Steam Deck Is Discounted Again Following Steam Autumn Sale
Valve has decided to go big with large discounts on its popular portable Steam Deck gaming handheld at the Steam Autumn Sale.However, the 512 GB Steam Deck LCD model receives the biggest discount, slashed down to just $336.75 from its original pricing-a pretty significant $112 off. However, there is a catch to this price cut: Valve has discontinued the 512GB LCD model, meaning supplies are limited, and it may sell out before the sale ends on December 4th at 1 PM ET. That means the $64GB version, which also saw a price cut in the sale, has completely sold out, and Valve’s 512GB version will likely be your last call to get a reasonably-priced ticket into its handheld universe. A Blast from the Past: The Steam Deck First released in 2022, the Steam Deck wasted no time carving its niche as one of the more versatile ways to take in PC gaming on the go. In the last two years, it has seen increased competition from devices such as the Asus ROG Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go, which come with more advanced features and greater performance. In an attempt to keep up with such competition, Valve has resorted to strategic pricing, making whatever it has in stock of its previous models more attractive to low-budget gamers. This clearance strategy ensures that the Steam Deck remains a viable option for gamers despite the emergence of more powerful alternatives. It also reflects Valve’s efforts to make room for newer hardware, such as the recently introduced Steam Deck OLED, which boasts improved visuals and enhanced display technology. LCD vs. OLED: Weighing Your Options The discounted 512GB Steam Deck LCD may not have the same pop as its OLED sibling, but it still provides good value for the money. When it originally launched for $449, the LCD model struck a good balance between storage capacity and price, particularly for those gamers who don’t prioritize graphics quality above all else. While the OLED is rather pretty, it costs $549 at the same storage capacity. Neither of these Steam Decks is any more capable or less capable than the others in terms of performance; both will launch and run demanding AAA titles such as Baldur’s Gate 3 and Elden Ring. These games take huge swathes of storage given their expansive worlds and glorious graphics, so if gaming performance and practicality are concerned, the 512GB version is a perfect suit. Final Opportunity on a Deal With LCD models for the Steam Deck now phasing out, this discount proves an excellent time to get into handheld game consumption on a somewhat tighter budget. The Steam Autumn Sale also includes deals for many hot titles, through which buyers can couple their system with a solid library of games. Priced attractively, with solid performance and the capability to run quite a wide range of PC games, the 512GB Steam Deck LCD is still an excellent choice – at least until it’s out of stock. Gamers interested in this deal will want to move fast before the last units disappear for good. The sale runs until December 4th, but don’t wait too long — this might be your last chance to snag a Steam Deck LCD at a bargain price. Source: Steam
Nintendo Switch 2 Now Rumored To Be Announced In January 2025
Launch Timeline and Shipment Details Some thrilling news about the long-rumored Nintendo Switch 2 has just been leaked. The console is said to be officially announced in January 2025 and may release only two months later, in March. Speculation says that the launch may happen at the end of March, which is bound to get every gamer across the globe super excited. Reports have emerged that manufacturing is well underway, with more than 650,000 units shipped out to different regions. Furthermore, there have been significant component inventories built up since September this year, which points to the fact that Nintendo may be trying to ensure a worldwide release without too much fuss. This new rumor comes via a Weibo post, as pointed out by Nintendo Prime in a video recently. Usually, random posts on Chinese forums mean nothing, but this user has a history of leaking things correctly. The Gaming Leaks and Rumors subreddit endorses this source, stating that the same user correctly predicted several major Nintendo announcements, including the hard-to-predict Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky The First remake. Curiously, this user has deleted all their posts since then, adding mystery to their insider knowledge. Insider Accuracy or Speculative Buzz? Despite the source’s seemingly interesting track record, many fans and industry analysts have kept their expectations in a more conservative tone. It sounds plausible, but talk is cheap until it has been confirmed. If indeed true, gamers will not need to wait for long as January 2025 is coming just around the corner. What to Expect? However, Nintendo has not commented on these rumors, and therefore the Nintendo Switch 2 remains speculative over its features and capabilities. With the release of its predecessor, which transformed the gaming world and portable gaming, expectations are indeed sky-high. As the gaming community waits over what more can be known, one thing is sure: Nintendo Switch 2 is surely shaping up to be one of the most exciting launches in recent gaming history. Stay tuned for official details over the next few months.
