Microsoft has recently rolled out a new Xbox update preview (via) for Xbox insiders where insiders will get to enjoy various new features and fixes before they are released officially. Well this new update has now grabbed the attention of many Xbox fans as with the new update, the company is enabling support for external USB drives larger than 16TB for insiders.

It is revealed that newly formatted drives that are larger than 16TB will be formatted with multiple partitions to utilize all available space for games and apps. These will appear as multiple devices in the storage list, it is also mentioned that drives greater than 16TB that have already been formatted will be unaffected by this change and would need to be reformatted to take advantage of updated support for larger drives.

This new update rolled out to Xbox insiders hints that Xbox consoles will soon support USB drives larger than 16TB for all users.

Other than this extended support for insiders, the update also includes some other new features and fixes.

Xbox Update Preview For Insiders

New Features

A random subset of users will see a new bade added to games on sale that users don’t already have access to, showing the percentage off directly on the Home screen.

Fixes Included

• Accessibility- Fixes to improve Narrator readout in Settings, particularly in power options and when enabling remote play
• Entertainment apps- Fixed an issue where some media apps could become laggy or sluggish after extended playback
• System- Various updates to properly reflect local languages across the console

Further, it is also revealed that the previous reports by insiders of the console shutting down or restarting unexpectedly when testing the network connection are not being ignored and Xbox engineers are working on it to find a solution.

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Microsoft has unveiled the latest addition to its celebrated Cipher series: the Xbox Wireless Controller – Pulse Cipher Special Edition. Following the popular Sky Cipher and Ghost Cipher models, the Pulse Cipher offers players a nostalgic, transparent design paired with a cutting-edge twist. While it marks the third entry in the Cipher lineup, the Pulse Cipher distinguishes itself with unique features and bold aesthetics.
The Pulse Cipher showcases a striking red transparent top case that provides a view of the silver midframe, blending retro appeal with futuristic style. Dark red accents adorn the bumpers, buttons, and two-toned thumbsticks, complementing the red diamond-shaped rubberized grips. A metallic hybrid D-pad and matching metallic triggers enhance the premium feel of the controller. This vibrant design is set to energize gaming sessions with a seamless mix of modern functionality and enduring nostalgia.

Players will benefit from the controller’s advanced features, including the ability to customise button input profiles via the Xbox Accessory Hub. The dedicated Share button allows users to capture and preview screenshots or videos effortlessly. With wireless compatibility across Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One consoles, PCs, iOS, and Android devices, the Pulse Cipher ensures a versatile gaming experience. Additionally, it features a 3.5mm audio jack and boasts a battery life of up to 40 hours, although actual performance may vary.

 

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Pricing and Availability

The Xbox Wireless Controller – Pulse Cipher Special Edition is now available for pre-order in the USA for $74.99 USD. It will be available in the US starting February 4, 2025. Indian gamers can look forward to its release on March 9, 2025, as revealed on the Indian product page, though pricing details for the region are yet to be revealed.

Key Specifications:

• Design: Red transparent top case with silver midframe, dark red accents, and diamond-shaped rubberized grips.
• D-pad and Triggers: Metallic hybrid D-pad and matching metallic triggers.
• Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, iOS, Android (check compatibility at xbox.com/controller-compatibility).
• Features: Dedicated Share button, customisable profiles via Xbox Accessory Hub.
• Battery Life: Up to 40 hours (varies with usage).
• Audio: 3.5mm audio jack.
• Price: $74.99 USD (USA); Indian price Not Yet announced.

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The Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi has introduced a new addition to the HyperOS ecosystem: Winplay Engine, which will let Xiaomi tablets play Windows games without an internet connection.

Winplay Engine is a three-layer virtualization translation technology, it arrives with support for handle/keyboard and mouse connection. With the help of this cutting-edge technology, GPU performance loss is only 2.9%. Users can also easily access games from popular platforms like Steam and GOG.

This engine will redefine tablet gaming by enabling Windows game compatibility at the system level. The Winplay engine leverages the capabilities of Xiaomi HyperCore, which will provide users with ultra-high performance and stability while running Windows games locally.

