Holding SMG FireWant to know GTA 6's release date right now? Well, too bad, because Take-Two doesn't fancy ending the very chill 'Omg where GTA 6!?!' era quite yetFrom what turtlenecked-up Strauss Zelnick just said, it sounds like the publisher's planning a GTA 6 ambush.Image credit: Rockstar Games News by Mark Warren Senior Staff Writer Published on March 31, 2025 You probably want to know when GTA 6 is coming out. Everyone does, and publisher Take-Two's well aware everyone does, as CEO Strauss Zelnick's just acknowledged in an interview that saw him be asked why Rockstar still hasn't locked in a proper release date for the game, even though it keeps saying GTA 6 is on track for this Fall.So, why is it being kept hush-hush? From what Zelnick said, the answer is what you'd expect - Take-Two thinks it's smart to keep people hungry for info, before really ramping things up once the game's closer to dropping.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. These latest comments from Zelnick came in an interview with Bloomberg's Wall Street Week show, which saw the exec sit down in his nicest blue turtleneck, surrounded by stuff like awards and a copy of Borderlands 2 that definitely hadn't been deliberately arranged to face the several different camera angles being used.Right at the end of the video, the Take-two CEO was asked why GTA 6's release date is still "so carefully held as a secret"."The anticipation for that title may be the greatest anticipation Ive ever seen for an entertainment property, and Ive been around the block a few times, and Ive been in every entertainment business there is" Zelnick began, before saying the important bit: "We want to maintain the anticipation and the excitement."Watch on YouTube"We do have competitors who will describe their release schedule for years in advance," he continued, "and weve found that the better thing to do is to provide marketing materials relatively close to the release window in order to create that excitement on the one hand, and balance the excitement with unmet anticipation. We dont always get it exactly right, but thats what were trying to do."So, it basically sounds like the publisher's saving the date in order to really kick off the hardcore GTA 6 promo with a bang whenever it deems its release date to be close enough, while the hype generated by there currently being no formally announced full date and fairly little new info keeps everyone relentlessly posting unhinged stuff for the time being. Smart, and not unprecedented when it comes to big games.If you're a bit annoyed at not getting the date yet, spare a thought for other studios and publishers in the industry hearing this as they try to avoid releasing stuff right as GTA 6 likely blows everything away for at least little a bit."GTA 6 is basically a huge meteor and we will just stay clear of the blast zone," one studio boss was quoted as saying last week, "We will nudge our releases back or forward three weeks to avoid it. Of course, the problem is everyone is going to do the same. So three to four weeks before or after GTA 6, youre going to get a load of games dropping content in what they believe will be the safe zone."We'll just have to see when Take-Two decides to press go on the big GTA 6 marketing train. Sadly, if you want to fill in the time by exploring an attempted re-creation of GTA 6's map in GTA 5, you're out of luck, as a mod attempting to do just that was pulled offline by its creator the other day following a Take-Two YouTube claim.

