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As he broke a record set when Thurmond stood against the Civil Rights Act, Booker said, "I'm not here, though, because of his speech. I'm here despite his speech. I'm here because, as powerful as he was, the people were more powerful."

(Image credit: Roberto Schmidt)

• The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is official
• It has three new buttons, including the 'C' button and the new GL and GR buttons
• And there's finally a 3.5mm headphone jack

As part of the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal, we also got a new Pro Controller to go with the hybrid console.

You’ll need to squint a bit at the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller to immediately spot any differences from the current Switch Pro Controller, other than the shoulder and triggers being rendered in a light grey rather than black.

But let your gaze linger on the controller and you’ll spy the new C button that triggers the Game Chat features; this is the first baked-in chat function Nintendo has brought to its console.

And there’s a 3.5mm headphone jack, which seems like a small thing but wasn’t a feature on the previous Pro Controller, despite Xbox and PlayStation controllers having such a jack for years.

Thanks to the technical wizardry of wireless audio passthrough, this means you’ll be able to play the Switch 2 in docked mode and get sound to your headphones when they are plugged into the Switch 2 Pro Controller. Hardly revolutionary, but a welcome addition.

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Another new feature is the new GL and GR buttons that sit on the back of the grip handles.

“Players can assign any button inputs they want to these two new buttons. What's more, the assigned button inputs are saved for each game as well as each player. So you can easily customize them by assigning button inputs that you frequently use to them, or buttons that are hard to reach at the same time,” explained Kouichi Kawamoto, a producer at Nintendo's entertainment, planning and development department. “For example, if you assign the Capture Button to the GL Button, you can use it to take screenshots without taking your thumb off the L Stick.”

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Outside of these new… features, you won’t find much else that’s fresh, as the Switch 2 Pro still comes with Bluetooth connectivity, HD rumble, NFC support for use with amiibo models and cards, and the Switch 2 Pro Controller also has gyroscopic aiming for games that support it.

I rather liked the original Switch Pro Controller, though I do wish it had analog triggers to modulate inputs, and that’s not the case with this new controller. Priced at $79.99 / £74.99 (Australian pricing is TBC but would likely be around AU$125), the Switch 2 Pro Controller is a little pricier than its predecessors, but that’s unfortunately the overall theme of the Switch 2 and console gaming in general.

While I don’t think the Switch 2 Pro Controller will be an essential purchase, I do feel it’ll be the controller to get if you plan on playing the Switch 2 docked a lot.

Want more Switch 2 news and views? Then head on over to our Nintendo Switch 2 Direct live blog for a blow-by-blow account of what was announced at the latest Direct.

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What do John Krasinski, Natalie Portman, Eiza González and Domhnall Gleeson have in common with Sherlock director Guy Ritchie and one of U2's biggest hits? They're all right here in the newly released trailer for Fountain of Youth, a new movie exclusive coming to Apple TV+.

According to Apple, it's an epic quest filled with adventure. And it looks like it'll be fun in a kind of Indiana Jones, Uncharted kinda way.

(Image credit: Apple TV+) What is the Fountain of Youth?

In mythology, the Fountain of Youth is the ultimate water feature: if you can find it, it'll make you immortal. And according to the synopsis, that's exactly what the characters in this movie are hoping to discover.

Here's Apple TV Plus's description: "Fountain of Youth” follows two estranged siblings (John Krasinski and Academy Award winner Natalie Portman) who partner on a global heist to find the mythological Fountain of Youth. They must use their knowledge of history to follow clues on an epic adventure that will change their lives … and possibly lead to immortality."

Written by James Vanderbilt (Scream, Zodiac, White House Down) and directed by Guy Ritchie (The Gentlemen, Snatch, Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels), this promises to be a kinetic adventure: Ritchie's great at action, and Vanderbilt's work is usually a lot of fun. More details are currently under wraps, but the film will be available to stream exclusively on Apple TV+ from May 23, 2025.

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• The Samsung Galaxy tri-fold phone may launch in China and Korea only, if a new rumor is anything to go by
• Also, a new patent filing suggests Samsung has created a design for a quad-fold phone with three hinges
• Samsung has not acknowledged either the rumor or the patent

At this year’s first Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung hinted that it’s working on a multi-fold phone – also referred to as a tri-fold phone – which has since come to be known on the rumor mill as the Samsung Galaxy G Fold.

However, a new rumor suggests that keen Samsung fans in many parts of the world could be left disappointed by the Galaxy G Fold’s availability at launch.

As GSMArena reports, listings were discovered in the GSM Association’s database for two new Samsung model numbers, SM-F968N and SM-F9680. It’s suspected that these refer to the supposed multi-fold phone.

The report adds that Samsung typically uses the N suffix for phones destined for its home market of South Korea, while a code ending in 0 denotes a Chinese release.

There are no other listings for the SM-F968 at the moment, which suggests the phone will be coming to China and Korea first and foremost.

It’s also possible that Samsung isn’t planning a wider release for the Galaxy G Fold – we previously saw a similar release for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold SE in October 2024, and that phone has yet to appear on store shelves outside of China and Korea.

However, this would seem like an odd choice considering the company previously teased multi-fold devices at the globally-streamed Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event in January.

A fourth fold?

(Image credit: SamMobile)

Though we haven’t even had official confirmation of a specific tri-fold device from Samsung, another rumor suggests that the company could be pushing ahead with the next stage of folding phone evolution.

