Selasa, 27 Maret 2018

Twitch for PS4 gets a major overhaul - new app for Xbox One coming soon

Anyone who regularly uses Twitch on the PS4 knows that it was in good need of a makeover. While the app did its main job - allowing gamers to watch and stream broadcasts - its was a bit of a nightmare to use. 

The Twitch 1.21 update means this is no longer the case, thanks to a cosmetic spruce up and better functionality all round. 

One of the biggest changes to come with the update is the ability to preview game streams. This means instead of having to click into the stream to see if it's something for you, you can hover over the screen and it will give you a lovely preview of the action. 

This, thankfully, doesn't actually come with any sound - meaning it is easy to flip through a number of streams without hearing snippets of screaming audio. 

Most of the other changes are cosmetic. The app just looks a whole lot better. The UI is cleaner for a start and search and setting buttons are now in clear view on the right-hand side of the panel.

Season of the Twitch

The new app was revealed by Twitch on Twitter, with a lovely reference to God of War. 

Xbox One users who are furious with jealousy right now, don't fret - Twitch followed up its announcement with another Tweet stating that a new app for Microsoft's console is coming soon.  

Twitch has been busy of late with updates. It announced recently that it has signed an exclusive eSports streaming deal with Facebook and is now offering free games through Amazon Prime. 

Given Amazon owns the streaming service, this link-up makes a whole lot of sense.


March 27, 2018 at 03:47PM
Marc Chacksfield

Senin, 26 Maret 2018

The first Chrome OS tablet has no keyboard

It wasn’t too long ago that we saw the first touchscreen Chromebook, then the first Chrome OS device with a built-in stylus. Now, Acer has just announced the first web-powered tablet – designed with students in mind.

Oddly named after a clamshell-styled device, the Acer Chromebook Tab 10 is the first Chrome OS tablet with no physical keyboard – in fact, the announcement makes no allusion to a keyboard at all. 

Rather, it’s a classic, all-screen 9.7-inch tablet featuring an IPS (in-plane switching) panel with a fairly high 2,048 x 1,536 QXGA resolution. The good news is that you can still pair it to a Bluetooth keyboard, and the Chrome OS tablet also comes with a Wacom EMR stylus that students can use can use to sketch, take notes and mark up papers precisely.

In terms of power, the Acer Chromebook Tab 10 comes equipped with an OP1 processor with a dual-core Cortex-A72 and a quad-core Cortex-A53 processors. Also on board is 4GB of RAM, a 32GB eMMC storage drive, 802.11ac Wi-Fi connectivity and Bluetooth 4.1. 

This Chrome OS tablet also joins the USB-C revolution with a single Gen 1 port for charging and data transfers.

Acer Chromebook Tab 10

Beyond running the usual Chrome OS app, the Tab 10 fully supports the Google Play Store, so users can download any of the millions of Android apps.

Acer also claims users can expect up to 9 hours of battery life to last students through the day. That’s not exactly on par with the double-digit run times we expect from Chromebooks, but impressive nonetheless given the tablet only weighs 1.21 pounds and measures just 0.39 inches thin.

The Acer Chromebook Tab 10 arrives this April with a $329 (about £230, AU$425) price tag that seems a little high at first blush, but it’s basically $499 (about £350, AU$640) Samsung Chromebook Plus specs in a tablet-sized device.

We’ll have to see whether or not it holds up against Apple’s likely education-focused iPad announcement this week, which is clearly Acer's intent with the tablet. Being a major player in the Chromebook for education sector, Acer has a lot to lose if Apple returns its Sauron-like gaze upon this end of the tech world as expected.


March 27, 2018 at 03:44AM
Kevin Lee

Nvidia Turing reportedly to be named ‘GTX 11 Series’ – not GTX 20

Contrary to prior rumors and reports, Nvidia may give us a taste of its next line of gaming graphics cards at its GPU Technology Conference (GTC). TweakTown reports, citing an anonymous source, that the company will officially name its next set of graphics cards the ‘GTX 11 Series.’

Widely expected to be based on the in-progress Nvidia Turing hardware architecture, this naming convention would be a step to the left of what the technology world has anticipated the company to go with. 

Reports and rumors leading up to this had pegged the next generation of Nvidia graphics cards to be known as the GTX 20 series.

Leaving room for further specialization?

Furthermore, TweakTown’s source reportedly said of the new product line that "it [the new cards] won't necessarily end in '70' and '80' like we're used to.”

This could see Nvidia applying different numerals to its product names from what it currently does, which starts at 50 (e.g. Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050) up through 80. TweakTown speculates that Nvidia could denote its products in increments of five (i.e. GTX 1185).

However, and this is speculation of our own, it’s possible that Nvidia simply wishes not to constrict itself within its own naming convention, leaving room for products closer in numeral so as to be geared toward specific, niche use cases – or to broaden the GTX name’s scope.

