GTA VI Might Let Music Artists Upload Their Tracks Directly Into the Game

If you’ve ever played a GTA — especially the classics — you know that the music is basically another character in the story. It’s part of the charm, the nostalgia, and the immersive vibe. Now, a juicy rumor suggests Rockstar could be flipping the script completely, transforming Grand Theft Auto VI into a kind of music streaming playground on its own terms. And yes, it might be more than just a hype bubble; this could be the future of how we think about game soundtracks.

The Not-So-Secret Soundtrack Revolution Coming in GTA VI?

During an episode of New Rory and Mal, Grammy winner Jermaine Dupri dropped what almost sounds like a bombshell: artists will be able to upload their music directly to an upcoming GTA game. That’s not just a playlist to select from — apparently, artists will have a way to insert unreleased tracks, making the game’s radio stations feel more like a curated, personalized experience rather than just an in-game jukebox. You know, that feeling of cruising through Vice City with a metal anthem blasting, but now… it could be a lot more customized, a lot more indie, maybe even a sort of walled-off streaming service inside the game itself.

Here’s where it gets even more interesting: Dupri also mentioned that Drake will have his own radio station. But more than that, the rapper himself might upload exclusive music — tracks that aren’t on Spotify, Apple Music, or any other streaming giant. Imagine a world where GTA VI becomes an intersection of gaming, music discovery, and artist promotion, all at once. Could we be looking at a game that does for in-game music what Spotify did for playlists? Because of course it is.

Strangely enough, the details come from Dupri’s own handle on the situation, and he admits to only “understanding” the feature — so it might still be in the realm of early testing or internal planning. Still. Rockstar has always leaned heavily on its soundtracks, but the idea of letting artists upload directly isn’t just a fun gimmick; it could radically change how music is integrated into open-world games. It’s a logical evolution. After all, the GTA series has always curated its soundtrack with remarkable care, often featuring iconic tracks or themed stations. Giving artists direct access might elevate that to a new level, making the game a living, breathing, music-centric experience.

One can’t help but think back to the nostalgic days of cruising Vice City with Iron Maiden’s “2 Minutes to Midnight,” Megadeth’s “Peace Sells,” or Ozzy’s “Bark at the Moon” pounding in the background. If Rockstar does roll with this idea, it could give players the power to craft their perfect soundtrack for exploring a stunning, hyper-detailed Miami or some other fictional metropolis. But the real game-changer? Opening the floodgates for a multitude of emerging artists, unsigned bands, and indie acts to sneak into a high-profile platform like this. That’s a win for music discovery that simply can’t be understated.

Of course, before anyone starts dreaming of a full-on streaming hub inside GTA, let’s remember: this is all still rumor. We’re not sure how the backend will work, what the limits are, or whether this will be available across all platforms at launch. Rockstar has a history of teasing big features and iterating until they find the sweet spot. What’s clear is that, given how music has been intertwined with GTA’s identity since the beginning, it’s not just playing with fire — it’s adding a whole new flame.

Grand Theft Auto VI is set to launch on May 26th, 2026 across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Series S. If these rumors hold true, players won’t just be tearing through a sprawling new city—they’ll potentially be crafting soundtracks that follow them wherever they go, blurring the lines between gaming, streaming, and music curation in ways we’ve only barely begun to imagine.

Google’s Surprising Return to the Photo Editing Ring: Snapseed Gets a Major Makeover

If you thought Google’s photo editing app was dead or just quietly fading into obscurity, think again. After years — yes, years — of silence, the search giant has dropped a hefty update for Snapseed on iOS. And boy, did they up their game. Version 3.0 not only brings a fresh coat of paint but also a slew of new tools that could potentially re-ignite interest in what was once a beloved, no-strings-attached editing companion.