Xiaomi Introduces the Redmi Watch 5 And Redmi Buds 6 Pro
Introduction Xiaomi recently held a launch event in China, unveiling the new series of Redmi K80 series smartphones along with Redmi Watch 5 and the Redmi Buds 6 Pro earbuds. Redmi Watch 5: Attractive Design and Display The Redmi Watch 5 sports a 2.07-inch AMOLED curved display with 432×514 pixels resolution, a refresh rate of 60Hz, and a brightness of up to 1500 nits for vivid visuals. It houses an 82% screen-to-body ratio, complemented by ultra-slim 2mm bezels, thus giving it a sleek, modern look. Its design is further enhanced by a premium aluminum alloy frame and a stainless steel rotating crown, adding both elegance and intuitive functionality. Users can personalize their watch with seven quick-release strap options, including the stylish new Kona Leather Magnetic Strap. Power-Packed Features with HyperOS 2 The Redmi Watch 5 runs on Xiaomi’s latest HyperOS 2, delivering a seamless and intuitive user experience. Key software features include: ●Support for third-party apps. ●Smart home control, focus notifications, and vehicle management. ●NFC for secure payments and smart car key functions. ●Multi-device connectivity for an enhanced lifestyle. ●The integration of nine popular built-in apps further enhances convenience, making this smartwatch a versatile tool for daily life. Advanced Health and Fitness Tracking Redmi Watch 5 excels in health monitoring with features such as: ●24-hour heart rate tracking. ●SpO2 monitoring for blood oxygen levels. ●Stress management and sleep analysis. The smartwatch comes with more than 150 sports modes, ranging from basic to professional activities. For outdoor enthusiasts, there is independent GNSS positioning for accurate tracking. And with the newly integrated AFE chip, heart rate accuracy is further improved, which is very suitable for serious athletes. It is also 5ATM waterproof, making it suitable for swimming and water sports. Battery Life and Connectivity Options The Redmi Watch 5 features a robust 550mAh battery, promising: ●Up to 24 days of battery life on the Bluetooth version under typical usage. ●12 days of battery life on the eSIM version with regular use. ●The eSIM version enables users to make independent calls, send messages, and even have 25 hours of continuous walkie-talkie use. Advanced power optimization by Xiaomi guarantees a long runtime for both variants. Redmi Buds 6 Pro: Premium Audio Experience Xiaomi also unveiled the Redmi Buds 6 Pro, offering a top-tier listening experience with a triple-driver setup. These earbuds include: ●A 6.7mm piezoelectric ceramic dual driver. ●An 11mm titanium-coated dynamic driver for clear treble, balanced midrange, and deep bass. The sound quality is enhanced with Xiaomi’s “Golden Ears” acoustic optimization, boasting a 10% improvement in high-frequency loudness compared to the previous model. Features for 9 Audio The Redmi Buds 6 Pro further supports advanced features such as spatial audio for a 3D listening experience, compatibility with codecs such as MIHC, LDHC 5.0, and LC3, Deep Space Noise Reduction 2.0 that reduces noise levels by as much as 55dB, and a 3-mic AI ENC system to reduce wind noise during calls, even in windy conditions. Equipped with up to 36 hours of playback and fast charging, these earbuds are both practical and powerful. Gaming Edition of Redmi Buds 6 Pro Xiaomi also introduced a gaming-focused version of the Redmi Buds 6 Pro, featuring: ●A low-latency flash connector 2.0. ●Built-in storage for quick operations. ●Ultra-low latency of just 20ms for seamless gaming. This version also includes Xiaomi’s first wireless microphone function, capable of transmitting audio over distances of up to 130 meters. Pricing and Availability Redmi Watch 5: Pricing details are yet to be announced. The standard Redmi Buds 6 Pro will go for 399 yuan (~$55) in Jade Green, White, and Black. The gaming edition Buds 6 Pro will be on sale for 499 yuan (~$69) only in China from December 3. Conclusion The Redmi Watch 5 and Redmi Buds 6 Pro are clear statements of innovation and quality by Xiaomi within the wearables and audio markets. Boasting state-of-the-art technology, along with trendy looks and competitive prices, they will undoubtedly catch the attention of both technology and fitness enthusiasts. Source: Xiaomi (1), (2)
Tencent’s “3D One” Gaming Handheld: A Game-Changer in Portable Devices
