Multiple Nintendo Switch game prototypes have leaked online, including prototypes of an unreleased Ridge Racer game and a canceled RPG that was in the works by Metroid Prime series' developer Retro Studios.According to multiple online reports, the prototypes leaked online after they were found in a devkit, and include old Splatoon 2 debug builds, the Nintendo Switch version of RiME, an unreleased Lego Civilization game, an ARMS debug build and prototypes of a new entry in the Ridge Racer series and of Retro Studios' canceled Project Harmony music RPG which was reportedly in development after the studio released Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze and Metroid Prime Remastered. Footage of the latter two games was also shared online and can be found here for Project Harmony and below for the Ridge Racer prototype.Given Bandai Namco's strong relationship with Nintendo, it is not surprising to see that the collaboration between the two companies was leading to the return of the Ridge Racer series on Nintendo Switch. While the game has been canceled, the collaboration between the two companies still continues to this day, as Bandai Namco is working with Smash Bros. series creator Masahiro Sakurai on Kirby Air Riders, which is launching this year on Nintendo Switch 2. A collaboration that is hardly surprising, considering Sakurai-san teamed up with Bandai Namco for the development of Super Smash Bros. for Wii U & 3DS and Ultimate.Deal of the Day

xmasstepsMemberOct 30, 20171,265So I've been replaying Uncharted 4 on PS5 (which looks just incredible) and have been really aware that they originally wanted to make the climbing more complex before scrapping it.There are many places in the game that I think show this. The most obvious is the very late addition of the piton (which I think you get at least two thirds into the game).Climbing sections also frequently have multiple routes you can take, as opposed to a linear path that you'd find in previous games. It feels like the upgraded climbing system would have allowed you to choose between a more difficult but faster route, and an easier but longer one. Personally, I'd have loved to see this come to fruition, because one of the issues with the climbing is that the characters treat it as a massively dangerous thing (which makes sense) but in mechanical terms, there are very few stakes. I'm imagining something a bit closer to Jusant, where you could strategically place pitons and use them to regain stamina. Uncharted is, of course, supposed to be more of a rollicking adventure than Jusant, but I think they could have included something to make climbing as exciting as the combat. I'm interested in hearing about other games that have this kind of cut design that hasn't been fully removed. I suspect that this kind of thing is pretty common! Altima VIIMemberMar 2, 202594Err, does the entire back section of Dark Souls count?LewiePMemberOct 26, 201719,546Revengenace has the water melon cutting that I think was a nod to the previously shown incarnation of the game from before Platinum took over- YouTubeEnjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.youtu.be- YouTubeEnjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.youtu.beEdit: This was not an intentional pun lol.CypherSignalMemberOct 25, 20171,191Alan Wake lets you drive a truck for about 45 seconds in the final game, which, to me, is the funniest and clearest example of this sort of thing that I can think of.blueredandgoldMemberOct 25, 20178,234Bioshock Infinite once had the player time travel from memory.I feel oddly self-conscious how much I must seem to refer back to that game.Banjo Kazooie and its damn keys.JawmuncherCrisis DinoModeratorOct 25, 201744,027Ibis IslandDevil May Cry 1 has a lot of this. If you play it with the knowledge of "This started out as a Resident Evil game", it sticks out.Especially in places like the castle and it's more "horror" tone.BassForeverOne Winged SlayerMemberOct 25, 201731,457CTblueredandgold said:Banjo Kazooie and its damn keys.Click to expand...Click to shrink...Umm actually it was eggs, there was only one keyTales of Vesperia has Flynn playable for a single fight along with some teases for Patty, both who were fully added in the enhanced version.

While much of the world focused on the Nintendo Switch 2, Bandai Namcos Tekken 8 has been on fire. The acclaimed fighting game saw the launch of Season 2, which received massive backlash. On Steam alone, its recent reviews sit at Overwhelmingly Negative with only 11 percent of its 3,909 user reviews getting the thumbs-up.The development team has responded to the criticism on Twitter and confirmed an emergency patch, 2.00.02, to address two unintended issues that resulted in unblockable attacks for Paul and Jack-8. It will go live in mid to late April alongside a change that removes chip damage on throw breaks.Meanwhile, the team works on identifying and fixing the causes of other behavior-related character issues and a malfunction in the OPTIONS settings. Following the next patch, the developer will continue to carefully review and respond to feedback from the community.The reasoning behind the backlash is the significant adjustments to all fighters, buffing them all around and creating more 50-50 scenarios. Players have also expressed displeasure at the lack of defensive options (promised before Season 2s release) and a fundamental disconnect with the community.Stay tuned for more details on the upcoming patchs release date and contents in the coming days. Tekken 8 is available for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC.

We already find ourselves at an inflection point with AI. According to a recent study by McKinsey, weve reached the turning point where businesses must look beyond automation and towards AI-driven reinvention to stay ahead of the competition. While the era of AI-driven acceleration isnt over, a new phase has already begun one that goes beyond making existing workflows more efficient and moves toward replacing existing workflows and/or creating new ones.This is the age of Agentic AI.Truly autonomous AI agents are capable of reshaping operations entirely. Systems can act autonomously, make decisions, and adapt dynamically. These agents will go beyond conversational interfaces, responding to user input and proactively managing tasks, navigating complex IT environments, and orchestrating business processes.However, this shift isnt just about technology it also comes with a few considerations. Companies will need to address regulatory challenges, build AI literacy, and focus on applied use cases with clear ROI if the evolution is to succeed.Moving from acceleration to transformationSo far, companies have primarily used AI to accelerate existing processes, whether through chatbots improving customer interactions or AI-driven analytics optimising workflows. In the end, these implementations make businesses more efficient.But acceleration alone is no longer enough to stay ahead in the game. The real opportunity lies in replacing outdated workflows entirely and creating new, previously impossible capabilities.For example, AI plays a vital role in automating troubleshooting and enhancing security within the network industry. But what if AI could autonomously anticipate and predict failures, reconfigure networks proactively to avoid service level degradations in real time, and optimise performance without human intervention? As AI becomes more autonomous, its ability to not just assist but act independently will be key to unlocking new levels of productivity and innovation.Thats what Agentic AI is about.Navigating the AI regulatory landscapeHowever, as AI becomes more autonomous, the regulatory landscape governing its deployment will evolve in parallel. The introduction of the EU AI Act, alongside global regulatory frameworks, means companies must already navigate new compliance requirements related to AI transparency, bias mitigation, and ethical deployment.That means AI governance can no longer be an afterthought.AI-powered systems must be designed with built-in compliance mechanisms, data privacy protections, and explainability features to build trust among users and regulators alike. Zero-trust security models will also be crucial in mitigating risks, enforcing strict access controls, and ensuring that AI decisions remain auditable and secure.The importance of AI literacyAs stated, the success of Agentic AIs era will depend on more than just technical capabilities it will require alignment between leadership, developers, and end-users. As AI becomes more advanced, AI literacy becomes a key differentiator, and companies must invest in upskilling their workforce to understand AIs capabilities, limitations, and ethical considerations. A recent report by the ICT Workforce Consortium found that 92% of information and communication technology jobs are expected to undergo significant transformation due to advancements in AI. So, without proper AI education, businesses risk misalignment between AI implementers and those who use the technology.This can lead to a lack of trust, slow adoption, and ineffective deployment, which can impact the bottom line. So, to unlock the full potential of Agentic AI, its essential to build AI literacy across all levels of the organisation.As this new era of AI blooms, companies must learn from the current era of AI adoption: focus on applied use cases with tangible ROI. The days of experimenting with AI for innovations sake are ending the next generation of AI deployments must prove their worth.In networking, it could be projects such as AI-powered autonomous network optimisation. These systems do more than automate tasks; they continuously monitor network traffic, predict congestion points, and autonomously adjust configurations to ensure optimal performance. By providing proactive insights and real-time adjustments, these AI-driven solutions help companies prevent issues and outages before they occur.This level of AI autonomy reduces human intervention and enhances overall security and operational efficiency.Identifying and implementing high-value, high-impact Agentic AI use cases such as these will be vital.Trust as the adoption hurdleWhile were entering a new era, trust plays a key role in widespread AI adoption. Users must feel confident that AI decisions are accurate, fair, and explainable. Even the most advanced AI models will face challenges gaining acceptance without transparency.This is particularly relevant as AI transitions from assisting users to making autonomous decisions. Whether AI agents manage IT infrastructure or drive customer interactions, organisations must ensure that AI decisions are auditable, unbiased, and aligned with business objectives.Without transparency and accountability, companies may face resistance from both employees and customers.The future of AILooking ahead, 2025 holds exciting potential for AI. As it reaches a new level of maturity, its success will depend on how well organisations, governments, and individuals adapt to its growing presence in everyday life. Moving beyond efficiency and automation, AI has the opportunity to become a powerful driver of intelligent decision-making, problem-solving, and innovation.Organisations that harness Agentic AI effectively balancing autonomy with oversight will see the greatest benefits. However, success will require a commitment to transparency, education, and ethical deployment to build trust and ensure AI is a true enabler of progress.Because AI is no longer just an accelerant, it is a transformative force reshaping how we work, communicate, and interact with technology.Photo by Ryan De Hamer on UnsplashWant to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders?Check outAI & Big Data Expotaking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events includingIntelligent Automation Conference,BlockX,Digital Transformation Week, andCyber Security & Cloud Expo.Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForgehere.

