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Samsung and Google Cloud Extends Partnership on New AI Robot

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Samsung and Google Cloud are expanding their partnership on a new home Artificial Intelligence (AI) companion robot called Ballie. The extended collaboration builds on their previous successful project on Samsung’s Galaxy S24 smartphone series.

More specifically, Google Cloud will integrate its generative AI technology, Gemini, into Ballie. Accordingly, it will allow the companies to explore how to bring smart technology to a broader range of devices.

“Through this partnership, Samsung and Google Cloud are redefining the role of AI in the home,” emphasized Samsung Visual Display Business Executive Vice President Yongjae Kim.

According to a press release, the multimodal capabilities of Gemini and proprietary language models of the Korean electronics manufacturer will be utilized by Ballie. Through this, the AI robot can adapt its real-time behaviors and responses by processing a variety of inputs. Mainly, it will be able to understand voice, audio, visual data, and sensor data.

“By pairing Gemini’s powerful multimodal reasoning with Samsung’s AI capabilities in Ballie, we’re leveraging the power of open collaboration to unlock a new era of personalized AI companion,” Kim said in an article.

The executive vice president also mentioned that Gemini will enable Ballie to follow users, anticipate their commands, and provide optimized interaction.  

Dynamic and Meaningful Interaction

Generally, the home companion robot can assist users in managing home environments through natural and conversational interactions. It can adjust lighting, greet people at the front door, arrange schedules, and set reminders, among others.

It can also be of great help in making personal decisions, such as choosing what to wear for the day. Consequently, Ballie will give out recommendations like adding accessories or trying different colors.

Moreover, the addition of Gemini will allow the device to respond to health and well-being matters. With Gemini’s grounding in Google Search, the robot can provide specific advice and recommendations from reliable sources.

Ballie will be available this summer in Korea and the United States.

Nike Presents Devin Booker and Chevrolet Collaboration

Nike is officially unveiling the newest three-way project collaboration between Devin Booker and Chevrolet. The partnership follows the widely criticized debut signature model of the NBA star.

This time, his sneaker offering channels his passion for his three 1972 Chevrolet Blazers. The collaboration includes three sneakers, including two iconic Blazer Lows and the signature Book 1 silhouette.

“The new styles also complement Devin’s first Nike signature apparel collection, which marries basketball culture with an unsurpassed sense of fashion that draws inspiration from cars, workwear, and contemporary Americana — offering hoopers a timeless expression of elevated sport style,” Nike emphasized.

According to the Swoosh, the Phoenix star is an influencer, an expert, and a player who elevates performance and style in the sport. In line with this, he was deeply involved in the design process, mirroring his dedication to his craft. Booker was part of developing the color palettes, accompanying apparel, and campaign material. He wanted the shoes to mimic a few of his Chevrolet vintage car collections, and the American automobile manufacturer helped him achieve that objective.

A Personalized Design for Everyone

The new versions of the Blazer Low and the Book 1 have suede uppers. Additionally, the tongue and insole boast the iconic “America’s Heartbeat” and Chevrolet emblem, an article from Hypebeast says.

Moreover, the colorways of the Blazer Low include Surf Blue and Team Dark Green. On the other hand, Book 1 will be available in the Dark Gold Leaf option. The shoe trio faithfully pays tribute to Booker’s own Chevrolet vehicles.

On top of this, the silhouettes come with customized packaging that nods to the 1970s. At the same time, it solidifies the iconic team-up of the two North American brands, Jovani Hernandez of House of Heat reports.

Completing the collection is an accompanying tee that displays the Phoenix Mountains together with one of Booker’s cars. The shirt comes in Sail and Anthracite colorways.

The Devin Booker x Chevrolet collaboration products will be on sale on April 22.

Motorola To Launch Moto G Stylus 2025 Edition

Motorola is set to roll out the updated version of its budget-oriented stylus phone, the Moto G Stylus 2025 edition. The brand tags it as a smartphone that blends creativity and productivity.

Its refreshed device is designed to compete in the market for delivering the best smartphone specifications at a budget-friendly price. Accordingly, Motorola has the right offering as the new Moto G Stylus delivers advanced specifications, considering it is under $500.