A patent uncovered by SamMobile shows that Samsung has patented a new design that would allow for a three-hinged, four-panelled folding phone.

The design features a hinge right in the middle of the inner display, with the phone folding inwards on either side.

We don’t know whether Samsung intends to make this design a reality any time soon – it could just be an example of them sitting on intellectual property.

In any case, if Samsung does skip over the West with the Galaxy G Fold, I hope we're at least considered for any quad-fold phones that crop up in years to come.

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Nintendo just wrapped its April 2, 2025, Direct stream all about the Nintendo Switch 2, and it’s safe to say we learned a boatload of new information about the much-anticipated console.

For one, it’s coming in hot, landing on June 5, 2025, with several new hardware features and a slew of new games and expansion packs for existing ones.

So whether you want the down low on the cost, what the new ‘C’ button is, or the major new titles like Donkey Kong Bananza or Mario Kart World, read on for the 11 things we learned about the Nintendo Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, with preorders on April 8

(Image credit: Nintendo)

If you’re eager to put your Switch or Switch OLED to the side, you won’t have to wait much longer. The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, 2025, in two configurations: the standard console and one bundled with a code to download Mario Kart World.

Here’s a look at pricing:

• Nintendo Switch 2: $449.99 / £395.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World: $499.99 / £429.99

Preorders will kick off on April 8, 2025, and the console releases on June 5, 2025.

It comes with 256GB of storage, 8x the first Switch

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Considering that a laundry list of games has been shown off, it’s good news that Nintendo is significantly expanding its starting storage. The Nintendo Switch 2 comes with 256GB of storage, eight times the original Switch's capacity.

This should mean you’ll have plenty of room to download games right out of the box, and you'll be able to expand it with a microSD express card.

Mario Kart World is nearly entirely open-world with dynamic elements

(Image credit: Nintendo)

The Nintendo Direct kicked off with a deep dive into Mario Kart World, and it simply looks incredible. For starters, you can still have 24 karts racing at once, but you’re no longer limited to just the track.

Nintendo turned Mario Kart into an open-world title in that you can drive off the courses and into the vast world (as described) encompassing several regions. You can even drive yourself after one race concludes to the start of the next one. The lands in the game will be dynamic based on your region for both time of day and weather conditions.

From the scenes shown, it looks very impressive and is very worthy of being the launch title for the console. We'll learn more about it during a dedicated Nintendo Direct on April 17, 2025.

We finally know what the ‘C’ button is for

(Image credit: Nintendo)

In the lead-up, teaser photos showed off a new ‘C’ button on the right Joy-Con, and we can now confirm it’s for a new voice chat service exclusive to the Switch 2. Dubbe GameChat, you can chat with up to four folks while in game. There is even the ability to share your screen, and courtesy of the built-in microphone, Nintendo promises you’ll sound crystal clear thanks to voice isolation.

While you’ll eventually need Nintendo Switch Online to use GameChat, it will be free as a trial for all users at launch – likely to encourage sign-ups. There will also be a video component, as Nintendo showed off the Switch 2 Camera that can plug right into the console via USB-C to enable video calls. This way, you can share your scree,n and your friends can see and hear you. The Switch 2 Camera will also launch on June 5 for $49.99.

Beyond the ‘C’ button on Joy-Con 2, it’s also on the new Pro Controller and a limited-edition GameCube controller exclusive to Switch Online subscribers.

The best way to play your favorite games

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Switch 2 Edition games are older titles upgraded for the new console, and they might be one of the best reasons to pick up a Switch 2 on launch.

Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, and even new games like Pokemon Legends Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, will all perform better on the new hardware.

Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games will be available physically and digitally, and owners of the original games can upgrade to the enhanced version for a fee.

More Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games will be released in the future, but this is an excellent incentive for Nintendo Switch owners to upgrade to the latest console. Games like 2024’s Tears of the Kingdom struggled to run smoothly on the original Switch, but now they should run flawlessly like a AAA game made in 2024.

Switch 2 just got one of the DS’s best features

(Image credit: Nintendo)

GameShare is the spiritual successor to Download Play, a local multiplayer feature that was discontinued with the launch of the original Nintendo Switch.

Nintendo Switch 2 users will be able to play locally with their friends in games like Mario Kart World without needing a second cartridge. That means you’ll be able to have races with all your friends as long as they own the new console.

However, Nintendo hasn’t announced exactly what games will be compatible with GameShare yet. Even so, seeing the feature return with the new console is exciting, especially considering the June 5 launch date, which is perfect for your summer vacations.

Something beefy is powering it

(Image credit: Nintendo / Future)

Yes, Nintendo rattled off many specs about Switch 2, including the fact that the 7.9-inch screen is an HD LCD panel with support for HDR and 120 frames per second refresh rate, as well as two USB-C ports. Even so, though, we don’t know what processor is exactly powering the next-generation console.

We simply know it’s pretty powerful, though, as Cyberpunk 2077 is confirmed to arrive on the Switch 2. That’s a pretty spec-heavy game, so it’ll undoubtedly be more powerful than the first Switch or even the Switch OLED.

Plus, this system on a chip will also support the 256GB storage’s faster read and write speeds, power two USB-C ports, and enable faster read speeds on the new Game Cards.

'Silksong' and a new 'Hyrule Warriors' get 2025 releases

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Silksong might have only received five seconds of screen time, but for Hollow Knight fans eagerly awaiting the game’s release, that – and a 2025 release year confirmation – is more than enough. No clown makeup is needed today, folks.