Redesign with Purpose: A Fresh Interface, Too

Let’s be honest — Snapseed’s UI was starting to look like a relic. Now it sports a totally revamped main screen boasting a grid of your recently edited images, making it easier to pick up where you left off. Adding new photos is now just a tap away via a floating button—simple, intuitive, and right in the thumb’s reach. The interface is divided into three main tabs: Looks, Faves, and Tools. The latter is a clever addition—allowing users to pin preferred editing options for quick access. And the export button? Moved to the top right, clunky no more.

New Filters, Styles, and Classic Tools—A Nostalgic Yet Modern Approach

But what’s a visual overhaul without some bells and whistles? Snapseed now introduces new styles and filters, notably the “Film” effect, which hints at a more cinematic touch—something many amateur and semi-pro shooters have been craving. The app continues to feature the core set of editing tools that made it a powerhouse: Curves, Healing, Vignette, Drama, Double Exposure, and more. The finesse in control has been preserved, with gesture-based adjustments that remain intuitive. Now, a sleek, curved control strip at the bottom offers smoother, more precise parameter tweaking—catering to both seasoned editors and casual users.

Standing Apart in a Crowded Market

While Snapseed’s popularity was sustained largely because it works offline—no cloud needed—it’s been dormant on the update front since 2021. That’s a lifetime in app years. Google’s silence left many wondering whether the project was just politely waiting in the wings or quietly phased out. Now, their resurgence raises questions: Will this reinvigoration lead to a full Android update or remain a this-is-for-iOS thing? Or is this a strategic move to test waters with a refined, more appealing version before a broader rollout? It’s the eternal industry game—the waiting game for Google to confirm.

What’s certain is that Snapseed’s return reminds us that even giants like Google can have their moments of humility—listening, evolving, then surprising everyone. If they keep refining this new version with added filters and capabilities, they could turn Snapseed back into a must-have for mobile photographers—sure, for the casuals and pros alike. Or maybe, just maybe, they’re planting seeds for something bigger down the road.

Apple’s Delayed Siri Revamp Still MIA, But Come 2026, Expect Something Big

So, Apple is again bringing us along for a slow ride in the world of AI-powered assistants. According to the latest reporting from Bloomberg, the much-anticipated update to Siri, unveiled at WWDC 2024, isn’t hitting shelves until spring 2026. That’s quite a climb from initial promises, and it raises questions about Apple’s approach to AI—more cautious than pioneering.

Last year, Apple shared a glimpse of what Siri might become—more context-aware, able to interpret your on-screen actions, tailoring responses based on what’s happening in the moment. Picture a Siri that doesn’t just respond to commands but understands your entire interaction flow—imagine the difference. It was a compelling vision, but fast forward to March, and Apple quietly shifted gears, announcing delays with a typical nonchalant line about needing “more time than expected.”

The company’s official word? They plan to “introduce certain features over the next year.” Yet, it’s obvious they’re not rushing, and frankly, this isn’t surprising. Apple has historically taken its sweet time with major AI overhauls—remember how long it took from the initial iOS 14 Siri improvements to see significant results? And, truth be told, the real question isn’t just when Siri will turn into a smarter assistant but whether this scaled-back rollout is enough to keep pace with competitors like Google Assistant or Samsung’s Bixby, both of which are pushing their AI further and faster.

What’s also interesting here is the timing uncertainty. Bloomberg notes Apple hasn’t set a firm release date for the updated Siri. If history is any guide, iOS 26.4—which would include the new Siri—might arrive as soon as March, considering previous iOS updates. But don’t hold your breath; Apple’s pace suggests that features like these might see a staggered, piecemeal release, much like how initial functions of the new Siri design appeared months after the iPhone 16 launched last fall.

This all, of course, is happening in a broader context where Apple is trying to balance privacy, user trust, and AI innovation—a tricky dance. Back in 2021, they tried the same thing with Siri’s overhaul, only for most users to be left waiting or underwhelmed. Changing the interface and adding a splashy design doesn’t mean much if the core intelligence isn’t ready.