Introduction Tencent, along with Intel, is working on a revolutionary gaming handheld device called the “3D One.” This innovative product will bring a new dimension to the handheld gaming market with 3D visuals and state-of-the-art technology powered by Intel’s Lunar Lake platform. The Evolution of Gaming Handhelds Over the last couple of years, the handheld gaming world has seen massive leaps in terms of performance and efficiency. While AMD’s Phoenix and Intel’s Meteor Lake are helping drive this trend, most of the innovation is actually occurring internally, rather than in terms of form factor features. The Tencent 3D One ups this trend with several new physical and visual upgrades. Innovative Specifications of the 3D One According to ITHome, the 3D One will be powered by Intel’s Lunar Lake Core Ultra 7 258V SC processor, an 8-core, 8-thread mobile APU for mid-tier performance. Along with that, there’s 32 GB of LPDDR5x memory and as much as 1TB of SSD storage to hold demanding games and multitasking work. A Versatile “2-in-1” Design The Tencent 3D One is not only a gaming device but also an all-rounder, 2-in-1 product: it features detachable “split handles” that allow seamless switching from tablet mode to portable gaming console. This design caters to both gamers and general users who value flexibility. Immersive 3D Visuals Its 3D eye-tracking system makes 3D visual effects without extra equipment possible. That puts the 3D One above other competitors and underlines the effort Tencent has invested in trying to revolutionize handheld gaming. Large Display and High Refresh Rate The display on the 3D One is 11-inch 2.5K with up to a refresh rate of 120Hz. The vast, high-resolution screen turns gaming a notch higher; hence, ideal for immersive gameplay and content consumption. The combination of big screen and 3D places 3D One in a leading position in the handheld market. Battery and Design The 3D One is powered by a robust 100W battery, ensuring extended playtime for demanding sessions. Its design, reportedly inspired by ASUS’s ROG Ally X, blends aesthetics with functionality. This makes it a visually appealing and practical choice for gamers seeking a high-performance handheld. Pricing and Availability Although pricing and release dates are still kept secret, the premium features of Tencent 3D One suggest that it will be pretty expensive. This innovative device is expected by gamers and tech enthusiasts, who are awaiting further announcements regarding this device. Conclusion The 3D One gaming handheld from Tencent represents a leap in handheld game technology. With its strong specification, 3D visual capability, and multiple purposes, it could be said to set the standard for all gaming handhelds. This may be the expectation; thus, it shall meet this expectation based on market reception and actual performance. It is definitely one of the most highly-anticipated gadgets in the gaming arena. Source & Images: ITHome
Huawei Mate X6: Innovation in Foldable Technology
Huawei has officially unveiled its latest foldable smartphone, the Mate X6. The phone, when folded, is a mere 4.3 mm thick. It is the upgrade that this world needs from the predecessor. Enhanced displays and an advanced camera system combined with the new HarmonyOS Next operating system make the Mate X6 stand out among its contemporaries. The Huawei Mate X6 features a foldable 7.93-inch LTPO panel with square aspect ratio of 1:1. It supports up to 2,440 x 2,240 pixels. Mate X6 boasts a variable refresh rate of 1 to 120 Hz and up to 1,800 nits of peak brightness. Its color gamut supports over 1 billion colors to display beautiful images. On the outside, the cover display is a 6.45-inch LTPO OLED screen at 1080p resolution. This screen outmatches the foldable panel for brightness, with a rating of 2,500 nits but otherwise retains the same variable refresh rate. Advanced Camera System The Mate X6 has four cameras, and most of its cameras draw technology from other Huawei flagship devices: Main Camera: A 50 MP sensor with an adjustable aperture (f/1.4-f/4.0) from the Pura 70 Pro+. Telephoto Lens: A 48 MP shooter with a 90 mm focal length and 4x optical zoom from the Mate 60 Pro. Ultra-Wide Lens: A 40 MP sensor with autofocus. Hyperspectral Sensor: A unique lens designed to enhance color accuracy and camera performance using Huawei’s XD Fusion engine. Sleek Design and Build The Mate X6, although ultra-thin, weighs at 239 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Mate X5. Depending on the model, battery capacity is either 5,110 mAh or 5,200 mAh in the high-end 16 GB RAM version. The Mate X6 features 66W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and 7.5W reverse wireless charging. It also protects the cover display with second-generation Kunlun Glass. Its improved waterdrop hinge is made from aerospace-grade steel for greater durability. Next-Gen HarmonyOS and Features The Huawei Mate X6 is launched with HarmonyOS Next, the company’s in-house operating system designed on a completely new kernel. The OS brings artificial intelligence-based multitasking to the device, such as split-screen, document abstracts, and social media text rewriting. Some are shipped with HarmonyOS Next, while others have come pre-installed with the HarmonyOS 4.3, which is based on the Android AOSP kernel. Specifications and Connectivity Mate X6 is packed with innovative technologies: *Renewed antenna for improved signal reception. *Dual-satellite communication supporting Chinese networks (Beidou and Tiantong). *Enhanced cooling with a vapor chamber and graphite layers. *IPX8 certification for water resistance, with a functional cover screen underwater. Pricing and Availability The Huawei Mate X6 comes in five color options: Glass/Plastic Finish: Gray and White. Leather Finish: Black, Red, and Blue. Pricing starts at CNY 12,999 ($2,200/€2,100). As of now, Huawei has not confirmed whether the Mate X6 will launch globally or remain exclusive to China, following the trend set by its predecessors, the Mate X5 and Mate XT Ultimate. Source: Huawei