The Japanese reveal tweet suggests so...Last week's surprise Nintendo Direct might not have been the showcase of wall-to-wall bangers that we had hoped for, but it still held its fair share of surprises perhaps the biggest of which was Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream.Sure, it had been rumoured for years, but we never really thought the Tomodachi Life series would be making a comeback on Switch. But it's real, it's coming next year and, according to the Japanese announcement tweet, people are rather hyped for it (thanks, VGC).Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Is it finally time?Speculation surrounding a potential remake of Final Fantasy IX has seemingly been growing for years at this point, rising exponentially when an NVIDIA leak made mention of the unannounced project in 2021.Now, we may well be on the brink of a reveal as Square Enix teases "a variety of projects" in accordance with the original game's 25th anniversary on its official website (thanks Push Square).Read the full article on nintendolife.com

As it gears up to go public, Chime is going all in on new features in an effort to attract more customers.The digital bank is offering customers who agree to have their paychecks directly deposited into a Chime savings or checking account an APY of 3.75%, it tells TechCrunch exclusively. For those who dont choose to direct deposit, the interest rate of 2% for standard users is still competitive.By comparison, the national average savings account yield is 0.61% APY, according to Bankrates survey of institutions as of the week of March 24.While Chime Chief Product Officer Madhu Muthukumar didnt say it outright, the move appears to be one at least in part aimed at attracting more stickiness among customers. As of last summer, Chime had 7 million customers and $1.5 billion in annualized revenue, according to reporting by Forbes. The company declined to provide updated figures.In December, Chime filed confidential paperwork to go public with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Chime was last valued at $25 billion when it raised $1 billion at the height of the valuation frenzy of 2021, and has raised $2.65 billion total, PitchBook estimates. Its investors include Forerunner Ventures, Menlo Ventures, Crosslink Capital, Sequoia, SoftBank, Tiger Global, and many others.The company also declined to comment on potential IPO timing.Premium membership requiredTo be eligible for the 3.7% APY, Chime customers must agree to become members of Chime+, a premium membership tier that requires the agreement to direct deposit their paychecks. There is no charge to join as a premium member.Founded in 2012, Chime markets itself as the bank alternative for everyday Americans. It touts that it doesnt charge overdraft, maintenance, or low balance fees or require account minimums.These are people who you would find in your community, whether they make a coffee in your local store, teach your children, deliver a package, or help you find something in your big box retailer, Muthukumar said. This is your neighbor.Its customer base skews slightly female, he told TechCrunch, with members more in the 30s age range as opposed to super young folks and are gainfully employed.In 2020, Chime began offering a credit card that it claims helps users build and improve their credit by setting purchase limits based on account balance and acting more like a debit card. Now, members no longer have to direct deposit through Chime to apply for and use Chimes Credit Builder Visa credit card.Other features that Chime is announcing Monday include a redesigned app, an expanded set of deals or discounts specifically for Chime users, cashback offers, and dedicated customer support. On March 21, it also announced a new instant loans product.Financial technology companies continue to get creative in attempting to woo customers. Last week, Robinhood announced that it was going to begin offering wealth management and private banking services to retail investors, touting that such services were no longer reserved for the wealthy. As part of that new offering, Robinhood says it will provide a 4% APY on savings as well as assistance with estate planning and taxes, among other things. Uniquely, it also will offer cash delivery to a users doorstep.

In Ad Vitam, the invisible visual effects crafted by CGEV enhance the tension and realism without ever revealing their presence. From subtle environment extensions to seamless digital enhancements, every frame pulls you deeper into Franck Lazareffs desperate search for his wife! Vincent Frei The Art of VFX 2025The post Ad Vitam: VFX Breakdown by CGEV appeared first on The Art of VFX.

Guest Tutorial: Folding Paper in VellumYou wished for more Moritz, we bring you more Moritz-es. In this Tutorial Moritz Rudek is showing you a very simple way to create this paperfolding effect in Vellum! We hope you can tweak this animation and use it for many different scenarios.Liked it? Take a second to support Anthea Eichstetter on Patreon!