A Smartphone Ready for Anything

According to Allison Johnson of The Verge, the updated smartphone includes a chip upgrade. It now has the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, which is far better than last year’s Gen 1 chip. Based on the report, Motorola claims that the upgrade enabled the device to have a 6.4x improved responsiveness.

Moreover, Motorola boasts a 6.7-inch OLED display with an ultra-fast 120HZ refresh rate and an enhanced 2712 x 1220 resolution. The screen not only ensures vibrant colors and sharp details but also provides smooth and fluid performance. Its cutting-edge display automatically adjusts to every type of content, including movies, photos, video chats, and games.

In line with this, what is good with a crisp display if it does not have an immersive accompanying sound right? Well, Motorola got your back with its crystal-clear sound and stereo speakers. More specifically, it features Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res audio.

Furthermore, capturing memories is much better with the Sony Lytia 50-megapixel sensor for the rear camera and a 32-megapixel front camera.

The Moto G Stylus also has a 5000mAh battery that comes with 68W TurboPower charging and 15W wireless charging.

Protecting all of these features is a design that can withstand extreme drops and temperatures. It integrates an IP68 rating military-grade MIL-810H durability and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.

For the colorways, the device is available in Pantone Gibraltar Sea and Pantone Surf the Web, which are basically different shades of blue.

As a cherry on top, the smartphone comes with a type-c headphone jack!

Motorola’s Moto G Stylus 2025 edition will be available on April 17 at $399.

James Gunn Hints New DCU Era in ‘Superman’ Sneak Peek

James Gunn, along with DC Comics and Warner Bros, hints at a new beginning for their cinematic universe in a five-minute sneak peek at the forthcoming Superman film. The first look was initially revealed earlier this week during the Comic-Con in Las Vegas.

After being appointed Co-Chief Executive Officer of DC Studios, Gunn’s upcoming Man of Steel movie will be the first feature film to hit the big screen.

David Corenswet Embodies the Core of Superman

The five-minute preview opens in an icy scene, where Superman (played by David Corenswet) is lying, beaten up, and bleeding. Then, he whistles, calling his pet dog Kypto for help. When it arrived, Superman asked Krypto to bring him home. The dog pulled him to the Fortress of Solitude, where a group of robots carried him for fixing. Consequently, Superman continuously expressed his gratitude, to which the robots responded, “No need to thank us, sir, as we will not appreciate it.” Nevertheless, Superman continued to show his appreciation, embodying the superhero‘s uninhibited kindness and altruism.

Towards the end of the trailer, the last son of Krypton is showcasing what he does best — saving the world. Contrary to most trailers, the sneak peek did not end with any title card. It closes by showing the “S” symbol, lowkey bragging that everyone knows who Superman is.

A New Superman Era

Generally, the sentiment towards the new film and actor is positive, which is crucial as it hopes to bounce back from the “failures” of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). While the DCEU had its loyal fan base, most Superman fans wanted to see the classic take on the character. The chatter always centered on Zack Snyder’s Superman being dark, gritty, and too serious. Now, Gunn and Corenswet’s rendition of the iconic superhero could be the most heartwarming, implying a brighter future.

Moreover, Gunn seemingly added his signature style to pave the way for a newly imagined DC universe. According to DC Studios, the cinematic universe now blends “epic action, humor, and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.”

The film cast includes Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult, Edi Gathegi, and many more.

Look up! Superman will fly into cinemas on July 11.

Tom Cruise Runs Into Destiny in New ‘Mission Impossible’ Trailer

Tom Cruise, once again, showcases his unwavering commitment to delivering death-defying stunts in the official trailer of Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning. The film will be the eighth installment in the blockbuster franchise, which was based on the television series created by Bruce Geller.

Ethan Hunt’s Most Dangerous Mission Yet (Should he choose to accept)

In the latest trailer for the highly-anticipated movie, Ethan Hunt (played by Tom Cruise) will run into his inevitable destiny. Picking up from where the previous film ended, Hunt will be leading his IMF team against a formidable artificial intelligence known as the Entity. However, the villain claims that his team has been betrayed and that all secrets are compromised. In line with this, several scenes display Hunt in handcuffs, seemingly being arrested — with everyone going against him. As one character states, “If we want to bring the world back from the brink, we have to deal with him.”

