Tech
This week in entertainment tech, big thrills and deals
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.
Tech
OpenAI limits deepfakes after Bryan Cranston’s concerns
OpenAI protects against deepfakes on Sora 2 after Bryan Cranston and SAG-AFTRA raise concerns over unauthorized AI-generated content
OpenAI protects against deepfakes on Sora 2 after Bryan Cranston and SAG-AFTRA raise concerns over unauthorised AI-generated content
– OpenAI partners with Bryan Cranston and unions to combat deepfakes on its Sora app.
– The app now includes options for people to control their likenesses and voices.
The partnership aims to enhance protections against unauthorized AI content. The Creative Artists Agency and United Talent Agency had previously criticized OpenAI, citing risks to their clients’ intellectual property.
Last week, OpenAI blocked disrespectful videos of Martin Luther King Jr. at the request of his estate, following similar pressures. Zelda Williams also requested the public refrain from sending her AI-generated clips of her late father, Robin Williams.
Policy Changes
Following tensions post-launch, CEO Sam Altman revised Sora’s policy to give rights holders greater control of their likenesses.
The app now allows individuals to opt-out, reflecting OpenAI’s commitment to respond quickly to concerns from performers.
OpenAI backs the NO FAKES Act, supporting legislation that aims to protect individuals from unauthorized AI-generated representations.
OpenAI is focused on ensuring performers’ rights are respected regarding the misuse of their voices and likenesses. Altman reiterated the company’s dedication to these protections.
Tech
Major apps down as AWS experiences global outage
AWS outage disrupts Fortnite, Snapchat and multiple services globally
AWS outage disrupts Fortnite, Snapchat and multiple services globally
– AWS outage on Monday disrupted major apps like Fortnite, Snapchat, and affected several global companies.
– UK companies including Lloyds Bank and Vodafone reported issues due to the AWS outage.
Amazon’s AWS experienced a significant outage on Monday, impacting major apps including Fortnite and Snapchat. The disruption affected connectivity for numerous companies globally.AWS reported increased error rates and latencies across multiple services and is attempting to recover quickly.
The outage marks the first significant internet disruption since a previous incident last year that impacted essential technology systems globally. AWS offers on-demand computing and storage services and is vital for many websites and platforms.
Multiple companies reported disruptions, including AI startup Perplexity, cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase, and trading app Robinhood. Perplexity’s CEO confirmed on X that the outages were linked to AWS issues.
Amazon’s shopping site, Prime Video, and Alexa services also faced difficulties, according to Downdetector. Other affected platforms included popular gaming applications like Clash Royale and financial services such as Venmo and Chime.
Uber competitor Lyft’s app was reported down for numerous users in the U.S. Messaging platform Signal also acknowledged connection problems stemming from the AWS outage.
British Companies
In the UK, Lloyds Bank, Bank of Scotland, and telecom services provider Vodafone were notably affected. The HMRC’s website also encountered issues during this outage.
Elon Musk stated that his platform, X, remained operational despite the widespread disruptions.
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