TechCapsules

Former Sony Computer Entertainment president Kaz Hirai revealed that during his 2007‑2012 tenure he routinely defied directives from Sony headquarters, asserting that PlayStation’s priorities mattered more than corporate mandates. He credited this autonomy with steering the PlayStation 3 to over 87 million units sold, surpassing Microsoft’s Xbox 360, and securing flagship titles such as Uncharted and Metal Gear Solid 4. Hirai also emphasized frequent travel—visiting more than 20 countries—to maintain a visible leadership presence before retiring in 2024 after a 40‑year career. [...]

A PC mod by Frederik Wessberg is nearing completion, enabling seamless planetary landings in Starfield without loading screens. Inspired by existing mods that remove gravity jumps and planet takeoffs, the tool lets players manually enter atmospheres, orbit, and choose landing sites—including water—while an autopilot feature allows free movement around the ship. The mod uses volumetric cloud layers derived from in‑game climate data. Though still in development, it will soon be available on Nexus Mods. Bethesda has not [...]

Nothing has released its stable Android 17 update for the Nothing Phone (3), marking the first official rollout of Nothing OS 5.0. The update, based on Android 17, introduces a redesigned launcher, a Micrographics clock face, a refreshed design system, deeper personalization options, smoother performance, and enhanced Essential AI tools. Users can install it via Settings > System > System update. Nothing plans to extend the update to other devices, with stable rollouts scheduled through mid‑January 2027.

Ledger has halted sales of its hardware wallets through reseller CryptoBilis after reports of stolen funds totaling over $86 million linked to devices sold by the reseller. The company confirmed that one affected device contained an unauthorized hardware implant and is contacting impacted users. CryptoBilis suspended all inventory sales pending investigation, warning users to avoid devices with pre‑printed recovery phrases and to move assets to new signers if already set up. Ledger urged customers to source products only [...]

IonQ has agreed to acquire cybersecurity firm Elisity in an all‑stock transaction valued at up to $1.3 billion, including up to $150 million in performance‑based earn‑outs. Elisity, founded in 2019, supplies software that stops ransomware and other attackers from spreading through corporate networks, serving clients such as hospitals and health‑care companies. The deal expands IonQ’s security portfolio, positioning the quantum‑computing company to address emerging threats from AI and quantum technologies. Elisity’s CEO James Winebrenner is expected to stay post‑acquisition. [...]

Google launched the Fitbit Edge on Monday, positioning it between the Fitbit Air and Pixel Watch. Priced at $179.99, the Edge features a slim band, OLED display, and built‑in GPS that Google claims is 40% more accurate than its predecessor. It supports over 50 exercise modes, auto‑logs up to 100 activities, and offers on‑screen workout prompts. Sleep‑stage detection is 15% more accurate, and the device lasts up to seven days on a charge. The Edge requires a [...]

The review examines 13 gaming earbuds, highlighting the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds for their comfort, balanced audio, and extensive built‑in equalizers that adapt to specific games. The author, a seasoned tech journalist, outlines criteria such as low latency, long battery life, clear directional sound, and reliable connectivity across PC and consoles. He explains his selection process, filtering a 25‑pair longlist to a dozen finalists, and notes that some models were unavailable for testing. The article also discusses alternative [...]

Jac Schaeffer, known for WandaVision, is developing a new Stargate series for Amazon MGM, with a writers’ room slated to open soon. Executive producers Joby Harold and Tory Tunnell will oversee the project. This follows a previous Stargate attempt by Martin Gero that was cancelled in June after Amazon executives feared it would not attract viewers beyond existing fans. Fans remain skeptical, citing past cancellations and concerns about the show’s potential appeal.