As expected, the Final Reckoning trailer shows Tom Cruise performing exhilarating stunts, including dangling from a plane, jumping into the ocean from an aircraft, going underwater in a submarine sequence, and more dangerous running.

A Visionary Team Delivers Another Thrilling Mission

Christopher McQuarrie worked as the director of Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning and co-produced it with Tom Cruise. Moreover, McQuarrie and Erik Jendresen wrote the screenplay. Furthermore, the film’s executive producers include David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Don Granger, and Chris Brock.

Along with Tom Cruise, the film stars Hayley Atwell, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames, Angela Bassett, Pom Klementieff, Esai Morales, Mariela Garriga, Henry Czerny, Holt McCallany, Janet McTeer, Hannah Waddingham, Nick Offerman, Shea Whigham, Tramell Tillman, Charles Parnell, Greg Tarzan Davis, Lucy Tulugarjuk, Rolf Saxon, and Mark Gatiss.

The Final Mission

There is no concrete announcement from anyone that this is going to be the final movie in the iconic franchise. However, the film trailer and the title hint that it could end the adventure of the IMF. Nevertheless, Cruise and McQuarrie have always played their cards close to their chests, so anything is possible. For now, fans can hold on to what Ethan Hunt said in the trailer, “I need you to trust me — one last time.”

Filmed for IMAX, Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning will hit theaters on May 23.

Can You Play Sims 4 on Mac? Alternatives & Minimum Requirements

If you are a fan of simulation games, then you have tried and enjoyed The Sims. In line with this, The Sims 4 is one of its most popular editions. It is still an awesome life-simulation game, which is why many gamers are wondering if they can enjoy it on their Mac devices. Generally, it is important to know the system requirements and how smoothly the game will run on a device. It will save you from wasted efforts and unnecessary expenses.

Can The Sims 4 Run on Mac?

Yep, absolutely. The Sims 4 can still run on Mac devices, but there are specific minimum system requirements to meet. It is in order to ensure that the game will work smoothly. According to an article by EA Help, the two sets of system requirements are as follows:

Minimum System Requirements

  • macOS X 10.11 (El Capitan) or later
  • CPU: Intel Core i3-3225 3.53 GHz or better
  • RAM: 4GB
  • Hard Drive: 26GB of free space
  • Graphics Card: Support for Metal. Intel HD 4000 (Integrated graphics) or better

Take note: these specs are the minimum, which means the game could run at lower settings. Likewise, you may encounter performance issues, especially on earlier Mac models.

Recommended System Requirements

  • macOS X 10.11 (El Capitan) or later
  • CPU: Intel Core i5 or better
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Hard Drive: 51GB of free space
  • Graphics Card: Intel HD or Iris Graphics from the HD 4000 series or newer.

Take note: While these are recommended by EA, opting for more advanced system specs is still advisable to get the ultimate gaming experience.

Performance on Mac

In connection with the above-mentioned information, The Sims 4 is still playable on a Mac. However, the system specs directly affect the gaming performance. Older devices may struggle to load the game smoothly, leading to lag or reduced frame rates, which is a bummer in the gaming world. So, it is advised to upgrade the system hardware to avoid slowdowns. On the other hand, if you are a little short in budget, you can lower the game’s graphical settings.

Alternatives for Playing The Sims 4

If you encounter compatibility issues when trying to operate the game on your Mac, then you should try these alternatives:

  • Boot Camp

It lets you download Windows on your Mac, allowing you to play The Sims 4 natively on a Windows environment. This option is best for users with older Mac devices.

  • Parallels Desktop

For those who choose not to reboot their system, Parallels Desktop should be the pick. It helps you run Windows applications on macOS simultaneously.

Final Checkpoint

There are plenty of ways to play The Sims 4 on Mac, so don’t worry! Moreover, see to it that your device meets the specific system requirements to run the game smoothly. With the appropriate setup, you can enjoy gaming without a hitch. After all, you play to relax, not to increase your stress level. 

