Brain-dead bodies are highly sought after for cross-species organ research as scientists work toward new ways of combating disease.

As reported by MIT Technology Review, surgeons at the University of Pennsylvania conducted an experiment that lasted for three days with a pig liver connected to a brain-dead person.

The purpose of the study was to assess whether the organ, which was part of a special pumping device, could still function to clean up toxins from the body, which could possibly lead to a breakthrough in treating patients with acute liver failure.

Organ donation is a common practice in the event of a death, but the report indicates how brain-dead bodies are becoming increasingly important to biotech research, not just the medical field.

The use of a full body in this way – as an experimental “decadent model” – is still quite rare, but it has been used before and now requests have increased as more companies are exploring animal-to-human organ transplants with the use of tissues from gene-edited pigs.

Previous research precedent

MIT spoke to Richard Hasz, CEO of the Gift of Life Donor Program, a non-profit organization that oversees organ donation across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. They were also the source for the University of Pennsylvania liver experiment.

Hasz commented on using bodies as experimental models, “It’s definitely a new model. But sometimes we repeat things that have happened before. We have been around 50 years, and this is the second time it’s been requested,” says Hasz.

The previous occasion was during the 1980s when Temple University researchers wanted brain-dead bodies as a “no-risk” way to test an early artificial heart made of plastic and metal.

Their purpose was to find how it would fit inside a chest and how it would react to surgical techniques, ahead of trying the invention inside a living person.

Now, the demand from surgeons for brain-dead patients, sometimes known as “beating-heart cadavers” is on the rise as part of a wide-ranging undertaking for scientific research and progression.

Image: Anna Shvets/Pexels.

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This week, as well as releasing a large patch for Starfield, Bethesda unexpectedly dropped a new update for Skyrim Special Edition. The Special Edition was released in 2016, five years after the game first came out, and is the ‘definitive’ edition, with all the DLCs included.

This new update focuses on ironing out issues that arose from the last update in December which added Steam Deck support and combined the Mods and Creations Club menus into a unified Creations Menu. There are a lot of bug fixes and a change to some controller functionality.

As well as the general bug fixes, there are some platform-specific changes and fixes. Epic Store users will now be able to see their Creation Credits properly; some PlayStation-specific issues such as menu flickering and crashes are fixed, Xbox users can now properly download certain Creations that were causing crashes, and even GOG users weren’t forgotten, with fixes to the Anniversary Upgrade being fixed.

Since the game’s release it has rarely dropped below 25,000 concurrent players, and that’s just on Steam. It is undoubtedly one of the most successful and beloved games of all time, and Bethesda’s dedication to it even after all this time is undoubtedly part of that.

Skyrim Update Patch Notes

• When using a controller, the right analog stick is now exclusively bound to the description field. When using a controller “Search” is now bound to “A”, not Right Trigger.

Bug Fixes

• Menu items no longer “bounce”.
• Author names should no longer shift upon inspecting the details page.
• Fixed issues requiring the user to select menu options twice when returning to the main menu.
• Fixed issues with the Download Bar not rendering correctly.
• Fixed an issue causing the order of screenshots to change between sessions.
• Fixed an issue causing deleted Creations to appear in your Load Order.
• Fixed an issue rearranging the Load Order when updating a Creation.
• The correct warning message is now displayed when a Creation is downloaded without its dependencies.
• Fixed issue preventing Creation downloads after an extended time browsing the menus.
• Fixed issue causing large Creations to sometimes fail to download.
• Restoring your Load Order will now properly enable disabled Creations.
• The “Download All Creations” menu option will no longer deactivate previously installed Creations.
• Canceling “Download All Creations” will no longer result in a crash when returning to the Main Menu.
• Uploading and restoring Load Orders to and from Bethesda.net will no longer fail on large Load Orders.
• The “Updated” category in the Channels List now shows Creations from your library with available updates, instead of showing “Latest” uploads.
• Gallery images no longer change in size when browsing.
• Resolved a crash that could occur after loading Anniversary Edition after linking a new account.
• Fixed an issue that could cause the wrong Load Order to be uploaded.
• Fixed flickering of arrows on the Banner on the initial load of the Creations Menu.
• Categories are now sorted by “latest.”
• File size now properly displays after updating a Creation.
• Resolved an issue that could prompt a deletion confirmation when exiting the menus.
• Resolved an issue that would show some Creations as owned even if unpurchased.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Epic Only

• Resolved an issue preventing Creation Credits from displaying in the user’s account.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​PlayStation Only

• Fixed a crash that could occur from repeatedly entering the in-game Creations screen.
• Creation names should no longer flicker after downloading.
• PS5: Fixed Crash when browsing the menu while it is loading.
• PS5: “Delete all Creations” now works as intended.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Xbox Only

• Fixed an issue that would kick the player to the Main Menu when attempting to download Survival Mode or Goldbrand.
• The “Show Missing Content” box on the Search Menu after loading a save with missing Creations now works.

