DirecTV Now, Sling TV, and PlayStation Vue price hikes: The cost of more bloated bundles

If you've dropped cable or satellite TV in favor of a live TV streaming service, the past week might've brought some bad news.First, Dish Network announced a $5 per month price hike for its Sling TV Orange service, which is currently the cheapest way to get ESPN without cable. The new price ($25 per month) will apply to new subscribers immediately, and to existing ones in August. (Sling TV Blue plans, which offer NBC- and Fox-owned channels but not ESPN or other Disney-owned channels, still cost $25 per month, and a combined Orange and Blue package still costs $40 per month.)

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Southern Cross Austereo

Southern Cross Austereo is one of Australia's most progressive and exciting entertainment based media companies. We have the potential to reach over 95% of Australia across national radio, regional free to air television and digital platforms. Southern Cross Austereo delivers a combination of traditional and new media platforms on which to communicate with our audience.

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Technologies

Microsoft’s xCloud game streaming arrives on iOS with some Apple restrictions

Article | February 14, 2022

Microsoft is expanding its Project xCloud service to the iPhone today. The software giant is launching a beta of xCloud through Apple’s TestFlight service, allowing xCloud testers to try the service on an iPhone or iPad. It’s the first time we’ve seen a cloud game streaming service appear on iOS since the days of OnLive — and OnLive’s iOS app wound up in limbo when Apple didn’t approve it. Google’s Stadia and Nvidia’s GeForce Now are still not available on Apple’s devices, either, and neither company has been able to tell us when that might change.

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Virtualization, Media and Broadcasting

Apple's AR & VR headset may not need external input for orientation & motion detection

Article | July 13, 2022

Apple is continuing to investigate headsets like its "AR Glasses," as part of its exploration of Augmented and Virtual Reality systems. One such headset in future may utilize sensors that can detect angular rotation, such as that experienced when the device is placed on a user's head or removed. "[It] may be beneficial for the VR headset to be able to detect when a head-worn device (e.g., headset, eyeglasses, headphones, etc.) is being removed from the user's head, is being placed on the user's head, or both," says Apple in US Patent No. 10,557,724, "Angle detection of a rotating system using a single magnet and multiple hall sensors."

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Solutions, Business

Game On: These Entertainment Stocks Hit New Levels

Article | July 7, 2022

Some Chinese entertainment stocks listed in the U.S. got a boost last week after the People Bank of China (PBOC) said it would pump $173 billion into the economy. Since news of the report from Beijing hit the street, one of the biggest gainers was Chinese gaming giant NetEase Inc. (Nasdaq: NTES) NetEase, a partner of California-based Blizzard Entertainment in China, traded as low as $317.48 per American depositary share within the last couple of weeks, and soared as high as $347.95 apiece last week. NetEase rolled out its international presence in recent years in Japan and North America, lowering its China dependency.

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The Future of Tech: Gaming Consoles, the Xbox and PlayStation of Tomorrow

Article | February 10, 2020

Consoles have come a very long way since the arrival of first-generation machines from Atari and Coleco in the seventies. Even the original PlayStation (1994) and Xbox (2001) look dated compared to the 4K/HDR-capable machines of today, and that divide will grow even larger once the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X arrive at the end of 2020. But what about the future? More than once console makers have tried to break new ground, by focusing on functionality beyond gaming, but for the most part those attempts have failed. Nintendo has found the most success with specialized hardware that still focuses on games first, while Sony and Microsoft have seemingly understood that building powerful general purpose machines that are akin to PCs is their best and safest bet.

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Spotlight

Southern Cross Austereo

Southern Cross Austereo is one of Australia's most progressive and exciting entertainment based media companies. We have the potential to reach over 95% of Australia across national radio, regional free to air television and digital platforms. Southern Cross Austereo delivers a combination of traditional and new media platforms on which to communicate with our audience.