We also got a brand new Hyrule Warriors title. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment will be set during the Imprisoning War we see glimpses of during Tears of the Kingdom, with this new title looking to serve as Tears’ version of Breath of the Wilds’ Hyrule Warriors tie-in Age of Calamity.

Will this new game also feature a topsy-turvy time travel component? We’ll find out when the game releases sometime this year.

There’s a new Pro controller coming

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Among a few other accessories revealed alongside the Switch 2, such as the Switch 2 camera and Joy-Con 2 controllers, Nintendo confirmed that a new full-size gamepad, the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, will be released.

Sporting a similar asymmetrical stick layout as its predecessor, it’s got a slightly different aesthetic with a black and gray colorway that makes it look pretty slick. It’ll also feature the C button for GameChat functionality and an audio jack port for connecting a headset, which is a new feature and adds another string to the controller's bow.

Elsewhere, it’ll feature HD Rumble 2, built-in amiibo functionality, motion controls, and GL/GR buttons that can be mapped to any button you like. We also know the pricing: the Switch Pro 2 Controller will cost you $79.99 / £74.99, which is a fair chunk of change.

GameCube games coming to Switch Online

(Image credit: Nintendo)

One of the best software announcements for many was that classic GameCube titles, starting with The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, Soul Caliber 2, and F-Zero GX, will be available on the Switch Online service.

If the list seems a little short, don’t fret. Nintendo has said other titles, including Pokémon Colosseum, Super Mario Sunshine, and Luigi’s Mansion, are set to hit the service at some point.

The titles will be available exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 to players who subscribe to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, which costs $49.99 / £34.99 / AU$59.95 for a 12-month subscription.

Beyond the new GameCube titles, players can access a library of games from other Nintendo Systems like the N64 and GameBoy Advance.

There is a new Donkey Kong title coming in July

(Image credit: Nintendo)

While it won't be out on June 5, 2025, Donkey Kong fans should mark the calendar for July 17, 2025. That's when Donkey Kong Bananza – a Switch 2 exclusive – will launch and it looks incredible.

It's a new 3D platformer featuring Donkey Kong and you'll be smashing and bashing your way through an underground world. Of course, you'll likely encounter mine kart rides – I mean, would it be a Donkey Kong title without that? – and it seems like the main character has some new abilities like wall climbing.

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• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is launching in Winter 2025
• The news arrived as part of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct today
• Both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will also receive Nintendo Switch 2 editions

Grab your Master Sword, you've pulled; by which I mean Zelda fans have some good news as part of today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.

The said news comes in the form of an official announcement for the next installment in the Hyrule Warriors series, the Age of Imprisonment, which (spoiler alert) follows Zelda's time travel adventure, which runs parallel to Link's in Tears of the Kingdom.

In a two-minute segment, we saw the Princess of Hyrule take up arms alongside King Rauru and Queen Sonia, battling Ganondorf's army alongside the other Sages. Zelda was playable in the last title Age of Calamity, which took place 100 years before the events of Breath of the Wild, but given her journey through the ages was a solo venture, she'll likely be the primary playable character in this one.

Alongside this news, we also learned that both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will not only be backward compatible but there will also be Switch 2 Editions that bring new features to the games. These will be available to purchase, or you can snag them for free with an existing Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.

Not only will these upgraded editions herald higher resolution, smoother gameplay, and HDR support, but you'll also be able to use the new Nintendo Switch Online app for Android and iOS to access further features like “Zelda’s Notes”.

In a further video announcement (embedded above), Nintendo also revealed additional voice memories, the ability to send your friends in-game items, player data, new in-app achievements, daily bonuses, and a photo studio. This comes in addition to the shareable Tears of the Kingdom creations and Hyrule GPS shown in the Nintendo Direct live stream.

Elsewhere in the presentation, it was announced that the Switch 2 is launching on June 5, 2025. Preorders open on April 8 and will cost you $449.99 / £395.99.

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• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is launching in Winter 2025
• The news arrived as part of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct today
• Both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will also receive Nintendo Switch 2 editions

Grab your Master Sword, you've pulled; by which I mean Zelda fans have some good news as part of today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.

The said news comes in the form of an official announcement for the next installment in the Hyrule Warriors series, the Age of Imprisonment, which (spoiler alert) follows Zelda's time travel adventure, which runs parallel to Link's in Tears of the Kingdom.

In a two-minute segment, we saw the Princess of Hyrule take up arms alongside King Rauru and Queen Sonia, battling Ganondorf's army alongside the other Sages. Zelda was playable in the last title Age of Calamity, which took place 100 years before the events of Breath of the Wild, but given her journey through the ages was a solo venture, she'll likely be the primary playable character in this one.

Alongside this news, we also learned that both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will not only be backward compatible but there will also be Switch 2 Editions that bring new features to the games. These will be available to purchase, or you can snag them for free with an existing Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.

Not only will these upgraded editions herald higher resolution, smoother gameplay, and HDR support, but you'll also be able to use the new Nintendo Switch Online app for Android and iOS to access further features like “Zelda’s Notes”.

In a further video announcement (embedded above), Nintendo also revealed additional voice memories, the ability to send your friends in-game items, player data, new in-app achievements, daily bonuses, and a photo studio. This comes in addition to the shareable Tears of the Kingdom creations and Hyrule GPS shown in the Nintendo Direct live stream.

Elsewhere in the presentation, it was announced that the Switch 2 is launching on June 5, 2025. Preorders open on April 8 and will cost you $449.99 / £395.99.