​​​​​​​GOG Specific

• Fixed an issue preventing the Anniversary Upgrade prompt from working.
• Fixed issue that could occur, resulting in the wrong saves being overwritten.
• Localization fixes.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Resource Pack

• Resolved unfilled alias on Carriage Quest.
• Added “CalendarDay” script.
• Modular jugs now have audio when dropped.

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Spotify has fired a scathing response at Apple after the tech giant set out new commission fees of up to 27% in the United States.

Apple confirmed it would allow app developers to sell products outside its store, as long as a significant transaction fee was paid.

The streaming heavyweight claims the decision is “outrageous”, in what is the latest saga in an ongoing tussle over fees between the two firms. Spotify, based in Stockholm, Sweden, has urged authorities in the European Union and the United Kingdom to prevent a similar fee imposition.

The iPhone maker’s decision comes following another long-running dispute with Fortnite developer Epic Games which led to a court finding Apple had acted in contravention of US competition laws by not allowing developers to inform users of other ways of paying. This included links that bypass the Apple Store payment system and the 30% fee that is charged to use it.

The outcome is the multi-trillion dollar company installed a commission of up to 27% as part of its new rules for app developers to allow users to sign up and pay for services without using its system in the US.

Apple accused of negating competition and choice

Spotify has reacted with fury in a statement in an interview with the Financial Times.

“Once again, Apple has demonstrated that they will stop at nothing to protect the profits they exact on the backs of developers and consumers under their app store monopoly. Their latest move in the U.S. — imposing a 27% fee for transactions made outside of an app on a developer’s website — is outrageous and flies in the face of the court’s efforts to enable greater competition and user choice.”

Last year, Spotify accused Apple of having an “insane” level of control over the internet in a previous fee wrangle and now it wants the British government to oversee a different approach in the UK, as outlined in the BBC report.

Image credit, PhotoMix Company, pexels.com

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Nostalgia is rising for the grounded, acrobatic, and often intense combat scenes that once enthralled viewers. As streaming platforms take over entertainment, audiences revisit beloved classics and uncover lesser-known treasures featuring masterful fight choreography. This newfound appreciation for skillfully choreographed fight sequences has increased demand for martial arts films and television shows. As a result, production companies and creators are trying to deliver engaging, action-packed content that showcases the artistry of combat and weaves intricate and captivating stories for viewers to enjoy.

Warrior’s blend of history and action

During a rainy weekend last year, HBO Max’s ‘Warrior’ rose to prominence from the depths of streaming collections. In the 1870s, in San Francisco, the show delves into the world of Chinese gangs, ruthless Irish officers, and dishonest politicians fighting for survival in America. The show may not be considered prime television based on Bruce Lee’s writings — but it is well-crafted and boasts some of the finest fight choreography ever displayed on screen. ‘Warrior’ manages to blend historical accuracy with thrilling action, creating a captivating viewing experience for its growing fan base. As the compelling narratives unfold, viewers are treated to a unique exploration of cultural identity and conflict during a tumultuous period in American history.

American adoption of elaborate fight scenes

Before the superhero surge, fight choreography was not a long-standing practice in the U.S. Acclaimed film essayist Patrick Willems points out that it wasn’t until ‘The Matrix in 1999 that American audiences began seeking the type of fight sequences often seen in cult hits like ‘Eastern Promises’ or Asian cinema. This shift in audience preferences brought a new era of intricately designed, adrenaline-pumping fight scenes that blended martial arts, stunts, and special effects in Hollywood productions. As a result, the demand for expert fight choreographers grew exponentially, creating more visually stunning and thrilling combat sequences on both the big and small screens.

Here is a simple fight scene tutorial.

Streaming services and the demand for intricate choreography

The rise of Marvel Studios and streaming services like Netflix has led to the realization that action entertainment has become somewhat diluted, possibly sparking a renewed interest in detailed fight sequences. Audiences seek more intricate choreography and realism in their on-screen battles, showcasing the hero’s combat skills and the overall art of fight direction and stunt work. As a response to this demand, filmmakers and streaming platforms are investing more time and effort into crafting memorable and engaging action set pieces that can stay etched in viewers’ minds for a long time.

The critical question is not whether Hollywood’s top players will conform but which will adapt rapidly enough to remain pertinent in this ever-evolving domain. With the constant advancements in technology and shifting audience preferences, industry leaders must stay ahead of the curve and embrace necessary changes.

Featured Image Credit: Cottonbro Studio; Pexels

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A new study from BMJ Public Health shows that gamers who have the volume at unsafe levels could be at risk of hearing loss.

The report shows that ”gamers who are listening at high-intensity sound levels and for long periods of time may be at risk of permanent sound-induced hearing loss and tinnitus.”

Headset levels

Gamers typically play for hours at a time, especially on popular online multiplayer titles like Fortnite.

The report shows that ”the average measured sound levels of video games nearly exceeded, or exceeded, permissible sound exposure limits, and on average, individuals played video games for approximately 3 hours per week.”

Sound off

The ideal range for adult listeners was 80 Decibels across a 40-hour working period, according to the World Health Organisation. Still, in the case of video games, there are more infrequent and louder noises — like the noise of a shooter game.