Dartmouths AI Therapy Breakthrough: Can a Bot Heal the Mind?Therabots clinical trial shows AI could revolutionize mental health care. Discover the science, ethics, and future of digital therapy.2 min readJust now--The Rise of AI in Mental Health: Dartmouths Therabot Trial ExplainedMental health care is undergoing a seismic shift and artificial intelligence is at the epicenter. Dartmouth College recently made headlines with the first clinical trial for an AI therapy bot named Therabot, designed to support individuals battling depression, anxiety, or eating disorder risks. Lets unpack what this means for the future of mental wellness. What is Therabot?Therabot is an AI-driven therapy assistant trained to mimic human-like empathy while delivering evidence-based interventions. Unlike traditional chatbots, it uses machine learning to adapt conversations based on user responses, offering personalized coping strategies and emotional validation. Trial Results: A Glimpse of HopeDartmouths study revealed promising outcomes:72% of participants reported reduced anxiety symptoms after 4 weeks.65% noted improved mood regulation.58% experienced fewer episodes of disordered eating thoughts.These results suggest AI could fill critical gaps in mental health access especially for underserved populations. Ethical Dilemmas and LimitationsWhile Therabots potential is undeniable, challenges remain:Human Touch vs. Algorithmic Precision: Can AI replicate the nuance of human empathy?Data Privacy: How securely are sensitive user interactions stored?Over-Reliance: Could bots discourage users from seeking human therapists when needed?Dartmouth researchers emphasize that Therabot is a supplement, not a replacement, for traditional therapy. The Future of Digital Mental HealthThis trial isnt just about one bot its a blueprint for AI-integrated care. Imagine a world where:24/7 Support: AI tools provide instant help during crises.Cost-Effective Care: Therapy becomes affordable for millions.Stigma Reduction: Anonymous bots encourage hesitant individuals to seek help.Yet, success hinges on balancing innovation with ethical guardrails. Critical Analysis: Is This the New Normal?Therabots trial marks a paradigm shift, but skepticism persists. Critics argue:AI lacks the contextual understanding of human therapists.Long-term efficacy remains unproven.Cultural biases in training data could skew interactions.Dartmouths next steps? Scaling trials and refining Therabots emotional intelligence.

Microsoft announced several new features for its artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, Copilot, last week. The Redmond-based tech giant said that these features will enable the AI chatbot to deliver a more personalised experience to users. Some of the new features were previously available only on the web client, and are now being expanded to its mobile and Windows desktop apps. Among the new additions, Copilot is getting memory capability to remember certain details about the user, and an agentic feature that will allow it to complete tasks on the web.Copilot Is Getting New Personalisation-Focused AI FeaturesIn a blog post, Mustafa Suleyman, Executive Vice President and CEO of Microsoft AI, announced several new features which are currently being rolled out to Copilot globally. Apart from the abovementioned, these features include the expansion of Copilot Vision, and the addition of Podcasts, Shopping, and Deep Research capabilities.One of the key features being introduced is Memory. With this, the AI chatbot can remember certain details about the user, such as their favourite food, birthdays of loved ones, as well as their hobbies. The company says Copilot uses this information to build a more personalised experience and offer tailored suggestions and reminders. Users will have the option to control the information Copilot remembers, and they can also opt out entirely.Microsoft is also working on another personalisation feature that will allow users to give Copilot a custom appearance. While details about the customisability and the method of adding were not shared, Suleyman said users would be able to see this appearance while interacting with the chatbot.Copilot is also getting an agentic function. Dubbed Actions, this feature will let Copilot complete web-based tasks independently in the background. It can perform tasks such as booking tickets for an event, reserving a restaurant table, or sending a thoughtful gift to a friend. The AI agent is said to work with most websites, and Microsoft has partnered with several brands, including Booking.com, Expedia, Kayak, OpenTable, Tripadvisor, Skyscanner, and more.Microsoft is also expanding Copilot Vision to mobile and Windows desktop apps. It is an image-understanding feature, and it can use the device's camera to look at the surroundings and answer user queries. The feature can also analyse real-time video from the camera and photos stored in the phone's gallery. On the desktop, it can also read the screen and interact with the content. Vision will first be introduced for Windows Insider starting next week.Copilot Pages will also allow users to share their notes, content, and research with the chatbot, and it will organise, format, and simplify it for easier viewing. Users can also ask queries based on the information shared and add the revised information with a single tap.Similar to Google's NotebookLM (and now Gemini), Copilot is also getting a podcast creation feature. Dubbed Pocasts, it can create a personalised audio session of content based on the user's interests. Users can continue to chat with Copilot while listening to the podcast to gain a better understanding of the topic being discussed.Microsoft is also pitching the AI chatbot as a shopping assistant. It says that Copilot can now perform research, build comparisons, and offer advice when shopping for a specific product. It can also be used to get notifications about price drops and sales. Users will also be able to purchase products directly from the Copilot app.Finally, two more features are being rolled out Deep Research and Copilot Search. The former allows users to conduct multi-step research on a complex topic and prepare a comprehensive report, while the latter is available in Bing and offers a unified experience of traditional search and generative search. Copilot Search shows detailed responses in Bing with cited sources and website suggestions for deeper understanding. For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you want to know everything about top influencers, follow our in-house Who'sThat360 on Instagram and YouTube. Further reading: Microsoft, Copilot, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Chatbot Akash Dutta Akash Dutta is a Senior Sub Editor at Gadgets 360. He is particularly interested in the social impact of technological developments and loves reading about emerging fields such as AI, metaverse, and fediverse. In his free time, he can be seen supporting his favourite football club - Chelsea, watching movies and anime, and sharing passionate opinions on food. More Related Stories

Naval:Any country that cant manufacture its own drones will be a vassal state.

FromSoftware Keeps Creating Single-Players Despite Co-Op PvPvE RevealIn a recent interview with Nintendo, FromSoftware director Hidetaka Miyazaki said that the studio would not change its creative direction in spite of the recent announcement of the PvPvE The Duskbloods.The new title, revealed at Nintendo Direct, is different from the studio's previous games, as it is "an online multiplayer-focused game" at its core "with both player vs player and player vs enemy gameplay." Speaking of this gameplay design, Miyazaki shared: "I've always found the PvPvE structure very interesting. It allows for a broad range of game-design ideas, while also letting us leverage our experience of designing challenging enemy encounters."However, despite the differences, the director said that the studio would not alter its development plans and step away from its usual strategy: "As previously mentioned, this is an online multiplayer title at its core, but this doesn't mean that we as a company have decided to shift to a more multiplayer-focused direction with titles going forward." Miyazaki noted that the studio will continue to develop its single-player titles: "The Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring (3) was also announced, and we still intend to actively develop single-player focused games such as this that embrace our more traditional style."The Duskbloods, set in a Gothic- and Victorian-style world, follows the story of vampire-like creatures known as Bloodsworn, competing for the First Blood. As shared by the director, there's no specific time in which the game's events take place the only thing known is that human society has come to its decline. The vampire-like Bloodsworn creatures, controlled by players, are also not the typical terrifying monsters, being a reinterpreted version of their traditional image.

submitted by /u/Environmental_Gap_65 [link] [comments]

Tonka bean trees survive lightning strikes and use the powerful electric shocks to kill their competitors.

Nature, Published online: 07 April 2025; doi:10.1038/d41586-025-01063-6Academics can drive policy innovation but they must shift their focus from publishing papers to creating practical products.

No ones ever walked out of a meeting thinking, Wow, that couldnt have been an email. If youre tired of hearing Steve and Chris ramble on for an hour, just stop going and send this AI voice recorder along instead.Even if you arent in attendance, this gadget captures the whole conversation, uses ChatGPT-4 to provide an accurate transcript, and delivers smart summaries so you can get actual work done during that important meeting. Save $76 on the Focais meeting recorder and get free shipping while supplies last.Make work a little less miserableYou might not be allowed to skip the meeting outright, but this smart device at least allows you to secretly do work on your laptopor just zone out into your happy place. And those who work from home can simply walk away and let the Focais gadget do its magic.Pair it with the app, power it on, and forget about those quarterly budget updates. Heres what makes Focais different from just recording the meeting with your phone:It runs OpenAIs Whisper model to transcribe voice-to-text with up to 98% accuracy.It listens only when sound is detected, reducing memory waste and extending battery life.Voice enhancement tools filter out background noise, isolating human speech for clearer results.Built-in summarization algorithms condense entire discussions into digestible notes instantly.Supports 120+ languages with real-time translation baked into the workflowUnlike basic recorders or apps that require uploading files to multiple platforms, this device is a self-contained system. Record, transcribe, and summarize on the fly and access everything from its companion app for iOS, Android, or desktop.Only 40 of these Focais AI smart meeting recorders are left in stock at $72.99 with free shipping, so order yours ASAP (reg. $149). No coupon is needed to get this price.StackSocial prices subject to change.Focais: Meet One Your AI-Powered Assistant to Capture & Summarize Notes $72.99See DealWhat makes this deal specialIf meetings are the biggest time-suck in your workweek, this AI note-taking tool could give you hours of your life back. With AI doing the heavy liftingrecording, transcribing, summarizing, and even translating in real timeyoure free to multitask or mentally check out without missing a thing. Normally, tech this advanced comes with a subscription or steep price tag, but this lifetime tool is just a one-time $72.99 buy. For anyone drowning in calls, lectures, or team standups, thats a small price for sanity.