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Applications

CORSAIR Launches K70 CORE, The New Standard for Mainstream Gaming Keyboards

Business Wire | October 25, 2023

CORSAIR, a world leader in high-performance gear for gamers and content creators, today announced the launch of a new keyboard that delivers premium play for every gamer: the K70 CORE. Debuting with CORSAIR MLX Red linear mechanical switches, the K70 CORE offers a refined playing and typing experience in a full-size profile. Whether you’re a casual player or an aspiring esports pro, your ambition starts with K70 CORE. K70 CORE introduces CORSAIR MLX Red linear switches, an ultra-responsive mechanical switch that offers smooth, satisfying keypresses ideally suited for keyboard enthusiasts and gamers. Factory pre-lubrication ensures that each keystroke exhibits silky-smooth travel, and switches are tightly constructed to reduce stem wobble. Along with CORSAIR OPX optical and MGX magnetic switches, CORSAIR Reds round out the lineup of original CORSAIR mechanical switches that give discerning players a trio of fantastic options. Surrounding the switches are two layers of premium sound dampening foam, eliminating annoying pings and clacks that take you out of the game. Instead, you’ll enjoy softened acoustics that make gaming sound as good as it feels. The K70 CORE makes it easy to personalize your play. More than just a volume knob, the keyboard’s multi-function rotary dial can adjust RGB brightness, scroll through webpages, and zoom. Next to the dial is a programmable button for controlling media with ease. CORSAIR iCUE software unlocks the keyboard’s full power, granting you the ability to customize per-key RGB backlighting, program macros, remap keys, and more. Beyond superior sound and feel, the K70 CORE delivers on high-caliber durability and design. CORSAIR Red switches reside in a robust aluminum top plate and topped by resilient double-shot keycaps. This bolstered construction provides you peace of mind to play freely, knowing your keyboard won’t quit. With such tremendous performance at a tidy price, the K70 CORE line empowers gamers to ambitiously play, win, and have fun. Availability, Warranty, and Pricing The CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard is available immediately from the CORSAIR webstore and the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized online retailers and distributors. The CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard is backed by a two-year warranty, alongside the CORSAIR worldwide customer service and technical support network. For up-to-date pricing of the CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.

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Technologies

AviaGames Unveils New Brand Identity to Reflect Enhanced Corporate Vision and Accelerated Growth Aspirations

PR Newswire | October 19, 2023

AviaGames, creator of the award-winning "Bingo Tour" app and Pocket7Games social competition platform, today unveiled its new corporate brand identity, Avia (ah-vi-ah). The evolution to the new Avia brand identity underscores the company's growth aspirations and innovative vision helping drive the brand to where it is today and towards the future to potential entertainment applications. Enhancing the social competition gaming experience for players of all skill levels, from casual to hardcore gaming enthusiasts, Avia remains focused on providing quick, fun and rewarding gameplay in an inclusive environment, while always looking for new ways to improve and deliver more games that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.1 "Starting as an idea in a garage just a few years back, it is surreal to think about how far AviaGames has come, and I look forward to what's ahead for Avia, our team and community of players. At Avia, we've always believed that everyone has a competitive spirit, and our goal remains to unleash the joy of competition in everyone," said Vickie Chen, CEO and founder, Avia. "Avia has always been the go-to destination for casual competitive mobile gaming and this new chapter represents our commitment to staying fun, fresh and innovative while providing our players from around the world with the best possible interactive gaming experience." An expression of the company's boldness, enthusiasm, inclusivity, and confidence, the new brand identity comes at an important time for Avia. Positioning itself for the future as the gaming industry experiences explosive growth generating revenues of $187.7 billion in 2023, with mobile gaming accounting for the highest share of revenues, according to Newzoo. Quick to play and quick to win, Avia's gaming titles are designed for people who love competition, but don't desire a steep learning curve. Avia's core mission is focused on ensuring that everyone, employees and players, feels supported in achieving their goals, Avia seeks to build a culture where all players feel safe and have fun, and employees feel comfortable to contribute and act on their ideas. This philosophy of support and inclusion is what enables Avia to continue to enhance its Pocket7Games platform and individual titles to deliver fresh and exciting competitive mobile games that everyone can enjoy.

