From Engadget · 40 stories
Sony adds over 100 free ad-supported TV channels to PlayStation 5 in the US
Sony is integrating over 100 free ad-supported TV (FAST) channels into the PlayStation 5's media tab for US users, with plans to expand to Canada and other regions. This move aims to keep users within the PlayStation ecosystem and generate additional revenue through advertising.
PlayStation to host two State of Play broadcasts on September 3, featuring Final Fantasy 7 Revelation
Sony will hold two State of Play broadcasts on September 3, starting at 9 AM ET, to showcase upcoming games. The event will include an extended look at Final Fantasy 7 Revelation and a separate broadcast for games from Asian studios.
Google's Call Screen Feature Now Integrates with Android Auto to Filter Spam Calls
Google's Call Screen feature is now available for use with Android Auto, allowing phones to screen unknown or spam calls while driving. This integration helps reduce driver distraction by automatically handling unwanted calls before they appear on the car's display.
Apple prototyped a stylus for a foldable iPhone, unlikely to be released
Apple prototyped a "stubbier" Apple Pencil for a potential foldable iPhone, but its release is unlikely due to design challenges and screen delicacy. This indicates Apple is exploring accessories for future form factors, even if they don't reach production.
Retro Bowl College+ Launches on Apple Arcade with Unlocked Features
Retro Bowl College+, a college football game, has been released on Apple Arcade, offering all paid features unlocked and no in-app purchases. This release provides Apple Arcade subscribers with a complete version of the retro-inspired game, expanding the platform's sports game offerings.
Bandai announces playable Tamagotchi Ring with color screen, available for pre-order in Japan
Bandai has announced a new Tamagotchi Ring, a functional and playable miniature Tamagotchi device with a color screen that can be worn on a finger. Pre-orders are open in Japan, with no official release details for other regions, and the device is expected to ship in February 2027.
Anbernic RG 55G1 Handheld Gaming Device Launches August 31 Starting at $150
Anbernic will release its RG 55G1 handheld gaming device on August 31, with prices starting at $150. This device runs Android 14, uses a Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 chip, and is designed for retro game emulation, offering an alternative to Nintendo's Switch Lite.
Panasonic releases Lumix L10 compact camera with 24-75mm zoom lens
Panasonic has released the Lumix L10, a 20.3-megapixel compact camera featuring a 24-75mm equivalent Leica zoom lens. This model succeeds the LX100 II and aims to provide more versatility for casual users compared to fixed-lens compact cameras.
Grand Theft Auto VI Playthrough Estimated at Over 80 Hours; Extended Trailer Released
Rockstar North co-studio head Rob Nelson stated that a playthrough of Grand Theft Auto VI, including the main story and some optional goals, took him 80 hours. This suggests the game will be longer than its predecessor, Grand Theft Auto V, and an extended trailer for the game has also been released on YouTube.
GTA VI introduces varied car theft mechanics based on vehicle make and model
Grand Theft Auto VI will feature more complex car theft mechanics, requiring different approaches depending on the vehicle's make and model. This change aims to add depth to gameplay and make vehicle acquisition more varied for players.
James Pond Creator Criticizes New Legacy Collection for Allegedly AI-Generated Art
Chris Sorrell, creator of the James Pond game series, has expressed strong disapproval of the upcoming "James Pond Legacy: The Pond Is Not Enough" collection, citing concerns over allegedly AI-generated art. Sorrell, who was not consulted on the project, stated that the developers show no respect for the series. This situation highlights ongoing debates about AI-generated content in legacy media and intellectual property rights.
Ubisoft apologizes for selling Heroes of Might and Magic III without game files on Steam
Ubisoft mistakenly released a version of Heroes of Might and Magic III on Steam that did not include the actual game files, prompting negative reviews. The issue has since been resolved, and Ubisoft apologized for the error, which occurred during a promotional release for an upcoming remake.
JBL Pulse 6 Speaker with 360-Degree Light Show to Ship in September
JBL announced the Pulse 6 portable Bluetooth speaker, featuring a 360-degree light show and upgraded acoustics, will be available for $330 and ship starting September 6. This release updates JBL's Pulse collection with new lighting features and sound technology.