One Week to Expo 2025 Osaka: 8 Must-See National PavilionsSave this picture! Expo Osaka 2025Opening on April 13th, 2025, Expo 2025 Osaka will gather countries and organizations from around the world under the theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives." Located on the manmade island of Yumeshima, the event is expected to attract millions of visitors with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and cross-cultural exchange. The overall masterplan is led by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto, who envisions a circular structure known as the Grand Roof, or the "Grand Ring." Measuring 1.5 kilometers in diameter, the floating canopy will connect the national and thematic pavilions below, functioning as a symbol of unity and collaboration while offering shaded walkways and event spaces.Fujimoto's vision emphasizes an open, interconnected layout that invites exploration, with contributions from globally recognized architects like Kengo Kuma and Lina Ghotmeh adding to the Expo's architectural significance. As anticipation builds, a number of pavilions have already been revealed, each expressing the identity and values of its respective nation through distinct architectural languages. From modular wood structures to earth-formed walls and kinetic installations, the designs highlight global dialogues on sustainability, cultural memory, and innovation. Below, we explore seven national pavilions that exemplify the diversity and creativity of Expo 2025 Osaka.Read on to discover 8 national pavilions that will be showcased in this global celebration of architecture, culture, and innovation. Related Article First Photos Revealed of 'Grand Ring' by Sou Fujimoto for Expo 2025 Osaka Japan PavilionSave this picture!Designed by Nikken Sekkei, the Japan Pavilion is centered around the theme "Cycles of Life," symbolized through a circular form constructed from domestically sourced timber. The design incorporates traditional Japanese joinery techniques and features a layered wooden faade that filters light and air. Visitors will move through a spiraling sequence of spaces that echo natural cycles and rhythms, aiming to evoke a sensory connection to Japan's cultural and ecological heritage.France PavilionSave this picture!The France Pavilion, designed by Coldefy and Carlo Ratti Associati, is titled "Theatrum Naturae" or "Theatre of Nature." The design integrates natural and artificial habitats, aiming to illustrate the connection between human and non-human worlds. Visitors are guided through three acts: Ascent, Discovery of Nature, and Return to the Ground. A winding staircase leads to an observation balcony and a rooftop garden showcasing diverse French ecosystems, symbolizing the nation's cultural and environmental contributions. The pavilion emphasizes sustainability through prefabricated components and natural elements, promoting reuse and recycling beyond the Expo's duration. Italy PavilionSave this picture!Mario Cucinella Architects designed the Italy Pavilion as a celebration of Italian creativity and craftsmanship, blending architecture, art, and environmental design. The structure features a sinuous, wave-like roof made from recycled materials and bio-based composites. The pavilion reflects Italy's historical ingenuity while promoting sustainable building practices and is conceived as a "laboratory of beauty" that showcases the country's ability to merge tradition with innovation.Chile PavilionSave this picture!Conceived by the architecture collective Constructo, the Chile Pavilion embraces nomadism and adaptability through a modular, lightweight wooden structure. Designed to be dismantled and reused, the pavilion reflects Chile's geographical diversity and cultural mobility. Its design emphasizes circular economy principles, with a low carbon footprint and the capacity for the structure to be reassembled in different contexts after the Expo concludes.Bahrain PavilionSave this picture!Designed by Lina Ghotmeh Architecture, the Bahrain Pavilion draws inspiration from traditional Bahraini dhow boats, showcasing the nation's maritime heritage and craftsmanship. The structure employs historical boat-building techniques, featuring a wooden framework with an aluminum outer layer. This design pays homage to Bahrain's seafaring history, while also incorporates sustainable practices by facilitating easy disassembly and recycling post-Expo. The pavilion's form reflects Bahrain's strategic position as a maritime crossroads, emphasizing cultural exchange and innovation. Additionally, the design acknowledges Japanese wood artistry, creating a cultural link between Bahrain and the host nation. Czech Republic PavilionSave this picture!The Czech Republic Pavilion, designed by Apropos Architects, presents a dynamic form inspired by motion and spirituality. The structure features a fluid, sweeping shape supported by a central "Tree of Life" installation inside. Emphasizing a balance between technology and nature, the design invites visitors to engage with Czech innovation, creativity, and cultural values through immersive spatial experiences.Qatar PavilionSave this picture!Kengo Kuma & Associates envisioned the Qatar Pavilion as a poetic and atmospheric space inspired by desert landscapes and wind-blown forms. The design consists of curved, layered walls made from locally sourced materials and an open-air central courtyard. It reflects both traditional Qatari architecture and contemporary sensibilities, blending light, shade, and airflow to create a sensorial journey that connects visitors to the country's environmental and cultural heritage.Germany PavilionSave this picture!LAVA Architects designed the German Pavilion for Expo 2025 Osaka with a focus on circular economy principles. Named "Wa! Doitsu," translating to "Wow! Germany," the pavilion emphasizes sustainability by utilizing reusable materials and innovative climate design. The structure aims to achieve zero waste and minimize resource consumption, serving as a prototype for repurposing and reusing structures in future architectural endeavors. We invite you to check out ArchDaily's comprehensive coverage of the Expo Osaka 2025.Image gallerySee allShow lessAbout this authorNour FakharanyAuthorCite: Nour Fakharany. "One Week to Expo 2025 Osaka: 8 Must-See National Pavilions" 07 Apr 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1028820/one-week-to-expo-2025-osaka-8-must-see-national-pavilions&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Physical Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games accused of false advertisingMichael BeckwithPublished April 7, 2025 11:15amUpdated April 7, 2025 11:16am The cartridge in the box is not a Switch 2 game (Nintendo)Boxed copies of Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games only include the Switch 1 versions, as fans dismiss them as totally worthless.Fans already suspected certain Nintendo Switch games would see enhanced upgrades on Nintendo Switch 2 and last weeks big showcase confirmed that will indeed be the case.Dubbed Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games, anyone who owns the original Switch 1 versions will be able to upgrade to them for a fee while new customers will have to purchase them at full price.You would assume physical copies of these Switch 2 Edition games would come with Switch 2 cartridges but, as it turns out, thats not the case at all.If you purchase a physical copy of a Switch 2 Edition game, youre getting the original Switch 1 version instead, alongside a download code for the upgrade. Ergo, there are no physical versions of these Switch 2 Edition games.This was initially discovered when box art for Switch 2 games began making their way online. On the cover for the Switch 2 version of The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom, the fine print at the bottom reads: Includes the Nintendo Switch game and the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack.After some confusion over whether this meant the upgrade pack was a download code or not, Bluesky user Tyler Hilton managed to get in contact with a member of Nintendos customer support for clarification. According to them, yes, the upgrade packs are download codes.Its possible the customer service representative could be wrong, but this seems fairly clear cut and theres been no other official response from Nintendo. Still, weve contacted the company for comment and will update the article should we get a response. Will you still be buying Switch 2 Edition games physically? (Nintendo)Aside from the fact that this makes Switch 2 Edition games impossible to resell (since download codes can only be used once), this also makes them difficult, if not outright impossible, to preserve.Unsurprisingly, this has become a point of contention for those who push for preservation efforts within gaming. The Bluesky account for Does it play?, for example, outright accuses Nintendo of false advertising during the Switch 2 showcase and says theres No reason to buy [physical Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games], then.Ryan Brown of book publisher Lost In Cult calls Switch 2 Edition games totally worthless since theyre only ever available as one-off digital download codes which will disappear one day.How much are Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games?Theres also the matter of the pricing. Nintendo Switch 2 games are more expensive than Switch 1 games. Nintendo has yet to provide official UK prices for all its first party games, but physical copies of Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza will cost 74.99 and 66.99, respectively.More TrendingTheres no indication of how much Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games will cost but itll almost certainly be cheaper for new fans to track down physical Switch 1 copies and pay for the upgrade pack separately than buy the Switch 2 version.Nintendos pricing for games is undoubtedly the biggest talking point surrounding the Switch 2 at the moment, even if digital editions are cheaper than physical copies. During the Nintendo Treehouse broadcasts, there were nonstop comments from viewers demanding the company drop the price.Unfortunately, it seems like the opposite could end up happening for the console itself, at least in the US. Thanks to the new worldwide tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, Nintendo has delayed opening Switch 2 pre-orders in the U.S., which could indicate the company is already considering raising the consoles price. What a rough start to the next generation of Nintendo (Nintendo)Emailgamecentral@metro.co.uk, leave a comment below,follow us on Twitter, andsign-up to our newsletter.To submit Inbox letters and Readers Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use ourSubmit Stuff page here.For more stories like this,check our Gaming page.GameCentralSign up for exclusive analysis, latest releases, and bonus community content.This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy

Nintendo's Switch 2 site has seemingly leaked extra information for two of the console's biggest games, before pulling the spoilers here's what we learned from itTech10:48, 07 Apr 2025Updated 10:48, 07 Apr 2025Rainbow Road looks set to return(Image: Nintendo)After months of waiting, Nintendo finally revealed the Switch 2's launch date, specs, and much, much more.The console will launch on June 5, making it an ideal pickup for the Summer, and will launch with Mario Kart World at a cheeky discount if you pre-order a bundle.Article continues belowWhile we count down the days until we're power-sliding around the open-world Mushroom Kingdom (less than sixty days now, if you're counting), Nintendo has seemingly confirmed one fan-favourite track will be returning via an accidental post on its Korean site, and the leaks don't stop there.Over on the Mario Kart subreddit, fans spotted that Nintendo's Korean site added Rainbow Road to the world map of Mario Kart World.The upcoming Switch 2 launch title marks the first Mario Kart title with free roam, it seems players will need to unlock Rainbow Road.Famed for its challenging lack of guard rails in many iterations, Rainbow Road has appeared multiple times in the series, notably starting out in 1992's Super Mario Kart.Mario Kart World is Nintendo's big Switch 2 launch title(Image: Nintendo)More recent Mario Kart titles have introduced multiple variants, and it even made an appearance in The Super Mario Bros. Movie in 2023 albeit without being named 'Rainbow Road' outright."Phew, I was getting worried there," one fan said of the track's inclusion, while others are getting excited about how to even get to it."I wonder how you access it? Like, is there just a space elevator in the ocean there? Maybe you have to blast off from DK Spaceport?"In case you missed it, the new Mario Kart title sees players race between tracks, so by that logic we'll need to get into the sky somehow.Switch 2 is just a couple of months away(Image: AFP via Getty Images)Over on Resetera, eagle-eyed fans have also spotted that Nintendo's Korea site has shown Pauline could be returning as a younger version of the character who will accompany Donkey Kong in his Switch 2 debut Bananza.Article continues belowWhile fans of Super Mario Odyssey may have been a tad disappointed not to see a fresh 3D Mario game announced (something that was tipped to happen), the return of Pauline would be a welcome one even if she appears much younger than when we last saw her as Mayor of New Donk City.For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.

As markets tank and the prospect of higher prices becomes more real, the future of President Donald Trumps winning coalition might be on a precipice, too. Trumps tariff policy, unpopular with the American public in general, is even more unpopular among the voters who gave him the boost he needed to win the 2024 election.They include young voters, voters of color, and independents people who prioritized economic concerns and the price of goods enough to take a wager on a second Trump term. These voters werent necessarily hardcore MAGA fans some, such as young voters, arent necessarily conservative ideologically, for example but they were dissatisfied with the post-pandemic status quo and the Democratic Partys handling of inflation. Trump and Republican candidates promised them lower prices, and these voters expected them to deliver.As the president has focused on immigration, tearing apart the government bureaucracy, and threatening, then delaying, tariffs, these voters, like the American public in general, have said consistently that they want him to focus on lowering costs and beating inflation for good instead.Over the last few weeks, polling has shown that voters think Trump isnt focusing enough on their top issue: the economy. And the data also show a clear warning sign for Trump and Republicans ahead of next years midterms: the non-MAGA voters that diversified and expanded their winning 2024 coalition are at risk of defecting, and throwing the future of this popular majority into uncertainty.Trump is losing support over the economy with voters outside his baseThough hes more popular than he was at this point in his presidency in 2017, Trump has been steadily losing support from the American public as perceptions of his economic stewardship have worsened. Immigration policy remains his strength just over half of the country supports his harsh, restrictionist approach. But opinions of how hes handling jobs, the economy, and inflation have been steadily dropping.Among Trumps voters, a stark divide is emerging between his core base of (primarily white, non-college educated) MAGA supporters, and the less ideological, more diverse (albeit smaller) group of Republican voters who do not consider themselves MAGA-aligned (YouGov pollsters ask respondents if they identify as MAGA followers). Financial Times data journalist John Burn-Murdoch captured this dynamic last week, noting an economic disconnect between Trumps Maga on the one hand and the wider conservative Republican party on the other in polling data shared with him by YouGov.This shows that the narrow subset of voters who identify as Maga Republicans continue to approve of the president at astronomically high levels, even after the tangible turmoil of the past 10 weeks. But the larger group of other voters who backed Trump last November is rapidly souring on his economic policies and overall record.That disconnect is huge when it comes to jobs and the economy and inflation/prices, where the MAGA bases approval of Trumps job performance hasnt really budged at all between February and April, while in the category of other Trump 2024 voters, Trumps approval has plunged.One key driver for all of this? Trumps tariff policy specifically. Among all American adults, these tariffs are really unpopular, and respondents specifically think theyll worsen inflation. YouGovs most recent polling from April 2 the so-called Liberation Day that Trump hyped up to announce his universal tariffs, show this though its still early and well get more data points in the days to come. More than half, or 51 percent of American adults said they somewhat or strongly disapprove of the tariff policy. Just 34 percent said they approved a nearly 20-point net negative rating.And more than two-thirds of these respondents said they expect the price of everyday goods will increase as a result, including 47 percent of Republicans. Breaking down these figures by the cohorts of voters that Trump made gains with last year paints a similarly startling picture for the GOP:Latino and Black voters: Trump made extraordinary gains with Latino voters who were most persuadable by economic messaging last year and made more modest gains with Black voters particularly Black men. But both groups of voters overwhelmingly oppose Trumps tariff announcement: Black Americans disapprove by a 23-point margin, while Latinos disapprove by a 30-point margin, per YouGov polling. They also expect prices will rise: 63 percent of Black respondents say so, while 66 percent of Latino respondents do. And in other YouGov polling, these respondents overwhelmingly think that the Trump administration is putting too much focus on applying tariffs: 73 percent of Black adults and 58 percent of Latinos say so.These were groups of the American public who were especially attuned to the rise of prices during the Biden presidency, and likely will be paying just as much attention to shifts in affordability during with Trump in office. While the public in general experienced the pinch of inflation, because of family sizes, the relative youth of these populations, and their concentration in more expensive urban centers, both of these segments of the public were more sensitive to price hikes and experienced tougher economic headwinds from 2021 to 2023.Young people (especially men): Much has been written about what exactly happened with young voters in the 2024 election those under the age of 30 still gave Kamala Harris an outright majority of support, according to exit polls,, but that margin shrunk drastically from 2020. The defection of young men specifically to Trump was a major driver of this shift, and while it can be tempting to frame cultural or ideological divisions as the main explanation, concerns over affordability and wanting to earn more seem to be a better explanation. Young voters in 2024 apparently viewed Trump as less taboo than this age cohort did in 2020 or 2016, and Democrats never found a robust response on the economy, inflation, and prices.But now these voters seem to have buyers remorse. Among all age groups, this youngest cohort seems to be the most unsure about how to view Trumps tariffs, but a plurality still disapprove: 48 percent view the tariffs negatively, compared to majorities of millennials and Gen Xers. Still, young people are also price sensitive and price hikes will affect them too. (The saga of the Nintendo Switch 2 which was already delayed and will likely cost more as a result of the tariffs could be just the beginning.)Independents: Finally, Trump made huge gains with independent voters last year, splitting them nearly evenly with Harris depending on the data source (a 3- to 6-point Harris advantage in 2024, or roughly a 7- to 10-point shift right from 2020). Yet these voters also view these tariffs negatively: More than half oppose them, and more than two-thirds expect they will increase prices. A similar share think Trump is putting too much attention on tariffs.All this suggests that tariffs really are a wedge issue for the kinds of voters Trump needed to pad his tiny popular-vote margin last year, and who helped to deliver him victory. They are girding for the opposite of what they expected from his presidency: more economic uncertainty, higher prices, and, potentially, job losses.See More:

Wharton has launched a new "Artificial Intelligence for Business" concentration. David Tran Photo/Shutterstock 2025-04-07T10:45:03Z SaveSaved Read in app This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now.Have an account? Wharton has introduced a new concentration for undergrads and a major for MBA students focused on AI.The new AI curriculum includes classes on machine learning, ethics, data mining, and neuroscience."Companies are struggling to recruit talent with the necessary AI skill," Wharton's vice dean said.The nation's oldest business school is evolving for the new, AI-powered world.The University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School has unveiled a new MBA major and undergraduate concentration in artificial intelligence. It will be available to students in the fall of 2025 as one of 21 MBA majors alongside options like accounting, finance, marketing, and real estate. For undergraduates who earn a degree in economics, it'll be one of 19 concentrations.The new curriculumbusinesses are using AI and a more conceptual sense of the technology's economic, social, and ethical implications. Students will be required to take classes in machine learning and ethics and choose from a list of electives spanning data mining to marketing to neuroscience.One of the required courses will be "Big Data, Big Responsibilities: Toward Accountable Artificial Intelligence," an ethics class."Foundations of Deep Learning" will be a new class in the statistics and data science department, giving students an introduction to the technical foundations of AI, Wharton professor Giles Hooker, an advisor for the new AI curriculum, told Business Insider by email. It will cover the technology underpinning the AI boom, including topics from "what is a neural network and how to train it" to "generative AI" to "efficient deep learning" to ensure students have "a solid conceptual grasp on what goes on under the hood in modern AI models," according to the syllabus.Wharton also updated the syllabi for existing classes, including the management course "Innovation, Change, and Entrepreneurship" and the marketing course "Introduction to Brain Science for Business."In a university press release announcing the changes, Eric Bradlow, the vice dean of AI and Analytics at Wharton, said, "We are at a critical turning point where practical AI knowledge is urgently needed.""Companies are struggling to recruit talent with the necessary AI skills, students are eager to deepen their understanding of the subject and gain hands-on experience, and our faculty's expertise on the adoption and human impact of AI is unmatched," he said.The intersection of AI and businessWharton faculty began discussingIn May 2024, Wharton launched the AI and Analytics Initiative to study possible changes to its curriculum, invest in new research, collaborate more with industries, and create open-source generative AI resources, according to Penn Today, the university's official news site.Through the initiative, Wharton has launched the AI Research Fund to help faculty pursue research at the intersection of AI and business and the Education Innovation Fund to help faculty adopt AI in the classroom.The initiative was also used to provide ChatGPT Enterprise licenses to all full-time and executive MBA students starting in the fall of 2024 a first-of-its-kind collaboration between a business school and OpenAI.In January, Wharton unveiled the Accountable AI Lab, which will produce research on AI governance, regulation, and ethics with a "practical focus on business applications."Wharton therefore had several building blocks in place for a new curriculum,Students who graduate with an AI focus will ideally be adept in four areas, Hooker said. They'll have a strong technical knowledge of AI to assess the design and application of AI models in a business and be informed enough to keep up with new AI developments. They'll have a sense of how AI will impact business operations. They'll also have a handle on the ethics of data and automated decision-making and understand the legal frameworks governing AI.Companies these days are hiring candidates who specialize in just one of these areas. For example, a company might hire an AI researcher to train large language models, a learning and development expert to teach teams how to use the technology or alawyer who understands data privacy and regulations.But graduates of Wharton's new program may emerge as a jack-of-all-AI-trades. Their skill sets will be tailored to a future workplace where adaptability might be more valuable than specialization."We expect the impact of AI on business to be long and deep. Even without new breakthroughs in human-like reasoning, we can expect AI methods to penetrate even further into business processes and our lives," Hooker said. "The careers and job titles associated with its penetration into business haven't yet been fixed."Recommended video

Its been just over two months since Kathleen Hicks stepped down as US deputy secretary of defense. As the highest-ranking woman in Pentagon history, Hicks shaped US military posture through an era defined by renewed competition between powerful countries and a scramble to modernize defense technology. Shes currently taking a break before jumping into her (still unannounced) next act. Its been refreshing, she saysbut disconnecting isnt easy. She continues to monitor defense developments closely and expresses concern over potential setbacks: New administrations have new priorities, and thats completely expected, but I do worry about just stalling out on progress that we've built over a number of administrations. Over the past three decades, Hicks has watched the Pentagon transformpolitically, strategically, and technologically. She entered government in the 1990s at the tail end of the Cold War, when optimism and a belief in global cooperation still dominated US foreign policy. But that optimism dimmed. After 9/11, the focus shifted to counterterrorism and nonstate actors. Then came Russias resurgence and Chinas growing assertiveness. Hicks took two previous breaks from government workthe first to complete a PhD at MIT and the second to join the think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), where she focused on defense strategy. By the time I returned in 2021, she says, there was one actorthe PRC (Peoples Republic of China)that had the capability and the will to really contest the international system as its set up. In this conversation with MIT Technology Review, Hicks reflects on how the Pentagon is adaptingor failing to adaptto a new era of geopolitical competition. She discusses Chinas technological rise, the future of AI in warfare, and her signature initiative, Replicator, a Pentagon initiative to rapidly field thousands of low-cost autonomous systems such as drones. Youve described China as a talented fast follower. Do you still believe that, especially given recent developments in AI and other technologies? Yes, I do. China is the biggest pacing challenge we face, which means it sets the pace for most capability areas for what we need to be able to defeat to deter them. For example, surface maritime capability, missile capability, stealth fighter capability. They set their minds to achieving a certain capability, they tend to get there, and they tend to get there even faster. That said, they have a substantial amount of corruption, and they havent been engaged in a real conflict or combat operation in the way that Western militaries have trained for or been involved in, and that is a huge X factor in how effective they would be. China has made major technological strides, and the old narrative of its being a follower is breaking downnot just in commercial tech, but more broadly. Do you think the US still holds a strategic advantage? I would never want to underestimate their abilityor any nations abilityto innovate organically when they put their minds to it. But I still think its a helpful comparison to look at the US model. Because were a system of free minds, free people, and free markets, we have the potential to generate much more innovation culturally and organically than a statist model does. Thats our advantageif we can realize it. China is ahead in manufacturing, especially when it comes to drones and other unmanned systems. How big a problem is that for US defense, and can the US catch up? I do think its a massive problem. When we were conceiving Replicator, one of the big concerns was that DJI had just jumped way out ahead on the manufacturing side, and the US had been left behind. A lot of manufacturers here believe they can catch up if given the right contractsand I agree with that. We also spent time identifying broader supply-chain vulnerabilities. Microelectronics was a big one. Critical minerals. Batteries. People sometimes think batteries are just about electrification, but theyre fundamental across our systemseven on ships in the Navy. When it comes to drones specifically, I actually think its a solvable problem. The issue isnt complexity. Its just about getting enough mass of contracts to scale up manufacturing. If we do that, I believe the US can absolutely compete. The Replicator drone program was one of your key initiatives. It promised a very fast timelineespecially compared with the typical defense acquisition cycle. Was that achievable? How is that progressing? When I left in January, we had still lined up for proving out this summer, and I still believe we should see some completion this year. I hope Congress will stay very engaged in trying to ensure that the capability, in fact, comes to fruition. Even just this week with Secretary [Pete] Hegseth out in the Indo-Pacific, he made some passing reference to the [US Indo-Pacific Command] commander, Admiral [Samuel] Paparo, having the flexibility to create the capability needed, and that gives me a lot of confidence of consistency. Can you talk about how Replicator fits into broader efforts to speed up defense innovation? Whats actually changing inside the system? Traditionally, defense acquisition is slow and serialone step after another, which works for massive, long-term systems like submarines. But for things like drones, that just doesnt cut it. With Replicator, we aimed to shift to a parallel model: integrating hardware, software, policy, and testing all at once. Thats how you get speedby breaking down silos and running things simultaneously. Its not about Move fast and break things. You still have to test and evaluate responsibly. But this approach shows we can move faster without sacrificing accountabilityand thats a big cultural shift. How important is AI to the future of national defense? Its central. The future of warfare will be about speed and precisiondecision advantage. AI helps enable that. Its about integrating capabilities to create faster, more accurate decision-making: for achieving military objectives, for reducing civilian casualties, and for being able to deter effectively. But weve also emphasized responsible AI. If its not safe, its not going to be effective. Thats been a key focus across administrations. What about generative AI specifically? Does it have real strategic significance yet, or is it still in the experimental phase? It does have significance, especially for decision-making and efficiency. We had an effort called Project Lima where we looked at use cases for generative AIwhere it might be most useful, and what the rules for responsible use should look like. Some of the biggest use may come first in the back officehuman resources, auditing, logistics. But the ability to use generative AI to create a network of capability around unmanned systems or information exchange, either in Replicator or JADC2? Thats where it becomes a real advantage. But those back-office areas are where I would anticipate to see big gains first. [Editors note: JADC2 is Joint All-Domain Command and Control, a DOD initiative to connect sensors from all branches of the armed forces into a unified network powered by artificial intelligence.] In recent years, weve seen more tech industry figures stepping into national defense conversationssometimes pushing strong political views or advocating for deregulation. How do you see Silicon Valleys growing influence on US defense strategy? Theres a long history of innovation in this country coming from outside the governmentpeople who look at big national problems and want to help solve them. That kind of engagement is good, especially when their technical expertise lines up with real national security needs. But thats not just one stakeholder group. A healthy democracy includes others, tooworkers, environmental voices, allies. We need to reconcile all of that through a functioning democratic process. Thats the only way this works. How do you view the involvement of prominent tech entrepreneurs, such as Elon Musk, in shaping national defense policies? I believe its not healthy for any democracy when a single individual wields more power than their technical expertise or official role justifies. We need strong institutions, not just strong personalities. The US has long attracted top STEM talent from around the world, including many researchers from China. But in recent years, immigration hurdles and heightened scrutiny have made it harder for foreign-born scientists to stay. Do you see this as a threat to US innovation? I think you have to be confident that you have a secure research community to do secure work. But much of the work that underpins national defense thats STEM-related research doesnt need to be tightly secured in that way, and it really is dependent on a diverse ecosystem of talent. Cutting off talent pipelines is like eating our seed corn. Programs like H-1B visas are really important. And its not just about international talentwe need to make sure people from underrepresented communities here in the US see national security as a space where they can contribute. If they dont feel valued or trusted, theyre less likely to come in and stay. What do you see as the biggest challenge the Department of Defense faces today? I do think the trustor the lack of itis a big challenge. Whether its trust in government broadly or specific concerns like military spending, audits, or politicization of the uniformed military, that issue manifests in everything DOD is trying to get done. It affects our ability to work with Congress, with allies, with industry, and with the American people. If people dont believe youre working in their interest, its hard to get anything done.