The BJM report calls these ‘impulse sounds’ and ranges in different acceptable limits for adults and children.

The document states that the “audio of video games comprises of (1) sounds of similar intensities, and (2) often (particularly in shooter games), impulse sounds. Permissible exposure limits for impulse sounds vary but are approximately 100 dB for children and 130–140 dB for adults.”

Across the three studies conducted by BMJ that made up the report, there was a difference in gaming behavior; boys, compared to girls, would play video games for a more extended period of time and at a higher sound intensity.

In other gaming listening news, the new Nancon headset boasts an ‘unbreakable headband’ that will delight rage quitters worldwide.

The RIG brand, the 600 PRO HS and 600 PRO HX, are hitting the shelves and work fine with a PC and Nintendo Switch but differ only in the Xbox and PlayStation variants.

Image credit: Cottonbros Studio;  Pexels

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888 Holdings today released its 2023 Post-Close trading update and announced it will cut jobs in a bid to cut costs.

The international betting and gambling company, which owns brands UK bookmaker William Hill, 888, and Mr Green, revealed a £30 million ($37 million) saving plan.

The company noted an 8% decline in total sales across 2023, from £ 1.8 billion ($ 2.2 billion) last year to £ 1.7 billion ($ 2.2 billion) in 2023.

CEO stays positive despite drop in sales

Per Widerström was announced as CEO in July of 2023 and has taken over William Hill amid a rocky year for the firm.

Widerström said, “The financial performance of the Group must improve, and the actions we are taking will build a leaner, more agile, and more effective organization structure.”

“I have been working hard with the Board, our strengthened executive team and the talented people across the business to refine our strategic framework.”

The CEO remained positive about the company’s outlook despite the fall in share price, confidently stating that he is “looking forward to outlining our 2024-2026 plan alongside our full-year results in late March.”

Safer Gambling rules affect 888 profits

The UK will be implementing checks on gamblers across 2024. The move has been made to tighten regulation on betting companies and offer more support to those who are vulnerable to problem gambling.

888 recognized this change to gambling legislation in the trading update, noting that “revenue was further impacted by customer mix changes in the UK as a result of additional safer gambling measures, alongside the change in the Group’s marketing approach to focus more on sustainable revenue and profitability.”

The UK is not the only EU nation to enhance the current rules around gambling legislation as Italy announced a set of changes earlier this month.

Italian gambling agencies have criticized the move by the Economy and Finance (MEF) department of the Italian Government for being too costly.

Image credit: Jonathan Petersson, Pexels.

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Electronic Arts, the video game titan better know as EA, is exploring new frontiers with a recently published patent that hints at the development of innovative game creation and marketplace software, according to a recent Game Rant report. This move could mark a significant shift in EA’s approach to game development and community engagement.

The patent details suggest that EA’s software could function similarly to established platforms like Unreal Engine, GameMaker, and even the building games in Roblox. This software would potentially allow users to access source code, graphics, sounds, and more, all available in a marketplace where these assets could be traded or purchased using various forms of currency.

EA’s proposed software aims to lower the barriers to game development, making it more accessible to a wider audience. Users could create original games or modify existing ones, expanding opportunities for creativity and fostering communities that enjoy game modifications. The patent also hints at the possibility of “for-pay content,” indicating that users might have the option to offer their games for free or charge others for access.

The gaming industry has long been perceived as having a high entry barrier for aspiring developers. EA’s game creation marketplace, if realized, could democratize the process, offering a platform for budding developers to gain experience and showcase their talents. This could be particularly significant in light of the industry’s ongoing challenges, including studio layoffs and the need for more inclusive development opportunities.

While companies often file patents that never materialize into actual products, the existence of this patent opens up intriguing possibilities for the future of game development. It suggests that EA is considering ways to engage more directly with its gaming community and potentially transform how games are created and distributed.

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For over 10 years Samsung has reigned supreme over the smartphone market as the world’s biggest brand, but that changed in 2023 as Apple overtook them to the top spot.  This is the first time the American giant has ever sold the most smartphones in a year, an achievement Samsung has laid claim to since 2010.

Apple, the maker of the iPhone, sold 234.6 million iPhones in 2023, which amounted to 20.1% of the market share in 2023, whereas South Korea’s most valuable company shipped 226.6 million Galaxy smartphones, which was 19.4% of the market, according to market research firm IDC, as reported by Business Wire. The data also shows that the global smartphone market was down in 2023 by 3.2%, though this still represents 1.17 billion smartphones being sold.

This number marks the lowest full-year volume in a decade, but despite this overall decline, data suggests that the market will recover into growth in 2024. Quarter four of 2023 showed 8.5% year-over-year growth, which was higher than forecasts of 7.3%.

Of the top five smartphone brands, only Apple and Chinese company Transsion saw growth in 2023, with gains of 3.7% and 30.8% respectively. Transsion is focused on developing markets such as Africa and South America. Samsung saw the largest losses year on year, ending 2023 at -13.6%. Xiaomi and OPPO were also down by -4.7% and -9.9% respectively.

What can Samsung do to regain its position as the largest smartphone brand?

