Mar 11

Apple is reportedly planning a major redesign for iOS 19 and macOS 16

Posted in: Today's Chili

Apple is planning to dramatically rethink the look and feel of its operating systems with the introduction of the next version of iOS, iPadOS and macOS, according to Bloomberg.

The redesign is meant to make using the company’s software more consistent, and will impact “the style of icons, menus, apps, windows and system buttons,” Bloomberg writes. The changes may take loose inspiration from visionOS, the mixed-reality operating system of the Vision Pro. The headset featured a slightly different style from Apple’s other software, with a focus on translucency, floating interface elements and rounded app icons.

As Bloomberg notes, Apple hasn’t dramatically rethought the look of any of its software since iOS 7 and macOS Big Sur, so tweaks would be notable. When it was released in 2013, iOS 7 was the first version of the iPhone’s operating system overseen by former Chief Design Officer Jony Ive, and when Big Sur came out in 2020, it was the first version of macOS to run iPad apps and work on Apple’s custom silicon. There don’t seem to be any equally big shifts paired with iOS 19, iPadOS 19 and macOS 16, beyond the company’s ongoing work on Apple Intelligence, which isn’t available in all of its apps yet.

Apple Intelligence was introduced alongside iOS 18 and includes a host of new AI-powered features for working with audio, images and text, on top of a revamped version of Siri that can use apps for you. Most of those features shipped — though not at launch — save for the new Siri, which Apple recently announced will now be available “in the coming year.”

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/apple-is-reportedly-planning-a-major-redesign-for-ios-19-and-macos-16-202804091.html?src=rss

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Mar 11

NTT and Nokia Showcase 6G Innovations At MWC 2025

Posted in: Today's Chili

At Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, NTT Corporation (NTT), NTT DOCOMO, and Nokia jointly demonstrated advanced 6G-enabling technologies at the Nokia booth. The focus was on NTT’s Inclusive Core Architecture and the In-network Service Acceleration Platform (ISAP), which aim to enhance data processing efficiency for emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and immersive reality.

Enhancing AI with In-Network Computing

A key highlight of the demonstration was the application of ISAP to AI analysis during real-time video data transfer. Under conventional architectures, AI analysis achieved a 57% accuracy rate. However, with ISAP integrated into the Inclusive Core Architecture, this accuracy improved significantly to 90%. This improvement underscores the potential of in-network computing (INC) to optimize AI performance by transferring some application-layer processing to the network layer. By doing so, ISAP minimizes data exchange delays between terminals and servers, enhancing overall efficiency and accuracy.

ISAP is a crucial component of NTT’s Inclusive Core Architecture, designed to fuse computing and networking capabilities required for the 6G and IOWN (Innovative Optical and Wireless Network) era. By accelerating in-network information processing, ISAP facilitates advanced AI-integrated communication services, even with limited terminal resources.

Addressing the Challenges in Telecommunications

The telecommunications industry is under increasing pressure to upgrade networks to handle the growing demands of AI, IoT, robotics, and automation. Existing network infrastructures risk falling behind due to the rising need for ultra-high capacity, ultra-low latency, and low power consumption capabilities. In response, NTT and Nokia’s collaborative efforts focus on developing next-generation networking solutions to meet these demands.

The IOWN Vision: A Glimpse into the Future

NTT’s IOWN initiative, supported by major industry players like Sony, Intel, Nokia, Google, Nvidia, and Microsoft, envisions a transformative shift to optical-photonic-based network architecture by 2030. IOWN (Innovative Optical and Wireless Network) is an initiative by NTT aiming to revolutionize network infrastructure using optical-photonics technology. Its goals include reducing power consumption by 100x, increasing transmission capacity by 125x, and lowering latency by 200x. Key components are the All-Photonics Network, Digital Twin Computing, and Cognitive Foundation, which together support ultra-high capacity, low-latency, and intelligent resource management for applications like 6G, AI, IoT, and smart cities.

