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This week in entertainment tech, big thrills and deals

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The latest updates from the realms of PlayStation, Nintendo, Pokemon, and The Last of Us Part 2 have stirred excitement among enthusiasts.

 

 

 

PlayStation Portal Global Release and Australian Launch Date Revealed

The PlayStation Portal, which debuted in select regions like the US and UK on November 15th, has garnered positive reviews for its innovative features. This device allows users to play their PS5 and PS4 games on an 8-inch LCD screen via a Wi-Fi connection with the PS5 console. Exciting news for Australian gamers— the PlayStation Portal is set to release in Australia on February 2nd, 2024, with pre-orders currently available through local retailers.

Watch the PlayStation Portal Trailer: PlayStation Portal Trailer

Early Black Friday Gaming Deals: PlayStation 5 and Xbox Offers

Black Friday gaming and tech deals have kicked off early, presenting exciting opportunities for enthusiasts. For those seeking a PlayStation 5 console, a special bundle featuring Spider-Man 2 is on sale for $679. Additionally, the DualSense controller, now available in Cobalt Blue and Volcanic Red, is discounted to $79. Xbox Series X enthusiasts can grab a console for $649. Stay tuned for more deals in the lead-up to Black Friday by checking major retailers.

Pokemon Concierge: A New Animated Series on Netflix

A new stop-motion animated series, Pokemon Concierge, has been unveiled through an enchanting trailer. The show revolves around Haru, responsible for caring for guests and Pokemon at the Pokemon Resort. Scheduled for release on Netflix on December 28th, the series promises stunning animation and a captivating storyline.

Watch the Pokemon Concierge Trailer: Pokemon Concierge Trailer

Nintendo Indie World Showcase Highlights Exciting Indie Games

Nintendo’s Indie World showcase featured a diverse array of indie games, ranging from farming simulations to cozy adventures. Notably, the Shantae series introduced Shantae Advance Risky Revolution, a game completed after 20 years. The release is set for 2024, offering unique features and a four-player local battle mode, contributing to an exciting lineup of creative indie games for Nintendo Switch in 2024.

Watch the Indie World Showcase: Nintendo Indie World Showcase

 

The Last of Us Part 2 Remaster Announced

Last of Us fans received big news with the announcement of a full remaster for The Last of Us Part 2, scheduled for release on January 19th, 2024. Despite being only three years old, the remaster will include enhancements for the PlayStation 5, along with new content such as outfits, lost levels, Guitar Free Play, and a rogue-like survival mode named “No Return.”

Watch the Announcement Trailer: The Last of Us Part 2 Remaster

It’s evident that the industry is buzzing with innovation, anticipation, and nostalgia. From the cutting-edge technology of the PlayStation Portal to the delightful surprises in Pokemon Concierge and the rekindling of the Shantae series, gamers have much to look forward to. The allure of Black Friday deals further sweetens the pot, while The Last of Us Part 2 remaster signals a fresh journey for fans.

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Apple unveils thinner iPhone Air to excite upgrades

Apple launches thinner ‘iPhone Air’ amid price hikes, aiming for customer upgrades despite challenges in AI features and tariffs

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Apple launches thinner ‘iPhone Air’ amid price hikes, aiming for customer upgrades despite challenges in AI features and tariffs

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In Short:
– Apple has introduced the new iPhone Air, priced at £999, to attract customers and update its smartphone line.
– The Air features innovations like a battery accessory, while Apple faces competition in AI capabilities.
Apple has launched a new “iPhone Air” model, marking its first significant smartphone release in years.
The new device, priced at $999, aims to attract customers following difficulties in delivering AI features.

This model replaces the Plus line and initiates a refresh since the iPhone X.Banner

The iPhone Air is designed to pave the way for a potential foldable iPhone next year, indicating Apple’s commitment to creating thinner devices. Analysts highlight challenges with foldable technology, expressing optimism about Apple’s advancements.

The iPhone 17’s base price remains at $799, with the cheapest Pro model starting at $1,099.

Tariffs will be avoided as Apple sources most iPhones from India. The company introduced a battery accessory to enhance the Air’s life, although it adds bulk.