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Sony has announced its 2025 home audio lineup, and the new offerings include a 3.1.2-channel soundbar, a 5.1-channel soundbar system, and wireless surround speakers.

The new models join Sony’s existing home audio lineup, which is led by the Bravia Theater Quad wireless Dolby Atmos speaker system, and Sony Bravia Theater Bar 9 and Sony Bravia Theater Bar 8 soundbars.

Also continuing in 2025 are the A3000 Dolby Atmos soundbar and S-series HT-2000, S400, and S100F soundbars. The SW5 and SW3 and RS5 and RS35 wireless surround speakers will also carry over into 2025.

Pricing and availability for the new Sony soundbars and speakers have not yet been announced.

Bravia Theater Bar 6

(Image credit: sony)

The Sony Bravia Theater Bar 6 is a 3.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos soundbar with a dedicated center speaker plus upfiring speakers to convey height effects in Atmos soundtracks. It comes with a wireless subwoofer and supports DTS:X.

Proprietary sound-enhancing features in the Theater Bar 6 include S-Force Pro Front Surround and Vertical Surround Engine. It also supports Sony’s Voice Zoom 3 feature when used with a compatible Sony Bravia TV, along with Bluetooth streaming for music.

Bravia Theater System 6

(Image credit: sony)

The Sony Bravia Theater System 6 is a 5.1-channel system powered by 1,000 watts. It’s comprised of a soundbar, wireless subwoofer, and two surround sound speakers that connect to a wireless amp.

According to Sony, the Theater System 6 supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X and features Multi Stereo processing for an immersive music experience. Like the Theater Bar 6, it has S-Force Pro Front Surround and Vertical Surround Engine, along with Sony’s Voice Zoom 3 feature when paired with a compatible Sony Bravia TV. Bluetooth wireless support is also onboard.

Bravia Theater Rear 8

(Image credit: sony)

The Theater Rear 8 is an upgraded wireless surround sound speaker option for the company’s various soundbars. It has a rounded design that matches the form factor of the company’s Theater Bar 8 and 9 soundbars, along with a new fabric grille.

A four-channel amplifier in the Theater Rear 8 provides a power boost over the current RS3S wireless surround speaker. Like that model, it also supports Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping for a more immersive surround sound experience.

We look forward to getting our hands on the new Sony audio lineup soon, to see how it compares to our current list of the best soundbars.

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Sony has announced its 2025 home audio lineup, and the new offerings include a 3.1.2-channel soundbar, a 5.1-channel soundbar system, and wireless surround speakers.

The new models join Sony’s existing home audio lineup, which is led by the Bravia Theater Quad wireless Dolby Atmos speaker system, and Sony Bravia Theater Bar 9 and Sony Bravia Theater Bar 8 soundbars.

Also continuing in 2025 are the A3000 Dolby Atmos soundbar and S-series HT-2000, S400, and S100F soundbars. The SW5 and SW3 and RS5 and RS35 wireless surround speakers will also carry over into 2025.

Pricing and availability for the new Sony soundbars and speakers have not yet been announced.

Bravia Theater Bar 6

(Image credit: sony)

The Sony Bravia Theater Bar 6 is a 3.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos soundbar with a dedicated center speaker plus upfiring speakers to convey height effects in Atmos soundtracks. It comes with a wireless subwoofer and supports DTS:X.

Proprietary sound-enhancing features in the Theater Bar 6 include S-Force Pro Front Surround and Vertical Surround Engine. It also supports Sony’s Voice Zoom 3 feature when used with a compatible Sony Bravia TV, along with Bluetooth streaming for music.

Bravia Theater System 6

(Image credit: sony)

The Sony Bravia Theater System 6 is a 5.1-channel system powered by 1,000 watts. It’s comprised of a soundbar, wireless subwoofer, and two surround sound speakers that connect to a wireless amp.

According to Sony, the Theater System 6 supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X and features Multi Stereo processing for an immersive music experience. Like the Theater Bar 6, it has S-Force Pro Front Surround and Vertical Surround Engine, along with Sony’s Voice Zoom 3 feature when paired with a compatible Sony Bravia TV. Bluetooth wireless support is also onboard.

Bravia Theater Rear 8

(Image credit: sony)

The Theater Rear 8 is an upgraded wireless surround sound speaker option for the company’s various soundbars. It has a rounded design that matches the form factor of the company’s Theater Bar 8 and 9 soundbars, along with a new fabric grille.

A four-channel amplifier in the Theater Rear 8 provides a power boost over the current RS3S wireless surround speaker. Like that model, it also supports Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping for a more immersive surround sound experience.

We look forward to getting our hands on the new Sony audio lineup soon, to see how it compares to our current list of the best soundbars.

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• 4 soundbar upgrades that are worth the money
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Democrats can take yesterday's elections as one of the first bits of good news they've had in months. But there are lots of issues that are still center-right, including immigration.

(Image credit: Jamie Kelter Davis)

• Kirby Air Riders has been revealed at the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct Showcase
• The game is launching exclusively on the Switch 2 in 2025
• The racing spin-off will be directed by Kirby and Smash Bros. Masahiro Sakurai

Nintendo has announced Kirby Air Riders, a new racing game coming to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025.

The return of Kirby was revealed during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct with a charming trailer showing the adorable pink blob soaring through the skies on a motorized star.

Although there wasn't gameplay footage, Kirby can be seen racing against a few other characters in their unique-looking vehicles through a vibrant race track.