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Media and Broadcasting

HyperX is Official Sponsor of TwitchCon: Experience the Ultimate Streamer Station Powered by HyperX and OMEN

PR Newswire | October 17, 2023

HyperX, the gaming peripherals team at HP Inc. and brand leader in gaming and esports, along with OMEN Gaming, today announced its role as the Official Sponsor of the TwitchCon Streamer Station, including a planned special appearance of Zedd, global music artist and HyperX ambassador at the streamer station. This unique collaboration between HyperX and HP OMEN offers TwitchCon attendees the opportunity to experience the latest HyperX products designed for gaming streamers and content creators, along with cutting-edge OMEN PC and monitor products. Also taking front stage at TwitchCon is HyperX’s annual talent program Queued Up, showcasing emerging streamers and innovative streaming solutions with special voting for the next class of 2024. Zedd, global music artist, producer and HyperX ambassador, is planned for a special guest appearance Saturday, October 21 at the HyperX Streamer Lounge. As a global HyperX ambassador, Zedd will be connecting with fans and celebrating his love for gaming. The TwitchCon Streamer Station will feature a range of products for attendees to test out on the show floor, including the HyperX Vision S Webcam, delivering quality 4K video and low light performance, the HyperX Audio Mixer Audio Interface, designed for mixing multiple audio inputs, and the Cloud III headset, engineered for supreme comfort, audio performance and durability. In addition, OMEN PCs and monitors will be available at each station, adding to the experience and allowing attendees to hone their streaming prowess during the event. Daily sponsored live streams will be broadcasted straight from the Streamer Station, spotlighting gaming streamers and content creators from the HyperX ambassador lineup. “HyperX is excited to join TwitchCon this year as the official sponsor of the Streamer Station, giving visitors the opportunity to try out our new gaming streamer products,” said Ryan Romeos, director of marketing, HyperX. “The HyperX and OMEN collaboration at TwitchCon demonstrates HyperX’s continued support and dedication to the content creating community and efforts towards investing in new ways to improve gaming streamer and content creator experiences.” HyperX is also highlighting Queued Up at TwitchCon, an annual talent showcase program highlighting emerging streamers. A special voting period will take place allowing fans to cast their votes for their favorite streamer, who may then become part of the esteemed Top 5 of Queued Up 2023. The Top 5 will be revealed on the HyperX Twitch livestream on November 8th. For additional details, please visit the Queued Up landing page. In addition, HyperX plans to spotlight two new products designed for the streaming community that were recently announced in October. These products are the HyperX Vision S Webcam with 4K resolution and low lighting features and the HyperX Audio Mixer Audio Interface that allows creators to manage XLR microphones and other audio inputs used during gaming streams and creating content. Plus, professional-quality HyperX ProCast XLR microphones will be available to see and test during the show. Taking place Oct. 20 – 22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center – West Hall, TwitchCon 2023 show attendees are encouraged to visit the Streamer Station to explore the latest streaming equipment from HyperX and OMEN. By combining the power of HyperX and OMEN gaming brands, HP Inc. aims to elevate content development for gaming creators and streamers everywhere. For more information on HyperX products, visit hyperx.com. About HyperX For 20 years, HyperX’s mission has been to develop gaming solutions for every type of gamer and the company is consistently recognized for delivering products that provide superb comfort, aesthetics, performance, and reliability. Under the tagline of “WE’RE ALL GAMERS,” HyperX gaming headsets, keyboards, mice, USB microphones, and console accessories are the choice of everyday gamers as well as celebrity ambassadors, pro gamers, tech enthusiasts, and overclockers worldwide because they meet the most stringent product specifications and are built with best-in-class components. For more information, please go to www.hyperx.com. About HP HP Inc. is a technology company that believes one thoughtful idea has the power to change the world. Its product and service portfolio of personal systems, printers, and 3D printing solutions helps bring these ideas to life. HyperX and the HyperX logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of HP Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All registered trademarks and trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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Applications