The Inclusive Core Architecture is a vital part of the IOWN vision, integrating three core components: the All-Photonics Network, Digital Twin Computing, and the Cognitive Foundation. This architecture aims to provide end-to-end network services that support a wide range of use cases, from AI-driven applications to Cyber-Physical Systems that seamlessly interact between digital and physical realms.

In-Network Computing: A Foundation for 6G

In-network computing (INC) is central to NTT’s 6G strategy. By shifting application processing functions to the network’s data transfer functions, INC reduces both latency and power consumption. This approach is crucial for supporting the high data rates and low latency required by 6G use cases, including AI, ML, and advanced sensing technologies.

ISAP, as an INC-enabling technology, facilitates seamless information processing between terminals and cloud services. This capability ensures that advanced services can be delivered irrespective of terminal specifications or access environments. By creating a cascading computing environment within the network, ISAP synchronizes data processing to match the service usage environment effectively.

Standardization and Collaboration Efforts

NTT and DOCOMO plan to continue their research on INC to advance computing services linked to mobile networks in the 6G era. In collaboration with Nokia, they aim to expand partnerships with telecommunication carriers, equipment manufacturers, cloud providers, and service providers. The goal is to contribute to the international standardization of 6G architecture under the 3GPP, with discussions set to begin in 2025.

The standardization process is essential for ensuring that INC and ISAP can be integrated into future mobile networks globally. By promoting a unified standard, NTT, DOCOMO, and Nokia seek to accelerate the deployment of 6G technologies and ensure compatibility across various platforms and devices.

The Road Ahead for 6G and IOWN

The successful demonstration at MWC 2025 highlights the feasibility of the Inclusive Core Architecture and ISAP in addressing the challenges posed by next-generation data processing needs. As the telecommunications industry moves closer to the 6G era, the integration of INC and optical-photonic technologies will be crucial.

NTT’s IOWN initiative, with its ambitious goals for power efficiency, transmission capacity, and latency reduction, represents a significant step forward in network evolution. If successful, this approach could redefine how data is processed, transmitted, and consumed, paving the way for new applications in AI, automation, and IoT.

For more information about NTT R&D related to next-generation networking infrastructure, refer to the whitepaper, “Inclusive Core: Integrative and Cooperative Network Architecture for the 6G/IOWN Era” and the webpage, “IOWN: the new technology that leads to a better future.”

 

NTT and Nokia Showcase 6G Innovations At MWC 2025

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Mar 11

Lenovo Expands Aura Edition Lineup with New Yoga Pro 9i and Yoga Pro 7i (Gen 10) Laptops

Posted in: Today's Chili

Lenovo has expanded its Aura Edition lineup with the introduction of the Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition (16”, 10) and Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition (14”, 10). These new models join the existing family of Lenovo Aura Edition laptops, which include the Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition (14”, 10), Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition (14”, 10), and the latest ThinkPad X1 Carbon, X1 2-in-1 Aura Editions, and ThinkPad X9 Aura Editions. Developed in collaboration with Intel, the Aura Edition series brings together a unique set of software, hardware, and AI-driven features to offer a more personalized, productive, and secure computing experience.

Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition

A Collaborative Vision with Intel

The Lenovo Aura Edition lineup is the result of a multi-year collaborative effort between Lenovo and Intel. The goal was to develop a series of laptops that deliver enhanced performance through smart software optimizations and advanced hardware. Key features of the Aura Edition series include Smart Modes, Smart Share, and Smart Care:

  • Smart Modes: Offers users higher control over PC customizability, adapting in real-time to different tasks such as work, content creation, and relaxation.
  • Smart Share: Facilitates seamless AI-driven image sharing between smartphones and laptops, supporting both Android and iOS platforms.
  • Smart Care: Provides real-time support and troubleshooting via one-click access, allowing users to connect directly with Lenovo technicians through the Smart Care PC and phone apps. This service is part of the Lenovo Premium Care / Premium Care Plus warranty.

Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition (Gen 10): 16-inch Laptop Built for Creators

The new Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition (16”, 10) is designed for creators seeking high performance and precision. It features up to an Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 285H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, delivering exceptional capabilities for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and graphic design. The integration of on-device AI allows users to leverage advanced functions in third-party video, photo, and music applications, simplifying workflows and enhancing productivity.

Lenovo Creator Zone, an on-device AI software introduced at CES 2024, is a notable feature of the Yoga Pro 9i. It works alongside Lenovo X Power, a machine learning-powered tuning solution that optimizes performance by managing CPU and RAM loads efficiently, achieving up to 130W TDP while keeping the system cool and quiet.

Excellent Display Technology

The Yoga Pro 9i features a 3.2K PureSight Pro display with Tandem OLED technology, offering up to 1600 nits peak brightness and enhanced power efficiency. The display supports 100% sRGB, P3, and Adobe RGB color gamuts, ensuring accurate and vivid colors for content creators. Certified by Dolby Vision, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 1000, and TÜV Low Blue Light Certification, the screen minimizes eye strain while delivering an immersive visual experience.

Powerful Hardware and Connectivity

With up to 64GB LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD Gen 4 storage, the Yoga Pro 9i is built for speed and efficiency. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and a variety of ports, such as HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, and an SD card reader. The device’s audio setup includes six speakers with Dolby Atmos support for an enriched sound experience.

 

Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition (Gen 10)

Yoga Pro 7i Aura Editon

The Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition (14”, 10) is a more compact alternative, offering a balance of performance and portability. Equipped with up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor and 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM, it ensures smooth multitasking. The device features a 14.5-inch 3K OLED PureSight Pro display with 1000 nits peak brightness and supports 100% sRGB and P3 color gamuts.

The Yoga Pro 7i utilizes Lenovo X Power to manage performance dynamically, achieving 75W TDP while maintaining quiet and reliable operation. This model also includes the new Yoga Premium Suite keyboard, featuring 1.5mm travel keys with oil- and water-resistant coating for a comfortable typing experience.

Enhanced Audio and Connectivity

The Yoga Pro 7i offers Dolby Atmos audio with four speakers and noise-canceling microphones, ensuring clear and immersive sound quality. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and ports like HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, and an SD card reader.

Sleek Design and Build

Both the Yoga Pro 9i and 7i Aura Editions feature a premium build, with the Yoga Pro 9i available in Tidal Teal and the Yoga Pro 7i in Luna Grey. The Yoga Pro 9i, with a starting weight of 4.25 lbs (1.93kg), and the Yoga Pro 7i, starting at 3.4 lbs (1.54kg), offer a lightweight yet sturdy design.

Battery Life and Performance

Both models are equipped with an 84WHr battery, providing substantial usage time for demanding tasks. The integration of AI-based power management helps optimize battery usage based on workload.

Security and User Experience

Security remains a priority in the Aura Edition lineup. Both models include TÜV certifications for flicker-free and low blue light emissions, reducing eye strain. The Smart Care feature adds an extra layer of user support, making troubleshooting and system optimization more accessible.

 

Lenovo Expands Aura Edition Lineup with New Yoga Pro 9i and Yoga Pro 7i (Gen 10) Laptops

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Mar 11

Elon Musk says a 'massive cyberattack' is to blame for X being down

Posted in: Today's Chili

Perhaps like the loser of the proposed cage fight between Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg that’s never, ever happening, X has been down and out for much of Monday. Down Detector saw a spike in outage reports from users between around 5:30 AM and 6:30AM ET. There were two more prolonged spikes, denoting more significant outages, later in the morning. Team Engadget has not been able to view tweets on X for the most part, save for a few brief moments when the service showed signed of life.

The platform’s owner, Elon Musk, claimed that there was a “massive cyberattack against X” with either a “large, coordinated group and/or a country” behind the claimed assault. Musk didn’t provide any evidence, but experts told NBC News that his assertions were plausible.