According to Nintendo, Kirby Air Riders will be directed by Kirby and Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai and is a racing game spinoff of the original Kirby Air Ride that was originally released on GameCube over 20 years ago.

Kirby Air Riders is a Switch 2 exclusive and you won't have to wait long to get your hands on the console, as Nintendo has finally announced that it will be launching on June 5, 2025.

Although pricing details weren't revealed during the broadcast, it was later revealed that preorders open on April 8, and the console will cost you $449.99 / £395.99.

The Direct also saw the return of Donkey Kong in a new 3D platformer, Donkey Kong Bananza, which is launching exclusively on the Switch 2 on July 17, 2025, as well as the reveal of Mario Kart World, another exclusive launching the same day as the Switch 2.

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• Nintendo Switch 2 specs revealed, and yes, it will support 4K resolution - as well as a host of other upgrades over the original
• Hollow Knight: Silksong was just shown at the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct with a 2025 launch window
• While we wait for a Bloodborne remake or sequel, FromSoftware just announced The Duskbloods, a brand new Switch 2 exclusive

• Kirby Air Riders has been revealed at the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct Showcase
• The game is launching exclusively on the Switch 2 in 2025
• The racing spin-off will be directed by Kirby and Smash Bros. Masahiro Sakurai

Nintendo has announced Kirby Air Riders, a new racing game coming to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025.

The return of Kirby was revealed during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct with a charming trailer showing the adorable pink blob soaring through the skies on a motorized star.

Although there wasn't gameplay footage, Kirby can be seen racing against a few other characters in their unique-looking vehicles through a vibrant race track.

According to Nintendo, Kirby Air Riders will be directed by Kirby and Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai and is a racing game spinoff of the original Kirby Air Ride that was originally released on GameCube over 20 years ago.

Kirby Air Riders is a Switch 2 exclusive and you won't have to wait long to get your hands on the console, as Nintendo has finally announced that it will be launching on June 5, 2025.

Although pricing details weren't revealed during the broadcast, it was later revealed that preorders open on April 8, and the console will cost you $449.99 / £395.99.

The Direct also saw the return of Donkey Kong in a new 3D platformer, Donkey Kong Bananza, which is launching exclusively on the Switch 2 on July 17, 2025, as well as the reveal of Mario Kart World, another exclusive launching the same day as the Switch 2.

You might also like...

• Nintendo Switch 2 specs revealed, and yes, it will support 4K resolution - as well as a host of other upgrades over the original
• Hollow Knight: Silksong was just shown at the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct with a 2025 launch window
• While we wait for a Bloodborne remake or sequel, FromSoftware just announced The Duskbloods, a brand new Switch 2 exclusive

• NordVPN research notes commuters are increasingly using devices during their journeys, but few are protecting their data
• Many travelers connect to public Wi-Fi unprotected
• Commuters also warned over "shoulder surfers" spying on their devices

Commuters are using devices on their journeys more than ever, but new research from NordVPN has warned this is leaving some travelers exposed by unsecured devices.

The company's research found the most common protection method is a strong password/passcode, with 47% of commuters using these, and 46% keeping their software regularly updated to keep safe. A fifth of commuters use a privacy screen protector to keep their information safe from ‘shoulder surfers’, and 17% use a virtual private network (VPN).

However, a worrying 13% of commuters take no data protection measures at all, and a third of smartphone users admit to connecting to a public Wi-Fi network on their journey (without a VPN).

Device distractions

Commuters are primarily using their smartphones to listen to music or podcasts (54%) - especially in Sweden (68%), the US (63%) and Canada (60%). In Japan, commuters typically catch up with the news on their journeys, white Spain and Italy are more social, choosing to message and call people.

Interestingly, in English-speaking countries (plus France and Spain) commuters are highly concerned about cybersecurity threats, with the least worried nation being Sweden, with 7 out of 10 people only slightly or not at all concerned by cyber threats while commuting.

Despite the risks, nearly two-thirds (60%) of commuters say they use public Wi-Fi at least sometimes, with South Koreans the most common offenders (80%). That being said, most don’t connect for long - with half spending up to 30 minutes connected.

It’s never a good idea to access sensitive accounts like health apps, banking, or work-related platforms on public Wi-Fi - as hackers can exploit the networks to intercept your data.

If you’re commuting, don’t let public Wi-Fi convenience compromise your safety and use a VPN if you don't already - as well as ensuring 2-factor authentication is always enabled to avoid compromises.

The best VPN service will encrypt your data, so even threat actors lurking on the same public Wi-Fi will only be able to see jumbled, unusable information.

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• NordVPN research notes commuters are increasingly using devices during their journeys, but few are protecting their data
• Many travelers connect to public Wi-Fi unprotected
• Commuters also warned over "shoulder surfers" spying on their devices

Commuters are using devices on their journeys more than ever, but new research from NordVPN has warned this is leaving some travelers exposed by unsecured devices.

The company's research found the most common protection method is a strong password/passcode, with 47% of commuters using these, and 46% keeping their software regularly updated to keep safe. A fifth of commuters use a privacy screen protector to keep their information safe from ‘shoulder surfers’, and 17% use a virtual private network (VPN).

However, a worrying 13% of commuters take no data protection measures at all, and a third of smartphone users admit to connecting to a public Wi-Fi network on their journey (without a VPN).

