Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today unveils the Razer Kishi Ultra, a groundbreaking addition to the world of mobile gaming. The Kishi Ultra, a USB C gaming controller compatible with Android, iPhone 15 series, and iPad Mini, marks a paradigm shift in mobile gaming by offering gamers console grade control with immersive haptics. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, the Kishi Ultra is a full-size console-class controller featuring high quality ergonomics, haptics, and Razer Chroma RGB to deliver a true console gaming experience without compromise.

"With the Razer Kishi Ultra, we're not just elevating mobile gaming; we're transforming it," says Nick Bourne, Head of Razer's Mobile, Console & Streaming Division. "We've taken the essence of console gaming and distilled it into a form factor that works with more devices than ever before, ensuring that the ultimate gaming experience is always within reach."

According to ChinaScope, an effort is currently underway to strengthen Huawei's HarmonyOS platform's presence. The local government of Shenzhen has unveiled an ambitious program aimed at supercharging the development of native applications for the operating system. The "Shenzhen Action Plan for Supporting the Development of Native HarmonyOS Open Source Applications in 2024" outlines several key goals to foster a more robust and competitive ecosystem around HarmonyOS. One primary objective is for Shenzhen-based HarmonyOS apps to account for over 10% of China's total by the end of 2024. To facilitate this, the city plans to establish at least two specialized industrial parks dedicated to HarmonyOS software development across various application domains.

Furthermore, the initiative calls for over 1,000 software companies in Shenzhen to obtain HarmonyOS development talent qualifications, underscoring the city's commitment to cultivating a skilled workforce for the platform. Perhaps most impressively, the action plan encourages eligible companies to ramp up their outsourcing services for HarmonyOS app development, with a lofty target of reaching 500,000 HarmonyOS developers. This would represent a significant influx of developer talent focused on the platform if achieved. The Shenzhen government's push aligns with China's broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign technologies and promote the adoption of domestic alternatives like HarmonyOS. While initially launched by Huawei as a workaround for U.S. sanctions, HarmonyOS has since expanded to power many devices, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and TVs.

In the world where the largest companies are riding the AI train, the biggest of them all—Apple—seemed to stay quiet for a while. Even with many companies announcing their systems/models, Apple has stayed relatively silent about the use of LLMs in their products. However, according to Bloomberg, Apple is not pushing out an AI model of its own; rather, it will license Google's leading Gemini models for its iPhone smartphones. Gemini is Google's leading AI model with three variants: Gemini Nano 1/2, Gemini Pro, and Gemini Ultra. The Gemini Nano 1 and Nano 2 are designed to run locally on hardware like smartphones. At the same time, Gemini Pro and Ultra are inferenced from Google's servers onto a local device using API and the internet.

Apple could use a local Gemini Nano for basic tasks while also utilizing Geminin Pro or Ultra for more complex tasks, where a router sends user input to the available model. That way, users could use AI capabilities both online and offline. Since Apple is readying a suite of changes for iOS version 18, backed by Neural Engine inside A-series Bionic chips, the LLM game of Apple's iPhones might get a significant upgrade with the Google partnership. While we still don't know the size of the deal, it surely is a massive deal for Google to tap into millions of devices Apple ships every year and for Apple to give its users a more optimized experience.

Apple has just been hit with a massive €500 million fine by the European Union over a complaint filed by Spotify over anti-competitive practices. The crux of the complaint is that while Spotify subscriptions purchased on its website are competitive to those of Apple Music, subscriptions purchased on Apple devices via the App Store incur a 30% commission to Apple, which would result in Spotify having to increase its subscription prices, making Spotify lose competitiveness to Apple Music, which comes pre-installed on iOS devices, is deeply integrated with the operating system, and costs less. The Spotify complaint was filed with the European Commission way back in 2019, with the ruling coming out just now. Apple is already facing the EU's heat over barriers to App Store alternatives in the Epic Games case. The company is implementing several platform-level changes with the upcoming iOS 17.4 update scheduled for March 2024, as well as changes to its terms of service. Hopefully Spotify gets its due.