The new Liquid Glass aesthetic announced at WWDC 2025 has already stolen some headlines, but these visual updates seem increasingly disconnected from whether Siri’s going to be genuinely smarter or just more stylish.

Strangely enough, this pattern of playing catch-up seems to be Apple’s new modus operandi. They’re conservatives by design—preferring polished, dependable experiences over rapid innovation. But in the AI era, that approach risks leaving their assistant in the dust. Their competitors are racing ahead, integrating AI that understands and predicts better than ever. For Apple, delivering a delayed, more thoughtful Siri by 2026 could be a bet—they hope the wait will make the eventual product even more compelling. Whether it’s worth that long a wait is another question entirely.

June 2025 PlayStation Plus Lineup Includes FBC: Firebreak, Battlefield 2042, and More

If you thought that Sony’s PlayStation Plus offerings were getting predictable, get ready for a surprise—though possibly not the kind they’re hoping you’ll love. A recent leak (or maybe just a clever marketing tease?) has spilled what’s supposedly coming to PS Plus Premium and Extra in June 2025. And boy, does it look like a mixed bag—some sure hits, some questionable inclusions, and a whole lot of what-the-hell moments.

Gaming industry’s version of “mystery meat”: PlayStation’s June 2025 game lineup leaks

A glimpse into the shadowy future of your online subscription

On June 17th, lucky subscribers might want to set some time aside, because that’s the official day Sony allegedly plans to flood your digital library. Among the expected new arrivals are “FBC: Firebreak,” a co-op shooter from Remedy (yes, the Control guys), which is set in the same universe.

That alone sounds promising—team-based chaos in a familiar universe. Still, the game’s core details are slim, and it’s unclear whether Remedy’s experimental storytelling will shine through or get buried under typical shooter tropes. And the trailer? Well, just enough to make you want more, though the YouTube preview suggests Remedy’s usual stylish polish.

Then there’s “Battlefield 2042,” which, let’s be honest, has been the poster child for a rough launch and subsequent attempts to fix itself. It’s a staple for FPS fans craving large-scale chaos, but whether it’s still worth diving into after all the updates remains an open question.

The game’s multiplayer modes—like Conquest and Breakthrough—are solid enough, but their longevity depends on how much the community has rebuilt itself since launch. Plus, it’s still unclear if this version will include the latest patches or if it’s a bare-bones port with some missed opportunities to truly redeem it.

It’s a horror show, but now it’s on PS Plus

Apparently this is a thing now—turning the cult-favorite VR horror “Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2” into a standard console release. Because of course it is. The game promises to deliver more animatronic scares in a format that’ll likely be less immersive but more accessible.

Still, it’s a smart move to include a terrifying, tension-building experience in the lineup—especially if they’re banking on players craving those jump-scares without needing VR gear. Whether it lives up to the hype? That’s another matter, and frankly, it’s less interesting than wondering how many new animatronic jumpscares are lurking in the shadows.

Big game, big atmosphere, big adventure—if you’re into hunting and exploring

For the more laid-back—or perhaps outdoorsy—gamers, “theHunter: Call of the Wild” offers a surprisingly lush wilderness experience. Sure, it’s been around for a bit but remains a favorite for fans of open-world hunting sims.

The promise of co-op play adds a social element to what might otherwise feel like a solitary stroll through the forest. It’s a reminder that even in the age of AAA blockbusters, there’s a market for this kind of tranquil yet immersive experience—probably more niche than mainstream, but it definitely fits the kind of game you play for nostalgia or stress relief after a long day.

Katamari, but shinier—and universe-saving

We Love Katamari Reroll + Royal Reverie” gets a shiny new coat of paint, which is honestly the best thing you can say about a remaster. The story’s still absurd; the King of All Cosmos smashes the stars again, and it’s up to the Prince to roll up enough stuff to recreate them.

Whether it’s nostalgia or a genuine new audience catching on, this game’s quirky appeal probably won’t change—just the visuals. Expect the usual high-spirited chaos, but now with prettier graphics, just in case anyone forgot what a Katamari is supposed to look like in 2025.