Attackers aren't just spending more time targeting the cloud they're ruthlessly stealing more sensitive data and accessing more critical systems than ever before.

Table of ContentsTable of ContentsThese are the first devices to get One UI 7What are the highlights of One UI 7?Samsung has finally started the rollout of Android 15 and One UI 7 to its existing devices, following the launch of the Galaxy S25 series which debuted the software earlier in the year.Samsung has faced plenty of criticism for the speed at which it hasnt delivered this update, with Android 15 officially landing on Pixel devices on 15 October 2024. Its been nearly 6 months since the first devices got the new software and were probably only 2 months away from Android 16s launch.Recommended VideosThanks to the shuffling of timelines from Google and the delay from Samsung Android 15 might not be on your phone for long before everyone starts looking forward to Android 16.RelatedSamsung had previously confirmed that One UI 7 would start the rollout on April 7, but we know that its a phased release, so not every region will get it at the same time. Its also grouped by devices, so not all phones and tablets will get it on day one some will have to wait a few more weeks.The first phones to get updated to One UI 7 and Android 15 are:Galaxy S24 UltraGalaxy S24 PlusGalaxy S24Galaxy Z Fold 6Galaxy Z Flip 6Although the rollout is starting today, Samsung says that it varies by region: Singapore is confirmed to start on April 14, Czech Republic is confirmed for April 10.Once these devices have received the update, you should only have to wait a week for the next round of updates, which is said to cover: Galaxy S24 FE, Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Tab S10 series and Galaxy Tab 9 series.Samsung hasnt explicitly listed all the dates and all the models that will receive the update, but it should stretch back to the Galaxy S21, Galaxy Z Fold/Flip 3, Galaxy A23, Galaxy Tab S8 and probably some Galaxy M and Galaxy F models too.Of course, while the base Android 15 is part of the package, some devices will likely get a slightly different One UI 7 experience, as not all devices will be able to run all the AI features, for example.One UI 7 has a range of design tweaks that make the phone UI look generally better, while it also introduces the Now Bar, the lockscreen widget that gives you access to some app controls while they are live. Its the design change that I found most interesting as it gives the whole device a lift and makes things look more refreshed.Theres also the Now Brief (which isnt hugely exciting), that will give you a recap of your day at various points, although Ive found this to mostly detail whats in my calendar and tell me how many steps Ive taken.There are a range of AI features, including an AI Select function, Writing Assist, Drawing Assist and Audio Eraser, while theres deeper integration for Googles Gemini across the device including when searching in settings.If youre not sure if your device has the update yet, dive into the settings and head to software update, if you dont have a notification already. Editors Recommendations

If you're thinking of upgrading to AMD's current AM5 platform, you're probably researching not just which CPU to buy, along with the supporting motherboard, but also which DDR5 memory kit you'll need.To date, we've reviewed and tested almost all AM5 processors, along with countless 600 and 800-series motherboards. However, it's been some time since we looked at memory performance, so today we've got a quick update for you, focusing on G.Skill's new CL26 memory and DDR5-8000 performance.Why we use DDR5-6000 CL30 Memory for TestingSince the introduction of AM5, we've been testing with G.Skill's Trident Z5 Neo RGB DDR5-6000 CL30 memory, using a 32GB kit that currently costs $110 a very reasonable price. AMD initially provided this memory to reviewers for evaluating Zen 4's performance, claiming it enabled optimal results while also stating that DDR5-6000 was the platform's sweet spot, which certainly held true for Zen 4.With the release of Zen 5, AMD's messaging became a bit unclear. They continued to claim that DDR5-6000 was the sweet spot and recommended that reviewers use the same DDR5-6000 CL30 memory. At the same time, they promoted the new 800-series motherboards by claiming that X870 boards would provide the best performance thanks to support for DDR5-8000.This was confusing for a few reasons, most notably because the 800 chipsets were essentially rebranded 600-series chipsets, refreshed for Zen 5. So, if an X870 motherboard supports DDR5-8000 memory, then the same should be possible on an X670 board and this has since turned out to be the case.However, it gets a bit more complicated because DDR5-8000 support is limited by the motherboard, not the Zen 5 memory controller or chipset. For example, when testing every single X870/X870E motherboard, we found that about half of the 21 boards tested worked with DDR5-8000, while the rest were unstable or simply failed to boot.This testing was conducted using the same Ryzen 9 9950X CPU and DDR5-8000 memory, so the limiting factor was clearly the motherboard. It's possible that some of these boards could support DDR5-8000 with a BIOS update, but we haven't been able to confirm this yet.As it stands, DDR5-8000 isn't ideal for all X870E motherboards, despite AMD's claims. Based on our past testing, it's also not necessarily an optimal configuration for performance but we'll revisit that today.The reason DDR5-8000 isn't always faster or significantly faster than DDR5-6000, despite a 33% increase in theoretical bandwidth, comes down to the frequency at which the integrated memory controller in the I/O die can operate. When running DDR5-6000, the memory clock is 3,000 MHz, and this can be matched by the UCLK (Unified Memory Controller Clock Frequency), which sets the speed for the memory controller. This allows the memory and controller to run in a 1:1 ratio at 3,000 MHz.However, going beyond a DDR5 memory clock of 3,000 MHz forces the integrated memory controller to run at a 2:1 ratio, as it can't exceed 3,000 MHz while maintaining stability at least for the majority of silicon. So, when using DDR5-8000, which runs at 4,000 MHz, the memory controller defaults to a 2:1 ratio and operates at just 2,000 MHz 33% lower than with DDR5-6000.That said, the additional bandwidth offered by DDR5-8000 can sometimes overcome the penalty of the 2:1 ratio, resulting in better performance assuming your AM5 motherboard is stable at that frequency.To find out how this plays out, we're comparing the Ryzen 7 9700X using DDR5-8000 with several DDR5-6000 configurations, including G.Skill's new CL26 memory, and we'll also include a baseline DDR5-5600 configuration. Many of you are probably curious about the 9800X3D, but we didn't include that CPU in this testing it would have added a lot more work, and we already know it's not particularly sensitive to memory performance. This was most recently demonstrated with the 9950X3D, so DDR5 performance is more relevant to the non-3D chips.Alright, let's get into the dataBenchmarksCyberpunk 2077: Phantom LibertyStarting with Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p, we're seeing up to a 12% performance improvement when moving from the DDR5-6000 CL30 memory used in our reviews to the DDR5-8000 configuration, which delivered the best results. However, it was only 2% faster than the new DDR5-6000 CL26 memory. Unexpectedly, there was very little difference between the DDR5-6000 CL40 and CL30 configurations, and even the DDR5-5600 memory kept up closely.When increasing the resolution to 4K, lowering the frame rate to just over 100 fps, the performance gap between the slowest and fastest configurations shrinks to just 5%. However, the difference in 1% lows grows, with a larger 13% margin.Horizon Zero Dawn RemasteredThe other single-player title used in our testing is Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, where we saw a wider spread of results. The DDR5-6000 CL30 review memory averaged 169 fps, making it 5% faster than the official base spec memory. Opting for DDR5-8000 provided an additional 7% performance boost over the review memory, reaching 180 fps, though it was just 2% faster than the new DDR5-6000 CL26 kit.Switching to 4K resolution, the performance margins narrow significantly. The DDR5-8000 memory was only 5% faster than the DDR5-5600 base configuration. We saw, at most, a 6% gain from the DDR5-6000 CL30 memory to the DDR5-8000 kit, and just a 1% improvement in average frame rate.Marvel RivalsFor competitive multiplayer shooters, where you're more likely to reduce GPU load by using medium to low quality settings, memory performance tends to have a greater impact particularly in CPU-limited scenarios. Testing Marvel Rivals at 1080p, we observed a 17% increase in 1% lows when moving from the base DDR5-5600 spec up to DDR5-8000, while average frame rates improved by 9%. That said, DDR5-6000 CL26 memory delivered performance very similar to the DDR5-8000 configuration.At 4K, performance scaling was somewhat unusual. We only saw a drop in performance when using the DDR5-6000 CL40 memory, which performed comparably to the DDR5-5600 base memory.Counter-Strike 2Finally, we have Counter-Strike 2. Here again, the DDR5-8000 and DDR5-6000 CL26 kits delivered nearly identical performance, and the same was true of the CL28 memory. We observed just a 4% improvement when moving from the CL30 review memory to the high-end DDR5-8000 kit. The DDR5-6000 CL40 and DDR5-5600 CL38 memory also produced similar results, falling only slightly behind by a few percent.At 4K, the results were nearly entirely GPU-limited, with all configurations achieving over 450 fps.Memory Options and PricingSo there you have it as expected, when CPU-limited, DDR5 memory can improve the performance of AMD's latest generation Zen 5 processors. However, based on what we've seen here, Zen 5 doesn't appear to be as memory-sensitive as previous generations of Ryzen processors.For example, the new CL26 memory provided at most a 9% uplift over the CL30 memory used in our Zen 5 evaluations. That's a notable improvement, but in most cases, the gains were in the 4 5% range. DDR5-8000 was up to 12% faster, but overall, there was very little performance difference between DDR5-6000 CL26 and DDR5-8000 CL38.Memory performance (at this level) only matters in scenarios where you're playing competitive shooters or games that tend to be more CPU-limited than GPU-limited.Again, memory performance really only matters in scenarios where you're playing competitive shooters or games that tend to be more CPU-limited than GPU-limited. In GPU-heavy single-player titles such as Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Alan Wake 2, and Horizon Zero Dawn premium memory typically offers very little in the way of extra performance. In those cases, you're better off sticking with sweet-spot memory, which we've consistently found to be DDR5-6000 CL30.Looking exclusively at 32GB kits, it's clear that DDR5-5600 isn't worth the savings. A decent kit will cost around $80, while a good-quality DDR5-6000 CL30 kit is just $10 more. However, DDR5-6000 CL28 kits jump to around $120, and the new CL26 kits are priced at $180 or more making them hard to justify when compared to CL30.You're also looking at spending around $170 for DDR5-8000, though there may be occasional kits that are significantly cheaper, they're still much more expensive than DDR5-6000 CL30.As has been the case since Zen 4... we recommend pairing your Ryzen AM5 processor with DDR5-6000 CL30 memory.So, as has been the case since Zen 4, we recommend pairing your AM5 processor with DDR5-6000 CL30 memory. As a side note, we've previously tested many more memory configurations using the Ryzen 7 7700X in eight games with the RTX 4090 and found similar results. The DDR5-6000 CL30 memory used in our reviews delivered optimal performance, and even with manual tuning using timings from Buildzoid, performance only improved by a further 4% on average.As for the new low-latency DDR5-6000 CL26 memory, we hope to see it become more competitively priced in the near future. There are some performance gains to be had, but at the moment, the premium far outweighs the benefits.We're also about to begin testing every single AMD B850 motherboard, so it'll be interesting to see how DDR5-8000 support holds up across that lineup. For now, that wraps up this quick update.Shopping Shortcuts:32GB DDR5-6000 CL30 Kits on AmazonAMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D on AmazonAMD Ryzen 9 9950X on AmazonAMD Ryzen 7 9700X on AmazonAMD Ryzen 7 7700X on AmazonAMD Ryzen 5 9600X on Amazon

