Hardware Development
Ongoing coverage on Hardware Development.
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Steam Deck 2 plans aren't affected by ongoing component crisis, Valve maintains, as Steam Frame arrives later and more expensive than expected
Valve developer Pierre-Loup Griffais stated that the ongoing component crisis is not affecting plans for a future Steam Deck 2, which will require a significant performance leap. However, the company's new Steam Frame VR headset is launching later and at a higher price than expected, facing criticism for not offering a dramatically different experience compared to cheaper alternatives like the Meta Quest 3.
Apple prototyped a stylus for the foldable iPhone that we may never see
Apple reportedly prototyped a stylus for a foldable iPhone, a device that may never be released. The company is also working on an overhaul for the Apple Watch.
Sonic’s Cross-Platform Strategy: Becoming All Things to Save Some
Sega's strategic shift towards cross-platform releases, exemplified by Sonic the Hedgehog appearing on Nintendo platforms, marks a significant departure from its past as a hardware developer. This move aims to ensure the franchise's survival and reach a wider audience.
Keychron is experimenting with a mic-equipped mini keeb that lets you chat to your AI agent while it vibe codes, and I…
Keychron is experimenting with a new three-button, wireless mini keyboard featuring a built-in microphone designed for interacting with AI agents during 'vibe coding' sessions. The company is polling for user interest and suggestions for features like programmable buttons and potential haptic feedback.
Anthropic Starts Building In-House Silicon for Claude
Anthropic is forming a custom silicon team to design in-house chips for its AI model Claude, following similar moves by OpenAI, Google, and Meta. The company plans a multi-chip approach, integrating its own designs with third-party hardware. This initiative aims to gain greater control over hardware, improve performance, and reduce reliance on single suppliers like Nvidia.
The Death of Dreamcast, the Beginning of the Dream
This article discusses Sega's decision to cease hardware production following the commercial failure of the Sega Dreamcast console. The move marked the end of an era for the company's hardware ventures, impacting its first-party game series like Sonic.
Games Inbox: Is GTA 6 the only game you’re buying this autumn?
This article discusses reader opinions on game purchasing habits, particularly in light of the upcoming Grand Theft Auto 6 release. Concerns are raised about the dominance of major titles impacting sales of other games, and the shift towards digital-only media, with some readers expressing a preference for physical copies. The discussion also touches on hardware development, with speculation about the PlayStation 6 and the future of consoles.
An OLED Nintendo Switch 2 may already be in the works
Nintendo is reportedly considering a new Nintendo Switch 2 model with an upgraded OLED screen, with development potentially starting by the end of the year and production in late 2027 or early 2028. Samsung Display would supply the OLED panels, though Nintendo has not yet made a final decision due to potential price increases.
Witcher 3 Director Says Next-Gen Console Delay Would Not Be Such A Bad Thing
Konrad Tomaszkiewicz, director at Rebel Wolves, believes a delay in the release of next-generation consoles like the PlayStation 6 and new Xbox would not negatively impact his studio. He cited the complexities and additional development work required for new platforms as reasons why a delay could be beneficial. The article also touches on current hardware component shortages, rising console prices, and the potential shift towards all-digital consoles.
Games Inbox: Will there ever be a Nintendo Switch 2 Lite?
Readers discuss the potential for a Nintendo Switch 2 Lite, with concerns about component costs and Nintendo's future hardware strategy. The discussion also touches on the high cost of AAA game development, the future of Sony and Microsoft, and skepticism surrounding the release of The Elder Scrolls 6 and Grand Theft Auto 6.
Apple (AAPL) sues OpenAI over stolen trade secrets related to hardware and security
Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that the company, led by former Apple designer Tang Tan, stole trade secrets to develop AI hardware products. The lawsuit also names Jony Ive, founder of io Products acquired by OpenAI, though he is not a defendant. This legal action comes as OpenAI prepares for an IPO and follows a 2024 partnership between Apple and OpenAI for AI features in Apple products.
Sony almost released a battery-powered PS1 inside a DualShock controller, but it was cancelled due to royalty disputes…
Sony had plans for a battery-powered PlayStation 1 integrated into a DualShock controller, intended for the Brazilian market to circumvent import restrictions. This 'PlayStation PUGA' prototype, developed by Brian Watson, was cancelled due to unresolved royalty disputes between Sony's licensing departments and third-party developers, despite its functional prototype and potential for 20 hours of battery life.
'99% of the work was already done in a sense': Valve says it has less to fix with the Steam Machine because…
Valve engineers Yazan Aldehayyat and Pierre-Loup Griffais suggest that the development of the Steam Deck has significantly streamlined the process for future Steam Machine hardware. They explain that much of the foundational work, such as input handling and general PC gaming optimization, was already completed with the Steam Deck, reducing the need for extensive rework on the Steam Machine. Despite facing challenges like supply chain issues and the desire for lower costs, Valve views hardware development as an iterative process with new models dependent on market viability.
Nintendo building Technology Development Centre as R&D base for new hardware and software
Nintendo has announced plans to construct a new Technology Development Centre on land it acquired in Kyoto in 2022. This facility will serve as a research and development base for new hardware and innovative software.
Steam Deck 2 – Valve Engineer Says “We’re Definitely Getting There”
Valve engineer Pierre-Loup Griffais confirmed that development is underway for a successor to the Steam Deck, with the company aiming for a "generational leap" in hardware. While a specific release date is unconfirmed, rumors suggest a 2028 launch, potentially delayed by component shortages. Valve is also releasing the Steam Machine for $1,049, emphasizing its open Linux-based PC nature.
Midjourney, the AI image generator, is developing a full-body ultrasonic scanner
AI image generator Midjourney has announced its first hardware project, which involves developing a full-body ultrasonic scanner. This marks a significant expansion beyond its core AI image creation services.
Xbox preparing for mass layoffs as Project Helix implied for Christmas 2027
Xbox is reportedly preparing for significant layoffs, potentially affecting around 1,000 employees, as the company faces declining revenue despite substantial investments. This comes as Xbox leadership discusses the high cost of console components and the need for new business models for the upcoming 'Project Helix,' rumored for a Christmas 2027 launch. The company has also seen multiple game cancellations and studio closures in recent years.
GIGABYTE at Computex 2026: 40 Years of Innovation, Entering Infinity
GIGABYTE is celebrating its 40th anniversary at Computex 2026 with a showcase themed 'ENTER INFINITY,' highlighting advancements in AI-accelerated computing and next-generation thermal design across its product lines. The company unveiled new INFINITY and WOOD series components, AORUS ELITE monitors with AI features, and updated laptop models including the AORUS MASTER 16, touted as the world's slimmest X3D-powered gaming laptop.
Nintendo R&D expenses increase 23% from last fiscal year suggesting new hardware could be in works
Nintendo's Research and Development expenses have increased by 23% in the last fiscal year, a significant jump that historically precedes the release of new hardware. This surge, coupled with plans for new R&D facilities in Kyoto, suggests the company is investing heavily in future projects, potentially including a successor to the Nintendo Switch.
Sony Says It Hasn't Decided When to Launch PS6, Nor How Much It Will Cost, With Memory Shortages Set to Continue
Sony has stated that decisions regarding the launch date and pricing for the PlayStation 6 have not yet been made. The company also indicated that ongoing memory shortages are continuing to impact production and planning.