Roku to Stream Select NWSL Games for Free on The Roku Channel
Roku announced a partnership with the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) to stream eight Sunday night games for free on The Roku Channel, starting August 30. This expands Roku's sports content offerings and provides more access to NWSL matches for viewers.
Soundcore Releases Nebula X1S Projector with 6,000 Lumens Brightness
Soundcore has released the Nebula X1S projector, an upgraded version of its Nebula X1, featuring a brightness of 6,000 lumens. This increased brightness allows the projector to be used in daylight conditions, addressing a common limitation of consumer projectors.
Devolver Digital to release mascot platformer "Volvy's Adventure: Reslimed" on same day as GTA 6
Devolver Digital announced that its mascot platformer, "Volvy's Adventure: Reslimed," will launch on Steam on November 19, coinciding with the release of Grand Theft Auto 6. This release strategy positions the game as an alternative for PC gamers during a period expected to be dominated by GTA 6.
CRKD Releases Three Gibson Guitar Controllers for Stage Tour Game Launch
CRKD has launched three new Gibson guitar controllers, including Les Paul, SG, and Explorer models, for the upcoming rhythm game Stage Tour, which releases on December 10. These controllers feature Hall effect strum bars, mechanical frets, and varying polling rates, with the 8K Gibson Explorer offering an 8,000Hz polling rate.
Lego Skylines City Builder Game Announced, Developed by Iceflake Studios
Lego Skylines, a new city-building video game, was announced at Gamescom's Opening Night Live. The game is being developed by Iceflake Studios, known for its work on Cities: Skylines II, and will be published by Paradox Interactive.
BenQ Launches ScreenBar Max, a Dual-Monitor Desk Lamp with Bias Lighting
BenQ has released the ScreenBar Max, its first monitor light bar designed for dual-monitor setups, which includes both a bias light and a desk lamp. This product aims to reduce eye strain for users who spend extended periods in front of multiple computer screens. The ScreenBar Max is priced at $289, making it BenQ's most expensive ScreenBar product to date.
Nokia 300 Charge Feature Phone Includes 10W Power Bank Functionality
Nokia has released the 300 Charge, a feature phone that also functions as a 10W power bank for other devices. This device offers extended talk and standby times, along with a built-in flashlight, positioning it as a secondary utility device.
Sony launches Xperia 10 VIII with minimal upgrades and a significant price increase
Sony has released the Xperia 10 VIII, a midrange Android phone for markets outside the US, which features few specification upgrades compared to its predecessor, the Xperia 10 VII. The new model carries a substantially higher price tag, costing £150 more in the UK than the previous version.
Threads tests automatic podcast transcription feature to support audio content creators
Threads is testing a new feature that provides automatic transcriptions for audio clips, allowing users to read podcast content without sound. This development is part of Meta's ongoing effort to attract and support audio content creators on the platform. The feature aims to enhance accessibility and engagement for podcasts within the Threads feed.
Shokz Releases Lighter OpenFit Air 2 and OpenRun Air 2 Earbuds
Shokz introduced the OpenFit Air 2 and OpenRun Air 2 earbuds, both featuring lighter designs than their predecessors. The OpenFit Air 2 offers an open-ear design with improved audio, while the OpenRun Air 2 uses bone conduction for runners, with both models available on August 27 for $130.
Android Auto to receive native YouTube video support for parked vehicles this year
Google announced that Android Auto will gain native YouTube video playback for parked vehicles and audio-only mode while driving, with an update rolling out this year. This update expands media consumption options within cars, offering HD video playback and a reworked interface with widgets and Gemini integration.
Google Pixel 6 and Newer Devices Receive Bluetooth Diagnostics Feature
Google has introduced a Bluetooth Diagnostics feature for Pixel 6 and newer devices, including Fold models. This tool helps users troubleshoot specific Bluetooth connection issues by testing media audio, calls, and other functions before resorting to broader troubleshooting steps.
Darkest Dungeon: The Fire's Edge DLC Released, Plus Other Indie Game Updates
Red Hook Studios released "The Fire's Edge" DLC for Darkest Dungeon, priced at $7, expanding the existing game. This release is part of a broader roundup of indie game news, including a dispute between Ternox Games and PlayStation regarding game delisting and a developer creating weekly experimental RPGs.