In this article, we review the Prusa XL, Prusa Researchs entry into multi-material, large-format 3D printing. Through 170+ hours of intensive testing, our engineering team assessed how this offering stacks up against its competitors in the desktop FFF market.Featuring a CoreXY configuration, the 360 mm Prusa XL stands out thanks to its tool changer with five independent toolheads, which minimizes waste compared to single-nozzle alternatives and offers a lot more versatility. Boasting a maximum 400 mm/s 3D print speed, Prusas large-format system may not sound like the fastest desktop FFF 3D printer. However, its ability to quickly switch between tool heads for different nozzle sizes or filament types enhances productivity for muti-material parts.Ideal for prototyping and engineering applications, the system also offers straightforward operation, ensuring accessibility for newcomers targeting advanced, large-scale production. Thanks to its robust design, impressive accuracy, and toolhead-switching capabilities, Prusas XL is a solid choice for professionals targeting demanding applications. Prices for the fully assembled 3D printer start at 2,599 on the official Prusa website, with the semi-assembled version available for 2,099.The Prusa XL 3D printer. Photo by 3D Printing Industry.Why choose the Prusa XL?The Prusa XL boasts a substantial build volume of 360 x 360 x 360 mm. This increased capacity unlocks more application possibilities, including large prediction runs, full-sized prototypes, and end-use parts. Given this capacity, it will not be surprising to learn that the printer itself is large, weighing 25.3 kg with 700 x 900 x 720 mm dimensions. Despite this, the XL still fits on the desktop, comfortably integrating into most workspaces.A key selling point of the 3D printer is its multi-material, five-toolhead setup, which marks a change from Prusas single-extrusion product range. Users can load up to five 2kg spools at a time, and the XL can 3D print a 10 kg object without manual interference.With speedy toolhead-swapping, users can load multiple materials and combine them into a single print job. Flexible filaments can be combined with more sturdy polymers to create functional parts, while more expensive materials can be combined with cheaper support options to lower costs and minimize waste. Different colors can also be integrated into print jobs for enhanced customization and design freedom.A look around the Prusa XL. Photos by 3D Printing Industry.A major drawback of most single-extrusion, multi-material systems is plastic waste. These systems typically purge filament when switching materials to clear traces from the nozzle. The Prusa XL overcomes this drawback by allocating each filament with its own toolhead. Purge-free functionality also speeds up multi-material 3D printing, reducing the downtime between material changes.The Prusa XLs open design is compatible with most standard 3D printing materials like PLA and PETG. However, for more challenging, sensitive filaments like ASA, ABS, and PA, Prusa offers a dedicated 3D printer enclosure. This add-on provides a stable environment with greater temperature control to prevent defeats and improve part quality.According to Prusa Research, the print profiles have been tuned to allow users to design precise parts and achieve 0.2mm accuracy. The XLs sturdy frame and tracking sensors ensure the reliable production of detailed parts. Additionally, its CoreXY motion system unlocks increased precision and speed compared to Cartesian alternatives.The Prusa XLs five toolhead assembly. Photos by 3D Printing Industry.For 3D printing newcomers, manual calibration can be an intimidating and frustrating process. The Prusa XLs loadcell sensor overcomes these challenges by automatically calibrating the nozzles starting position.Efficiency is boosted further by the XLs segmented heatbed. Powered by a separate electronic board, it features 16 individually controlled tiles to enable consistent heating and minimize deformation. Unused tiles can also be switched off to save energy.The Prusa XL enhances usability with an intuitive, easy-to-use, full-color LCD touchscreen interface. Its straightforward menus and clear instructions enable even novice users to quickly access G-code previews and print job controls.The Prusa XLs toolhead, printbed, build plate, and user interface. Photos by 3D Printing industry.How good is PrusaSlicer software?While third-party slicing software, such as Cura, is compatible with the Prusa XL, the 3D printer is optimized for use with the companys proprietary PrusaSlicer. This open-source platform is constantly being updated with new features and material profiles. Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux, the tool stands out thanks to its beginner-friendly interface.Through PrusaSlicer, users can modify printer settings and parameters, which are color-coded by experience level: green for beginner, orange for normal, and red for expert. Multi-color 3D printing is easily controlled within the software interface. Users can paint their desired hues directly onto their 3D models. More advanced features, such as the paint-on support tool, offer an extra level of customization for experienced makers. All material presets are meticulously fine-tuned and tested to ensure optimal printing performance.It is worth noting that certain features require specific keyboard shortcuts to access. For instance, adding text to a part involves pressing the T key, which generates a customizable text cutout. This isnt immediately apparent without reading the quick start handbook, making it a potential barrier for less experienced users.While the manual paint-on material feature is intuitive for entry-level users, it can lead to imprecise results. PrusaSlicer does offer a smart fill tool that automatically detects and fills regions with color. However, its functionality was found to be limited during testing. Therefore, we believe adding a new feature that allows users to precisely select and assign different geometric sections with specified materials would elevate precision. This would be especially valuable for those targeting demanding, professional-grade applications requiring high-quality parts.PrusaSlicer interface and Prusa XL dashboard. Images by 3D Printing Industry.The Prusa Connect cloud platform and Prusa mobile app enable remote 3D printing. Users can communicate directly with their machines, adjust print parameters, and monitor progress. Ideal for print farms, Prusa Connect allows simultaneous management of multiple 3D printers, access to live telemetry data, and tracking of material consumption.Amid growing concerns around data security, many users will be pleased to learn that offline 3D printing is also available with the Prusa XL. The 3D printer can be completely configured without a network connection, with files able to be uploaded directly via a USB stick. Prusa Research emphasizes this point, asserting that it does not collect any information about 3D printers or their surroundings, even when connected to the internet.PrusaSlicer 3D print settings and parameters. Images by 3D Printing Industry. Benchmarking the Prusa XLOur engineering team conducted 170 hours of benchmark and application testing. We started with a multi-material wrist CT scan model, one of the test files included with the printer. This part utilized three toolheads, providing an early opportunity to assess the XLs tool-changing capabilities. The bone sections were 3D printed using PLA, while TPU was used for the internal tendons to create lifelike flexibility.The model was successful at the first attempt. Free of defects, it featured clearly defined bones and joints. The efficiency of material changes significantly reduced overall downtime, eliminating material loading and purging delays. Tool changes were flawless, demonstrating a 100% success rate in picking up and parking the extruder heads.3D printed wrist CT scan. Photos by 3D Printing Industry.Repeatability is key for users wanting to produce batches of identical parts. To assess the repeatability of the Prusa XL, we 3D printed square, hexagon, and tube models 12 times each. These were then measured and compared against the intended dimensions.Most capable 3D printers are expected to achieve an average deviation under 0.1 mm and a standard deviation below 0.05 mm. All three models successfully measured below these limits, indicating impressive accuracy and precision.Repeatability square, hexagon, and tube models. Photos by 3D printing Industry.The square parts were comfortably below the benchmark, with an average deviation of 0.0836 mm and a standard deviation of 0.0168 mm. Small discrepancies were noted in the hole diameters. This is a common challenge among FFF 3D printers which often over-extrude when producing circles.Normal distribution and deviations between the measurements and references for the square models. Images by 3D Printing Industry.The hexagons achieved a 0.0378 mm average deviation and 0.0167 mm standard deviation, again reflecting solid accuracy and precision. Impressively, no bulging occurred at the corners of the hexagons, something which is often seen in competing FFF systems. This confirms that the XL is perfectly calibrated to avoid over-extrusion when fabricating sharp corners.Normal distribution and deviations between the measurements and references for the hexagon models. Images by 3D Printing Industry.For the tube model, the average deviation came to 0.0599 mm, while the standard deviation was just 0.017 mm. The dimensions for the cylinders external diameter demonstrated exceptional accuracy. However, the same cannot be said for the cylinder height, which fluctuated between 15.053 mm and 15.095 mm, consistently above the 15 mm target.Normal distribution results for the tube models. Images by 3D Printing Industry.As previously mentioned, FFF 3D printers often struggle with circles. Can the Prusa XL 3D print a perfect circle? To find out, we produced several test models, each of which featured three circular sections of 100 mm, 65 mm, and 20 mm. A mean of difference below 0.1 mm for both the X and Y axes would be considered a good result. The Prusa XL succeeded, with 0.0211mm for the X-axis and 0.0166mm for the Y-axis.3D printed circular trajectory tests. Photos by 3D Printing Industry.A common cause of imperfect 3D-printed circles is that .stl files use triangles to form meshed bodies, often resulting in jagged edges. However, PrusaSlicers Arc Fitting tool addresses this by automatically converting sharp segments into smooth arcs. This is a novel feature we have not seen in many 3D printer slicers. Our testing demonstrated its impressive effectiveness, helping the XL stand out in the desktop market. After measuring and comparing all models, the mean standard deviation was 0.0179 mm (well below the 0.05 mm threshold), while the mean of all differences was 0.0188 mm (under our 0.1 mm benchmark).The normal distribution of the circular trajectory tests. Images by 3D Printing Industry.We next tested the Prusa XL for capability. With its origins in 1970s US automotive manufacturing, this assessment leverages statistical process control to assess whether a 3D printer can reliably mass-produce parts at high volumes.During the test, we 3D printed a small tubular model 150 times. 