The Alienware m16 R2 is a rarity among modern laptops. Thats because normally after a major revamp, gadget makers like to keep new models on the market for as long as possible to minimize manufacturing costs. However, after its predecessor launched last year sporting a fresh design, the company reengineered the entire system again for 2024 while also limiting how big of a GPU can fit inside. So what gives? The trick is that by looking at the configurations people actually bought, Alienware was able to rework the m16 into a gaming laptop with a sleeker design, better battery life and a more approachable starting price, which is a great recipe for a well-balanced notebook.
Design
There are so many changes on the m16 R2s chassis its hard to believe its from the same line. Not only has Alienware gotten rid of the big bezels and chin from the R1, but the machine is also way more portable now. Weight is down more than 20 percent to 5.75 pounds (from 7.28 pounds) and its also significantly more compact with a depth of 9.8 inches (versus 11.4 inches before). For some style points, Alienware added RGB lighting around the perimeter of the touchpad. This result is a major upgrade for anyone who wants to take the laptop on the go. It fundamentally changes the system from something more like a desktop replacement to a portable all-rounder.
Critically, despite being smaller, the m16 R2 still has a great array of connectivity options. On its sides are two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, a microSD card reader, an Ethernet jack and a 3.5mm audio socket. Around back, there are two USB-C slots (one supports Thunderbolt 4 while the other has DisplayPort 1.4), a full-size HDMI 2.1 connector and a proprietary barrel plug for power. Generally, I like this arrangement as moving some ports to the rear of the laptop helps keep clutter down. That said, I wish Alienware had switched the placement of the Ethernet jack and one of the USB-C ports, as I find myself reaching for the latter much more often.
Display
Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget
The m16 R2 has a single display option: a 16-inch 240Hz panel with a QHD+ resolution (2,560 x 1,600). Its totally serviceable and for competitive gamers, that high refresh rate could be valuable during matches where potential advantage matters. But you dont get any support for HDR, so colors dont pop as much as they would on a system with an OLED screen. Furthermore, brightness is just OK at around 300 nits, which might not be a big deal if you prefer gaming at night or in darker environments. But if you plan on lugging this around to a place with big windows or a lot of sunlight, games and movies may look a bit subdued. That said, its not a deal breaker, I just wish this model had some other display options like the previous one.
Performance
While the m16 R2s sleeker design is a major plus, the trade-off is less space for a beefy GPU. So unlike its predecessor, the biggest card that fits is an NVIDIA RTX 4070. This may come as a downer for performance enthusiasts, but Alienware said it made this change after seeing only a small fraction of buyers opt for RTX 4080 graphics on the old model. Even so, the R2 can still hold its own when playing AAA titles. In Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p and ultra graphics, it hit 94 fps, barely behind what we saw from the ASUS ROG G16 (95 fps) with a more powerful 4080. And while the performance gap grew slightly when I turned ray tracing on, the m16 still pumped out a very playable framerate of 62 fps (versus 69 fps for the G16).
Battery life
One of the biggest benefits of the m16 R2s redesign is that it allowed Alienware to install a larger 90Wh battery versus the 84Wh pack in its predecessor. When you combine that with components and fans better tailored to the kind of performance this machine delivers, you get improved longevity. On our rundown test, the m16 R2 lasted 7 hours and 51 minutes, which is longer than both the Razer Blade 14 (6:46) and the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (7:29) and just shy of what we got from a similarly specced XPS 16 (8:31). That said, its still not as good as the ASUS G16s time of 9:17. Regardless, the ability to go longer between charges is never a bad thing. Meanwhile, for those who want to pack super light, one of the m16 R2s USB-C ports in the back supports power input, though you wont get the full 240 watts like you do with Alienwares included brick.
Wrap-up
Photo y Sam Rutherford/Engadget
For 2024, it would have been so easy for Alienware to give the m16 a basic spec refresh and call it a day. But it didnt. Instead, the company looked at its customers' preferences and gave it a revamp to match. So despite not having the same top-end performance as before, the R2 is still a very capable gaming laptop with a more compact chassis, improved battery life and a lower starting price of $1,500 with an RTX 4050. Sure, I wish its display was brighter and that there was another panel option, but getting 240Hz standard is pretty nice.
Really, the biggest argument against the m16 R2 is that for higher-specced systems like our $1,850 review unit with an RTX 4070, you can spend another $150 for an ASUS ROG G16 with the same GPU, a brighter and more colorful OLED display and an even lighter design that weighs a full pound less. But for people seeking a well-priced gaming machine that can do a bit of everything, theres a lot of value in the m16 R2.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/alienware-m16-r2-review-when-less-power-makes-for-a-better-laptop-174027103.html?src=rss
Netflix and Roblox have teamed up for a digital theme park with activities pulled from the streamers many popular franchises. Netflix Nextworld is an area within Roblox thats currently in early access. The company says the experience is all about bringing fans to the entertainment they love.