Device distractions

Commuters are primarily using their smartphones to listen to music or podcasts (54%) - especially in Sweden (68%), the US (63%) and Canada (60%). In Japan, commuters typically catch up with the news on their journeys, white Spain and Italy are more social, choosing to message and call people.

Interestingly, in English-speaking countries (plus France and Spain) commuters are highly concerned about cybersecurity threats, with the least worried nation being Sweden, with 7 out of 10 people only slightly or not at all concerned by cyber threats while commuting.

Despite the risks, nearly two-thirds (60%) of commuters say they use public Wi-Fi at least sometimes, with South Koreans the most common offenders (80%). That being said, most don’t connect for long - with half spending up to 30 minutes connected.

It’s never a good idea to access sensitive accounts like health apps, banking, or work-related platforms on public Wi-Fi - as hackers can exploit the networks to intercept your data.

If you’re commuting, don’t let public Wi-Fi convenience compromise your safety and use a VPN if you don't already - as well as ensuring 2-factor authentication is always enabled to avoid compromises.

The best VPN service will encrypt your data, so even threat actors lurking on the same public Wi-Fi will only be able to see jumbled, unusable information.

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• Google's Threat Intelligence Group has identified more threats from the DPRK
• North Korean hackers pose as IT workers to get jobs in Western firms
• This brings a host of security threats for companies

A new report by Google’s Threat Intelligence Group has warned of an expansion of operations by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea).

The researchers claim an increasing number of Western firms accidentally hiring North Korean IT workers who are raising funds for the regime.

These workers pose a serious security threat to organizations, which are at risk of data theft, disruption, and espionage.

Extortion tactics

This is part of a much wider campaign from the DPRK which has seen state-sponsored threat actors infiltrate dozens of Fortune 100 companies, resulting in as much as $6.8 million in revenue earned for the DPRK.

This led to the US Justice Department arresting several US citizens who were running ‘laptop farms’ which house US equipment sent to new employees - the facilitators installed remote access technology allowing workers from the DPRK to log in.

Google also located facilitators in both the US and UK sharing equipment, indicating a “complex logistical chain”.

An investigation into the campaign’s infrastructure revealed a ‘heightened interest in Europe’, and a global expansion of tactics from the DPRK and an increased volume of extortion attempts.

The threat intelligence group identified cases where recently fired IT workers “threatened to release their former employers’ sensitive data or to provide it to a competitor” including proprietary data and source code for internal projects.

To combat this phenomenon, Google reports that many companies are operating a bring your own device policy , but these often lack traditional security and logging tools and make threat detection much more difficult, dramatically increasing a risk in undetected malicious activity.

“The increase in extortion campaigns coincided with heightened United States law enforcement actions against DPRK IT workers, including disruptions and indictments. This suggests a potential link, where pressure on these workers may be driving them to adopt more aggressive measures to maintain their revenue stream.

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• Google's Threat Intelligence Group has identified more threats from the DPRK
• North Korean hackers pose as IT workers to get jobs in Western firms
• This brings a host of security threats for companies

A new report by Google’s Threat Intelligence Group has warned of an expansion of operations by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea).

The researchers claim an increasing number of Western firms accidentally hiring North Korean IT workers who are raising funds for the regime.

These workers pose a serious security threat to organizations, which are at risk of data theft, disruption, and espionage.

Extortion tactics

This is part of a much wider campaign from the DPRK which has seen state-sponsored threat actors infiltrate dozens of Fortune 100 companies, resulting in as much as $6.8 million in revenue earned for the DPRK.

This led to the US Justice Department arresting several US citizens who were running ‘laptop farms’ which house US equipment sent to new employees - the facilitators installed remote access technology allowing workers from the DPRK to log in.

Google also located facilitators in both the US and UK sharing equipment, indicating a “complex logistical chain”.

An investigation into the campaign’s infrastructure revealed a ‘heightened interest in Europe’, and a global expansion of tactics from the DPRK and an increased volume of extortion attempts.

The threat intelligence group identified cases where recently fired IT workers “threatened to release their former employers’ sensitive data or to provide it to a competitor” including proprietary data and source code for internal projects.

To combat this phenomenon, Google reports that many companies are operating a bring your own device policy , but these often lack traditional security and logging tools and make threat detection much more difficult, dramatically increasing a risk in undetected malicious activity.

“The increase in extortion campaigns coincided with heightened United States law enforcement actions against DPRK IT workers, including disruptions and indictments. This suggests a potential link, where pressure on these workers may be driving them to adopt more aggressive measures to maintain their revenue stream.

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• MSI will be extending panel refreshes on its OLED Care 2.0 monitors to 24 hours instead of 16 hours
• It will eliminate gameplay disruptions for gamers
• This will come into effect starting in May

OLED monitors have gradually become a mainstream option for many users (especially gamers) with advanced care technologies built to help prevent image retention and burn-in. Fortunately, MSI is introducing a new measure to further improve this technology's efficiency.

As stated in a press release, MSI will be extending its OLED Care 2.0 timer to 24 hours to prevent panel protection (pixel shifts) from activating automatically to stop burn-in (permanent image retention). Previously, this would occur every 16 hours which would disrupt activities - but now, users will have more flexibility with this function without many disturbances.

It goes a long way to show how advanced MSI's OLED care is, as most other monitors advise users to start pixel refreshes at least every 4 or 6 hours: with my Alienware AW3423DWF QD-OLED ultrawide, prompts will be presented every 6 hours, and while you can always set this to not show up at all, it's also easy to forget to activate.