After Xiaomi’s official announcement, tipster Digital Chat Station also shared a video on the Weibo platform that showcases WinPlay running Windows games on Pad 6S Pro, including seamless compatibility with Xbox controllers.

Currently, the WinPlay Engine is in its internal testing phase, but it is only for Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4 users. To participate in the internal test, Pad 6S Pro 12.4 users need to apply for OS2 AI Treasure Box internal drawing permissions in the Xiaomi community. The company has not revealed the timeline for the formal release of WinPlay engine.

It is expected that Xiaomi may soon start the internal testing of WinPlay Engine for more Xiaomi Pads. Stay tuned with The Tech Outlook for more updates.

Via 1, 2.

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Bengaluru’s greatest pop-culture extravaganza is back- Comic Con 2025. At this event, there will be a showcase of comics, cosplay, collectible merch, toys, immersive fan experiences, gaming, and more. Comic-Con 2025 will be held from 18^th January to 19th January at KTPO Whitefield, Bengaluru. Well, there is good news for all the OnePlus fans, OnePlus India has officially announced its participation at the Comic-Con 2025 event.

Game on at Comic Con, Bengaluru!#GameonOnePlus #comiccon pic.twitter.com/N5bQBoAgba

— OnePlus India (@OnePlus_IN) January 16, 2025

There will be a OnePlus experience zone where you can get hands-on experience with the OnePlus 13 series, OnePlus has also invited two of the most exciting gamers- Mizo Gaming and Nayan Shelke (assassinsarmy01) to join their booth. These gamers will be playing games with you, sharing tips, and throwing down challenges. You can also win exciting goodies and have an unforgettable time with the community. OnePlus will be giving away 60 exclusive Comic Con passes to community members.

The community members were asked to comment about their dream gaming setup around a OnePlus smartphone and then the top 60 entries were said to receive an exclusive 1-day Bengaluru Comic Con pass, giving you access to all the action for an entire day. The last day for submission of entries was January 16th, 11:59 PM.

Here are some Contest rules

1. Keep your entry original and creative. Plagiarism will lead to disqualification.
2. Each user can submit only one entry.
3. Winners will be chosen by the Community Team and announced on January 17th, 2025.
4. Passes are valid for one person for either day (18th or 19th January) per entry and cannot be exchanged or transferred.
5. There will be no travel or accommodation provided by OnePlus, and any arrangements would have to be made by oneself.

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Nintendo has officially unveiled its highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, the successor to the original Nintendo Switch, set to release in 2025. The company shared a first look at the hardware in a video titled “Nintendo Switch 2 – First Look Trailer”, now available on Nintendo of America’s YouTube channel. Additional details can be found on the official Nintendo Switch 2 website.

Backward Compatibility and Game Support

Nintendo Switch 2 will support exclusive games designed for the new system while allowing players to enjoy most physical and digital Nintendo Switch games. However, some Nintendo Switch titles may not be fully compatible with the new Switch 2. Nintendo has announced that details about specific compatibility issues will be shared on their website at a later date.

Nintendo Switch Online members will be able to continue using their service seamlessly on Nintendo Switch 2, maintaining access to online multiplayer and other features.

 

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Nintendo Direct: April 2, 2025

For an in-depth look at Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo has scheduled a special Nintendo Direct event titled “Nintendo Switch 2 – 4.2.2025”. The broadcast will air on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, and is expected to provide more information on the console’s features, games, and launch plans.

To celebrate the launch, Nintendo will hold Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events, giving fans a chance to go hands-on with the new system. These events will take place in cities worldwide. Ticket registrations for the events will open soon, and a Nintendo Account will be required to participate.