To that end, Nextworld features activities based on Stranger Things, One Piece, Cobra Kai and even those Zack Snyder Rebel Moon movies that people seem to hate. Theres also an activity based on the upcoming Jurassic World: Chaos Theory cartoon. The whole thing is arranged like a theme park, with mini-games and easter eggs galore.
Some of these games look pretty fleshed out, like the survival horror title Stranger Things: Escape from Hawkins High and the fighting sim One Piece: East Blue Brawls. Regular people can make some really cool stuff on Roblox, so a company with resources like Netflix should really raise the bar.
There are also a bunch of shorter experiences, like an online version of the game show Is It Cake? in which, well, people try to guess if something is cake. We arent sure how that one will work since none of it is cake. Its just pixels and code.
Playing these games and exploring the park nets users collectibles and wearables from various shows, which are then used to decorate a private space called a Fan Pod. Some of these collectibles include a Demogorgon plushie head and the iconic One Piece flag.
Netflix
Finally, theres something called the Streamship, which is a shared space to watch Netflix content. The company says this home base within Nextworld will provide social features and include events like premieres and viewing parties.
Netflix Nextworld is now in early access and is available on any console that supports Roblox, in addition to mobile and PC/Mac. The streamer does say the theme park will feature plenty of surprises, so lets hope for a mini-game based on the driving crooner.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/netflix-and-roblox-team-up-for-a-digital-theme-park-thats-heavy-on-corporate-synergy-171944923.html?src=rss
Nintendo has apparently had enough of Xs (Twitters) API fees. The Mario maker said on Wednesday that starting on June 10, direct integration from the Switchs image album to Elon Musks Nazi-curious platform will no longer work. With Nintendos departure, all three major console makers have pulled the plug on native screen-sharing to X.
Xs official gaming account posted a bizarre, downright Orwellian response that ignores its central role in the Mario makers exit. Our partnership with Nintendo remains strong, and we are working together to ensure a smooth transition for all users, @xGaming posted at the end of its nonchalantly misleading reply to Nintendos announcement. We will continue collaborating with partners to bring new and exciting experiences to our global gaming community.
Ironically, Xs built-in reader context feature filled in the omitted subtext. This is in direct response to X changing their API, the user-generated context says. Specifically, X is charging companies upwards of $40,000 or more per month to access its API. Sonys PlayStation and Microsofts Xbox already removed integration with X last year.
As of June 10, 2024, it will no longer be possible to post screenshots and videos to X (formerly Twitter) from the Nintendo Switch's Album, or send friend requests to social media users via the Friend Suggestions feature.Find out more: https://t.co/rNkouTo109 Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) May 9, 2024
Wired first reported last year that access to the cheapest Enterprise API plan for The Dumpster Fire Formerly Known As Twitter starts at $42,000 monthly. Higher tiers can allegedly cost $125,000 and $210,000 per month. Microsoft led the charge when it said the Xbox was abandoning Musks API plan in April 2023, while Sony held its nose and stuck it out until November.
The $42,000 (or more) monthly cost may not sound like much to these well-heeled mega-corporations, but apparently, even they have their limits. After all, quick screen-sharing to social channels is a marketing feature from a corporate perspective. If their accountants look at the analytics, weigh them against Musks fees and see it isnt paying off, theyll do what profit-driven entities do and reduce the overhead. But hey, at least Xs partnership with Nintendo remains strong.
Of course, you can still post Switch screenshots to Musks hellscape; it just has extra steps now. You can send Switch album images to your phone wirelessly or transfer them to your PC using a USB cable, and then post them manually. Nintendo says integrated Facebook sharing is still enabled but warns that it could be discontinued later.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/nintendo-is-done-paying-elon-musk-for-x-integration-165704399.html?src=rss
Embers highly-esteemed Travel Mug 2+ has dropped to a record-low price of $128, which is a discount of $72. The actual sale price is $160, but theres a clippable coupon for the remaining $32. This is a pretty great deal for those in the market for a tech-heavy travel mug.
To that end, the Travel Mug 2+ integrates with Apples Find My technology, so youll always know exactly where your beverage is. It even has a built-in speaker thatll ping when youre looking for it. Anything can happen while traveling, so its good to have a little peace of mind, particularly because the usual price of this mug is $200.
Otherwise, this is a fantastic mug that keeps beverages hot for up to three hours and boasts a 12-ounce capacity. The batterys on point, allowing for three hours of use on its own and a full day while resting on the included charging coaster. You also get access to the Embers proprietary app for setting the temperature, customizing presets and more. The mug does feature a little touchscreen for this, so the apps not always necessary.