GenAI is no longer a strategic advantage; it's the defining technology that will determine how well we handle the next major disaster.

After a 2021 data breach exposed the data of 76 million customers, settlement checks are finally being sent out. Here's what you need to know.

Tech Zero-emissions hydrogen-electric jet disrupts conventional flights This future jet could be a game changer in aviation Published April 7, 2025 6:00am EDT close 'CyberGuy': Zero-emissions hydrogen-electric jet poised to disrupt conventional flights Beyond Aero's BYA-1: Hydrogen-electric jet with zero emissions, reduced costs, 2030 launch. Kurt Knutsson discusses a potential game changer in the evolution of air travel. You know how everyone's talking about going green these days? Well, French startup company Beyond Aero is taking that idea to new heights, literally.They've been working on this cool hydrogen-powered jet that could change the way we think about flying. It's called the BYA-1, and it's not just another concept that'll never see the light of day. These folks mean business. In fact, they aim to put it into service by 2030. This innovative aircraft promises to be a game changer, offering significant cost savings and environmental benefits compared to conventional jets. BYA-1 (Beyond Aero) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)The BYA-1 by the numbersTheBYA-1 is a 10-seat business jet designed from the ground up around a battery-free hydrogen-electric propulsion system. This clean-sheet architecture optimizes the use of gaseous hydrogen, addressing the challenges of incorporating this fuel into existing aircraft designs.The jet features six hydrogen cylinders, with four located along the sides of the fuselage and two at the wingtips, which feed six 400-kW fuel cells. These fuel cells convert hydrogen into electricity and water vapor, powering electric jet turbines that achieve a peak power of 2.4 MW.The BYA-1 is capable of flying six passengers a distance of 921 miles at a cruise speed of 357 mph, with a healthy reserve included. By reducing the cruise speed to 276 mph, the range can be extended by 50% to 1,381 miles. BYA-1 (Beyond Aero) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Efficiency and cost savingsBeyond Aero claims that the BYA-1 will offer substantial operational and cost benefits. The aircraft's design reduces operational costs by as much as 55% due to fewer parts and lower maintenance complexity, thanks to a modular and swappable engine unit for ground-based maintenance. Additionally, Beyond projects that the BYA-1 will provide an immediate 17% saving in fuel costs compared to conventional Jet-A1 by 2030. This is expected to increase further as green hydrogen becomes more cost effective. BYA-1 (Beyond Aero) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Environmental and comfort advantagesThe hydrogen-electric propulsion system brings significant environmental and passenger comfort improvements. The BYA-1 emits zero carbon emissions during flight, aligning with the aviation industry's goal of reducing its carbon footprint. Furthermore, the electric jets produce less noise, with Beyond claiming that the cabin will be 15 dB(A) quieter than conventional jets when equipped with acoustic insulation. This translates to a perceived noise reduction of about 50%. BYA-1 (Beyond Aero) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Progress towards certificationBeyond Aero is actively working toward certifying the BYA-1 for commercial use. The company has filed for design organization approval with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and is collaborating with regulators to define the special conditions needed for certification. Beyond Aero has already demonstrated tangible progress by conducting France's first manned hydrogen-electric flight using a prototype fuel system in an ultralight aircraft seen below. Hydrogen-electric flight using a prototype fuel system in an ultralight aircraft (Beyond Aero) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Industry impact and potentialWith $44 million in capital and letters of intent for 108 sales totaling $914 million, Beyond Aero is positioning itself as a serious contender in the aviation industry. The company's innovative approach could potentially disrupt conventional air travel and accelerate the transition to cleaner aviation technologies. As the aviation industry grapples with environmental concerns, innovations like the BYA-1 may prove crucial in achieving zero-carbon goals by 2050. BYA-1 (Beyond Aero) (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Kurt's key takeawaysAs we wrap up this look at Beyond Aero's BYA-1, it's clear that the prospect of quieter, cleaner and more efficient flights holds significant promise. The potential benefits of hydrogen-electric jets are substantial, both for passengers and the environment. Of course, there are plenty of challenges to overcome before this technology becomes mainstream, but with innovations like the BYA-1 on the horizon, it's a pivotal moment in the evolution of air travel.Do you think hydrogen-electric jets will become a mainstream option for commercial flights within the next decade, and why or why not?Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading toCyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2025 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Installation view of Punk: Chaos to Couture (2013), curated by Andrew Bolton, winner of the 2015 Vilcek Prize in Fashion (image courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art)Vilcek Foundation to Award $50,000 Prizes to Immigrants in Fashion FieldsApril 7, 2025SponsorVilcek FoundationApplications for the 2026 Vilcek Foundation Prizes for Creative Promise in Fashion & Culture and Fashion & Design are now open to immigrants under the age of 38. The Vilcek Foundation will award six $50,000 prizes to young immigrants who have demonstrated exceptional early-career achievements in the fields of Fashion & Design and Fashion & Culture.Fashion is a reflection of cultural shifts and serves as a powerful form of self-expression. From hair and clothing to jewelry and makeup, fashion trends speak volumes about a time and place in society. Immigrants enrich the fashion industry by contributing their unique traditions, perspectives, and styles.Through the Vilcek Prizes for Creative Promise in Fashion, the foundation aims to bring awareness to the many ways fashionand the immigrants working in fashion-related fieldsmake our society better.Andrew Bolton, Winner of the 2015 Vilcek Prize in Fashion (all photos courtesy of the Vilcek Foundation)Winning [this prize] was an incredible honor and a deeply personal milestone, says Siki Im, winner of the 2015 Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise in Fashion. It recognized not only my creative journey but also the unique perspective I bring as an immigrant in the fashion industry. Today, as barriers seem more prevalent, the Vilcek Prize serves as a powerful reminder and mediator of who built and continues to push the United States forwarda nation shaped by the talent, creativity, and resilience of immigrants.The Vilcek Foundation has created two fashion categories to expand the number of awards given to immigrants in the arts and humanities. Immigrants 38 years of age or younger who work in the following fashion fields are encouraged to apply:Fashion & DesignDesignersEnvironmental and Technology DesignersMaterial Innovation ExpertsMakeup Artists / Hair StylistsFashion & CultureWriters and ResearchersCurators and Museum ProfessionalsStylistsImage MakersApplications will be accepted through June 9, 2025.To learn more and apply, visit vilcek.org.Siki Im, Winner of the 2015 Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise in FashionTuyen Tran, Winner of the 2015 Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise in FashionNext article