“It’s difficult to be certain, but given the pattern of three observed outages, a denial service attack targeting X’s infrastructure can’t be ruled out,” Isik Mater, director of research at NetBlocks, which tracks internet connectivity around the world, told the outlet. “It’s certainly one of the longest X/Twitter outages in our records.”

Musk later expanded on the explanation as part of an interview with Larry Kudlow on Fox Business. He told Kudlow that the massive cyberattack had “IP addresses originating in the Ukraine area.” According to network services company Cloudflare, Ukraine is increasingly the source location for DDoS attacks. The company’s recent DDoS threat report for Q4 2024 had Ukraine as the forth-largest source of DDoSes, behind only Singapore, Hong Kong and Indonesia.

This isn’t the first time that Musk has blamed a major attack for X’s technical issues. He did the same thing last year when when he held a livestreamed audio chat with President Donald Trump last year and the broadcast wasn’t working.

Update, March 10, 5:13PM ET: This story was updated after publish to include Elon Musk’s comments about the attack having IP addresses originating in “the Ukraine are,” along with some historical detail on DDoS prevelance in the country.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/elon-musk-says-a-massive-cyberattack-is-to-blame-for-x-being-down-184148605.html?src=rss

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Mar 11

Lenovo Expands Aura Edition Lineup with New Yoga Pro 9i and Yoga Pro 7i (Gen 10) Laptops

Posted in: Today's Chili

Lenovo has expanded its Aura Edition lineup with the introduction of the Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition (16”, 10) and Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition (14”, 10). These new models join the existing family of Lenovo Aura Edition laptops, which include the Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition (14”, 10), Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition (14”, 10), and the latest ThinkPad X1 Carbon, X1 2-in-1 Aura Editions, and ThinkPad X9 Aura Editions. Developed in collaboration with Intel, the Aura Edition series brings together a unique set of software, hardware, and AI-driven features to offer a more personalized, productive, and secure computing experience.

Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition

A Collaborative Vision with Intel

The Lenovo Aura Edition lineup is the result of a multi-year collaborative effort between Lenovo and Intel. The goal was to develop a series of laptops that deliver enhanced performance through smart software optimizations and advanced hardware. Key features of the Aura Edition series include Smart Modes, Smart Share, and Smart Care:

  • Smart Modes: Offers users higher control over PC customizability, adapting in real-time to different tasks such as work, content creation, and relaxation.
  • Smart Share: Facilitates seamless AI-driven image sharing between smartphones and laptops, supporting both Android and iOS platforms.
  • Smart Care: Provides real-time support and troubleshooting via one-click access, allowing users to connect directly with Lenovo technicians through the Smart Care PC and phone apps. This service is part of the Lenovo Premium Care / Premium Care Plus warranty.

Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition (Gen 10): 16-inch Laptop Built for Creators

The new Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition (16”, 10) is designed for creators seeking high performance and precision. It features up to an Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 285H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, delivering exceptional capabilities for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and graphic design. The integration of on-device AI allows users to leverage advanced functions in third-party video, photo, and music applications, simplifying workflows and enhancing productivity.

Lenovo Creator Zone, an on-device AI software introduced at CES 2024, is a notable feature of the Yoga Pro 9i. It works alongside Lenovo X Power, a machine learning-powered tuning solution that optimizes performance by managing CPU and RAM loads efficiently, achieving up to 130W TDP while keeping the system cool and quiet.

Excellent Display Technology

The Yoga Pro 9i features a 3.2K PureSight Pro display with Tandem OLED technology, offering up to 1600 nits peak brightness and enhanced power efficiency. The display supports 100% sRGB, P3, and Adobe RGB color gamuts, ensuring accurate and vivid colors for content creators. Certified by Dolby Vision, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 1000, and TÜV Low Blue Light Certification, the screen minimizes eye strain while delivering an immersive visual experience.