Ember makes great products, which is why we often recommend the companys mugs. However, the Travel Mug 2+ isnt perfect. You can hand wash it, but dont put it in the dishwasher, unless you want to turn it into an expensive mug-shaped thing that doesnt actually work. Theres also the price. At $200, its very hard to recommend this product because, well, its a mug for drinking tea and coffee. Its easier to recommend at $128, and it makes a great gift, but at the end of the day its still just a container for liquids.
Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/embers-travel-mug-2-with-find-my-support-drops-to-a-record-low-price-163054893.html?src=rss
Dead by Daylight's next chapter isn't too far away and it's another crossover rather than an original creation. Behaviour Interactive likes to keep fans on their toes with some unexpected partnerships and the latest one is no exception. This time around, Dungeons and Dragons is entering the fog. It's a bit of a surprising turn as D&D isn't normally associated with horror, but there's enough connective tissue for it to make sense.
Behaviour revealed the crossover in a short teaser trailer with no further details about what to expect. It remains to be seen what the chapter will bring in terms of a killer, survivor and/or map. But you won't have to wait too long to find out.
Listen closely to the voice in the darkness... pic.twitter.com/krNbZQnanH Dead by Daylight (@DeadbyDaylight) May 9, 2024
The Dead by Daylight anniversary stream will take place on May 14, starting at 11AM ET (for what it's worth, a new player test build will go live that day). You can tune in to find out more details about the Dungeons and Dragons chapter as well as what's ahead for Dead by Daylight as a whole in the coming months. Perhaps we'll find out a bit more about the spinoff games that are in the works. And given Behaviour's track record, it may just have some other surprises in store...This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/dungeons-and-dragons-is-coming-to-dead-by-daylight-161537165.html?src=rss
Its that time of year again. Googles annual I/O keynote is upon us. This event is likely to be packed with updates and announcements. Well be covering all of the news as it happens and you can stream the full event below. The keynote starts at 1PM ET on May 14 and streams are available via YouTube and the companys hub page.
In terms of what to expect, the rumor mill has been working overtime. There are multiple reports that the event will largely focus on the Android 15 mobile operating system, which seems like a given since I/O is primarily an event for developers and the beta version is already out in the wild.
So lets talk about the Android 15 beta and what to expect from the full release. The beta includes an updated Privacy Sandbox feature, partial screen sharing to record a certain app or window instead of the whole screen and system-level app archiving to free up space. Theres also improved satellite connectivity, additional in-app camera controls and a new power efficiency mode.
Despite the beta already existing, its highly probable that Google will drop some surprise Android 15 announcements. The company has confirmed that satellite messaging is coming to Android, so maybe thatll be part of this event. Rumors also suggest that Android 15 will boast a redesigned status bar and an easier way to monitor battery health.
Sam Rutherford/Engadget
Android 15 wont be the only thing Google discusses during the event. Theres a little acronym called AI you may have heard about and the company has gone all in. Its a good bet that Google will spend a fair amount of time announcing updates for its Gemini AI, which could eventually replace Assistant entirely.
Back in December, it was reported that Google was working on an AI assistant called Pixie as an exclusive feature for Pixel devices. The branding is certainly on point. We could hear more about that, as it may debut in the Pixel 9 later this year.
Googles most popular products could also get AI-focused redesigns, including Search, Chrome, G Suite and Maps. We might get an update as to what the company plans on doing about third-party cookies and maybe itll throw some AI at that problem too.
What not to expect? Dont get your hopes up for a Pixel 9 or refreshed Pixel Fold for this event, as I/O is more for software than hardware. Well likely get details on those releases in the fall. However, rules were made to be broken. Last year, we got a Pixel Fold announcement at I/O, so maybe the line between hardware and software is blurring. Well find out soon.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/how-to-watch-googles-io-2024-keynote-160010787.html?src=rss
The Strong National Museum of Play has revealed this year's inductees into the World Video Game Hall of Fame. Asteroids, Myst, Resident Evil, SimCity and Ultima have made the cut. While that means the likes of Guitar Hero, Metroid and Tony Hawks Pro Skater miss out from the slate of finalists, it would be hard to make a case against any of the five inductees.
Games are selected for the hall of fame based on a number of criteria, including cultural impact and their influence on the industry. Asteroids absolutely fits the bill. The 1979 game was an enormous hit. Atari sold more than 70,000 arcade units, making Asteroids its best-selling coin-op machine. The home version on the Atari 2600 was very popular too. While the vector graphics were rudimentary, that didn't take away from the immensely satisfying gameplay loop of blowing up a ton of space rocks.
