Technology

As technology continues to evolve, Apple’s latest release, the iPhone 16e, marks a significant milestone with the introduction of its first custom-designed C1 modem. This move raises questions about how Apple’s new modem compares to the Qualcomm modems it has relied on for years. Recent performance tests reveal intriguing insights into the capabilities of the iPhone 16e, particularly in terms of speed and efficiency.

In many sub-6GHz speed tests, the iPhone 16e performs nearly on par with, or even better than, the iPhone 16, although results can vary significantly depending on the network. Data from Ookla indicates that users on Verizon and AT&T experienced better median download speeds with the iPhone 16e compared to the iPhone 16. However, T-Mobile users reported slightly higher median download speeds with the iPhone 16, highlighting the nuanced performance variations across different carriers.

As the gaming community eagerly awaits the upcoming Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2, speculation surrounding the release of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 continues to intensify. While Nintendo has yet to confirm an official release date, whispers of a May 15 launch have begun to circulate, fueled by a combination of logical deductions and community insights.

The chatter surrounding the Switch 2’s release has produced a variety of potential timelines, ranging from an immediate post-Direct launch in April to a more conservative approach extending into the 2025 holiday season. However, the latest insights from ThunderStash Gaming, shared via social media platform X, suggest that May 15 could be the perfect date for fans to finally get their hands on the new console.

As we step into 2025, the landscape of storage technology continues to evolve, particularly with the emergence of PCIe 5.0 SSDs. Two years have passed since the first gaming-focused PCIe 5.0 SSDs entered the market, and while initial offerings like the Crucial T700 struggled to impress, recent developments suggest that we might be on the cusp of a breakthrough. However, the journey to making PCIe 5.0 the new standard for gaming storage is still fraught with challenges.

In a recent leak from renowned leaker Sonny Dickson, a new set of nonfunctional iPhone 17 dummies has surfaced, providing an exciting preview of Apple’s next-generation smartphone lineup. Known for his reliable leaks, Dickson’s revelations are particularly valuable for case and accessory makers who are gearing up for the upcoming release. The images released showcase an intriguing design that aligns closely with the renders circulating in the tech community, especially highlighting the expansive camera bump expected to be featured on all models except the standard iPhone 17.

Samsung has officially announced the launch of its One UI 7 beta program, which began on March 6, 2025. This new update will be available to select Galaxy devices, following its initial rollout for the Galaxy S24 series in December 2024. The beta program is expected to last at least a month, with a stable version anticipated to be released in April.

The beta program will initially be available for the latest Galaxy foldables, specifically the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. However, other devices will join the program later in March. The full list of compatible devices includes:

As MAR10 Day approaches on March 10, Nintendo is rolling out a series of exciting discounts and promotions for fans of the iconic Mario franchise. The company has announced special discounts on select Nintendo Switch titles, allowing gamers to dive deeper into the Mushroom Kingdom at a fraction of the cost.

For those looking to explore the rich history of Mario games, Nintendo is also providing a fantastic opportunity to experience classic titles through its Switch Online service. From now until March 17, players can take advantage of a free 14-day trial of the Nintendo Switch Online membership. However, it’s important to note that the trial code must be activated by March 31, so be sure to mark your calendars!

In a shocking turn of events, Warner Bros. has announced the closure of three studios, including the renowned Monolith Productions, known for their groundbreaking titles such as Blood, F.E.A.R., and Shadow of Mordor. This decision has sent ripples through the gaming community, especially as it comes with the cancellation of Monolith’s highly anticipated Wonder Woman game. The company’s new strategy, focusing on “fewer but bigger franchises,” raises questions about the sustainability of such an approach in an industry that has been grappling with mismanagement and creative stagnation.

In a delightful fusion of nostalgia and modern craftsmanship, legendary designer Susan Kare has unveiled a new collection of 32 retro-inspired icons that transcend the digital realm. Collaborating with Asprey Studio, Kare’s “Esc Keys” collection features mechanical keyboard keycaps and wearable pendants, each adorned with charming 8-bit pixel art illustrations. From playful depictions of dogs and plants to representations of mail and coffee, these designs are sure to resonate with fans of Kare’s iconic work.

As the weekend arrives, gamers and tech enthusiasts alike have a golden opportunity to snag some fantastic deals on the latest games and gadgets. From beloved Nintendo classics to exciting new releases, there’s something for everyone this Sunday, February 18, 2025. Here’s a roundup of the best deals available right now.

One of the standout offers is Kirby and the Forgotten Land, available for just $39.99 at Best Buy, down from its original price of $59.99. This title marks a significant evolution for the Kirby franchise, transitioning into a 3D gameplay experience. With an engaging soundtrack and immersive environments, it’s a must-play for any Nintendo Switch owner.

As the gaming community eagerly anticipates the arrival of Season 15 of Overwatch, Game Director Aaron Keller has unveiled exciting news that promises to delight players: the return of lootboxes, offering an unprecedented amount of free cosmetics. This season marks a significant milestone for the game, not only due to its innovative content updates but also because of its nostalgic nod to players’ desires for more accessible rewards.

In a recent interview with popular streamer Emongg, Keller shared insights into what players can expect from the revamped lootbox system. After Overwatch transitioned to a free-to-play model, many players found it challenging to acquire premium cosmetics, especially the coveted Legendary-tier skins. However, Keller’s announcement indicates that players will soon have a much easier time obtaining these coveted items.