Researchers from the University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) have introduced a fresh approach to 3D printing polymer foams that can achieve a broader range of mechanical properties and expansion capabilities.Having used catalyst-free dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC), their method embeds dynamic phosphodiester bonds within polymers containing foaming agent microspheres. These bonds can exchange during thermal foaming, allowing the materials to expand more effectively without sacrificing structural integrity.Published in RSC Applied Polymers, this research was co-led by chemistry doctoral students Ariel Tolfree, and Rebecca Johnson under the supervision of Dr. Ron Smaldone, Associate Professor of chemistry and biochemistry in the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and who is also the corresponding author of the study.This is probably the longest project Ive ever done, said Johnson, who plans to complete her PhD in chemistry in May. From start to finish, it was a little over two years. A lot of it was trying to get the polymer formulation correct to be compatible with the 3D printer.Tiny dog-shaped pieces of sturdy, lightweight 3D printed foam. Photo via UT Dallas.Overcoming structural limitations with dynamic bondingPolymer foams are valued for their lightweight structure, insulation, and mechanical properties, but balancing pore size, density, and strength remains challenging. Conventional methods using gas injection often face trade-offs. Moreover, higher crosslinking density enhances toughness but limits expansion, while larger pores reduce density and mechanical strength.The researchers addressed this issue using DCC, which allows bonds to rearrange under specific conditions. Unlike conventional polymers with fixed bonds, these adaptable networks enhance performance and recyclability. Therefore, they focused on phosphodiester bonds for their chemical stability and ability to exchange at temperatures as low as 50C without harmful or costly catalysts.Foaming microspheres were embedded within a polymer matrix containing varying concentrations of dynamic and non-dynamic crosslinkers. When these printed parts were heated at 165C for 15 minutes, the foaming process began. As the thermoplastic shell of the microspheres softened, the liquid hydrocarbon inside vaporized and expanded. Cooling then hardened the shells, forming a closed-cell foam.Were certainly not the only ones trying to do this, Smaldone said. The novelty is using dynamic chemistry to print really great foam material. The next question to address will be, how do we tune the properties and use this new kind of knowledge to fit a variety of different needs?Comparative testing and recyclability resultsIn testing, researchers compared non-dynamic tetraethylene glycol diacrylate (TEGDA) crosslinkers with dynamic Bis[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl] Phosphate (DPE) crosslinkers and found that dynamic crosslinkers consistently achieved greater expansion. The foaming process involved direct phosphodiester exchanges, rearrangements forming triester and monoester products, and interactions with ester groups, mechanisms that enhanced network reorganization and expansion.To ensure the bond exchanges were working as intended, researchers used Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which confirmed dynamic bond exchange through transesterification and condensation mechanisms. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed higher crosslinker content raised glass transition temperatures, indicating improved network uniformity.When put to the test, unfoamed dynamic polymers demonstrated higher compressive strengths, ranging from 180 to 216 MPa, compared to the 130 to 150 MPa recorded for non-dynamic polymers. After foaming, the dynamic polymers demonstrated better energy dissipation and compressive strength than non-dynamic foams with similar expansion.Theres more. The team also tested the foams recyclability by compressing unfoamed cylinders to 70% of their height and allowing them to recover before foaming. Dynamic phosphodiester polymers retained their mechanical properties better than non-dynamic TEGDA foams, indicating effective damage repair through bond rearrangement and condensation reactions.Ultimately, the study suggests that dynamic phosphodiester bonds provide a promising route to achieving higher foam expansion, improved mechanical strength, and energy dissipation without the need for catalysts. Its a method that could extend the lifespan of 3D printed foams and open up broader applications for these materials.3D printing with foamAway from UT Dallas, contributions in foam 3D printing also came from Nano Dimension-acquired Desktop Metal, which launched FreeFoam, a 3D printable photopolymer resin developed by its subsidiary Adaptive3D.Introduced at Foam Expo North America in June 2022, FreeFoam enables customizable foam parts to expand up to seven times their original size when heated between 160 170C. Available on the ETEC Xtreme 8K DLP 3D printer, it allows for reduced waste, enhanced design flexibility, and improved shipping efficiency across sectors like automotive, furniture, footwear, and healthcare.Elsewhere, UC San Diegos Department of NanoEngineering researchers developed an expandable foaming resin compatible with SLA 3D printers. Designed for heat-induced expansion post-UV-curing, the resin enabled the creation of parts up to 4000% larger than the printers build volume.The study aimed to overcome geometric limitations in manufacturing, with potential applications in aerospace, architecture, energy, and biomedicine. Testing involved heating 3D printed HEMA resin models at 200C for up to ten minutes, achieving significant expansion and suggesting uses in lightweight components like aerofoils and buoyancy aids.What3D printing trendsshould you watch out for in 2025?How is thefuture of 3D printingshaping up?To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Featured image shows tiny dog-shaped pieces of sturdy, lightweight 3D printed foam. Photo via UT Dallas.

Enough for a few Mushroom Kingdoms.So, you may or may not have been wondering just how big the Nintendo Switch 2's game cartridges are actually going to be, especially now that we know the sizes of the initial line-up of games.Nintendo's first-party launch games are all surprisingly dinky, with Mario Kart World just 23.4GB, and Donkey Kong Bananza a tiny (by modern standards) 10GB. Of course CD Projekt Red's sci-fi behemoth, Cyberpunk 2077, is also set to release on Switch 2, and it's a whole lot bigger than your latest Mario ride!Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Shift Up DownIt's not just Japan: NC Soft, Nexon and Shift Up down as market anxieties rout the games industryAs markets opened in South Korea, the video game industry was hit. Hard.Image credit: Shift Up News by Connor Makar Staff Writer Published on April 7, 2025 The South Korean stock market took a serious blow as markets opened this morning, and as the trading day came to a close - around an hour ago as of writing - it's clear the video game industry hasn't been spared from significant loss in stock value. Companies like Nexon, Shift Up, NC Soft and more have all been hit.This comes following a wave of US tariffs across all products from various countries. South Korea must now deal with a 25% tariff, making it more expensive for US companies and individuals to import goods from South Korea. However for the video game sector the wider impact on global tech imports into America, and the speculated cost increase for hardware these games are played on, may be a larger factor.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. Some of the largest South Korean video game companies have seen stocks decrease sharply as of writing, including:Nexon | -5.20%NCSoft | -7.25%Kakao Games | -3.79%Netmarble | -5.04%Pearl Abyss | -7.66%Com2uS | -4.96%ShiftUp | -5.44%This comes at a time when the South Korean video game market was doing rather well! Not only was the mobile sector continuing to grow thanks in part due to popular games like Godess of Victory: Nikke, but also there was a real desire to expand into the AAA console/PC space, a movement kicked off by releases like Stellar Blade and Lies of P. So this really couldn't have come at a worse time for those developers looking to expand into larger, more costly types of video games.Whether or not this downward trend continues is up in the air at the moment, but it's something we're seeing across the industry worldwide, including Japan which ended its first trading day post-trading with serious loses in the gaming sector as well. But, if there is a recession in America and beyond, how big of an impact will that have on the South Korean video game market is the big question. Games like Godess of Victory Nikke, heavy on microtransactions, may very well suffer in an economy where people have less to spend on luxuries. Or maybe its free-to-play model will carry it through to safety.Time will tell whether the South Korean video game industry's stock will recover in the coming weeks, but given ongoing trade tensions, it's looking like a rough period for the short term at least.