A fantasy adventure and a train ride rolled into one package

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes” is probably the most “serious” entry here—an epic JRPG where allies are recruited through a mixture of combat and charm, battling a corrupt empire. You know the drill: explore, build your team, and roll credits. It’s a reminder that PlayStation’s backlog isn’t just about shooters and horror, but deeply narrative-driven tales too.

Meanwhile, “Train Sim World 5” aims to turn your childhood fascination with trains into a full-blown simulator. If you’ve ever wondered how to properly brake or accelerate a luxury train in a bustling city, this game might be your ticket. With three new routes, maybe you’ll find the Zen in scheduling and punctuality we all secretly crave.

Co-op tower-defense meets roguelite chaos

Endless Dungeon” sounds like it could be a frantic fusion—tower defense, rogue-like, and sci-fi all wrapped into one. Whether you want to lead a lonely stand or team up with friends, the game offers endless waves of space-monsters and procedural levels. But let’s be real: if you’ve played enough of these multiplayer horde shooters, it’s probably more about how fresh their mechanics still feel after countless clones.

And finally, a blast from the past …

The headline act for the PlayStation Plus Premium fans might be “Deus Ex: The Conspiracy” the classic stealth-action game. It’s a bit curious why this particular title was chosen—old, beloved, and perhaps not the most demanding on modern hardware. But it hints at Sony trying to fill the catalog with some underrated gems, a smart move considering the growing nostalgia for early 2000s classics.

Strangely enough, in a world where big AAA blunders and small indie surprises are the norm, Sony’s lineup leaks like this underline one thing: they’re still betting that giving players a smorgasbord of styles—some polished, some dubious, some nostalgic—is the way to keep the PlayStation ecosystem thriving. Whether players will agree remains to be seen, but you’ve got to admit—it’s at least a bit more interesting than just rehashing a few old hits every year.

Stellar Blade Finds Its Second Wind on PC—And Makes Waves

Imagine the scene: a game so fresh from the PlayStation oven that it’s just starting to warm up on new hardware. That’s exactly what happened with Stellar Blade, which first dazzled PS5 owners on April 26, 2024, and then, shortly thereafter, decided to jump onto Steam on June 11. Because of course it is—it’s the natural sequel to a trend where high-profile exclusives get a second chance at life on PC, often with surprising results.

And surprise us it did. According to SteamDB, Stellar Blade hit a peak of over 150,000 players in a single online session. Not too shabby for a game that’s still establishing its footing outside the cozy PS5 garden. Sure, it’s dwarfed by the multiplayer juggernaut Helldivers 2, which clocked in at nearly 460K concurrent players when it launched — and that game had the advantage of launching on both PlayStation and Steam simultaneously. Still, Stellar Blade’s record online count is twice that of the next closest single-player-focused title, Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut, which peaked at 77K, and comfortably ahead of classics like God of War and Spider-Man Remastered.

Stellar Blade hit a peak of over 150,000 players in a single online session

That kind of online activity instantly shoves Stellar Blade into the “hyped indie” category, even if it’s technically a mid-tier AAA. Players are praising the PC port’s surprisingly smooth optimization—something that couldn’t be taken for granted after some previous PlayStation ports that, frankly, flopped or felt half-baked. This iteration seems to be running without the usual hiccups, and reviews are filled with sentiments like “exceptionally well-optimized,” “no technical issues,” and “surprisingly dynamic gameplay.”

Here’s where it gets interesting. Stellar Blade positions itself as an action-adventure set in a bleak, post-apocalyptic universe where the remnants of humanity hang onto survival like a thread. Think “a girl, a mission, and enemies that keep respawning” meets sci-fi dystopia. The story? Vaguely engaging, if not groundbreaking, but the game’s visual flair, fluid animations, and energetic boss fights seem to have won critics over. It’s annotated with praise for its stunning visuals and a pulsating soundtrack that keeps the adrenaline up. But—here’s a familiar twist—the story itself is noted as shallow, a common critique in a sea of well-executed gameplay and style.