Leaked Images Reveal Exciting Details About the Galaxy S25 Ultra
Leaked Images of Galaxy S25 Ultra Originate from Reddit Latest leaks of the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra have begun to emerge online, sourced by a Reddit user u/GamingMK. According to him, he took them from the original source that deleted his account shortly afterward. The source could not be verified anymore, but the images are indeed matching previous video clips that leaked in the past, so that increases the chances of them being genuine. We are, however, unable to confirm specific details about the origin of the phone or the circumstances behind the leak; these early glimpses give great insight into the design and features of the device. USB-C Port, SIM Slot, and S Pen The leaked photos provide clear shots of the USB-C port, SIM card slot, speaker grille, and S Pen on the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Interestingly, the S Pen slot stays at the left side of the device, similar to its predecessor, the Galaxy S24 Ultra. There was speculation that Samsung would change the positioning of the S Pen slot, but these images suggest otherwise. Slimmer Bezels and a Refined Design Another prominent feature is the device’s slim bezels. The close-up shots of the corner bezel indicate a premium and classy look, continuing Samsung’s tradition of having the most impressive aesthetics. Sneak Peek at Android 15-Based One UI 7 The screenshots also reveal how One UI 7 looks running on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, as the latest interface of Samsung based on Android 15. While the screenshots don’t reveal any groundbreaking new features, a few updates are worth highlighting: Split Notification Panel: The notifications and system controls occupy different panels for better accessibility. Updated App Icons: A very subtle design change exists in the app drawer. Battery Indicator Redesign: This is a fresh look at the battery indicator in the status bar. It goes without saying that these little additions and tweaks will definitely enhance user experiences and keep Samsung’s interface relevant and fresh. When Can We Expect One UI 7? Samsung has already confirmed that One UI 7 will be released with the official launch of the Galaxy S25 series, which is expected in the first quarter of 2025. But a public beta may be released before the end of 2024 for users to try out OneUI 7 before its official release. Final Thoughts on the Galaxy S25 Ultra Leak These leaks surely give a glimpse into what Samsung has in store with its next flagship device. Refined design elements, One UI 7 feature enhancements-the Galaxy S25 Ultra is shaping up to be a fitting successor in Samsung’s premium line of products. While there are many questions yet to be answered, early insights have been sufficient to whip up considerable anticipation for the official unveiling of the device. Source: Reddit
Apple To Make Major Compromises On iPhone 17 Air
Ultra-Thin Form Factor Apple iPhone 17 Air, expected next year, promises to revolutionize the design of the smartphone. If recent reports are to be believed, the ultra-thin build of the device-the prototypes being in the range of 5mm to 6mm-makes it way thinner than current iPhones and a possible new benchmark in the Apple line of smartphones. But Apple is allegedly struggling to reach the same thin dimensions as the M4 iPad Pro, especially because of issues with the battery substrate. The redesign should make the device more appealing to a wider market; it could very well increase the shipment of iPhones based on its looks alone. The iPhone 17 Air will be thinner than what is currently their thinnest phone, the iPhone 6. Challenges with Thermal and Battery Management The compact design allegedly brings some challenge to the incorporation of thermal management materials by Apple engineers. With a smaller size, there is limited space for important components such as the battery. This might compromise on general thermal efficiency and device endurance. In spite of these challenges, Apple wants to keep the sleek profile while guaranteeing performance at optimum, hence a testament to innovation in hardware engineering at the company. Speaker and Internal Redesign Another noteworthy change in the iPhone 17 Air is the adoption of a single earpiece speaker system. Whereas other models utilized a dual-speaker system, this move supports a thinner design. The streamlined internal layout is necessary to achieve such a slim form; yet, questions are begged about how this will influence this device’s sound quality and volume. While this redesign may sit well with the minimalists, possible compromises in audio output could be an issue for users who like immersive sound experiences. eSIM Technology Expansion