Event Locations and Dates

North America:

• New York: April 4-6, 2025
• Los Angeles: April 11-13, 2025
• Dallas: April 25-27, 2025
• Toronto: April 25-27, 2025

Europe:

• Paris: April 4-6, 2025
• London: April 11-13, 2025
• Milan: April 25-27, 2025
• Berlin: April 25-27, 2025
• Madrid: May 9-11, 2025
• Amsterdam: May 9-11, 2025

Oceania:

• Melbourne: May 10-11, 2025

Asia:

• Tokyo (Makuhari): April 26-27, 2025
• Seoul: May 31-June 1, 2025
• Hong Kong: To be announced
• Taipei: To be announced

The post Nintendo Switch 2 to Launch in 2025: First Look, Event Schedule, and Key Details Revealed appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

As we dive into the new year, PlayStation Plus is rolling out a new batch of games for January 2025, expanding its Game Catalog for Extra and Premium members. The latest lineup introduces a wide range of titles, including the highly anticipated God of War Ragnarök, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, Atlas Fallen: Reign of Sand, and more. These games will be available to play from January 21st, 2025.

New Games Added to PlayStation Plus Game Catalog

God of War Ragnarök (PS4, PS5)
Following the monumental success of its predecessor, God of War Ragnarök continues Kratos and Atreus’ journey through the Nine Realms. With Fimbulwinter in full swing, Kratos and Atreus face the impending Ragnarök, challenging their bond and their beliefs. Players will explore breathtaking landscapes, confront Norse gods and monsters, and navigate a world on the brink of destruction.

Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name (PS4, PS5)
Kazuma Kiryu, once a feared yakuza, is forced back into the life he left behind after faking his own death to protect his family. In this thrilling action-packed game, Kiryu goes under the alias of “Joryu” as he faces new adversaries and delves into a gripping narrative. Featuring exciting combat and vibrant locations, this game offers a unique action experience.

Atlas Fallen: Reign of Sand (PS5)
Atlas Fallen is an action RPG where players master the sands to explore a vast fantasy world filled with danger and legendary creatures. This version of the game includes an expanded world, revamped progression, and new enemies. The game can be played solo or in online two-player co-op as players hunt down colossal foes in spectacular combat.

SD Gundam Battle Alliance (PS4, PS5)
Join the Gundam universe in this new action RPG, where you will correct a distorted history by leading a squad of Mobile Suits from across the Gundam timeline. Whether solo or with friends, players will engage in epic battles and experience iconic Gundam scenes, all while unlocking new Mobile Suits and improving their squadron.

Sayonara Wild Hearts (PS4)
Sayona Wild Hearts is an arcade action game that fuses high-speed motorcycle riding, skateboarding, and sword battles to a pop soundtrack. Players will embark on a dreamlike journey to restore balance to the universe, chasing scores and discovering the harmony of the cosmos along the way.

ANNO: Mutationem (PS4, PS5)
Explore the cyberpunk world of ANNO: Mutationem, where players take on the role of Ann, a combat-trained lone wolf in a vast metropolis filled with mystery and danger. The game blends 2D and 3D action-adventure gameplay with RPG elements for a visually stunning experience.

Orcs Must Die! 3 (PS4, PS5)
Get ready for orc-slaying mayhem in this action-packed tower defense game. With an arsenal of traps and weapons, players will face wave after wave of orcs, either solo or with a friend. Orcs Must Die! 3 builds on the series’ successful formula, adding more orcs, more traps, and even more destruction.

Citizen Sleeper (PS4, PS5)
In Citizen Sleeper, players control a digitised human consciousness living in an artificial body owned by a corporation. Inspired by tabletop RPGs, the game uses dice rolls and player-driven choices to create a dynamic narrative set in a strange metropolis filled with diverse inhabitants and factions.

Poker Club (PS4)
Poker Club lets you live the life of a professional poker player with ultra-realistic 4K visuals and ray tracing. Players can compete in various Texas Hold’em tournaments or just play casually, working their way up through the ranks and perfecting their poker skills.

PlayStation Plus Premium Additions

Two classic PS2 games have also made their way to PlayStation Plus Premium:

• Indiana Jones and the Staff of Kings (PS4, PS5)
• Medievil II (PS4, PS5)

Both games have been enhanced with up-rendering, rewind, quick save, and custom video filters for a more modern and accessible gaming experience. Players will follow Indiana Jones in an epic global adventure and join Sir Daniel Fortesque in his quest to stop an evil sorcerer’s plans in Medievil II.