Powerful Hardware and Connectivity

With up to 64GB LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD Gen 4 storage, the Yoga Pro 9i is built for speed and efficiency. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and a variety of ports, such as HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, and an SD card reader. The device’s audio setup includes six speakers with Dolby Atmos support for an enriched sound experience.

 

Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition (Gen 10)

Yoga Pro 7i Aura Editon

The Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition (14”, 10) is a more compact alternative, offering a balance of performance and portability. Equipped with up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor and 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM, it ensures smooth multitasking. The device features a 14.5-inch 3K OLED PureSight Pro display with 1000 nits peak brightness and supports 100% sRGB and P3 color gamuts.

The Yoga Pro 7i utilizes Lenovo X Power to manage performance dynamically, achieving 75W TDP while maintaining quiet and reliable operation. This model also includes the new Yoga Premium Suite keyboard, featuring 1.5mm travel keys with oil- and water-resistant coating for a comfortable typing experience.

Enhanced Audio and Connectivity

The Yoga Pro 7i offers Dolby Atmos audio with four speakers and noise-canceling microphones, ensuring clear and immersive sound quality. Connectivity options are comprehensive, including Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and ports like HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, and an SD card reader.

Sleek Design and Build

Both the Yoga Pro 9i and 7i Aura Editions feature a premium build, with the Yoga Pro 9i available in Tidal Teal and the Yoga Pro 7i in Luna Grey. The Yoga Pro 9i, with a starting weight of 4.25 lbs (1.93kg), and the Yoga Pro 7i, starting at 3.4 lbs (1.54kg), offer a lightweight yet sturdy design.

Battery Life and Performance

Both models are equipped with an 84WHr battery, providing substantial usage time for demanding tasks. The integration of AI-based power management helps optimize battery usage based on workload.

Security and User Experience

Security remains a priority in the Aura Edition lineup. Both models include TÜV certifications for flicker-free and low blue light emissions, reducing eye strain. The Smart Care feature adds an extra layer of user support, making troubleshooting and system optimization more accessible.

 

Lenovo Expands Aura Edition Lineup with New Yoga Pro 9i and Yoga Pro 7i (Gen 10) Laptops

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

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Mar 11

ZTE Nubia Flip 2 Globally Launched! New Design, MediaTek SoC And More

Posted in: Today's Chili

The Nubia Flip 2, a mid-range clamshell-style foldable smartphone, is set for a global launch at MWC 2025. This model follows last year’s Nubia Flip, which was one of the most affordable foldable phones on the market. The Flip 2 was first introduced in Japan last month and is now expanding to international markets.

The device features a 6.9-inch Full HD+ OLED internal display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 3-inch external screen. It is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300X chipset, paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The phone houses a 4,300mAh battery and retains the camera setup of its predecessor, including a 50MP primary sensor, a 2MP secondary sensor on the rear, and a 32MP front-facing camera.

In Japan, the Nubia Flip 2 launched at JPY 64,080 (approximately $430), and the first-generation Nubia Flip was priced at $499 globally, but the company decided to launch the Flip 2 in international markets for a bit more: €699 (~$733) but, still, it’s way cheaper than rivals like the Z Flip 6 ($1099). The device is positioned to attract consumers looking for an affordable entry into the foldable phone segment.

Nubia Flip 2 Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Internal Display6.9-inch OLED, FHD+ resolution, 120Hz
External Display3-inch OLED, 682x422p resolution
ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7300X
RAM6 GB
Storage128 GB
Front Camera32 MP
Rear Cameras50 MP (main) + 2 MP (depth)
Connectivity5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, side fingerprint scanner
CertificationsIPX2, IP4X
Battery4,300 mAh, fast charging
Operating SystemAndroid 14
DimensionsOpen: 76x170x7.5 mm | Closed: 76x87x15.8 mm
Weight191 g

Nubia is also introducing other very interesting phones at MWC 2025, including the Nubia Neo 3 series, specially designed for mobile game enthusiasts with a cyber-mecha aesthetic and nice specs for the prices.