Release Sky Alternatives, Mirror Sites & Reddit Updates

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Release Sky has gained popularity and has become a go-to website for streaming live sports events and entertainment content. Its extensive list of offerings mainly includes football, boxing, cricket, UFC, and Formula 1. However, as expected, its nature made it prone to issues about legality and reliability. Consequently, many of its avid users have raised questions and have been looking for great alternatives.

This article explores a few Release Sky alternatives. It tackles mirror sites along the risks and highlights valuable insights from Reddit on the service.

Recommended Release Sky Alternatives

  • Stream2Watch

First on the list is Stream2Watch, which has been a well-regarded streaming platform for many years now. Similar to Release Sky, it delivers free access to high-quality sports streams for all major leagues. Viewers can watch different sports, including football, boxing, and tennis. Membership is not a thing on this platform. It can also be accessed anywhere and anytime as it aggregates streams from various sources.

  • Sportsurge

Taking the second spot is Sportsurge — another option for a service similar to Release Sky. It claims to be the “ultimate destination” for live sports streaming. More specifically, users can view football, baseball, soccer, basketball, hockey, and many more. Moreover, it is known for its easy-to-navigate interface and commendable streaming quality. Plus, it is free!

  • CricHD

Closing out the list of Release Sky alternatives is CricHD. Unlike the other suggestions, this streaming platform mainly offers live coverage of cricket games. Nonetheless, it still includes some other sports, including rugby, tennis, and a few more. In line with this, CricHD is famous for high-quality streams and for its huge loyal fanbase. Also, users can watch the streams on any device, making way for a hassle-free experience.

Release Sky Mirror Sites

These mirror sites bypass restrictions or serve as a quick workaround for main site shutdowns. However, since the streaming platform is dodgy, the availability of the mirrors still varies from time to time. A few available sites are ReleaseSky1.live and RSky.live.

Reddit Updates and Community Insights

Reddit is the go-to resource for online users when getting updates about websites like Release Sky. Commonly, people would find useful information here about the current status of the website, mirror sites, alternatives, and safety tips. However, as of writing, there is not much going on regarding Release Sky on Reddit threads. Nevertheless, it is best to still check in from time to time to catch the latest news and updates.

Wrapping It All Together…

Despite the challenges Release Sky is facing in terms of reliability and legality, viewers still have multiple alternatives to choose from. On the other hand, if one is uncomfortable with accessing dodgy sites, there are always paid, legal sports streaming platforms to check out. At the end of the day, viewers hold the final say in what they want. Always be wary of legal and security dangers when using free streaming sites.

Converse Basketball Acquires Payton Pritchard of Boston Celtics

Converse Basketball has a new addition to its athlete roster, Boston Celtics guard and sixth man Payton Pritchard. He is joining the list of NBA players with a Star Chevron shoe deal, including Kelly Oubre and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

The latest endorsement deal is perhaps due to his enduring influence on the city’s rich basketball legacy. The NBA rising star is recording 14.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists a game off the bench in the 2024-25 NBA season. On top of that, he is shooting 46.4% and 41% from beyond the arc, Karl Rasmussen of Sports Illustrated reports. Due to his promising overall performance, he now joins the company of the legendary Larry Bird, who was the last Celtics player to get a Converse deal.

A Partnership Built Around Similar Mindsets

According to Converse Chief Executive Officer Jared Carver, the partnership is likely to create an impact in the basketball world, considering both parties share the same dedication to the sport. In line with this, the NBA player embodies “the Converse Basketball spirit of creativity, self-expression, and performance,”  whenever he plays on the court or makes a statement in the tunnel.

“As a player, I’m always looking for ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible, and Converse shares that same mindset,” says Pritchard in an article.

Also, he expressed his excitement to join the Converse Basketball family. Moreover, Pritchard looks forward to helping inspire up-and-coming athletes to make an impact on and off the court.

The current deals with NBA players help the brand test performance and design limits. This is to promote self-expression and continue creating products that empower athletes in every aspect. Similarly, Converse stays committed to defining the true essence of a basketball brand that seamlessly blends sports, culture, and fashion.

“As Converse Hoops continues to gain momentum, we’re excited to partner with Payton, amplify his passion and commitment to the game, and inspire a new generation of creators to follow in his footsteps,” Carver emphasized via Nike.