Measures such as this could prove to be beneficial for MSI and other OLED displays: one of the biggest reasons why most PC users won't make the transition to OLED from a regular LED monitor (besides its expensive nature), is the fear of potential burn-in, but that's very quickly becoming a non-issue.

RE4 remake in OLED greatness... (Image credit: Future) OLED monitors are finally getting the attention they deserve, and I love it

There's still a long way for OLED monitors to go in terms of pricing and improvements for work-related activities - as most OLED users complain about text fringing when working from home - but it's great to see that companies are making extra efforts to make them more accessible.

Samsung has already announced that it will introduce cheaper OLED monitors to help speed up the transition from regular LED, which could encourage gamers to make the switch. I've stated this before, but OLED is quite literally the best display type I've had the pleasure of using, with deeper black levels thanks to an infinite contrast ratio, ultimately providing great image accuracy.

Updates to technologies like OLED Care 2.0 are examples of what will only help the display type become mainstream. We're also seeing discounts more often for the likes of Samsung's Odyssey G6 QD-OLED, which is currently 31% off at Amazon.

It's only a matter of time before LED is left behind for a large majority, and I can't wait until that day comes.

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• MSI will be extending panel refreshes on its OLED Care 2.0 monitors to 24 hours instead of 16 hours
• It will eliminate gameplay disruptions for gamers
• This will come into effect starting in May

OLED monitors have gradually become a mainstream option for many users (especially gamers) with advanced care technologies built to help prevent image retention and burn-in. Fortunately, MSI is introducing a new measure to further improve this technology's efficiency.

As stated in a press release, MSI will be extending its OLED Care 2.0 timer to 24 hours to prevent panel protection (pixel shifts) from activating automatically to stop burn-in (permanent image retention). Previously, this would occur every 16 hours which would disrupt activities - but now, users will have more flexibility with this function without many disturbances.

It goes a long way to show how advanced MSI's OLED care is, as most other monitors advise users to start pixel refreshes at least every 4 or 6 hours: with my Alienware AW3423DWF QD-OLED ultrawide, prompts will be presented every 6 hours, and while you can always set this to not show up at all, it's also easy to forget to activate.

Measures such as this could prove to be beneficial for MSI and other OLED displays: one of the biggest reasons why most PC users won't make the transition to OLED from a regular LED monitor (besides its expensive nature), is the fear of potential burn-in, but that's very quickly becoming a non-issue.

RE4 remake in OLED greatness... (Image credit: Future) OLED monitors are finally getting the attention they deserve, and I love it

There's still a long way for OLED monitors to go in terms of pricing and improvements for work-related activities - as most OLED users complain about text fringing when working from home - but it's great to see that companies are making extra efforts to make them more accessible.

Samsung has already announced that it will introduce cheaper OLED monitors to help speed up the transition from regular LED, which could encourage gamers to make the switch. I've stated this before, but OLED is quite literally the best display type I've had the pleasure of using, with deeper black levels thanks to an infinite contrast ratio, ultimately providing great image accuracy.

Updates to technologies like OLED Care 2.0 are examples of what will only help the display type become mainstream. We're also seeing discounts more often for the likes of Samsung's Odyssey G6 QD-OLED, which is currently 31% off at Amazon.

It's only a matter of time before LED is left behind for a large majority, and I can't wait until that day comes.

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Sony has announced its 2025 TV lineup, with the new offerings led by a mark II version of its Bravia 8 OLED TV that uses a QD-OLED display panel. Other new TVs announced include entry-level mini-LED and regular LED models, and there’s a new entry-level addition to Sony's Bravia Projector lineup.

The current Sony Bravia 8, one of 2024's best OLED TVs, will carry over in Sony’s 2025 TV lineup, along with the 77-inch version of the Sony A95L, a 2023 model that also uses a QD-OLED panel. The flagship Sony Bravia 9 mini-LED TV series carries over for 2025 as well, along with its mid-range Bravia 5 mini-LED and Bravia 3 LED series TVs.

The new Bravia 5 series mini-LED TV series will feature a 98-inch model, the company’s first mini-LED TV in an extra-large screen size and a replacement for the outgoing Sony X90L, which also featured a 98-inch option.

Pricing and availability for all new models are yet to be announced.

Bravia 8 II OLED

(Image credit: Sony)

The Sony Bravia 8 II will be available in 55-inch and 65-inch screen sizes, and according to Sony gives viewers a 50% brighter OLED TV option than the Sony Bravia 8 series, which uses a standard W-OLED panel. Sony says the new OLEDs are also 125% brighter than the earlier flagship A95L series.

Bravia 8 II TVs use the company’s XR Processor with XR Triluminos Max and XR Clear Image. They feature a One Slate design, with a slimmer chassis than the Bravia 8 series models.

Audio features on the Bravia 8 II include Acoustic Surface Audio+, which uses transducers embedded behind the display that turn the OLED panel into a speaker, and Acoustic Center Sync, which lets the TV be used as a center channel with a compatible Sony speaker system. Another upgrade the Bravia 8 II brings is dual subwoofers, over the single subwoofer present on Bravia 8 series models.

Bravia 5 mini-LED

(Image credit: Sony)

The Sony Bravia 5 is the company’s new entry-level mini-LED TV series, and will be available in 55-, 65-, 75-, 85-, and 98-inch screen sizes, making the Bravia 5 the largest size option in Sony’s 2025 TV lineup. These TVs use an XR Processor and an XR Backlight Master Drive panel with up to six times more local dimming zones than the Sony X90L series, according to Sony. They also feature Studio Calibrated and IMAX Enhanced picture modes.