Apple's Vision Pro mixed reality headset is due to launch on February 2—many rival companies in the AR/VR market space will be taking notes once the slickly designed device (with a $3499 starting price) reaches customers. The Wall Street Journal claims that the executive team at Meta is hopeful that Apple's headset carves out a larger space within a niche segment. The latter's "more experimental" products sometimes have surprising reach, although it may take a second (i.e cheaper) iteration of the Vision Pro to reach a mainstream audience. Meta is reported to have invested around $50 billion into its Quest hardware and software development push—industry experts reckon that this product line generates only ~1% of the social media giant's total revenue.

Insider sources suggest that CEO Mark Zuckerberg and his leadership team are keen to see their big money "gamble" finally pay off—Apple's next release could boost global interest in mixed reality headsets. The Wall Street Journal states that Meta staffers "see the Quest and its software ecosystem emerging as a primary alternative to Apple in the space, filling the role played by Google's Android in smartphones." They hope that the Quest's relatively reasonable cost-of-entry will look a lot more attractive when compared to the premium Vision Pro. The report also shines a light on Meta's alleged push to focus more on mixed reality applications, since taking "inspiration" from Apple's WWDC23 presentation: "In addition, some developers are simplifying their apps and favor Apple's design that allows wearers to use their eyes and fingers to control or manipulate what they see. Meta's Quest primarily relies on the use of controllers for games or applications, although it can work with finger gestures."

Apple today announced changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store impacting developers' apps in the European Union (EU) to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The changes include more than 600 new APIs, expanded app analytics, functionality for alternative browser engines, and options for processing app payments and distributing iOS apps. Across every change, Apple is introducing new safeguards that reduce—but don't eliminate—new risks the DMA poses to EU users. With these steps, Apple will continue to deliver the best, most secure experience possible for EU users.

The new options for processing payments and downloading apps on iOS open new avenues for malware, fraud and scams, illicit and harmful content, and other privacy and security threats. That's why Apple is introducing protections—including Notarization for iOS apps, an authorization for marketplace developers, and disclosures on alternative payments—to reduce risks and deliver the best, most secure experience possible for users in the EU. Even with these safeguards in place, many risks remain.

For Backbone's first-ever game collaboration, we've partnered with the legendary Kojima Productions to bring you the Backbone One - DEATH STRANDING Limited Edition controller. This collaboration commemorates the release of DEATH STRANDING DIRECTOR'S CUT for iOS. The Backbone One controller features custom product and packaging designs that blend the innovative design of the Backbone One with the artistic vision of Hideo Kojima and his award-winning title, DEATH STRANDING. Backbone One - DEATH STRANDING Limited Edition includes a free copy of DEATH STRANDING DIRECTOR'S CUT for iOS. Your complimentary copy of the game also gives you the ability to play it on iPad and Mac. The best way to experience DEATH STRANDING on your iPhone 15 is with Backbone! Tomorrow Is In Your Hands.

Designed in Partnership with Kojima Productions
Hideo Kojima, the mastermind behind DEATH STRANDING and founder of Kojima Productions, is renowned for his innovative storytelling and game design approach. His collaboration with Backbone is a further testament to his vision of pushing the boundaries of gaming, blurring the lines between console and mobile experiences.

Best-selling gaming headset and accessory maker Turtle Beach Corporation (Nasdaq: HEAR), today unveiled its eagerly anticipated first-wireless controller for Xbox and PC, the Designed for Xbox Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Wireless Smart Game Controller. Turtle Beach's new king of wireless game controllers delivers ultra-premium performance through precision-crafted components and customization options for Xbox and PC gamers who demand the best. The Stealth Ultra features Turtle Beach's proprietary low-latency wireless connectivity to Xbox consoles and Windows PCs, and Bluetooth for gaming on supported Smart TVs and Android mobile devices. Stealth Ultra's tactile microswitches provide fast, reliable responses and are designed to last up to five times longer than standard buttons found in other controllers. AntiDrift thumbsticks eliminate drift for precise control, and adjustable short and long-pull triggers ensure a response suited to the game being played.