Samsung won’t take this lying down and has much in the pipeline in 2024 which may help it recover the top spot. Unified Quick Share, unveiled at CES 2024, with Google, Samsung, and Windows computers will help bridge a gap created by Apple’s popular AirDrop feature.

In addition, leaks suggest that Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S24 range will be a doozy, with impressive specs and features. Samsung reportedly aims to sell over 35 million of its S24 range by the end of 2024, though issues with a recent update launch will not help consumer confidence.

Featured image: John Tekeridis/Pexels

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Xbox fans are urging fellow console users to cash in on Microsoft’s free store credit system, with speculation mounting that it will eventually be discontinued, as reported by GamingBible.

On a popular subreddit for Xbox Series X fans, users have noticed that the service has been in rapid decline despite there currently being no evidence that Microsoft intends to close it down.

By signing up for Microsoft rewards, gamers are given access to a service called Rewards With XBox, which allows you to earn points by buying and playing specific games. Once you’ve collected enough points, you can trade them in for products like Xbox Game Pass membership, raffle entries, competition entries, and free store credit.

It’s a similar service provided by the likes of Playstation and Steam, where it’s relatively easy for gamers to earn redeemable points simply by playing their favorite games.

However, Xbox gamers are expressing their concern on Reddit that the quality of the Microsoft rewards service is rapidly diminishing, leading to questions surrounding its future.

It comes after it was reported earlier this month that Microsoft had made significant changes to Xbox Game Pass quests, making it harder for gamers to earn Microsoft Rewards points. That might explain why some gamers are experiencing what they believe to be a rapidly declining service.

What are Xbox fans saying about Microsoft’s rewards service?

One gamer said: “It’s literally trash now. I used to take a couple of mins, and now it barely works. They know exactly what they are doing.”

“It’ll soon be time to cash out,” said another, while one gamer admitted their frustration by saying, “I’ve enjoyed grabbing every point each month. That easily adds up to a $10 gift card with about 1700 points left over. Not going to cause me to unsubscribe, but that sucks.”

Meanwhile, another user explained their frustration at not taking advantage when the service was in its pomp: “I’m ashamed of myself for never taking advantage of the rewards when I was a jobless teen.”

Featured Image: Photo by Oliver Beer on Unsplash

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The makers of Escape from Tarkov have announced it has banned over 11,000 players who have been found to be cheating over the last fortnight.

Battlestate Games said in an X post that it made the move with the support of anti-cheat service provider BattlEye, which is related to anti-cheat measures in games such as Rainbow 6 Siege and PUBG.

Escape from Tarkov is one of the most popular games in the extraction shooter genre. Gamers are cast as scavengers in the lawless city of Tarkov and compete with both NPC enemies and other players to escape zones via collecting as much loot as possible. Its focus on realism and high-stakes gameplay means it is an attractive proposition for cheaters and hackers.

But according to the game’s official X page, the developers are doing everything they can to keep Escape from Tarkov a clean and fair playing field for everyone by banning 11,000 players between December 27 and January 12.

From December 27 to January 12 with the support of BattlEye anti-cheat more than 11000 cheaters have been banned in Escape from Tarkov.https://t.co/2v6UQvKypI#EscapefromTarkov

— Escape from Tarkov (@tarkov) January 12, 2024

The spreadsheet provided in the post is a full list of the users who have received bans, although some critics believe the vagueness of details in the banning of said players points to merely attempting to keep angry players happy instead of making a genuine attempt to make the game more secure.

Does Escape from Tarkov have a cheating problem?

The fact 11,000 players have been banned suggests it’s an ongoing problem for Battlestate Games but whether there is work being done behind the scenes to help nullify the issue remains to be seen.

In February last year, GameRant reported that an investigation into cheaters found that 60% of matches featured cheaters. A month later, it was announced 4,000 cheaters had been banned. The fact another 11,000 have been banned less than a year later points to it being a long-term issue for the developers and perhaps even the gaming industry in general.

And as critics are quite fairly pointing out, the omittance of specifics in the spreadsheet, such as the cheats being detected, doesn’t necessarily mean bans lead to a long-term fix.

Battlestate’s 2024 plans for Escape from Tarkov may now heavily rely on their ongoing attempts to reduce cheating.

Featured Image: Escape from Tarkov

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The Sci-Fi fantasy robots of the future have gotten a little closer to becoming a reality with record funding announced for 1X Technologies.

The Oslo-based company closed a Series B round with a notable investment of $100 million.

The Norwegian company, backed by Open-AI and Tiger Global, raised $23.5 million in April 2023. This initial Series A2 round of funding paved the path to the recently announced investment milestone.

With the Series A2 and Series B funding rounds closed, the overall backing of the AI and robotics company is an impressive $125 million in less than 12 months.

Sweden’s EQT Ventures led the round alongside global investors such as Samsung NEXT, Skagerak Capital, and Nistad Group.

Ted Persson, Partner, EQT Ventures, said, “From Leonardo da Vinci to today’s sci-fi, humans have dreamt of humanoid robots for over 500 years. It’s a privilege to witness the enabling technologies form in front of our eyes in real-time.”