While “The Edge” gives Stellar Blade a solid 7 out of 10 (highlighting its dazzling visuals and combat skills), aggregators like MetaCritic score it higher at 81, and players rate it even more favorably at 9.2. Similarly, OpenCritic shows scores of 82 from critics and a nearly perfect 90 from the gaming community—so opinion is pretty aligned that Stellar Blade is more than just a flashy port.

It’s worth noting that this second wind on PC also reflects a broader industry trend: publishers are increasingly realizing that exclusives, no matter how polished, don’t always reach their full potential until they hit the open market—especially when timed to catch a wave of gamers eager for new adventures. Plus, the port’s réception highlights something many have suspected but few openly admit: when optimized right, even initially PlayStation-only titles can thrive outside of their walled gardens.

Overall, Stellar Blade’s steam debut confirms something familiar—it’s a confidence boost for developers like Shift Up, who are finally getting to show that their ambition isn’t limited to one platform. The game’s energetic combat, eye-popping visuals, and the robust community interest suggest that, when handled carefully, a game can find a second, lucrative life years after its first tease. We’ll see if this is a fleeting spike or the start of a long tail of PC success, but for now, the hype train is definitely rolling.

Google AI Studio Cuts Back: Free Access Shrinks as Pro Tiers Expand

If there’s one thing you can count on with Google’s AI ambitions, it’s that they love to toggle the dial just when you think you’ve gotten used to the settings. This week, AI power users got a dose of that reality when Google doubled the query limits for the Gemini app’s Pro tier—because of course, everyone was hitting those ceilings quickly. But what’s more revealing isn’t just the change itself; it’s how Google is quietly turning the screws on developer access, hinting that the free ride is coming to an end.

Google’s AI Limits: Welcome to the “Pro” Tier, Now with a Price Tag

From Generous to Gated: The Shift in Access

Google AI Studio, the company’s long-standing developer playground, has always boasted more liberal limits compared to the seemingly consumer-focused Gemini app. For months, developers could poke around with relatively few restrictions—more control, more freedom, less of that “paywall” feeling. Of course, compared to the paid AI Pro service at $19.99/month, even AI Studio’s free tier was a pretty sweet deal. That’s why the recent limit hikes stung a little: they subtly signal that Google is shifting toward a more monetized, pay-to-play model.

The company’s plan? Move AI Studio to “fully API key based”—which sounds fancy, but really just means you’ll need your own API key, and if you blow past the free tier, pay up. Historically, Google’s been generous here, letting users max out their limits without much fuss. But with demand soaring, subtler economic realities are creeping in: cloud computing isn’t cheap, and free access can’t last forever without someone footing the bill.

The Developer Demands and Google’s Response

When Google announced the upcoming change, community backlash was swift. People, especially those in the coding trenches, pointed out that the free access to Gemini and AI Studio was the biggest draw. It felt like Google was trying to squeeze more revenue out of its most loyal user base. Still, Google’s official line? The free tier isn’t going away, but the game will change—fewer freebies, more paid options for heavy users.

And leave it to Google to try to smooth things over with a “don’t worry, it’s not a big deal” message from Logan Kilpatrick, who assured folks that “the Google AI Studio free tier isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.” Because what they really want us to hear is: “Yes, you’re about to pay more, but don’t panic, it’s just a tweak.”

Will the “Pro” Model Ever Be Free Again?

Interestingly, the high-profile 2.5 Pro model, which allows for heavier use, remains locked behind a paywall—$250 a month for the top-tier AI Ultra. Those who want limits closer to the original, generous offerings seem destined to shell out a substantial monthly fee. That’s a stark contrast compared to the “free” days when you could almost pretend AI access was a utility—like water or electricity.