As part of the latest endorsement deal, Payton Pritchard is going to don the All-Star BB Trilliant CX for the remaining games of the 2024–25 NBA season.

Nikon Launches Z5II Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera

Nikon is officially releasing the all-new full-frame/FX-format Z5II mirrorless camera. It is an upgraded version of the entry-level Z5, which came five years ago. The offering is a more affordable option to the lineup’s original products, like the Z6 and Z7 full-frame cameras.

According to the Japanese manufacturer, version two of the Z5 camera enables users to completely immerse in a one-of-a-kind creative expression. At the same time, they can enjoy shooting with the camera, thanks to its high shooting performance and the cutting-edge capabilities of a full-frame gear.

Key Features of the Z5II

  • Enhanced AF Performance

Nikon says the latest mirrorless camera includes an advanced Autofocus performance, which was adopted from higher-end models. More concretely, it has the AI-utilizing deep learning technology that works for both still image capturing and video recording. Also, the Z5II is the first full-frame Nikon mirrorless camera that supports AF-A focus mode. The product even features 3D-tracking, which effectively assists the focusing system when shooting in dynamic movements.

  • Creative Expression Tools

The ZFII boasts a range of features that empower users to express their creativity through unique color and imaging tools. One of which is the addition of Nikon Imaging Cloud connectivity, which allows users to save various Imaging Recipes for free. Consequently, these recipes can be applied directly through the allotted Picture Control button. Another tool is the Flexible Color Picture Control, which enables users to produce their original color styles using Nikon’s NX Studio* RAW processing and editing computer software.

  • Better Low-Light Performance

Shooting in low-light environments is not a problem, as the camera has the EXPEED 7 image-processing engine and a back-illuminated CMOS sensor. It also delivers ISO 64000 (stills) and ISO 51200 (video) maximum standard sensitivity, which helps in rendering dark scenes. Moreover, it integrates a Focus-point VR, helping suppress the blurring around focused areas.

  • User-Friendly Performance

The Nikon Z5II includes an improved AUTO shooting mode that offers efficient performance and comfortable shooting. Users can basically hold the camera and it will automatically respond and adjust to different shooting scenarios.

For more detailed information on the camera’s extensive features, visit the official Nikon press release.

Furthermore, the Japanese brand stays committed to endless innovation to expand imaging expression possibilities.

The Nikon Z5II will be available at $1,699.95 (body only) around April.

PUMA Set to Debut European Flagship Store in Q4 2025

PUMA will be soon opening its much-awaited flagship store on Oxford Street in the center of the West End of London. The upcoming project marks the German multinational corporation’s inaugural European flagship. It follows the sportswear manufacturer’s previous flagship store unveiling in Las Vegas in the previous year.

According to an official article by PUMA, the 24,000-square-foot store is near Selfridges and Bond Street Tube Station. The news also reads that it will deliver an immersive and interactive experience for everyone. More concretely, the space merges sports technology, sports performance, and state-of-the-art streetwear designs.

Significant Brand Elevation

The decision to debut the outlet in the United Kingdom supports PUMA’s plan to elevate its branding. With the objective of offering a unique shopping experience, the apparel and footwear company wants to strengthen its international presence. On top of this, it aims to reflect the brand’s trademarks, including a profound relation to global street culture, innovation, and sports performance, through its store services.

More than that, the PUMA flagship store will feature personalization and customization opportunities. This will better immerse customers in the overall shopping experience. In the same sense, it is going to deliver an unmatched experience by combining sports and fashion.

“Our London flagship store is an important part of our brand elevation strategy. It brings the best of the PUMA brand to life for our consumers and showcases our latest innovations and design newness as part of an immersive experience,” said PUMA Chief Executive Officer Arne Freundt.

Likewise, UK & Ireland PUMA Managing Director Lucynda Davies added that they are excited about the project as it will mark a start for the brand in the area. She also stated that London is very significant for it mirrors the brand’s dedication to consumer-led experience.

According to Freundt, they are thrilled to open their new store in one of the most vibrant places in the world.

The grand opening of the PUMA flagship store in London will happen in Autumn 2025.