NEO

The second-generation android known as NEO is the key focus of this new funding.

1X hopes to bring to life the robots seen only in far-flung fantasy settings to undertake household tasks and hopes to offer an “android safe to work among people.”

”We are thrilled that these leading investors are supporting 1X’s mission of safely deploying Androids with Smart Behavior into new markets. Our next milestone will be scaling our data collection strategy for Embodied AI and offering NEO to consumers,” says Bernt Øivind Børnich, CEO of 1X.

Robotics and workers’ rights

Robots operating in the workplace have been a concern of labor activists for some time, prompting the current White House administration to wade into the conversation surrounding AI and the rights of U.S. workers.

The U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo, said, “President Biden has been clear — AI is the defining technology of our generation, and we have an obligation to harness the power of AI for good while protecting people from its risks.”

American companies are unveiling the practical applications of AI chatbots and their integration into existing household names. Volkswagen recently announced at CES 2024 that the new models released by the company will support generative-AI built as standard.

Persson goes on to say, “The impact of androids joining our human workforce, on our terms, will be transformative (to say the least). We’re convinced 1X, with their NEO androids, will play a crucial role in the pioneering steps towards the first forays of our technological and human future.”

Open-AI, one of the significant investors in 1X,  has seen a meteoric surge in interest for ChatGPT across 2023.

With third-party developers looking to adapt the open-source elements of the AI to create more practical uses.

The generative AI software has since released it’s own app marketplace this month, and independent company WeHead has created a human-like visage for the chatbot.

Image credit: 1x Technologies.

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The iGame Z690D5 Flow, the newest motherboard from Colorful, a Chinese tech company with over two decades of experience, presents a distinctive white and fluid design that distinguishes itself within the competitive mid-tier market. Retailing for just below $400, the motherboard exhibits solid performance across a variety of tests, but it does not include a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot. Instead, users will find a PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot, which may prove limiting for those with their eyes set on the latest storage options. However, the iGame Z690D5 Flow makes up for this shortcoming with its robust connectivity options and excellent thermal management, providing gamers and hardware enthusiasts with a stylish and reliable choice for their next build.

Design and features of the iGame Z690D5 Flow

Sporting an uncommon white PCB and a flowing design on the heatsinks, the iGame Z690D5 Flow is based on the Z790 platform, offering compatibility for 14th-generation processors, reliable power distribution, a multitude of storage options, speedy networking capabilities, and more. Nonetheless, it lacks a PCIe 5.0 SSD slot. Despite this minor shortcoming, the iGame Z690D5 Flow remains a top-tier choice for gamers and content creators alike, ensuring seamless performance and efficient multitasking. It also boasts impressive thermals, customizable RGB lighting, and robust overclocking support, further elevating its status as a premium motherboard option.

Colorful provides a broad range of Z790 motherboards at varying price levels and multiple B760-based choices. These motherboards cater to different budget preferences and performance requirements, allowing customers to choose based on their needs. Furthermore, Colorful’s continued commitment to expanding its lineup ensures that consumers can access the latest technological advancements in motherboard designs. Additionally, it includes numerous USB ports, such as a 20 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, and a front Type-C port that supports PD3.0 30W charging capabilities. This ensures that users can connect multiple devices and enjoy fast data transfer speeds while benefitting from efficient charging. Furthermore, including both rear and front Type-C ports enhances versatility in usage and provides added convenience for various connectivity options.

Performance and multitasking capabilities

Testing indicated that the motherboard can handle various tasks, from productivity to gaming, with exceptionally strong performance in Procyon video and photo editing. The iGame Z690D5 Flow also comes bundled with several accessories, like RGB extenders, SATA cables, an instruction manual, and more, along with a USB thumb drive containing driver software. These additional components ensure a seamless and hassle-free setup, allowing users to assemble and optimize their gaming system quickly. The inclusion of the USB thumb drive with driver software provides a convenient way to install essential drivers, promoting the smooth and efficient functioning of the iGame Z690D5 Flow. This features a distinct wavy aesthetic, the Z690D5 Flow deviates from conventional motherboard designs and is bound to catch attention inside any gaming case.

Featured Image Credit: From Tom’s Hardware

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Elon Musk has promised that X creators will soon earn more for their posts, in response to a public blasting from MrBeast.

On December 30, YouTube creator MrBeast took to X to promote a new video. When a fan asked him in the comments to upload on X as well, Musk added his voice with a simple “yeah”.

Creator rewards will increase significantly this year https://t.co/TlQKxFci9y

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 9, 2024

In response, MrBeast wrote: “My videos cost millions to make and even if they got a billion views on X it wouldn’t fund a fraction of it :/ I’m down though to test stuff once monetization is really cranking!”

A few weeks later, on January 9, Musk announced that creator monetization would “increase significantly this year”. While he didn’t mention MrBeast directly, it could well be a response to his and others’ feedback.

With MrBeast uploading for an audience of 229 million subscribers on YouTube, he’s certainly a force to be reckoned with in the creator market. It wouldn’t be surprising for Musk to be led by his preferences.