Google’s messaging hints at a future where some models might still be free, supported by “lifetime limits” or other incentives. But the exact path remains muddy. For developers trying to use AI Studio as a more “pro” substitute, the message is clear: you’ll have to pay if you need the bigger, better, faster access. Whether or not that’s sustainable or fair is another story altogether.

The Bigger Picture: Is This the Future of AI Access?

This move mirrors a broader industry trend: APIs and premium tiers are becoming the norm, even if it’s cloaked in vague assurances about “supporting continued free access.” Back in 2021, even some of the biggest AI companies flirted with giving away plenty of compute, only to tighten the screws once demand exploded. Now, Google appears to be following a similar playbook—baiting early adopters with free tiers, then gradually shifting the cost burden onto users really needing reliable, high-volume access.

For consumers, this might be a nitpick; for developers and power users, it’s a signal that AI isn’t shifting to a pay-to-access world—it’s already there. The question is how many will stick around or be priced out as the model shifts toward profitability rather than open experimentation.

One thing’s certain: Google isn’t done experimenting with this balancing act. They say they’ll “explore” new ways to keep AI Studio free or at least low-cost, while adding controls and features to the Gemini app that may cater to casual users. Still, expect the trend to favor paid tiers before long—because in big tech, if you aren’t paying, someone else is.

Apple’s Next MacOS: The End of the Line for Certain Intel Macs?

In true Apple fashion, the upcoming WWDC event is shaping up to be a parade of shiny new software—macOS 26, iOS 26, and watchOS 26 all lined up, ready to dominate headlines. But lurking behind the excitement about fresh features and fresh branding (yes, they’re changing from macOS 16 to 26, because who doesn’t love a year-based moniker?), is the harsh reality that not all Macs will follow the upgrade path anymore. Especially those still rocking Intel chips from 2020.

Out With the Old, or Just the Less-New?

We’ve known for a while that Apple’s shift to Apple Silicon means the older Intel Macs are on borrowed time. What’s new is a more concrete cut-off date, backed by credible leaks suggesting that the 2020 13-inch MacBook Pro with two Thunderbolt ports may be left behind with macOS 26. This is a significant signal that Apple’s rolling out a not-so-gentle nudge toward their custom chips, leaving some legacy hardware in the dust.

Apple’s move isn’t entirely surprising—after all, supporting aging hardware indefinitely can get messy. But the fact that it’s the 2020 model, still fairly recent in tech terms, highlights how aggressively Apple is pruning its lineup. The 2020 13-inch MacBook Pro with two Thunderbolt ports houses an 8th-generation Intel chip, similar to what powered the 2018 models. Meanwhile, the four-port 2020 model boasted a 10th-generation processor, which suggests that the support cut isn’t just about age but also about performance and architecture. Apple already announced they’ll phase out 2018 Macs, and that trend continues here.

What Does This Mean for Users?

If you’re holding onto a 2020 MacBook Pro with just dual Thunderbolt ports, or perhaps a 2018 Mac mini or the venerable 2017 Mac Pro, it’s now looking like macOS 26 might be the last OS you see on these machines. Apple’s not just ditching hardware in a vacuum—they’re doing it to ensure a more secure, streamlined, and efficient ecosystem, especially given how much of their latest features rely on the advanced capabilities of Apple Silicon.

Of course, the dual Thunderbolt port models and similar machines will likely still run older OS versions smoothly for a while. But if you’re eyeing the latest productivity tools, enhanced visuals, or that visionOS-inspired “glass” aesthetic, you might need to start planning a hardware upgrade soon. Remember, Apple is also launching iOS 26 and watchOS 26 alongside, so expect a broad shift toward their newest architecture and features across the ecosystem.

Why It Matters Now

This isn’t just about software support; it’s about the ongoing transition from Intel to Apple Silicon that’s been building since 2020. It’s a critical step—perhaps the last—before Apple’s entire lineup is optimized around their own chips, promising better performance, battery life, and tight ecosystem integration. But for early adopters of Intel Macs, especially those still running year-old hardware, it’s a signal to start considering an upgrade.