Turtle Beach's Stealth Ultra Controller also introduces a first-of-its-kind full-color Connected Command Display that lets gamers customize RGB lighting, game & chat audio settings, thumbstick sensitivity, mappable buttons, and more. Plus, patented Turtle Beach technology also lets gamers receive social notifications from their phone in the Connected Command Display dashboard on the controller. The Stealth Ultra also features adjustable power modes with the ability to provide up to 30-hours of battery life on a single charge, with power delivered via the included low-profile charging dock that also acts as a convenient place to store the controller when not in use. Turtle Beach's Designed for Xbox Stealth Ultra Wireless Smart Controller is available for pre-order today for $199.99 MSRP from www.turtlebeach.com and participating retailers worldwide. Stealth Ultra launches December 15, 2023.

Cisco and Bang & Olufsen today unveiled new true wireless earbuds built with enterprise-grade features customized for professionals on-the-go. Furthering their partnership to provide customers with top-quality audio experiences whether they're at home, at work or in transit, the Bang & Olufsen Cisco 950 delivers a high-end aesthetic and premium sound combined with advanced security and manageability features.

This product release is an extension of the Cisco and Bang & Olufsen partnership, which addresses increased customer expectation for multifunctional devices that fit their lifestyles in and out of work. As hybrid work continues to enable flexibility in how and where people work, the Bang & Olufsen Cisco 950 enables crystal-clear audio for seamless collaboration from any setting. The earbuds are fully manageable in Cisco's Control Hub platform, giving IT greater visibility and control over their entire fleet of collaboration devices and peripherals.

Best-selling gaming headset and leading gaming accessory maker Turtle Beach Corporation (Nasdaq: HEAR) today announced their acclaimed Turtle Beach Atom Mobile Game Controller is now available for gamers on iPhone. The Atom Controller is the brand's compact and portable mobile gaming controller with a unique design. The Atom's two ergonomic grip modules fit every Apple iPhone 14, 13, 12 & 11 model, and adjustable spring-loaded clamps ensure there is no need to remove phone cases.

The two Atom modules stay connected wirelessly using Turtle Beach's proprietary 2.4 GHz link to perform as a single unit when gaming, while low-latency Bluetooth guarantees a lag-free connection with any smartphone when cloud gaming on Apple Arcade, Xbox Game Pass, GeForce Now, Steam Link, and more. When it's time to stow-and-go, the two Atom modules magnetically combine to effortlessly fit in a pocket or in its included carrying case. Popular Mac fan site Cult of Mac recently reviewed the Atom Controller for iOS and gave it a 4.5/5 score, saying, "Don't struggle with on-screen controls when gaming on your iPhone. The Turtle Beach Atom Controller is the way to go." The Atom Controller for iOS comes in a Cobalt Blue colorway and is available today at Turtle Beach and participating retailers worldwide for $79.95 MSRP.

Apple today debuted iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, designed with aerospace-grade titanium that's strong yet lightweight to deliver Apple's lightest Pro models ever. The new design also features contoured edges and a customizable Action button, allowing users to personalize their iPhone experience. Powerful camera upgrades enable the equivalent of seven pro lenses with incredible image quality, including a more advanced 48MP Main camera system that now supports the new super-high-resolution 24MP default, the next generation of portraits with Focus and Depth Control, improvements to Night mode and Smart HDR, and an all-new 5x Telephoto camera exclusively on iPhone 15 Pro Max. A17 Pro unlocks next-level gaming experiences and pro performance. The new USB‑C connector is supercharged with USB 3 speeds—up to 20x faster than USB 2—and together with new video formats, enables powerful pro workflows that were not possible before. And with the addition of Roadside Assistance via satellite, the iPhone 15 Pro lineup builds on Apple's innovative satellite infrastructure to connect users to help if they have car trouble while off the grid.

iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max will be available in four stunning new finishes, including black titanium, white titanium, blue titanium, and natural titanium. Pre-orders begin Friday, September 15, with availability beginning Friday, September 22.