Design Innovations

Apple has also introduced new AirPods Pro featuring a heart monitor and an Apple Watch that can detect high blood pressure.

However, the company faces criticism for lagging AI capabilities compared to competitors like Google. Investor sentiment remains positive following a strong sales quarter and positive developments regarding trade tariffs.

Futurum Group CEO Daniel Newman said that the iPhone 17 launch comes at a “really tough” moment for Apple.

“The problem with Apple is that everything that’s showing up today is, in fact, pretty incremental,” he told CNBC’s “Power Lunch.” “Yes, the phone is thinner, and yes, it looks great. We haven’t had a big supercycle in four years.”

Other devices

The new AirPods Pro 3 boast improved audio quality and noise cancellation. A new feature is real-time translation of conversations in foreign languages. They cost $249, the same as their predecessor.

Apple released three new Apple Watch models: the Series 11, which includes updates to the low-end SE and high-end Ultra models. Prices remain unchanged. Apple has added a new health feature to the devices, using machine learning to assess the risk of high blood pressure.

Apple’s iOS 26 will be available as a free software update on Monday.

Apple shares down after event concludes

Investors appeared indifferent to Apple’s latest product announcements, including the new iPhone Air model and Apple Series 11 Watch.

As a result, Apple shares fell by approximately 1.5% after the event concluded.


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Apple may increase iPhone prices despite tariff management

Apple may increase iPhone prices despite managing Trump-era tariffs effectively ahead of new model launch

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Apple may increase iPhone prices despite managing Trump-era tariffs effectively ahead of new model launch

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In Short:
– Tim Cook strengthened Apple’s U.S. investment with a $100 billion commitment despite tariff pressures.
– Analysts predict iPhone price rises due to increased component costs and enhanced features.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has successfully managed the company’s relationship with the White House amid tariffs.
Cook presented President Donald Trump with a gold plaque while announcing a $100 billion U.S. investment.
This was part of a broader commitment to spend $600 billion in the U.S. over the next five years.Banner

Despite these efforts, analysts predict Apple may raise iPhone prices due to ongoing tariff pressures.

CounterPoint’s Jeff Fieldhack noted speculation about a potential increase. While Apple has managed the impact of tariffs better than anticipated, it has incurred costs amounting to $800 million recently.

Pricing Trends

Apple has a history of cautious pricing strategies.

While it has not raised prices significantly in recent years, component costs have increased. Analysts expect upcoming iPhones to boast enhanced features, which could justify a price rise.

Additionally, reports suggest an entry-level Pro model may be eliminated, leading consumers to face higher starting prices for new devices. Cook previously stated that there were no immediate price changes to announce.


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Google avoids major penalties in U.S. antitrust case

Google avoids severe penalties in U.S. antitrust case as judge allows payments to maintain deals with Apple and others

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Google avoids severe penalties in U.S. antitrust case as judge allows payments to maintain deals with Apple and others

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In Short:
– U.S. Judge Mehta ruled Google can’t have exclusive search deals, allowing ongoing distribution payments.
– The decision supports collaboration with Apple and reflects changing market dynamics amid AI advancements.
U.S. District Judge Amit P. Mehta ruled that Google cannot secure exclusive search engine deals, allowing distribution payments to continue.
According to The Wall Street Journal, the judge acknowledged the potential harm to partners like Apple if such agreements were prohibited.The ruling follows Mehta’s previous finding that Google maintained a 90% search market share through illegal practices.

Mehta explained the changing market dynamics, particularly due to AI technology, arguing against drastic interventions that could disrupt competition.

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The decision is viewed positively by Wall Street analysts, as it allows Google to continue its $20 billion annual payment to Apple for being the default search provider.

This arrangement could further foster collaboration on AI services.

Future Innovations

The ruling impacts Google’s ability to create exclusive agreements and requires data-sharing to boost competition.

Critics argue the remedies are insufficient, with calls for an appeal regarding Mehta’s perceived leniency toward Google.

In related news, Google stated the judgement reflects industry changes, affirming that competition remains robust. The Justice Department plans to review the ruling’s implications for restoring competition in the search market.


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