We still don’t know if macOS 26 will be a dramatic leap forward or more incremental. Nor do we know if support cut-offs will extend even further before Apple fully redefines what “modern Mac” means. What’s clear is that Apple’s playing a long game, and for many, the days of owning a recent Intel Mac without potential obsolescence are numbered.

So, strap in. The future is shiny, speedy, and Apple Silicon-powered. But for now, if your 2020 MacBook Pro has been your faithful workhorse, it might be time to start thinking about a transition—because of course it is.

Rumor: PlayStation 5’s New Low Energy Mode to Reduce Performance and Hint at Upcoming Handheld System

Now, here’s a weird little tease from Sony — a hint that something handheld might be on the way.

The PlayStation 5 SDK is about to get a fresh update, and it includes a new low energy mode. Why does this matter? Because it’s not just a tweak for efficiency; it’s jazzing up speculation about a potential handheld device. Moore’s Law is Dead reports that Sony’s giving developers some documentation and a new system flag for a low power mode on both the PlayStation 5 and the PS5 Pro. This new mode isn’t just a minor tweak — it’s a third performance profile, sitting alongside the existing base and Trinity modes for the Pro. It comes with a hefty list of limitations, designed to cut back on power draw while still keeping most of the big features intact.

Limitations include capping systems at eight threads, dialing down 3D Audio to 75%, slashing GPU core clocks by about 10-20%, and cutting GDDR6 memory bandwidth in half. They also restrict systems to 36 compute units and drop PSSR and VR support. The idea? Knock power consumption down by 20-30%, without totally gutting the console’s core capabilities or breaking compatibility. Strangely enough, the documentation also nudges developers to prioritize VRR support, which hints at a focus on smooth visuals — maybe for a handheld?

But here’s the kicker: reducing power consumption probably isn’t *the* main goal. Moore’s Law is Dead suggests that this new flag might be less about saving energy and more about prepping for a handheld — a device that we’ve all been hearing rumors about for a while now. And an AMD leaker named Kepler L2 seems to agree. He points out that this profile probably mimics what a handheld APU’s performance would look like, especially since memory bandwidth — a weak spot of that chip — is being specifically limited here.

Oh this is 100% an emulated performance profile for the Handheld, since the biggest weakness of that APU is memory bandwidth and this profile is reducing PS5 bandwidth in half as you said.

Right now, the new low energy mode isn’t mandatory for devs. But the timing — along with the history of similar features — suggests Sony’s laying some groundwork. Remember how Trinity Mode was introduced about a year before the PS5 Pro launched, and then made mandatory a few months later? If trend holds, we might see something similar happening soon. Rumors have been swirling that Sony plans to launch the PS6 along with a handheld console, which kinda makes sense as they edge closer to that next-gen release. It’s almost like they’re quietly testing the waters for a new kind of portable PlayStation — and this energy-saving profile could be the first step in that direction.

NVIDIA Food for Thought — New Games and Boosts to GeForce NOW

So, NVIDIA’s rolling out a pretty hefty lineup of new titles and some interesting tech perks for GeForce NOW. Among the fresh arrivals, you’ve got Dune Awakening from Funcom, Remedy’s FBC: Firebreak, Build A Rocket Boy’s MindsEye, and Sloclap’s Rematch. All of these are going live for streaming at launch — meaning no waiting, no downloads. That’s a nice boost, especially for those who rely on cloud gaming to skip the hardware grind.

Playing with Ray Tracing and Frame Boosts

Dune Awakening is supporting NVIDIA’s DLSS 4 and Reflex — so Premium and Ultra subscribers can turn on DLSS Super Resolution and Reflex for smoother gameplay. But here’s the kicker: GFN Ultimate subscribers can also activate DLSS Frame Generation, which is supposed to crank up frame rates even more. It’s an interesting little perk, especially if you’re chasing that buttery-smooth experience. Rematch and FBC share the same tech support, with FBC standing out because it supports full-on path tracing, adding to the visual fidelity challenge. Because of course it is.