Razer, the world's leading lifestyle brand for gamers, has once again set the mobile gaming world alight with their latest lineup additions. Spearheading this launch is the widely available Kishi V2 Pro, the extended reach of Razer Edge across Europe and Asia, and the new Xbox Editions of Kishi V2 for iPhone and Kishi V2 Pro for Android.

"At Razer, we believe in pushing the boundaries of what's possible in mobile gaming," said Alvin Cheung, Senior Vice President of Razer's Hardware Business Unit. "With the Kishi V2 line and the extended availability of the Razer Edge, we are empowering gamers to enjoy the full potential of what mobile gaming has to offer."

Best-selling gaming headset and leading gaming accessory maker Turtle Beach Corporation today announced their acclaimed, hyper-portable Turtle Beach Atom Mobile Game Controller is coming to iPhone users next month. The Atom Controller is a compact and portable mobile gaming controller with a unique two-piece design. The Atom's two ergonomic grip modules fit every Apple iPhone 14, 13, 12, and 11 model, and adjustable spring-loaded clamps ensure there's no need to remove phone cases. When gaming with an iPhone placed in the middle, the two Atom Controller modules communicate with each other wirelessly using Turtle Beach's proprietary 2.4 GHz wireless link.

Low-latency Bluetooth connects lag-free to iPhones when cloud gaming on Apple Arcade, Xbox Game Pass, GeForce Now, Steam Link, and more. When it's time to stow-and-go, the two Atom modules magnetically combine to effortlessly fit its included carrying case, and into a pocket. With the earlier launch of the Atom Controller for Android, Game Tyrant called it, "A game changing device that makes mobile gaming so much more enjoyable," while Android Police praised it as, "An excellent device," and gave it a 9/10 review score.

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, already pushes boundaries of mobile gaming, but today unveiled a substantial update to its Razer Nexus app for both iPhone and Android. Nexus 3.0 brings a variety of innovative new features for Android and a polished and upgraded experience for iPhone users. As the main game launcher for Razer Edge & Kishi V2, and driven by Razer's dedication to high-performance gaming, the Razer Nexus 3.0 update embodies innovation, immersion, and intuitive user experiences. The app update is available to users free of charge.

Redefining Game Discovery: The Razer Nexus app becomes the ultimate game concierge, presenting a meticulously curated selection of games for the Razer community. Optional video previews and carefully considered categories minimize the time between discovery and gameplay. This enriched catalog is now live for Android and iPhone users.

Mark Zuckerberg just announced the initial version of Threads, an app built by the Instagram team for sharing with text. Whether you're a creator or a casual poster, Threads offers a new, separate space for real-time updates and public conversations. We are working toward making Threads compatible with the open, interoperable social networks that we believe can shape the future of the internet.

Instagram is where billions of people around the world connect over photos and videos. Our vision with Threads is to take what Instagram does best and expand that to text, creating a positive and creative space to express your ideas. Just like on Instagram, with Threads you can follow and connect with friends and creators who share your interests - including the people you follow on Instagram and beyond. And you can use our existing suite of safety and user controls.

Elgato, a subsidiary of CORSAIR (NASDAQ: CRSR), and leading provider of hardware and software for content creators, today announced a major update to the digital version of its celebrated Stream Deck, Stream Deck Mobile. The Stream Deck Mobile app turns any smartphone into a handheld productivity interface. With today's update, Stream Deck Mobile becomes free to use for up to six keys, for anyone with an iPhone or iPad. Other core app changes introduce more ways for users to control their favorite apps and customize their setup.

Now with its "freemium" app model, Stream Deck Mobile is more accessible than ever for millions of customers worldwide. Users can get the best of Stream Deck on their iPhone or iPad for free - including six keys, unlimited actions, and hundreds of plugins for popular apps. An optional Pro subscription or purchase unlocks advanced features like custom layouts, backgrounds, and up to 64 keys - double that of Elgato's largest physical device, Stream Deck XL.

