schreier also said that Bungie was planning to release smaller experience packs instead of full sequels.
But those packs haven't been doing so great, and Destiny 2's player base keeps shrinking. That's probably why Bungie is thinking about going back to the idea of making a brand-new game.
What Does Extremely Early Development Really Mean?
If Destiny 3 is really being made, it's super early in the process. These big games usually take three to five years to make. So, don't expect to see any trailers or release dates anytime soon.
Destiny 2 will still be getting updates and expansions in the meantime. Bungie has already announced the Star Wars-themed Renegades expansion, which is coming out on December 2, 2025. That expansion, plus other updates, should keep Destiny 2 going while they slowly work on Destiny 3 in the background.
What's This Destiny 2 Classic Thing?
The other interesting part of the rumor is this Destiny 2 Classic project. The leakers are saying that's why Bungie pushed back their Destiny 2 roadmap recently. We don't know much about it, but the idea of a classic version makes it sound like they might be redoing or simplifying Destiny 2 to make it feel like the older expansions or to make it easier for new players to get into.
Colony Deaks says he has a lot of info about this but is still trying to make sure it's all correct. If it's true, Destiny 2 Classic could be a way to keep players interested while Bungie is working on Destiny 3.
What Do Fans Think?
The Destiny community is cautiously excited. A lot of players feel like Destiny 2 has gotten too complicated, with too many systems and not enough new stuff to do. A completely new game could give Bungie a chance to start fresh and try new things without being held back by all the old content.
But people are also worried. Bungie has been criticized for how they've handled expansions, how they make money from the game, and how they communicate with players. Some fans are afraid that Destiny 3 will have the same problems unless Bungie learns from their mistakes. They're going to need to be open and honest with the community if they want to earn back their trust.
What's Next?
If Destiny 3 is really happening, Bungie has a long road ahead. They need to keep supporting Destiny 2 while also making a new game. Plus, they have to deal with the money issues from Sony and listen to what the community is saying.
The next few years are going to be crucial. Destiny 2 expansions like Renegades will need to keep people interested, while Bungie quietly develops Destiny 3. Fans probably won't hear anything official for a while, but these leaks suggest that things are finally moving forward.
So, Is It Real?
The rumor about Destiny 3 being in extremely early development seems pretty likely, supported by a couple of leakers who've been right in the past. Bungie hasn't confirmed it, but with Destiny 2's player numbers dropping, Sony losing money, and fans wanting something new, the timing makes sense.
If Destiny 3 is real, it's still years away. In the meantime, Destiny 2 will keep getting updates, with expansions like Renegades keeping the game alive. And this Destiny 2 Classic project adds another layer of mystery.
For now, fans just have to wait and see, like Colony Deaks said. Destiny 3 might be coming, but it's going to be a long and uncertain wait.
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