Apple is continuing to push toward the SIM-less future with the iPhone 17 Air. The company will likely expand its eSIM technology to more markets, taking away physical SIM slots in those areas. The company will very likely continue to offer models with a physical SIM slot for critical markets such as China to ensure the products have the widest possible appeal. This also reflects Apple’s flexibility in trying to meet the diversified demands of global markets. Integration of Custom 5G Modem The iPhone 17 Air will also mark the first appearance of Apple’s in-house 5G modem, easing its dependence on Qualcomm. Early reports indicate the modem may be behind Qualcomm’s in performance, but actual user experience will be the determining factor in its success. Apple’s integration of proprietary modems reflects its long-term strategy of having greater control over hardware and software ecosystems. Production and Launch Timeline Currently, the iPhone 17 Air is in its proto-2 developmental stage, marking significant progress in early production trials. Apple plans to unveil the device alongside its standard models in the second half of 2025. As excitement builds for the iPhone 17 Air, Apple’s focus on design and innovation could redefine the smartphone market. More updates on specifications and features are expected as the launch date approaches. Source: The Information
Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Leaked Renders Hint At A Premium Design
A Tale of the Galaxy A Series Samsung has always led the game for high-end sales, such as the Galaxy S and Z series; however, its Galaxy A series always finds its target audience that covers premium features at budget rates. One of the highly awaited releases in the series is the upcoming Galaxy A56 5G. Following are some of the leaks and renders about what one should expect: First Look at the Galaxy A56 5G The first render of the Galaxy A56 5G has appeared, courtesy of Android Headlines, which gives quite a good look into the design of the device. It would appear that, at first glance, the phone carries a number of design cues from its predecessor: a flat screen, slim bezels, and edges that curve slightly. Of course, it refines these further; the newer bezels are much thinner, making it more modern. This display remains flat, giving the phone a sleeker look and one that feels more premium. The bottom bezel is quite a bit thicker than the others, but overall, it does seem the designs are looking for maximum screen real estate without sacrificing ergonomics. A Cleaner Camera Setup The major redesign can be found on the rear camera. Gone are the individual cutouts for each lens since, instead, the Galaxy A56 5G has a single housing for its triple-camera system. This gives the device a much cleaner and more mature look that puts it closer in line with Samsung’s high-end products. Around the back, there is also a signature Key Island bump from Samsung, where the volume and power buttons will reside within. Performance and Charging Upgrades The Galaxy A56 5G, under the hood, is expected to feature an Exynos 1580 chipset, promising robust performance from a mid-range device. Secondly, Samsung has made reasonable changes in charging speed. While its predecessor supported 25W charging, the A56 5G is speculated to feature 45W fast charging. This upgrade is very welcome for users who value convenience and efficiency. Expected Release and Features If Samsung follows its usual timeline for releases, the Galaxy A56 5G might just appear in the market as early as March 2025. Although nothing is really official yet, putting some design improvements together with improved charging and expected performance enhancements could make this an attractive prospect for consumers on a budget. Conclusion The Galaxy A56 5G will compete with mid range smartphones from Chinese manufacturers with better specs and less price . The addition of premium design elements and practical feature upgrades may raise it to the top rank among mid-tier devices. With a speculated launch just months away, both tech enthusiasts and fans of Samsung are surely curious about how this A56 5G will turn out. Source: Android Headlines
Sony Is Secretly Working on New PlayStation 5 Handheld Console
SoPlayStation 5 Handheld: A Nintendo Switch Challenger In a new report coming from Bloomberg, Sony has already began development on a new PlayStation 5 handheld console that will go toe-to-toe against Nintendo’s Switch. But insiders familiar with the matter are now saying the project remains at an early stage, and plans could still change. In contrast, though work on Microsoft’s Xbox handheld is confirmed even by Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer himself, it too is a couple of years away from release. Sony’s Legacy in Handheld Gaming Sony launched the PSP as its first handheld in various markets in late 2024. It found itself positioned against Nintendo’s DS directly. It did quite well, moving over 76.4 million units by 2012. These figures fell short of the DS, one of the most successful consoles ever.. Meanwhile, Sony