16 were then selected at random and measured three times. Using these results, we calculated the process capability, a measure of how well the system can consistently produce parts within specified limits. We also determined the minimum process capability, which accounts for possible decentring.A score above 2.0 is optimal, while anything below 1.33 is not acceptable. The Prusa XL achieved a process capability of 3.84, well above the target. This confirms the large-format, multi-material 3D printers commendable precision, making it well-suited to high-volume production runs. Its minimum process capability score of 2.48 was also impressive, suggesting a low likelihood of part defects. This makes the XL a solid choice for users requiring reliable, repeatable performance.3D printed capability test parts. Photo and image by 3D Printing Industry.The Prusa XLs build volume of 360 x 360 x 360 mm stands out as one of the biggest in the desktop 3D printing market. But how well does the XL handle large-scale parts? To find out, we first 3D printed a slender tower reaching the 3D printers maximum advertised height. We expected a good result here, given that CoreXY configurations minimize vibrations, ensuring greater stability during production.The 360 mm Z-axis was achieved effortlessly, confirming the maximum height dimensions of the Prusa XL. A smooth surface finish and excellent layer consistency characterized the tower, a testament to the 3D printers robust frame and vibration compensation capabilities.Our perimeter test confirmed that the 360 x 360 mm X/Y axes can also be fully utilized. The part exhibited a defect-free surface, with perfect first and last layers, indicating an optimal extrusion rate. The Prusa XL is certainly a great choice for those wanting to produce large-scale parts on the desktop.3D printed perimeter test. Photo and image by 3D Printing Industry.While the XL is optimized for sizeable parts, our next test determined how well it can handle smaller, more precise components. We 3D printed a functional nut and bolt model with high tolerances and a 1.25 mm thread pitch. The model was fully functional and reproduced all intricate details to a high standard.3D printed M8 X 1.25 mm nut and bolt. Photo by 3D Printing Industry. Following this, we upped the difficulty with eight threads ranging from an M10 1.5 mm thread pitch to an M3 0.5 mm thread pitch. The XL produced accurate, functional models from M10 to M6 (1.0 mm), failing at M5 (0.8 mm). This is above average for the desktop FFF market, with most competing 3D printers only able to reach a 1.25 mm thread pitch.Nut and bolt variation test prints. Photo by 3D Printing Industry.Next, we 3D printed our in-house 3D Printing Industry benchmarking test. This model features a range of challenging geometries designed to push the 3D printer to its limits.The Prusa XL achieved a commendable, above-average score of 82.47. Large-format systems tend to struggle with high vibrations caused by their larger momentum. However, the XLs input shaper configuration minimized these challenges. This was confirmed by the models lack of defects like ringing and stringing.Prusa XL 3DPI test. Photos by 3D Printing Industry.The repeatability section performed especially well, ranking second among all 3D printers we have tested. Solid results for retraction, overhang, and accuracy were also noted. For overhangs, in particular, the XL produced successful results up to the 75 angle, significantly higher than the 50 average of most competing models.Minor issues were experienced in the flow sections of the test, with the final three negative precision cylinders, unfortunately, fusing to the main body. This was caused by PrusaSlicer failing to detect thin gaps of 0.1 to 0.2 mm.Prusa XL 3DPI test radar chart. Image by 3D Printing Industry.Testing Prusa XL applicationsNext, our team assessed how well the Prusa XL is suited to real-world applications. Beginning with a medical theme, we 3D printed an anatomical heart model using four toolheads to highlight cardiovascular features. Completed in 33 hours, the model showcased impressive detail and accuracy, with minimal defects and no color bleeding. This is a strong demonstration of the Prusa XLs multi-material capabilities, enabling a level of color-based freedom unattainable with mono-material systems.3D printed anatomic heart model. Photos by 3D Printing Industry.We also produced an induction tube with a TPU body and PLA supports. This part was downscaled to 70% for time purposes, though it still took 12 hours to complete. The Prusa XL is fairly slow, given that the standard print settings are set to 80 mm/s on the perimeters and 120 mm/s for the infill. This is necessary to help minimize the vibrations caused by its significant momentum.We attempted to print the model three times, with nozzle clogging being a recurring issue. Four false clog readings disrupted the process, indicating over-sensitivity in the XLs extruders. However, on our final attempt, we successfully produced a high-quality part. The functional prototype demonstrated excellent consiste