CORSAIR Launches K70 CORE, The New Standard for Mainstream Gaming Keyboards

Business Wire | October 25, 2023

CORSAIR, a world leader in high-performance gear for gamers and content creators, today announced the launch of a new keyboard that delivers premium play for every gamer: the K70 CORE. Debuting with CORSAIR MLX Red linear mechanical switches, the K70 CORE offers a refined playing and typing experience in a full-size profile. Whether you’re a casual player or an aspiring esports pro, your ambition starts with K70 CORE. K70 CORE introduces CORSAIR MLX Red linear switches, an ultra-responsive mechanical switch that offers smooth, satisfying keypresses ideally suited for keyboard enthusiasts and gamers. Factory pre-lubrication ensures that each keystroke exhibits silky-smooth travel, and switches are tightly constructed to reduce stem wobble. Along with CORSAIR OPX optical and MGX magnetic switches, CORSAIR Reds round out the lineup of original CORSAIR mechanical switches that give discerning players a trio of fantastic options. Surrounding the switches are two layers of premium sound dampening foam, eliminating annoying pings and clacks that take you out of the game. Instead, you’ll enjoy softened acoustics that make gaming sound as good as it feels. The K70 CORE makes it easy to personalize your play. More than just a volume knob, the keyboard’s multi-function rotary dial can adjust RGB brightness, scroll through webpages, and zoom. Next to the dial is a programmable button for controlling media with ease. CORSAIR iCUE software unlocks the keyboard’s full power, granting you the ability to customize per-key RGB backlighting, program macros, remap keys, and more. Beyond superior sound and feel, the K70 CORE delivers on high-caliber durability and design. CORSAIR Red switches reside in a robust aluminum top plate and topped by resilient double-shot keycaps. This bolstered construction provides you peace of mind to play freely, knowing your keyboard won’t quit. With such tremendous performance at a tidy price, the K70 CORE line empowers gamers to ambitiously play, win, and have fun. Availability, Warranty, and Pricing The CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard is available immediately from the CORSAIR webstore and the CORSAIR worldwide network of authorized online retailers and distributors. The CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard is backed by a two-year warranty, alongside the CORSAIR worldwide customer service and technical support network. For up-to-date pricing of the CORSAIR K70 CORE gaming keyboard, please refer to the CORSAIR website or contact your local CORSAIR sales or PR representative.

Read More

Technologies

AviaGames Unveils New Brand Identity to Reflect Enhanced Corporate Vision and Accelerated Growth Aspirations

PR Newswire | October 19, 2023

AviaGames, creator of the award-winning "Bingo Tour" app and Pocket7Games social competition platform, today unveiled its new corporate brand identity, Avia (ah-vi-ah). The evolution to the new Avia brand identity underscores the company's growth aspirations and innovative vision helping drive the brand to where it is today and towards the future to potential entertainment applications. Enhancing the social competition gaming experience for players of all skill levels, from casual to hardcore gaming enthusiasts, Avia remains focused on providing quick, fun and rewarding gameplay in an inclusive environment, while always looking for new ways to improve and deliver more games that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.1 "Starting as an idea in a garage just a few years back, it is surreal to think about how far AviaGames has come, and I look forward to what's ahead for Avia, our team and community of players. At Avia, we've always believed that everyone has a competitive spirit, and our goal remains to unleash the joy of competition in everyone," said Vickie Chen, CEO and founder, Avia. "Avia has always been the go-to destination for casual competitive mobile gaming and this new chapter represents our commitment to staying fun, fresh and innovative while providing our players from around the world with the best possible interactive gaming experience." An expression of the company's boldness, enthusiasm, inclusivity, and confidence, the new brand identity comes at an important time for Avia. Positioning itself for the future as the gaming industry experiences explosive growth generating revenues of $187.7 billion in 2023, with mobile gaming accounting for the highest share of revenues, according to Newzoo. Quick to play and quick to win, Avia's gaming titles are designed for people who love competition, but don't desire a steep learning curve. Avia's core mission is focused on ensuring that everyone, employees and players, feels supported in achieving their goals, Avia seeks to build a culture where all players feel safe and have fun, and employees feel comfortable to contribute and act on their ideas. This philosophy of support and inclusion is what enables Avia to continue to enhance its Pocket7Games platform and individual titles to deliver fresh and exciting competitive mobile games that everyone can enjoy.