Netflix's Cyberpunk: Edgerunners Season 2 to Stream October 20 with New Cast
Netflix announced that the second season of its anime series, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, will premiere on October 20, featuring a new cast of characters in Night City. This release continues the adaptation of the Cyberpunk 2077 universe, which previously boosted the game's popularity.
RayNeo Introduces iO Smart Glasses and GT Series AR Glasses
RayNeo announced two new AR smart glasses: the minimalist iO Smart Glasses and the maximalist GT Series. The iO Smart Glasses prioritize discreet integration and AI features for daily use, while the GT Series focuses on immersive media consumption.
Dave Bautista Replaces Ryan Hurst as Kratos in Amazon's God of War Series
Dave Bautista has been cast as Kratos in Amazon's Prime Video adaptation of God of War, replacing Ryan Hurst due to an on-set injury. This casting change allows production to continue without significant delays, impacting the show's development timeline.
Golden Axe Animated Series Trailer Released, Premieres September 16 on Paramount+
A trailer for the Golden Axe animated series, based on Sega's classic game, has been released, showcasing self-referential humor and confirming a September 16 premiere date on Paramount+. This adaptation marks Sega's continued effort to revive older game franchises through new media, potentially expanding the reach of its intellectual property.
Crunchyroll to be available on in-car infotainment systems via Appning app store
Crunchyroll, an anime streaming service, is expanding its availability to in-car infotainment systems through the Appning app store. This integration allows users to stream anime in vehicles from over 40 brands, including BMW and Mercedes Benz, primarily when the car is parked.
The Binding of Isaac: Repentance+ Online Console Release Coincides with GTA 6 Launch
The console version of The Binding of Isaac: Repentance+ Online is scheduled for release on November 19, the same day as Grand Theft Auto 6. This release adds online co-op for up to four players to the roguelike game and its expansions, coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2.
Study Links Major Music Streaming Releases to 15% Increase in Traffic Deaths
A Harvard Medical School study found a 15% increase in U.S. traffic deaths following major music album releases between 2017 and 2022. This suggests that increased engagement with music streaming services on release days may contribute to distracted driving and a rise in fatal collisions.
Mattel Releases Full-Scale Building Brick Set of Original Xbox for $330
Mattel is releasing a 3,509-piece, 1:1 scale building brick set of the original Xbox console, priced at $330. The set includes an interactive controller and three game-inspired dioramas, offering a collectible item for gaming enthusiasts.
Deus Ex and Dishonored Designer Harvey Smith Launches Black Pony Immersive Studio
Harvey Smith, known for his work on Deus Ex and Dishonored, has co-founded a new studio called Black Pony Immersive with Ben Horne, focusing on narrative-rich first-person action RPGs, also known as immersive sims. The studio, based in Austin, Texas, includes veterans from various game development companies and aims to create original worlds and emergent gameplay.
IKEA Teases Xbox Partnership with Furniture and Cushion Designs
IKEA posted a video teasing a collaboration with Xbox, showing furniture and a cushion with Xbox branding. More details are expected at Gamescom next week, suggesting a potential line of gaming-themed home goods.
ICE Prohibits Employees from Wearing Meta Smart Glasses Due to Privacy Concerns
Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has issued a memo prohibiting its employees from wearing Meta smart glasses or similar devices while working. This policy aims to prevent unintentional capture or transmission of sensitive information, addressing privacy and legal protection concerns.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Introduces Antioxidant Index Feature
Samsung's Galaxy Watch 8 now includes an Antioxidant Index feature that estimates carotenoid levels in the skin via a five-second thumb scan. This feature provides a score from 0 to 100, indicating estimated fruit and vegetable intake, though it is not intended for medical diagnosis.
Indie Games Roundup: Meccha Chameleon Sells 20 Million, New Releases Include Agent 64
Meccha Chameleon has sold over 20 million copies in two months, becoming a significant indie success. Other indie titles like Machine Party, Big Walk, and ReStory also report strong sales, while new releases include Agent 64: Spies Never Die, a GoldenEye 007-inspired game.
Kingdom Hearts Anime Series Announced for Disney+ and Disney Channel
Disney announced an original anime series based on the Kingdom Hearts franchise will be released on Disney+ and Disney Channel. The series will feature a new story and was developed in collaboration with Kingdom Hearts director Tetsuya Nomura and Square Enix.