Elon Musk and X creator talent

It’s long since been a part of Musk’s plans to attract top influencer talent to the platform since he took hold of the reins. As far back as October 2022, Musk promised “higher compensation for creators” than on YouTube – something many, including MrBeast were skeptical of.

“I’d be shocked if you crack that code,” the YouTuber wrote on X at the time. Another major YouTuber, Olajide Olatunji, better known as KSI, told fellow YouTuber Logan Paul on his podcast in August of 2023 “Impaulsive” that he didn’t think X “paid that much.”

“There are going to be people who are like, you got $1,500 from Twitter? Which is cool,” Paul said. “But comparatively is what we’re saying, to other platforms, for hundreds of millions on YouTube, that’s hundreds of thousands of dollars.”

At the moment, creators are eligible to get paid up to 97% of the revenue X has earned from the content they create, after in-app purchase fees. This is capped at $50,000 in lifetime earnings from X across all X monetization products, after which it drops to 90% of revenue.

In real terms, however, it’s unclear what this breaks down as. With ad revenue down across most social media and for X in particular, it’d be wise for any creator not to put all their eggs in one basket.

Featured image: Pixabay

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Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) confirmed steady fourth-quarter revenue on Wednesday (Jan 10) which, while slightly lackluster, still beat analyst expectations.

As reported by Reuters, the world’s biggest contract chipmaker, with Apple and Nvidia among its major clients, saw its results outstrip its expectations as well as those of the market overall, but it was just a modest increase that was posted.

For the same period 12 months previous, revenue came in at $19.93 billion, compared to $20.2 for the final three months of 2023.

The chipmaker behemoth had predicted its fourth-quarter revenue to fall within the range of $18.8b to $19.6b.

Next week, TSMC is due to report on its full fourth-quarter results when it will also set out its predictions for the current quarter and the year ahead.

Who is TSMC and what do they do?

TSMC was founded in 1987 in Taiwan by Morris Chang as the first specialist semiconductor company and through the years it has emerged as an eminent, leader within its niche.

They design and manufacture microchips used in various electronic industries and have recently enjoyed a boom from the proliferation of AI projects and overall advances.

Asia’s most valuable listed company saw its stock price rise 30% in the last year, giving it a company value of $483.3 billion.

TSMC also announced last month that its incumbent chairman, Mark Liu, will step down in the coming months with the board recommending its current CEO and Vice Chairman C.C. Wei to be installed as Liu’s successor with changes to be ratified at the upcoming company election in June.

Amid ongoing US-China trade tensions and the geopolitical vista, Chinese chipmaker Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC) appears to have surpassed the 5nm process barrier, despite U.S. restrictions, by developing a cutting-edge chip for Huawei.

The 5nm process shrinks the smallest features on computer chips to just 5 nanometers wide. It’s exceptionally difficult to do. The technology required to undertake the task successfully is expensive and bleeding edge.

This represents a significant milestone for China plc, reducing its reliance on US suppliers, as well as sending a statement of intent toward its Taiwanese rival, TSMC.

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Meet Genie, a research preview of an all-new kind of generative 3D foundation model #MadeWithGenie

Create 3D things in seconds on Discord
Prototype in various styles
Customize materials
Free during research preview

Try it now https://t.co/NVgbsvn2XU pic.twitter.com/qm7PkdMEAp

— Luma AI (@LumaLabsAI) November 1, 2023

Luma plans to create models that generate 3D objects from mere text descriptions

One model, Genie, released on its Discord server, did just that. The “next-generation” generative AI model will address “uncanny valley” issues in the current-generation GenAI. Uncanny Valley is a theory describing the “eerie sensation” one feels when encountering a robot with human characteristics.

The Luma $43 million was raised in a Series B round with participation from Andreessen Horowitz and other backers, with the round valuing Luma at between $200 million and $300 million; Luma’s war chest now stands at more than $70 million. The 3D model space is crowded with competitive companies vying for positions. Many startups have already dipped their toes in the waters of 3D AI models and object-crafting platforms like 3DFY and Scenario. Nvidia jumped in with its app Get3D, which converts images to 3D models, and ClipForge already generates models from text descriptions. Alex Yu mentioned, “It’s very difficult to generate anything coherent and usable in the first few tries, limiting where you can use the outputs…”

Jain and Yu have already jumped into the planning and work phase of this project and are doubling Luma’s 24-person workforce by the end of next year, all the while piecing together a model-running server cluster of “thousands” of GPUs.

Amit Jain said, “With Genie, for the first time, creating 3D things at scale has become possible with AI, and that’s grown to 100,000 users in just four weeks. But we want to build vastly more capable, intelligent, and useful visual models for our users.”

Inner Image Credit: Luma; Featured Image Credit: Google DeepMind; Pexels

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Apple has announced the sales and pre-order dates for its eagerly-awaited Apple Vision Pro. Customers in the US can look forward to the device becoming available on February 2, 2024, with pre-orders starting on January 19, 2024, at 5 am PST / 8 am EST. The Apple Vision Pro, costing $3,499 for the 256GB storage model, promises to deliver an engaging, immersive user experience, although more extensive storage options have not yet been disclosed. Meanwhile, international customers can expect the Apple Vision Pro to hit their local markets in the following weeks, as the company confirms a staggered global release. In addition to its impressive storage capacity, the device boasts cutting-edge technology and innovative features that will undoubtedly cater to diverse users, further solidifying Apple’s position as a leader in the tech industry.