ZTE Nubia Flip 2 Globally Launched! New Design, MediaTek SoC And More

, original content from Ubergizmo. Read our Copyrights and terms of use.

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Mar 11

The first Xbox handheld might not come from Microsoft

Posted in: Today's Chili

It took a few years of dealing with poorly optimized handheld PCs, but Windows Central reports Microsoft may finally be working on an Xbox handheld. The company could announce an Xbox-branded portable device as early as this year, though it sounds like it won’t come from Microsoft directly.

Instead, the company is partnering with a PC maker already working in the gaming space to build a handheld, Windows Central writes. The device, codenamed “Keenan,” will feature Xbox design elements, an “official Xbox guide button” and will likely run Windows 11. Given the clunky experience of navigating Windows on the handhelds you can buy today, the real hope is that Xbox’s take will include a launcher or new way of using the desktop OS that’s fit for a controller instead of a mouse. The big advantage SteamOS has over Windows is that you never have to interact with a desktop environment if you don’t want to.

These rumored plans might line up with what Microsoft’s VP of “Next Generation” Jason Ronald shared at an AMD and Lenovo event from CES 2025 called “The Future of Gaming Handhelds.” According to The Verge, Ronald said that Microsoft wants to bring “the best of Xbox and Windows together.” The company hopes to simplify Windows and make it using it more console-like for handhelds. “I think we’ll have a lot more to share later this year,” Ronald said.

Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has expressed interest in handheld devices before and said the company was experimenting with prototypes. It seems like at least for now, though, Microsoft is borrowing Valve’s approach and making a handheld-friendly version of its operating system available for other PC makers to use. 

That doesn’t mean there won’t be a first-party handheld in the future. Windows Central‘s report mentions that there’s a successor to the Xbox Series X, new internet-connected controllers and an official Xbox gaming handheld, all tentatively slated for 2027.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/the-first-xbox-handheld-might-not-come-from-microsoft-220043843.html?src=rss

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Mar 11

The first Xbox handheld might not come from Microsoft

Posted in: Today's Chili

It took a few years of dealing with poorly optimized handheld PCs, but Windows Central reports Microsoft may finally be working on an Xbox handheld. The company could announce an Xbox-branded portable device as early as this year, though it sounds like it won’t come from Microsoft directly.

Instead, the company is partnering with a PC maker already working in the gaming space to build a handheld, Windows Central writes. The device, codenamed “Keenan,” will feature Xbox design elements, an “official Xbox guide button” and will likely run Windows 11. Given the clunky experience of navigating Windows on the handhelds you can buy today, the real hope is that Xbox’s take will include a launcher or new way of using the desktop OS that’s fit for a controller instead of a mouse. The big advantage SteamOS has over Windows is that you never have to interact with a desktop environment if you don’t want to.

These rumored plans might line up with what Microsoft’s VP of “Next Generation” Jason Ronald shared at an AMD and Lenovo event from CES 2025 called “The Future of Gaming Handhelds.” According to The Verge, Ronald said that Microsoft wants to bring “the best of Xbox and Windows together.” The company hopes to simplify Windows and make it using it more console-like for handhelds. “I think we’ll have a lot more to share later this year,” Ronald said.

Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has expressed interest in handheld devices before and said the company was experimenting with prototypes. It seems like at least for now, though, Microsoft is borrowing Valve’s approach and making a handheld-friendly version of its operating system available for other PC makers to use. 

That doesn’t mean there won’t be a first-party handheld in the future. Windows Central‘s report mentions that there’s a successor to the Xbox Series X, new internet-connected controllers and an official Xbox gaming handheld, all tentatively slated for 2027.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/the-first-xbox-handheld-might-not-come-from-microsoft-220043843.html?src=rss

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Mar 11

The first Xbox handheld might not come from Microsoft

Posted in: Today's Chili

It took a few years of dealing with poorly optimized handheld PCs, but Windows Central reports Microsoft may finally be working on an Xbox handheld. The company could announce an Xbox-branded portable device as early as this year, though it sounds like it won’t come from Microsoft directly.