Earlier Additions for January 2025

Earlier this month, PlayStation Plus added three notable titles to the Game Catalog:

• Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League (PS5)
• Need for Speed Hot Pursuit Remastered (PS4)
• The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe (PS4, PS5)

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Nintendo Switch has been the favorite of many gamers since the time of its launch and this console has been a huge success for the company. Then later in 2021, the Nintendo Switch OLED was launched which was said to bring the versatility of the Nintendo Switch experience. Well for a long time, there have been reports and rumors that Nintendo is working on Nintendo Switch 2 as well.

It was said that Nintendo Switch 2 could make its debut before April 2025, but till now the company has yet not made any official announcement regarding the same increasing the wait of Nintendo fans. Recently @91mobiles in partnership with tipster OnLeaks has exclusively shared the renders and 360-degree video of Nintendo Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2: Renders And 360 Degree Video Leaked Online

According to the report, Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to feature an 8.4-inch panel and it will most likely be an OLED panel. With Joy-cons attached to the console it is said to measure 271×116.4×31.4mm while without the Joy-cons, it is tipped to measure 200.5×116.4x14mm. Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons is said to arrive with dimensions 116.4×40.8×31.4mm.

Now coming to the renders, power and volume rockers are present on the right at the top while the left side features a game card slot. It is assumed that the upcoming console would be backward compatible with current Switch titles. There is a 3.5mm headphone jack on the top and next to it is the USB Type-C port which will likely be used to charge the device when in handheld or tabletop mode. There also seems to be a sensor of sorts.

At the bottom there is a central dack flanked by two guide pins while there are also two openings towards the sides that could be the speakers. On the back, there is a U- shaped back stand that will be used in tabletop mode. This is an improvement over the Nintendo Switch OLED.

If we look at the Joy-Cons, there are + and – buttons, D-Pad, and sticks in the same layout as seen in previous models. The right Joy-con features a new button above the home button. There are bigger trigger buttons next to the ZL and ZR buttons that could be used to detach the magnetic Joy-cons from Switch 2.

Check out the 360-degree video here-

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The much-awaited title Assassins Creed Shadows was earlier scheduled to officially release on 14^th November 2024 but in September, Ubisoft announced that the scheduled launch would be delayed by 3 months- 14^th February 2025 in order to polish and refine the experience and further develop key features. The company also refunded the pre-orders.

Now when most of the fans were waiting for the game to be officially released next month, Ubisoft has once again postponed the release date of this game. In a statement posted on X, Marc-Alexis Cote on behalf of all teams working on this game has firstly extended heartfelt thanks for the unwavering support since the September announcement.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows now releases March 20, 2025. pic.twitter.com/wTPzY0oiHy

— Assassin's Creed (@assassinscreed) January 9, 2025

It is revealed that since November, the company has been sharing its progress through gameplay overviews. Each week has brought valuable feedback from the community, while all remarkable strides have been made, the company believes that a few additional weeks are needed to implement that feedback and ensure an even more ambitious and engaging day-one experience. Therefore, accordingly, the new release date is set to 20^th March 2025. It is also said that more updates will be shared very soon.

In its official press release, Ubisoft mentioned that it is taking decisive steps to reshape the group to deliver a best-in-class player experience, enhance operational efficiency, and maximize value creation. This additional month taken for the development of the game will allow the team to better incorporate player feedback gathered over the past three months and help create the best conditions for launch by continuing to engage closely with the increasingly positive Assassins Creed community.

It is also mentioned that in 2024-25 Q3 net bookings are now expected at € 300 million primarily reflecting lower-than-expected holiday sales, mainly for Star Wars Outlaws, as well as the discontinuation of XDefiant. Ubisoft still expects approximately break-even non-IFRS operating income and free cash flow for FY2024-25. Net bookings are now expected to come in at around €19 billion and include new partnership opportunities for Ubisoft’s games and franchises as well as for the monetization of the streaming rights acquired last fiscal year.