ZEISS Optical Inserts

Besides the device, Apple is also offering ZEISS Optical Inserts for readers and prescription users, priced at $99 and $149. Buyers will need a prescription to acquire the inserts, which are solely available online since not all prescriptions will be compatible. To ensure a comfortable fit and optimal visual experience, users should consult their eye care professional to confirm their prescription is compatible with the ZEISS Optical Inserts. By offering this option, Apple aims to enhance accessibility to their device, catering to a broader range of customers with varying vision needs.

Apple Vision Pro bundle

The Apple Vision Pro bundle contains a Solo Knit Band and a Dual Loop Band, granting users two distinct fitting alternatives. Other items in the package comprise a Light Seal, two Light Seal Cushions, a front cover for the device, Apple’s Polishing Cloth, an external battery, a USB-C charging cable, and a USB-C power adapter. Additionally, this comprehensive bundle offers versatility and convenience for users, ensuring their Apple device remains protected, charged, and optimally functioning. Including various accessories and fitting options also makes the Apple Vision Pro bundle an attractive choice for first-time buyers and experienced users seeking to enhance their overall experience.

This is an unusually generous offer from Apple, particularly given its past habit of excluding specific items for its high-end devices like iPhones and MacBooks. Apple’s shift towards a more inclusive approach showcases its recognition of customers’ value and satisfaction. This move will undoubtedly solidify the tech giant’s position as a more customer-centric brand, strengthening loyalty and attracting new consumers who appreciate a company that goes the extra mile.

Featured Image Credit:

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Amazon has become the first to add support for Matter casting, of which they are co-founders, to help users control TVs and streaming devices directly from a connected app, reports The Verge.

In an announcement at CES this week, the online retail and tech giant confirmed that Matter casting support will come to its Prime Video app so users can cast content to other Amazon hardware devices.

It is now available for the Echo Show 15, which is Amazon’s largest smart display, and also a Fire TV, but the company says support will soon be coming to Fire TVs, including Panasonic TVs with Fire TV built-in.

To use this feature, you simply open your Prime Video app on your phone or tablet, tap the cast button, and alongside the other casting options, you will now see the Echo Show 15 as a casting choice if you have one. More apps will be added for support in the coming year, including Plex, Sling TV, Starz, ZDF, and Pluto TV.

Amazon principle engineer Chris DeCenzo told The Verge: “We’ve been developing this over a few years, and we want to put Matter casting everywhere.”

What is Matter Casting?

Matter casting works in the same way as Apple’s AirPlay or Google’s Chromecast. Still, its primary USP is that it will be available to every app or hardware maker and will not be limited to a specific OS or exclusive partnerships.

Its goal is to essentially link all devices from all manufacturers via app-to-app communication and even voice control. It would allow users to control their televisions – changing the channels and volume and controlling inputs and outputs, for example – as well as other controllable devices within their homes, such as doorbells, lights, and heating, all via one protocol that allows all products to communicate using the same language.

This removes the current pain points consumers experience when using a variety of products from different manufacturers. For example, you can only cast Apple TV via Apple Airplay — and you can only check your Ring doorbell via Amazon devices or your smartphone or tablet. Matter aims to remove device-restricted casting and usage by linking everything together as one, meaning you could check your Ring doorbell on your smart TV, should you want to.

However, while Apple and Google have their own casting capabilities, there are currently no signs that they intend to implement Matter into their products.

De Cenzo told The Verge that it would be better for the entire industry if these companies were to get on board. “We believe in open standards because it simplifies things for developers,” he said.

Featured Image: Photo by Sean D on Unsplash

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UK regulator Ofcom is on the hiring offensive as it continues to poach executives from the likes of Meta, Google and Microsoft.

A report by the Financial Times claims a newly created team of close to 350 people will be dedicated to tackling online safety, and it intends to hire 100 more throughout 2024.

The media watchdog was handed fresh powers to oversee some of the largest companies in the world when the Online Safety Act (OSA) became law in the UK last October. The law hands Ofcom the power to hold both large and small platforms responsible for any illegal material, such as terror-related content and child pornography, as well as the duty to protect minors online.

The law was passed following an emotive journey through parliament as bereaved parents of children who turned to suicide after consuming harmful content online, urged politicians to be quicker in holding companies to account.

Ofcom has moved quickly to take advantage of such new powers by quickly assembling a team of executives who have worked for the companies it now seeks to regulate, and it recognizes the responsibility it now has to society to ensure it meets the expectations of its new capabilities as a regulator.

Chief Executive of Ofcom, Melanie Dawes, said: “The expectations are very high, but it is as quick as I’ve ever seen a regulator act. Nothing is ever fast enough.”

How will Ofcom enforce the Online Safety Act?