Instead, the company is partnering with a PC maker already working in the gaming space to build a handheld, Windows Central writes. The device, codenamed “Keenan,” will feature Xbox design elements, an “official Xbox guide button” and will likely run Windows 11. Given the clunky experience of navigating Windows on the handhelds you can buy today, the real hope is that Xbox’s take will include a launcher or new way of using the desktop OS that’s fit for a controller instead of a mouse. The big advantage SteamOS has over Windows is that you never have to interact with a desktop environment if you don’t want to.

These rumored plans might line up with what Microsoft’s VP of “Next Generation” Jason Ronald shared at an AMD and Lenovo event from CES 2025 called “The Future of Gaming Handhelds.” According to The Verge, Ronald said that Microsoft wants to bring “the best of Xbox and Windows together.” The company hopes to simplify Windows and make it using it more console-like for handhelds. “I think we’ll have a lot more to share later this year,” Ronald said.

Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has expressed interest in handheld devices before and said the company was experimenting with prototypes. It seems like at least for now, though, Microsoft is borrowing Valve’s approach and making a handheld-friendly version of its operating system available for other PC makers to use. 

That doesn’t mean there won’t be a first-party handheld in the future. Windows Central‘s report mentions that there’s a successor to the Xbox Series X, new internet-connected controllers and an official Xbox gaming handheld, all tentatively slated for 2027.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/the-first-xbox-handheld-might-not-come-from-microsoft-220043843.html?src=rss

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Mar 11

Bluesky adds 3-minute video uploads and inbox management features

Posted in: Today's Chili

Bluesky continues to beef up its video capabilities. The app’s latest update adds support for uploads of up to 3 minutes, a notable expansion from its previous limit of one minute. The change should give video creators on Bluesky much more flexibility in what they can post. It will also likely be appreciated by fans of Flashes, the new Bluesky-based photo and video app.

The update also brings some much needed inbox-management tools to Bluesky DMs, with the addition of a new “requests” section for incoming messages from users you don’t know. You’ll also now be able to reject incoming chats, which should help reduce the number of spammy DMs that have been flooding many users’ inboxes in recent weeks.

The latest Bluesky update rolled out as CEO Jay Graber appeared onstage at SXSW for a keynote about the growing decentralized social media platform, which has just under 33 million users. Graber, who was wearing a t-shirt emblazoned with a Latin slogan “mundus sine caesaribus” (a world without Caesars) — an apparent play on Mark Zuckerberg’s affinity for Roman Empire-inspired attire — spoke about why Bluesky is “billionaire-proof” compared with other apps.

Zuckerberg's shirt translates to
Zuckerberg’s shirt translates to “All Zuck or all nothing.” Graber’s says “A world with no Caesars.” 
Screenshot via X

“If a billionaire came in and bought Bluesky or took it over, or I decided tomorrow to change things in a way that people really didn’t like, then they could fork off and go on to another application,” she said. “That openness guarantees that there’s always the ability to move to a new alternative, still using the same network. There’s much less tolerance in the ecosystem for a very heavy-handed change.”

She also opened up about how Bluesky is thinking about its business model and generative AI. On the business side, she once again said the company is “exploring subscriptions” as well as paid “developer services” for those who build experiences on top of Bluesky. In a similar vein, she also said the company was considering how it could eventually turn some of its features, like moderation services or custom feeds, into a “marketplace” where the company may get a cut of potential transactions.

When it comes to large language models, she said the company was “working with some partners on developing a framework for user consent, for how they want their data to be used for generative AI.”

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/bluesky-adds-3-minute-video-uploads-and-inbox-management-features-220317950.html?src=rss

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