For instance, the successor to the Nvidia MX150 could be the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1140 and so forth, allowing Nvidia to introduce the GTX name to even lower-spec products.

At any rate, this report should only fuel the hype surrounding the next line of Nvidia graphics cards and GTC 2018, which kicks off on March 27.


March 27, 2018 at 03:32AM
Joe Osborne

Nvidia Turing reportedly to be named ‘GTX 11 Series’ – not GTX 20

Contrary to prior rumors and reports, Nvidia may give us a taste of its next line of gaming graphics cards at its GPU Technology Conference (GTC). TweakTown reports, citing an anonymous source, that the company will officially name its next set of graphics cards the ‘GTX 11 Series.’

Widely expected to be based on the in-progress Nvidia Turing hardware architecture, this naming convention would be a step to the left of what the technology world has anticipated the company to go with. 

Reports and rumors leading up to this had pegged the next generation of Nvidia graphics cards to be known as the GTX 20 series.

Leaving room for further specialization?

Furthermore, TweakTown’s source reportedly said of the new product line that "it [the new cards] won't necessarily end in '70' and '80' like we're used to.”

This could see Nvidia applying different numerals to its product names from what it currently does, which starts at 50 (e.g. Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050) up through 80. TweakTown speculates that Nvidia could denote its products in increments of five (i.e. GTX 1185).

However, and this is speculation of our own, it’s possible that Nvidia simply wishes not to constrict itself within its own naming convention, leaving room for products closer in numeral so as to be geared toward specific, niche use cases – or to broaden the GTX name’s scope.

For instance, the successor to the Nvidia MX150 could be the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1140 and so forth, allowing Nvidia to introduce the GTX name to even lower-spec products.

At any rate, this report should only fuel the hype surrounding the next line of Nvidia graphics cards and GTC 2018, which kicks off on March 27.


March 27, 2018 at 03:32AM
Joe Osborne

The best Nintendo Switch bundles and deals in March 2018

Nintendo Switch bundle deals have stepped up a gear now and we've seen huge numbers of them selling in recent months as retailers have put together packages with extra games, controllers or accessories. Stock levels are so much better now compared to last year too.

Bundle prices in the US are holding steady, but at least you can find plenty with the best Nintendo Switch games like Super Mario Odyssey, Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Mario Kart 8: Deluxe and more. In the UK there are bundles with similar games, but with some decent discounts to enjoy too. 

You'll find all the best Nintendo Switch bundles from reliable retailers below. We've also rounded up the best prices for extra Joy-Con controllers, Pro controllers and even some cheap Nintendo Switch memory cards.

If you're waiting for more games to arrive first, get your Ninty dose fixed with a cheap 3DS deal. We have a dedicated page of Switch deals for our Australian readers too.

The latest Nintendo Switch deals:

Want to know where to buy a Nintendo Switch? Check out our comparison chart below for the latest Nintendo Switch prices. Below that you'll find the best value Nintendo Switch bundles with games/accessories. Don't forget, if you're buying the console on its own, the RRP is $299/£279, so you don't want to pay more than that unless you're getting some extras.

Note: US stock can be a bit hit and miss, but if you're struggling and don't want to wait, there are lots of Nintendo Switch deals on eBay.

Nintendo Switch bundles (USA)

To be honest, we're just not seeing many retailers other than GameStop offering bundles this week, not ones that that don't cost more than buying the items individually at least.

We've highlighted our picks of the best Nintendo Switch bundles below. Just be aware that they don't really offer much of a discount over buying the items separately. We'll steer you clear of console bundles that actively charge you more than the regular combined RRP (not cool, guys!).

Nintendo Switch bundles (UK)

The UK scene for discounted Nintendo Switch deals is very competitive thanks to the large number of retailers trying to get your business. We usually find a strong selection of bundles every week nowadays, even in those quieter times of year not particularly known for sales. So take a look below for discounts on packages with games, hardware and accessories.

Nintendo Switch Q&A

As with any new console we imagine you're wanting to know a bit more about the console before you put any money down. So in addition to finding the best Nintendo Switch deals, we're going to help bring in answers to the burning questions.

Nintendo Switch Joy-con controller deals

What are the Joy-Con controllers?

The Joy-Con controller is actually a pair of controllers that attach to the sides the the Nintendo Switch when not in use or when playing in tablet form away from the TV. When playing the Nintendo Switch on the TV, you can remove them and play with one in each hand. The left hand gets a controller with an analogue stick and d-pad, the right hand handles the one with a second analogue and the usual A, B, X and Y face buttons. Or you and a friend can use one each in multiplayer games with the d-pad doubling up as impromptu face buttons. 

You get a pair with the console, but you might want to buy more to allow extra players to get involved in games like Mario Kart 8, FIFA 18 and many more. Or maybe you just fancy some different colors for your own use.

Nintendo Switch Joy-Con Grip controller

What's the Joy-Con Grip controller?