3D printer manufacturer Nano Dimension has outlined a new strategic vision after the Delaware Court of Chancery ordered it to complete the Desktop Metal merger.Ofir Baharav, Nanos Chairman, stated that the company is disappointed with the decision of The Delaware Court of Chancery and is considering all of our options. Despite this, he acknowledged that the transaction may close.As a result, the micro-3D printing specialists Board of Directors have been diligently planning for a rapid, successful integration of Desktop Metals people, products, and assets to help the combined company become a world leader in digital manufacturing.Nanos management team was restructured in December 2024 after Yoav Stern was removed as CEO and member of the Nano Dimension Board of Directors. The companys other incumbent Directors were subsequently removed or resigned, and were replaced by a new lineup backed by activist shareholder Murchinson Ltd.The former CEO was a vocal advocate of Nano Dimensions M&A activity. His removal raised doubts over the companys deals with Desktop Metal and US FDM 3D printer OEM Markforged. Murchinson, a staunch critic of Stern, previously called the offers for Desktop Metal and Markforged overpriced and misguided.Despite this, Nano claims to have Diligently prepared for the integration of Desktop Metal, stating that these efforts will allow it to maximize the combined entitys potential. The firm added that the acquisition of Desktop Metal and its pending merger with Markforged would significantly expand Nano Dimensions scale and customer base.Nano Dimension offices in Munich. Photo by Michael Petch.Nano Dimension to complete Desktop Metal merger In July 2024, Nano Dimension agreed to acquire Desktop Metal in an all-cash deal worth approximately $183 million, or $5.50 per share. Then-CEO Yoav Stern claimed that this deal would create a larger, more diversified global innovative company and generate long-term value creation for shareholders. This was followed in September 2024 with Nanos $115 million agreement to acquire Markforged at $5.00 per share.In December, Desktop Metal filed a lawsuit against Nano Dimension, accusing the defendant of failing to make reasonable best efforts to attain timely regulatory approval. Nano denied the allegations, arguing that the suit was without merit. Burlington, Massachusetts-based Desktop Metal later filed a second lawsuit naming Markforged as a co-defendant. This new litigation alleged that the planned acquisition of Markforged violated Nanos agreement with Desktop Metal and threatened its completion.Last week, the Delaware Court of Chancery ordered Nano Dimension to uphold its Desktop Metal merger agreement. If the deal isnt finalized by March 31, 2025, Desktop Metal can extend the deadline indefinitely until its completion.As a result, Nano Dimension appears committed to delivering on its merger agreements and has reaffirmed its strategic objective announced in a January letter to shareholders. The company aims to become a preeminent provider of digital manufacturing solutions for high-value, high-growth applications in multiple industries. These include aerospace, defense, automotive, electronics, industrial, and medical fields.Nano Dimension has also announced four key strategic pillars to achieve this target. The first, Maintaining Financial Strength, seeks to guarantee a robust capital base. The Driving Profitable Growth pillar will focus on expanding cutting edge technology and a growth outlook that can drive positive financial results.Growing Margins is another strategic pillar. This will consolidate supply chains and information systems to achieve manufacturing excellence. Finally, Building Indispensable Customer Partnerships aims to position Nano Dimension as a critical partner across manufacturing. Together, these pillars seek to drive future growth and create long-term value for shareholders, customers, and employees.The Desktop Metal InnoventX in the Nano Dimension booth at Formnext 2024. Photo by 3D Printing Industry.New 3D printing M&A developments3D printing mergers and acquisitions have been a hot topic in 2025. US-based specialty metals company United Performance Metals (UPM) recently acquired Ohio-based metal printing specialist Fabrisonic LLC.Through the deal, UPM, an ONeal Industries affiliate, hopes to enhance its manufacturing capabilities and grow its product offerings. Fabrisonic will become part of UPMs specialty processing network. This includes Precision Thin Strip in Wallingford, CT; UPM Advanced Solutions in Cincinnati, OH; and Precision Cold Saw Cutting and Grinding in Oakland, CA.In other business news, American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM) finalized an agreement to acquire engineering company Dowlais Group in a $1.44 billion cash and share deal. The newly combined entity will operate out of Detroit, Michigan, headed by AAM Chairman and CEO David C. Dauch.Elsewhere, 3D printing furniture startup Model No. acquired Ohio-based 3D printing company IC3D. The deal came as Model No. faced financial challenges related to scaling its operations, aggravated by the high costs of maintaining and upgrading its specialized 3D printing equipment. CEO Phillip Raub will leave the company, with none of Model No.s personnel transitioning to IC3D.Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards?Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news.You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content.Featured image shows Nano Dimension 3D printed electronics. Photo by Michael Petch.