On the audio side, Bravia 5 TVs feature Acoustic Multi-Audio, which uses new magnetic tweeters positioned on the left and right sides of the TV’s frame along with down-firing X-Balanced speakers. There's also an Acoustic Center Sync feature that lets the TV work as a center channel with a compatible Sony speaker system.

Bravia 2 II LED

(Image credit: Sony )

The Sony Bravia 2 II is the company’s new entry-level TV series, and features an LED display panel with an X1 4K processor that was previously used in the company’s flagship TVs. These models will be available in 43-, 50, 55-, 65-, and 75-inch screen sizes with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio support.

Bravia Projector 7

(Image credit: Sony)

The Sony Bravia Projector 7 is the new entry-level home theater projector in the company’s lineup, which also includes the Bravia Projector 9 and the Bravia Projector 8, our pick as the best premium gaming option in our best 4K projectors guide.

The Projector 7 is a 2,200-lumen native 4K laser model that gives viewers a more compact and lightweight (28lbs / 12.7kg) projector option compared to the upper-tier models in the Sony Bravia Projector lineup.

The Projector 7 features the same XR Processor for Projector found in the company’s step-up models, with XR Deep Black to enhance contrast. The Projector 7 is also well suited to gaming, with 4K 120Hz support on its dual HDMI inputs and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).

A new feature making its debut on the Projector 7 is an Aspect Ratio Scaling Mode. This conveniently lets viewers switch between 2.35:1 and 16:9 display without any lens adjustments when using a Cinemascope screen by simply tapping on a remote control button.

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Sony has announced its 2025 TV lineup, with the new offerings led by a mark II version of its Bravia 8 OLED TV that uses a QD-OLED display panel. Other new TVs announced include entry-level mini-LED and regular LED models, and there’s a new entry-level addition to Sony's Bravia Projector lineup.

The current Sony Bravia 8, one of 2024's best OLED TVs, will carry over in Sony’s 2025 TV lineup, along with the 77-inch version of the Sony A95L, a 2023 model that also uses a QD-OLED panel. The flagship Sony Bravia 9 mini-LED TV series carries over for 2025 as well, along with its mid-range Bravia 5 mini-LED and Bravia 3 LED series TVs.

The new Bravia 5 series mini-LED TV series will feature a 98-inch model, the company’s first mini-LED TV in an extra-large screen size and a replacement for the outgoing Sony X90L, which also featured a 98-inch option.

Pricing and availability for all new models are yet to be announced.

Bravia 8 II OLED

(Image credit: Sony)

The Sony Bravia 8 II will be available in 55-inch and 65-inch screen sizes, and according to Sony gives viewers a 50% brighter OLED TV option than the Sony Bravia 8 series, which uses a standard W-OLED panel. Sony says the new OLEDs are also 125% brighter than the earlier flagship A95L series.

Bravia 8 II TVs use the company’s XR Processor with XR Triluminos Max and XR Clear Image. They feature a One Slate design, with a slimmer chassis than the Bravia 8 series models.

Audio features on the Bravia 8 II include Acoustic Surface Audio+, which uses transducers embedded behind the display that turn the OLED panel into a speaker, and Acoustic Center Sync, which lets the TV be used as a center channel with a compatible Sony speaker system. Another upgrade the Bravia 8 II brings is dual subwoofers, over the single subwoofer present on Bravia 8 series models.

Bravia 5 mini-LED

(Image credit: Sony)

The Sony Bravia 5 is the company’s new entry-level mini-LED TV series, and will be available in 55-, 65-, 75-, 85-, and 98-inch screen sizes, making the Bravia 5 the largest size option in Sony’s 2025 TV lineup. These TVs use an XR Processor and an XR Backlight Master Drive panel with up to six times more local dimming zones than the Sony X90L series, according to Sony. They also feature Studio Calibrated and IMAX Enhanced picture modes.

On the audio side, Bravia 5 TVs feature Acoustic Multi-Audio, which uses new magnetic tweeters positioned on the left and right sides of the TV’s frame along with down-firing X-Balanced speakers. There's also an Acoustic Center Sync feature that lets the TV work as a center channel with a compatible Sony speaker system.

Bravia 2 II LED

(Image credit: Sony )

The Sony Bravia 2 II is the company’s new entry-level TV series, and features an LED display panel with an X1 4K processor that was previously used in the company’s flagship TVs. These models will be available in 43-, 50, 55-, 65-, and 75-inch screen sizes with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio support.

Bravia Projector 7

(Image credit: Sony)

The Sony Bravia Projector 7 is the new entry-level home theater projector in the company’s lineup, which also includes the Bravia Projector 9 and the Bravia Projector 8, our pick as the best premium gaming option in our best 4K projectors guide.

The Projector 7 is a 2,200-lumen native 4K laser model that gives viewers a more compact and lightweight (28lbs / 12.7kg) projector option compared to the upper-tier models in the Sony Bravia Projector lineup.

The Projector 7 features the same XR Processor for Projector found in the company’s step-up models, with XR Deep Black to enhance contrast. The Projector 7 is also well suited to gaming, with 4K 120Hz support on its dual HDMI inputs and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).

A new feature making its debut on the Projector 7 is an Aspect Ratio Scaling Mode. This conveniently lets viewers switch between 2.35:1 and 16:9 display without any lens adjustments when using a Cinemascope screen by simply tapping on a remote control button.

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