This Week’s Additions: A Taste of the New

Nvidia’s list of new titles for this week looks fairly diverse. There’s Symphonia, hitting Xbox first — available on PC Game Pass — just on June 3. Then right after, a flurry of titles on Steam including Pro Cycling Manager 25 and Tour de France 2025. Also, Dune: Awakening – Advanced Access arrives on June 5, immediately making the list look rather competitive.

Other titles like Police Simulator: Patrol Officers (on Xbox, also on PC Game Pass) and Sea of Thieves on Battle.net pop up as well, giving variety for different gaming tastes.

Full June Lineup — Because NVIDIA’s Planning Ahead

If those titles are just a teaser, NVIDIA has a bigger schedule for June. The list includes upcoming drops like Dune: Awakening and MindsEye on June 10. Nodes like The Alters and Architect Life: A House Design Simulator are coming mid-month, on the 13th and 19th respectively.

A handful of familiar classics are also making a comeback — like Borderlands Game of the Year Enhanced on Steam and Borderlands 2. Some of these will be part of the ongoing PC Game Pass rotation, which makes sense given the subscription’s focus on value.

Overall, this shows NVIDIA isn’t just bluffing about expanding their library — they’re also pushing Nvidia-specific tech features that could give the service a slight edge. Still, whether Frame Generation makes a huge difference, or just looks better in trailers, remains to be seen. But hey, it’s good to have more options, and especially now, when streaming feels like the best way to game without crashing your GPU for every new shiny thing.

Receipt Stapling Nightmare: Switch 2 Launch Marred by Damaged Screens

It’s launch day for Nintendo’s latest, the Switch 2. After all the hype, all the teasing, you’d think everyone’s just excited to get their hands on the thing and dive into new realms of gaming. But nope. Turns out some folks are getting a different kind of experience—one nobody signed up for. Already, there are reports of these brand-new consoles showing up with… holes in the screens. Yes, holes. From store receipts being stapled onto the boxes at retail. Because of course it is.

Switching into chaos: the early disaster of the Nintendo Switch 2 launch

Some players who hit up their local GameStop for the midnight launch found themselves heading home to find their shiny new console damaged—holes punched right through the screens. Thanks to IGN reporting on the ordeal, it’s confirmed that store employees stapled receipts directly onto the boxes—well, onto the front of the box, near the screen. Classy. The damage appeared to be caused by staples, which, unsurprisingly, punctured the screens.

One Reddit user pointed out that this happened to many at the same Staten Island GameStop, almost like a concerted shenanigan. Everyone walking out of that store with their receipt stapled to the box. The tedium of retail, right? Apparently, the store used a stapler to attach the receipts, and in the process, compromised the screens. Several reports confirm this isn’t a one-off fluke either; other affected consoles are believed to have come from that same location. Ouch.

Apparently one GameStop store used a stapler to attach receipts to Switch 2 boxes and the staple ruined the screen…another person commented their unit and others were affected at the same store www.reddit.com/r/GameStop/c…

Wario64 (@wario64.bsky.social) 2025-06-05T07:18:39.993Z

As for the unlucky customers, it’s probably a wait until the store gets new stock, assuming they even get replacements. The online response? Not surprisingly, it’s not all about throwing shade at GameStop. Plenty of gamers on social media are saying Nintendo should’ve packaged this thing differently—maybe not with the screen exposed at the top of the box, or at least without staples that turn screens into Swiss cheese.

So, will Nintendo step in? Might be too early to tell. Perhaps they’ll rethink how they package the Switch 2 to avoid such mishaps. Or maybe this is just an odd glitch—strangely enough, no widespread reports have emerged from other stores, including the recently separate and Canadian-owned EB Games, which also did midnight launches. For now, that Staten Island store stands as a pretty stark example of what *not* to do on launch day—hopefully just a one-off freak incident, but it’s certainly one way to make a terrible first impression.