An open international contest is being held for a new technology and innovation hub in the West Bank city of Ramallah (Deadline: 1 June 2025)The single-stage competition invites creative architects to submit visionary ideas for a landmark new Ramallah Science and Technology City (RSTC) development providing educational and research facilities.Once complete, the new complex will provide year-round interactive learning spaces for a range of visitors of all ages including educational school trips, science festivals and community activities.Al-Manara Square, RamallahCredit:Image by Montecruz Foto Attribution-ShareAlikeAccording to the brief: RSTC aims to establish itself as a landmark in the city of Ramallah and across Palestine as an iconic and major tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors annually.It will change the stigma and stereotype that scientific knowledge is difficult, and only those who dedicate their lives to it can understand it. It will accomplish that through exhibitions, multimedia productions, community programs, and much more that will target children, youth, and adults of all professions. This project will be the first of its kind in Palestine.Ramallah is a major Palestinian city located around 10km north of Jerusalem in the West Bank. Local landmarks include Al-Manara Square (pictured), the Arafat Mausoleum and Jamal Abdel Nasser Mosque.Irish practice Heneghan Peng completed a new Palestinian Museum in the city in 2016 telling the story of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from a Palestinian perspective. The 3,500m2 museum features a gallery, amphitheatre, caf, library and offices.It was won in a competition against UKs Cullinan Studio, Henning Larsen Architects of Denmark, Canadian firm Moriyama & Teshima, and Consolidated Consultants from Jordan.The latest project will create a major new tourist destination for Ramallah attracting thousands of visitors annually. The complex is expected to feature dynamic exhibitions, multimedia productions, and community programmes.Submissions must include a masterplan, concept description, 3D images, floor plans, spatial configuration and other images. The overall winner will receive a $6,000 USD prize while a second prize of $4,000 and third prize of $2,000 will also be awarded along with two honourable mentions.How to applyDeadline: 1 June 2025Competition funding source: Not suppliedProject funding source: Not suppliedOwner of site(s): Not suppliedContact details: competition@rstc.psVisit the competition website for more information

Built for Benjamin Franklin Greene, a second-generation mill owner of the Greene and Daniels Thread Company in Central Falls, Rhode Island, this large, Second Empire style house is one of the finest of its style in the entire state. The house is one of only a few high-style residences left from the mid-nineteenth century in Central Falls, when industrializations full expansion provided manufacturers such as Greene with fortunes to be expended on their houses. Designed by Providence architect Clifton A. Hall, the ornamentation of the Greene House is extraordinary for its elaboration, relieving the severity of the simple, block-like shape of the house. The central door is set under a flat-roofed porch which is supported by trios of Corinthian columns. Above the porch a trio of round-head windows is set under a sunbonnet gabled dormer which caps the central pavilion, is supported by brackets, and encloses a round-head window with a small balcony. What a spectacular home!