PFU America, Inc., the U.S.-based subsidiary of PFU Limited and the leader in digital transformation solutions, today announced the launch of the RICOH Portable Monitor Series. Designed as an easily accessible, portable extra screen for enhanced creative collaboration, the new RICOH monitors feature vivid picture quality, a touch screen for drawing and writing, and the option of wired or wireless connectivity.

The RICOH Portable Monitor Series is available in two versions - a 150 wired model and the battery-powered 150BW wireless model. These new monitors are the world's lightest compared to other 15.6 inch touchable OLED products currently on the market, with the wired model weighing in at just over one pound - including the integrated stand, and despite having a touch display - with a super-slim bezel of less than one-fifth of an inch. Both monitors feature a 15.6" OLED display with exceptional image quality, including better contrast, higher brightness and rapid response time. Built for portability, two USB-C inputs near the center of the device enable easy connectivity to video display, or so that two devices connected wirelessly, such as a PC and a smartphone, can be connected at the same time, enabling switching between displays at the touch of a button. An integrated stand, cable management, and two integrated speakers make it easy to set up and manage power, input, and speaker controls.

ASUS today announced the Marshmallow Keyboard, a compact and versatile wireless keyboard available in Oat Milk or Green Tea Latte finishes. Ideal for everyday computing, this durable keyboard features long-lasting up to 10-million-click switches, optimal scissor keys, and two-level adjustable kickstands. A pair of system switch keys enable effortless switching between Windows, ChromeOS, MacOS, iOS, and iPadOS modes.

Distinct colors
The ASUS Marshmallow Keyboard is available in striking Oat Milk or Green Tea Latte color schemes that stand out in a sea of black, beige or gray keyboards. In addition, essentials like the Spacebar, Enter, and Esc keys are in a darker shade for better visibility. These unique colors give ASUS Marshmallow Keyboard a smart, youthful look that perfectly complements ASUS Marshmallow Mouse MD100, as well as modern laptops, PCs, and tablets.

Beats today announces Beats Studio Buds +, an incredible addition to the Studio Buds lineup delivering balanced sound and enhanced features for both iOS and Android users. Now available in a gorgeous transparent look, Studio Buds + boast major improvements to Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency, call performance and battery life to deliver an exceptional true wireless experience. Beats Studio Buds + are available to order starting today in three stunning colors, Black/Gold, Ivory and Transparent, for $169.99 (US).

"As our fastest-selling product ever since its launch, Beats Studio Buds are beloved earphones for so many people around the world and we're thrilled to be taking them to the next level," said Oliver Schusser, Vice President of Beats and Apple Music. "With beautiful new colors to choose from and vast improvements to Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency, call performance and battery life, Beats Studio Buds + deliver an unmatched combination of fashion and function for both iOS and Android consumers."

Leading digital lifestyle accessories brand, Trust Electronics Ltd, is pleased today to announce the launch of its brand-new Lyra keyboard and mouse. With increased desire in the consumer technology industry for smaller size, multi-connective devices, the Lyra addresses consumer preferences by offering a compact, wireless product with plenty of additional features. The Trust Lyra is available to buy from Amazon for £29.99 and the Lyra Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Set for RRP £44.99.

With the ability to wirelessly connect up to three devices at once via a single USB receiver or Bluetooth, users can easily switch between working on their desktop, laptop and tablet by using the dedicated buttons. The ability to work productively and without constraints has also been taken into account, with multi-OS support providing compatibility with Windows, iOS, iPadOS, MacOS, Android and Chrome OS. In addition, a built-in rechargeable battery offers up to 6 months of battery life and the possibility of recharging whilst working.