Read More

Media and Broadcasting

HyperX is Official Sponsor of TwitchCon: Experience the Ultimate Streamer Station Powered by HyperX and OMEN

PR Newswire | October 17, 2023

HyperX, the gaming peripherals team at HP Inc. and brand leader in gaming and esports, along with OMEN Gaming, today announced its role as the Official Sponsor of the TwitchCon Streamer Station, including a planned special appearance of Zedd, global music artist and HyperX ambassador at the streamer station. This unique collaboration between HyperX and HP OMEN offers TwitchCon attendees the opportunity to experience the latest HyperX products designed for gaming streamers and content creators, along with cutting-edge OMEN PC and monitor products. Also taking front stage at TwitchCon is HyperX’s annual talent program Queued Up, showcasing emerging streamers and innovative streaming solutions with special voting for the next class of 2024. Zedd, global music artist, producer and HyperX ambassador, is planned for a special guest appearance Saturday, October 21 at the HyperX Streamer Lounge. As a global HyperX ambassador, Zedd will be connecting with fans and celebrating his love for gaming. The TwitchCon Streamer Station will feature a range of products for attendees to test out on the show floor, including the HyperX Vision S Webcam, delivering quality 4K video and low light performance, the HyperX Audio Mixer Audio Interface, designed for mixing multiple audio inputs, and the Cloud III headset, engineered for supreme comfort, audio performance and durability. In addition, OMEN PCs and monitors will be available at each station, adding to the experience and allowing attendees to hone their streaming prowess during the event. Daily sponsored live streams will be broadcasted straight from the Streamer Station, spotlighting gaming streamers and content creators from the HyperX ambassador lineup. “HyperX is excited to join TwitchCon this year as the official sponsor of the Streamer Station, giving visitors the opportunity to try out our new gaming streamer products,” said Ryan Romeos, director of marketing, HyperX. “The HyperX and OMEN collaboration at TwitchCon demonstrates HyperX’s continued support and dedication to the content creating community and efforts towards investing in new ways to improve gaming streamer and content creator experiences.” HyperX is also highlighting Queued Up at TwitchCon, an annual talent showcase program highlighting emerging streamers. A special voting period will take place allowing fans to cast their votes for their favorite streamer, who may then become part of the esteemed Top 5 of Queued Up 2023. The Top 5 will be revealed on the HyperX Twitch livestream on November 8th. For additional details, please visit the Queued Up landing page. In addition, HyperX plans to spotlight two new products designed for the streaming community that were recently announced in October. These products are the HyperX Vision S Webcam with 4K resolution and low lighting features and the HyperX Audio Mixer Audio Interface that allows creators to manage XLR microphones and other audio inputs used during gaming streams and creating content. Plus, professional-quality HyperX ProCast XLR microphones will be available to see and test during the show. Taking place Oct. 20 – 22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center – West Hall, TwitchCon 2023 show attendees are encouraged to visit the Streamer Station to explore the latest streaming equipment from HyperX and OMEN. By combining the power of HyperX and OMEN gaming brands, HP Inc. aims to elevate content development for gaming creators and streamers everywhere. For more information on HyperX products, visit hyperx.com. About HyperX For 20 years, HyperX’s mission has been to develop gaming solutions for every type of gamer and the company is consistently recognized for delivering products that provide superb comfort, aesthetics, performance, and reliability. Under the tagline of “WE’RE ALL GAMERS,” HyperX gaming headsets, keyboards, mice, USB microphones, and console accessories are the choice of everyday gamers as well as celebrity ambassadors, pro gamers, tech enthusiasts, and overclockers worldwide because they meet the most stringent product specifications and are built with best-in-class components. For more information, please go to www.hyperx.com. About HP HP Inc. is a technology company that believes one thoughtful idea has the power to change the world. Its product and service portfolio of personal systems, printers, and 3D printing solutions helps bring these ideas to life. HyperX and the HyperX logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of HP Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All registered trademarks and trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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Events