Gadgets
* Next-Gen Controller Unveiled: Backbone has launched the new Backbone Pro - Xbox Edition, a premium controller designed for gaming on almost any device. * Pro-Grade Hardware: It features full-size ALPS thumbsticks, precise Hall Effect triggers, and customizable rear buttons for a superior gaming feel. * Dual-Mode Connectivity: The controller supports both a
Research
Key Highlights * A new research concept outlines a particle accelerator that could fit on a tabletop or even a microchip. * The technology uses carbon nanotubes and specialized laser light to generate intense, high-energy X-rays, mimicking the function of massive synchrotron facilities. * This breakthrough could democratize access to powerful scientific tools,
Research
* A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled to launch the Sentinel-6B satellite, a critical international mission to monitor rising sea levels. * The launch from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, faces a significant 60% probability of being scrubbed due to severe weather systems on the West Coast. * This mission marks a
Enterprise
* Stock futures show little movement after a volatile week pressured the crucial AI sector. * Concerns over high valuations and shifting Federal Reserve rate cut expectations are spooking investors, confirming market-wide anxiety. * Major tech stocks like Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta faced declines last week, fueling fears of a wider downturn. * Crucial
Policy
* The Alton City Council has unanimously approved a partnership with Ameren Illinois, securing $75,000 in funding for city-wide electrification projects. * Key plans include installing new public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and repairing the currently inoperable charger at City Hall. * The funding may also be used to begin transitioning
Games
Key Highlights * A new Splinter Cell game was in development at Ubisoft by former Telltale Games veterans. * Ubisoft management reportedly forced the project to pivot into a "games-as-a-service" (GAAS) title to compete with hits like Call of Duty. * This abandoned Splinter Cell project ultimately morphed into the recently
Games
* Drastic Aim Assist Nerf: Controller's rotational aim assist has been significantly adjusted to balance gameplay between controller and keyboard/mouse players. * Massive Weapon Meta Shake-up: Sweeping changes are here, including a complete rework of shotgun damage mechanics, nerfs to SMG range, and widespread attachment tuning. * Faster Progression Confirmed:
AI
* New research reveals users of the AI chatbot Replika are engaging in deep romantic roleplay that includes having "children" with their AI partners. * Participants in the study reported forming complex relationships involving marriage, homeownership, and even AI pregnancies. * Users demonstrate strong loyalty to their AI, often siding with
Games
* First Glimpse: Leaked videos from the New Zealand set of the live-action "The Legend of Zelda" movie have surfaced, offering the first look at actors Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link and Bo Bragason as Zelda. * Iconic Imagery: The brief clips showcase Link in his signature green tunic and
Gadgets
* Apple has released a new firmware update for AirPods Pro 2 (version 8B21) and AirPods Pro 3 (version 8B25). * The official release notes are currently unavailable, leaving users to speculate on the update's purpose. * The new firmware may be linked to the upcoming Live Translation feature for the
Telecom
* SpaceX successfully launched 29 Starlink satellites from Florida's Kennedy Space Center. * The mission, Starlink 6-89, was the first of two rocket launches planned within just a few hours. * The veteran Falcon 9 booster completed its eighth flight and landed successfully on a drone ship at sea. * This marks
Games
The battlefield of Marvel Rivals is set for a seismic shift as the massive Season 5 update goes live, introducing a wave of balance changes that will force every player to rethink their strategies. With significant buffs to underused heroes, the introduction of powerful new synergies, and the removal of