Apple announced a joint partnership with Google in submitting a new industry specification to curtail unwanted tracking via Bluetooth location-tracking devices currently on the market. The new standard would provide tracker detection across both iOS and Android, regardless of the brand of the tracker being used. The proposal addresses the concerns surrounding the ease in which a person can be tracked by a sneaky location-tracker stuck to their person, possession, or vehicle by bad-faith actors using the technology to stalk individuals. Apple has previous released updates to their Find My service which will alert the victim if they are being tracked by an unknown AirTag, but this tech relies on the person having an iPhone. Third party detection apps exist on Android, but they're far from perfect and aren't currently officially supported by any of the parent companies making Bluetooth location trackers.

The proposal has received industry wide support from other manufacturers such as Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security, and Pebblebee. Advocacy groups such as The National Network to End Domestic Violence and the Center for Democracy & Technology have also contributed to the specification draft. The draft has been submitted via the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) with a three month review and comment period open to interested parties that would like to weigh in on the proposed specification. After this period Apple and Google will work to address concerns and feedback before putting the specification into production by the end of 2023, unifying a tracking alerts system on all future versions of iOS and Android.

Apple today announced it will host its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in an online format from June 5 through 9, 2023, with an opportunity for developers and students to celebrate in person at a special experience at Apple Park on opening day. Free for all developers, WWDC23 will spotlight the latest iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS advancements. As part of Apple's ongoing commitment to helping developers create innovative apps, the event will also provide them with unique access to Apple engineers, as well as insight into new technologies and tools to help them realize their visions.

"WWDC is one of our favorite times of the year at Apple because it's an opportunity to connect with the talented developers from around the globe who make this community so extraordinary," said Susan Prescott, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations. "WWDC23 is going to be our biggest and most exciting yet, and we can't wait to see many of you online and in person at this very special event!"

All hail the new king of ultra-premium wireless gaming audio! Leading gaming accessory maker Turtle Beach Corporation today revealed its new flagship wireless multiplatform gaming headset - the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro. Turtle Beach's Stealth Pro brings the award-winning and best-selling gaming headset brand's top features to your multiverse for gaming on Xbox, PlayStation, Windows PCs, Mac, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. With Stealth Pro, gamers will experience the highest-quality gaming audio through a hand-matched set of Turtle Beach's large and powerful signature 50 mm Nanoclear drivers—with 56% more surface area than competitors' 40 mm drivers—for more bass and a vast, immersive soundstage.

Stealth Pro also offers the most effective noise-cancellation in a gaming headset, from full noise-transparency where you can still hear ambient background noise, to 25dB noise reduction that blocks out most distractions so you can focus on winning. Gamers also have the choice of using the Stealth Pro's dual built-in mics, or the removable TruSpeak boom mic which reduces background noise 10x more than the competition. Both mics feature Turtle Beach's S.M.A.R.T. (Sonic Measurement Audio Reduction Tuning) microphone technology that picks up just your voice, and nothing else.

Geekbench 6, the latest version of the best cross-platform benchmark, has arrived and is loaded with new and improved workloads to measure the performance of your CPUs and GPUs. Geekbench 6 is available for download today for Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux.

A lot has changed in the tech world in the past three years. Smartphone cameras take bigger and better pictures. Artificial intelligence, especially machine learning, has become ubiquitous in general and mobile applications. The number of cores in computers and mobile devices continues to rise. And how we interact with our computers and mobile devices has changed dramatically - who would have guessed that video conferencing would suddenly surge in 2020?

IK Multimedia releases iRig Stream Mic Pro, combining a professional multi-pattern condenser microphone and 24-bit, 96 kHz audio interface for iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac and PC into a single ultra-portable solution for music and content creation. iRig Stream Mic Pro makes it easier than ever for users to share their voice and music.

Multi-pattern Condenser Microphone
With dual mic capsules, iRig Stream Mic Pro offers selectable cardioid, figure 8, omnidirectional or stereo pickup patterns. These patterns range from noise-rejecting to immersive audio, so whether it's recording a podcast, interview, instrument or ensemble, the sound signal is crisp, clear and detailed with easily adjustable gain and selectable high-pass filter.