launched PlayStation Vita in 2011 in Japan and in 2012 in the rest of the world. At that time, the PS Vita had state-of-the-art features but failed commercially. Sony stopped first-party game development on the platform in 2015. PlayStation Portal: A Peek into the Future of Sony Sony has recently released the PlayStation Portal. It has been a success for now, boasting decent sales, though it can do little else than stream games from the cloud. According to a report by Bloomberg, the Portal originally took inspiration from Valve’s Steam Deck-a handheld powerhouse capable of natively playing games-however, Sony eventually decided to go with something simpler. What to Expect from the New Handheld With no official information released, there has been much speculation on what Sony’s new handheld console will feature. Recently, tech outlet Moore’s Law Is Dead reported that Sony is potentially collaborating with AMD on the hardware aspect, which could result in the device emulating both PS4 and PS5 games. However, Bloomberg writes the device will likely only feature PS5 games because “playing PS4 games might not meet expectations when it hits the market.”. This can very well turn out to be that dramatic shift for Sony, right in the midst of Nintendo Switch and other such devices which have been monopolizing handheld gaming in the market. Competitive Gaming Landscape If Sony launches the PlayStation 5 handheld, that would be really interesting. The Nintendo Switch is the leader of portable gaming, touting a huge library of exclusives and a big active fan base. On the other hand, Microsoft’s Xbox handheld might be many years away but will bring another strong contender into the mix. Conclusion A handheld PlayStation 5 in the making would simply be further proof of Sony’s innovation within gaming. While the future of the project remains vague, this just goes to prove that it is a company willing to venture into more untapped markets, reimagining a handheld gaming legacy. Source: Bloomberg
Apple’s M4 Max Struggles to Impress with STALKER 2 Performance
STALKER 2 Performs Well in Sales, but Doesn’t Satisfy Performance STALKER 2 has been making headlines, selling over a million copies, but it fails to smoothly run even on the most powerful hardware. The Unreal Engine 5 title is power-hungry for even the most powerful gaming processor, AMD’s Ryzen 7 9800X3D, while Apple’s latest M4 Max chip for the MacBook Pro burdens it even further. The capable portable silicon that the M4 Max happens to be does not justify its premium price tag for gamers. Testing STALKER 2 on the M4 Max: How Well Does It Run with Emulation As YouTuber Denis Gladkikh proves, STALKER 2 is playable on Apple Silicon with the CrossOver app and GPT2 files. But again, this is not native gaming on macOS, and emulation in any form will always be a compromise in performance. So, while it is impressive to note that an M4 Max can run such a heavy title, significant visual sacrifice will be required. Its shader compilation reportedly took only 5-10 minutes, which is fairly decent for the emulated setup. Performance Results: Low Resolutions and Frame Rates Gladkikh’s benchmarks brought to light the fact that STALKER 2 was being run on a MacBook Pro powered by the M4 Max at medium detail, with a resolution of 1,600 x 900. The resulting figures were unimpressive, with Apple’s most powerful SoC unable to consistently run at 30–40 FPS at even 1080p resolution. At its base M4 Max configuration price of $3,199, the MacBook Pro certainly seems like a disappointing gaming investment. One critical omission in the test was the lack of visible settings details, such as upscaling or AMD Frame Generation usage. However, a real-time performance graph indicated that the game was running at native 1,600 x 900 resolution without upscaling, as the setting showed “1.0x.” Potential for Better Performance with Native Apps A native version of STALKER 2 for macOS might unlock better performance on the M4 Max, but until then, gamers relying on this system should lower expectations. The M4 Max’s current gaming output highlights the gap between Apple Silicon and dedicated gaming systems. Developer Updates May Offer Hope GSC Game World, the developer behind STALKER 2, promised future patches that would further bug and performance enhancements. Such patches may show improvements in the game across the board, but also for users who seek to test it out on more unconventional methods, like the M4 Max. Final Thoughts: The M4 Max as a Gaming Machine While the M4 Max is an impressive piece of silicon for a portable chipset, it is far from a replacement for a gaming laptop or desktop computer. For gamers, the expensive price of Apple’s high-end MacBook Pro may not be justified for mere gaming; however, at the same time, its capability to emulate and run some quite heavy titles, such as STALKER 2, shows how much Apple Silicon has to narrow the gap in the future. As such, until then, M4 Max gaming remains an experiment for niches rather than a mainstream solution. News and Images Source: Denis Gladkikh