The Joy-Con Grip is an additional accessory that joins the two Joy-Con controllers together, forming something something a bit more solid for you to hold thanks to the extended handles and plastic block between the two sides. The square dimension form-factor may remind older gamers of the Dreamcast controller, while everyone else will mainly be thinking how it resembles an odd-looking dog face. Nintendo is providing one in the box with the Nintendo Switch, so you won't have to buy one separately. This won't charge your controller though and doesn't have a battery pack.

Is there a Nintendo Switch Pro controller?

Yes and it doesn't come with the console. But you won't actually need one to play any games, so don't feel pressured in to buying one. The Nintendo Switch Pro controller is a more traditional-style pad and launched alongside the Nintendo Switch. Prices aren't cheap though, starting around $69.99/£64.99. There's currently no sign of a Nintendo Switch Premium Edition console with one included.

Do I need to buy extra controllers for multiplayer on Nintendo Switch?

Possibly not! Remember how the Joy-Con controller splits in two? Turn them sideways and you get two basic controllers, each with their own analogue stick and face buttons - the d-pad acts as face functions on the left controller. So far we've seen 2K's NBA series, Snipper Clips and Mario Kart being used this way for local multiplayer in both docked and tablet modes. So you get multiplayer functionality straight out of the box with no additional purchase required.

However, if you want to play four-player games, then you're going to need to invest in an extra pair of Joy-Con controllers or some Pro controllers. We'd buy the Joy-Cons as a pair (see our comparison chart above) as you'll save a bit of cash over buying them separately. Better yet, if your friends own a Switch, ask them to bring their controllers to the party!

Super Mario Odyssey deals

This has been one of the best games on the Nintendo Switch so far and an absolute must for Mario and platforming fans. Like Zelda below though, this being a first-party Nintendo title, it's taking forever to go down in price. It's slowly happening though, so we've rounded up the cheapest Super Mario Odyssey prices for you below. If you're not getting this game in a bundle, we'd strongly advise picking it up separately as soon as possible.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild deals

The reviews have heaped huge praise upon this eagerly awaited launch title, making it an essential purchase for any Nintendo Switch buyer. As with any new console, the prices of the big games can be more expensive than usual. We've shopped around for you though and have found the best prices for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the Nintendo Switch. Take a look below.

Nintendo Switch Micro SD memory card deals

With only 32GB of internal storage, you'll be wanting to pick up a cheap memory card or two for your new Nintendo Switch for any digital purchases or the inevitable game-fixing patches. Don't fret though, they're actually surprisingly cheap, with even 64GB ones coming in at under £20/$25.

What memory cards does the Nintendo Switch need? Those will be Micro SD cards also known as, depending on their size, as MicroSDHC (up to 32GB) or MicroSDXC (up to a huge 2TB soon). Nintendo will be releasing their own branded cards, but you'll be paying more, just for a label. So for now, we'd take a look at this range of cheap MicroSDXC Nintendo Switch-friendly cards.


March 26, 2018 at 02:23PM
Brendan Griffiths

PC gaming win: save up to 40% on computer gear

Many PC gaming devices are up for Amazon’s deal of the day and the e-tailer is offering up to 40% off today only.

Whether you’re looking for a new gaming laptop or desktop, a mechanical keyboard or mouse, a bigger monitor, or a sweet gaming headset, you’ll find plenty of worthy bargains over on Amazon. Best of all, these aren’t just some back-warehouse discounts, we’ve scoped out the best listings below include that relatively new products as well.

Via Kinja Deals


March 26, 2018 at 10:45PM
Kevin Lee

Big Pokemon Go update will bring all new (and Mew) content

It’s been a while since Pokemon Go has had a significant update but that’s all about to change thanks to a new announcement from Niantic. 

In a recent blog post, the Pokemon Go developer revealed that over the next week it’ll be bringing mythical Pokemon Mew into the game alongside a new research-based quest system.

Later this week, players will start receiving daily tasks which will ask them to collect field research via completing activities such as catching Pokémon, winning gym battles and defeating raid bosses. 

Get questing

After earning seven quest stamps, players will achieve a Research Breakthrough which bring in-game rewards. These rewards range from Rare Candy and TMs to Legendary Pokemon encounters. You can complete as many Research Tasks as you please in a single day but you’ll only be able to gather one stamp per day.

While these Research Tasks can be accessed by spinning Pokestops, there are also Special Research Tasks which are dished out by Professor Willow. These tasks are story-driven, with a narrative that unfolds as the player completes stages in an eight-part quest. 

Given we know that Mew’s arrival is tied with this new quest gameplay, we think it's likely Professor Willow’s tasks will lead the player towards Mew. How long this will take, however, we don’t know. 

The quests will go live later this week so if you’ve been looking for something to do over the Easter holidays, this could be the answer.


March 26, 2018 at 10:23PM
Emma Boyle