Yves Guillemot, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, said “We made good progress on the strategic and execution reviews initiated a few months ago and are confident that this will position Ubisoft for a stronger future. We have taken decisive steps to reshape the Group to deliver best-in-class player experiences, enhance operational efficiency,y and maximize value creation. We also recently appointed leading advisors and are actively exploring various strategic and capitalistic options to unlock the full value potential of our assets. We are convinced that there are several potential paths to generate value from Ubisoft’s assets and franchises. Additionally, we are all behind our teams’ efforts to create the most ambitious Assassin’s Creed opus of the franchise and made the decision to provide an extra month of development to Shadows in order to better incorporate the player feedback gathered over the past three months that will enable us to fully deliver on the potential of the game and finish the year on a strong note.”

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Yesterday Sony officially announced the launch of XYN^TM  hardware and software solutions to support the creation of spatial content. On Tuesday, the company also announced that a new Midnight Black Collection of PS5 accessories will be launching next month.

New year, new look 🖤

Pre-order the Midnight Black Collection starting January 16: https://t.co/CHSk17meRr pic.twitter.com/STrtJF6y0X

— Sony (@Sony) January 8, 2025

The accessories include- a PlayStation Portal Remote player, DualSense Edge Wireless Controller, Pulse Elite wireless headset, and Pulse Explore wireless earbuds. These upcoming accessories will perfectly complement the Midnight Black PS5 accessories already available- DualSense wireless controller and PS5 Console covers.

As seen in the teaser, each accessory will feature a unique, rich shade of black, with sleek detailing on various buttons and accents such as the PlayStation logo. The Midnight Black design extends to the included charging case for Pulse Explore earbuds, charging hanger for the Pulse Elite headset, and carrying case for the DualSense Edge controller. The Pulse Elite wireless headset and Pulse Explore wireless earbuds will also include a felt grey carrying case.

PS5 Accessories New Midnight Black Collection- Availability

This new collection will launch on 20^th February 2025 while pre-orders for these accessories will start from 16^th January at 10 AM local time (10 AM ET in the US) on direct.playstation.com. Participating retailers will also begin pre-orders on the same date. Here are the pricing details-

• PlayStation Portal Remote Player Midnight Black- 199.99 USD, 219.99 EURO, 199.99 GBP, 34,980 YEN
• Pulse Explore Wireless Earbuds Midnight Black- 199.99 USD, 219.99 EURO, 199.99 GBP, 34,980 YEN
• Pulse Elite Wireless headset Midnight Black- 149.99 USD, 149.99 EURO, 129.99 GBP, 22,980 YEN
• DualSense Edge Wireless Controller Midnight Black- 199.99 USD, 219.99 EURO, 199.99 GBP, 24,980 YEN

The post Sony Will Launch New Midnight Black Collection Of PS5 Accessories Next Month; Pre-Order Starts On January 16 appeared first on The Tech Outlook.

Splash Damage developers have just announced that Transformers: Reactivate has been canceled. Through a post on X, they revealed that along with the game’s cancellation, they will also be downsizing their overall workforce. However, the reason behind the cancellation was not mentioned in the post.

For those who remember, Transformers: Reactivate was first showcased almost 2 years ago at The Game Awards 2022. The announcement trailer featured an intense battle scene with Autobots, including Ironhide and Ratchet, fighting against invaders. It was planned as a 1-4 player online action title where players would discover and reactivate Transformers to combat an alien threat targeting Earth and Cybertron. However, after its announcement, there were no updates on the project.

This cancellation comes at a time when the Transformers gaming franchise has primarily focused on mobile titles and collaborations, including the upcoming Transformers: Galactic Trials and character appearances in established games like Overwatch 2 and Fortnite.

“This decision did not come lightly,” Splash Damage stated in their announcement. The studio, known for developing Gears Tactics, will now focus on supporting affected employees while maintaining their remaining projects.

The company noted their positive relationship with Hasbro throughout development, describing them as “an incredible and supportive partner,” and expressed interest in potential future collaborations.

Splash Damage’s immediate priorities include supporting team members affected by the restructuring while continuing development on their other projects. The studio emphasized their commitment to “building a stronger Splash Damage for the future.”

An update on Transformers: Reactivate. pic.twitter.com/jGkzZ0begd

— Splash Damage (@splashdamage) January 8, 2025

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