The regulator has already published lengthy codes of conduct and documents that provide detailed guidance to platforms, which they hope will encourage compliance before they can formally enforce their new powers over the next two years.

It will then have the power to fine companies who fall foul of the rules up to 10% of their annual global turnover and also pursue criminal charges against senior managers who fail in their duty of care.

It is estimated that implementing OSA will cost £166 million by 2025, with £56 million of that being spent by April this year.

While these new powers will likely lead to some legal challenges by companies, the OSA is already attracting executives to Ofcom from some of the largest businesses in the world. It has already led to fears that messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, may be forced to leave the UK market over the law’s encryption demands, with the OSA essentially handing itself the power to access and read encrypted messages to help detect illegal content.

Ofcom’s new director of online safety, Jessica Zucker, who previously led Meta‘s misinformation policy team in Europe, has explained that job cuts in the tech industry over the past two years have led to “overwhelming” interest in roles at Ofcom.

“Those still motivated by online safety and proportionality see Ofcom as the alternative,” she said. “You could do it for one company, or you can do it for an entire industry.”

Featured Image: Photo of Ofcom Chief Executive, Melanie Dawes, by Ofcom

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The SEERBRILLS is debuting the Perfecta at CES this year. It is the world’s first AI-powered grill and can cook steaks and other meats in two minutes. The customizable features include controls that say they will make you and your guests the perfect steak, other meats, and other foods in minutes.

As a UK-based startup, SEERGRILLS is an exciting newbie to the cooking scene and, more significantly, new in the AI-powered category. The SEERGRILLS Perfecta is a large appliance when installed on the GrillStation stand, and you’ll want to give it a fair amount of space in your outdoor area. The Perfecta is the first technical advancement of its kind, and CES is a great place to showcase new technology.

The Perfecta runs on a powerful Quad Core processor, and the smart sensors measure not only the food but other environmental facts — all by AI so that your dish will be cooked to perfection every time. The sensor gauges the thickness of the meat and can decipher between other ingredients in the dish to be cooked — so that everything comes out perfectly. The Perfecta has dual vertical infrared burners offering dual-sided cooking for 360° coverage. These infrared burners pulse far and near the food to deliver the correct cooking times and amounts of heat.

Want the perfect steak and other recipes?

There is no need to ever watch, flip, turn, or worry about your food again when cooked on this grill. You can cook much more than just steak. Use it for a quick pizza or rotisserie — and when unexpected, hungry guests show up at your door. The grill is outfitted with the aiChef, which works to understand your personal preferences and then adjust to that information with AI accuracy, deploying smart sensors to control the cooking.

Compatible with the SEERGRILLS app, you will have perfection with the Perfecto every time. This grill will likely not be the only one on the market as other AI treatments are discovered and put to work in the cooking sector. This SEERGRILLS Perfecta will be shown and demonstrated this week for the first time at CES 2024.

Feature and Inner Image Credit: SEERGRILLS

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The 2024 HP Spectre x360 14 has garnered significant interest from tech aficionados, with some even contemplating a switch from their MacBooks. Boasting a highly satisfying keyboard experience, Intel Core Ultra processors with AI-integrated features, and a striking OLED display, the revamped Spectre x360 presents a tempting option. The sleek design and versatility of the Spectre x360, which allows for seamless transition between laptop, tablet, and other modes, have caught the attention of many in the tech community. Furthermore, the improved battery life and an array of customizable configuration options make it a strong contender for those seeking a high-performance and adaptable convertible laptop.

AI enhancements

The AI enhancements in the 2024 Spectre x360 14 provide several advantages, such as better text-to-image model capabilities, increased Adobe Premiere Pro rendering performance, optimized AI app functionality like a superpower, screen shoulder-surfing detection, instant wake enhancements, superior battery life customization, and tailored laptop optimization. These advancements significantly improve user experience by seamlessly integrating various applications while maintaining efficient power usage. Moreover, the innovative features bolster the device’s security and performance, meeting the ever-growing demands of professionals and creative types alike.

OLED display

The HP Spectre x360 14 now sports a 14-inch OLED panel with a variable refresh rate display that adapts to the viewed content. HP also asserts that the laptop’s IMAX enhanced certification vouches for its exceptional levels of color, contrast, and sharpness in the display. This ensures users a more immersive visual experience when watching movies, playing games, or working on graphic-intensive tasks. Additionally, the sleek design and powerful hardware under the HP Spectre x360 14 hood make it a versatile and attractive choice for professionals and creatives alike.

Other notable improvements encompass a 9MP webcam, advanced cooling systems, and a “studio-class” sound quality four-speaker system. But the standout feature that has generated considerable buzz is the unrivaled keyboard experience. Owing to its exceptionally tactile keys, responsive feedback, and bounce-back attributes, the HP Spectre x360 14 now claims to be the top keyboard on the market. Users attest that the typing experience is exceptionally satisfying and comfortable, even during extended periods of use. As a result, the HP Spectre x360 14 becomes an ideal choice for writers, coders, and anyone who demands excellence from their keyboard.

Featured Image Credit: HP

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