Introducing the 2024 World Video Game Hall of Fame inductees! Congratulations to Asteroids, Myst, SimCity, Resident Evil, and Ultima on achieving legendary status!#WVGHOF #VideoGameHallOfFame #Asteroids #Myst #SimCity #ResidentEvil #Ultima pic.twitter.com/JNabX2KsnI The Strong Museum (@museumofplay) May 9, 2024
Slow-paced puzzle game Myst was also a big hit in the '90s, selling more than 6 million copies. Resident Evil is probably the most relevant name on the list for modern audiences. The series is still going strong nearly three decades after the original 1996 game popularized the survival horror genre.
Back in 1989, Maxis released a city builder game called SimCity. Its intricate systems of urban design and problem management spurred a bunch of sequels and inspired the creators of other real-time strategy games, such as Command & Conquer and Age of Empires. As for Ultima: The First Age of Darkness, that 1981 game is one of the foundations of the role-playing genre. The developers of Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy are among those who've cited it as an influence, as GamesBeat notes.
These five games are joining a whole bunch of other notable names in the World Video Game Hall of Fame, including last year's inductees The Last of Us, Wii Sports, Barbie Fashion Designer and Computer Space. The inductees are on permanent display at The Strong in Rochester, New York.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/asteroids-and-resident-evil-join-the-world-video-game-hall-of-fame-154647663.html?src=rss
Most headphones don't last forever, especially wireless ones as the battery life will inevitably dwindle. If you're ready for an upgrade and you're willing to splash a little cash, Apple's AirPods Max are worth considering. Those headphones are currently on sale at Amazon. The price has dropped by $100 to $450, putting it at just $20 above the lowest price we've seen for the cans to date. The offer applies to all colorways.
The price was one of our major drawbacks when we reviewed the AirPods Max back in 2020 so the sale mitigates that a bit. We gave the headphones a score of 84, with the audio quality and aesthetics proving to be major plus points.
We felt that the AirPods Max had great balanced sound and capable active noise cancellation (ANC). With both spatial audio and ANC enabled, we had no trouble getting 20 hours of use out of the headphones on a single charge, just as Apple pledged.
Given that it's been a few years since the AirPods Max debuted and the fact Apple is in the midst of switching out the Lightning charging port for a USB-C one across all of its devices, a new version of the headphones may be on the way. That may result in Apple bringing the price of the original model down even further to clear out the stock. That said, if you don't want to wait, this is a solid deal on a good set of headphones, particularly if you're already entrenched in the Apple ecosystem.
Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apples-airpods-max-are-100-off-and-close-to-a-record-low-143019278.html?src=rss
Peter Jacksons Lord of the Rings film trilogy came out right around the time movie studios decided everything needed to be a big franchise that exists in perpetuity. From that perspective, its a little surprising that Warner Bros. Discovery hasnt milked Tolkiens work more than they already have. Thatll change soon, though, as the company just announced that there are two new Lord of the Rings films in the works (you can read the full press release here).
The first is tentatively titled Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, and its being directed by Andy Serkis you may remember him for his landmark performance as Gollum in Jacksons prior movies. The fact that Serkis is on board, and working from a script by Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens (who co-wrote the prior Middle-earth movies along with Jackson) has me feeling a bit better about this not being simply a crass cash grab. Peter Jackson, along with Walsh and Boyens, are set to produce as well. Serkis previously served as second unit director on The Hobbit films and also directed 2022s Venom: Let There Be Carnage.
Given the working title of the film, you wont be surprised to learn that Serkis is also starring again as the titular Gollum. While part of me was interested to see how another actor might take on the character, Serkis so defined Gollum for the big screen that its almost impossible to put anyone else in the role. As for what the movie will cover, theres no official word yet but again, the title indicates itll take place between the events of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings as Gandalf and Aragorn search Middle-earth for Gollum, trying to learn more about the ring that Bilbo and then Frodo possessed.
Given Hollywoods insatiable thirst for Content based on Popular Franchises, its a little surprising something like this didnt happen sooner. Jackson and company followed up the original trilogy of films nine years later with the bloated and overly CGI-reliant film series based on The Hobbit and corresponding events from Tolkiens LOTR appendices. And, of course, Amazons The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power series debuted in 2022. And before The Hunt for Gollum arrives, well see another intriguing project: an anime-style film called The War of the Rohirrim. That movie arrives this December and covers events in Rohan a few hundred years before The Lord of the Rings.
As a massive Lord of the Rings fan, Im both skeptical and excited by this announcement. The sad reality of the entertainment world is that projects like this are going to happen no matter what; theres too much money wrapped up in things like Lord of the Rings to not try and extract more. But Serkis seems like an excellent choice to direct this movie, and hopefully theyll find a tight, self-contained story that works as a standalone film. The mess that was made in the Hobbit films has me wary, but even in those movies I found plenty of things to enjoy and this feels like a good opportunity to chart a positive course forward for more movies in Middle-earth.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/a-new-lord-of-the-rings-film-the-hunt-for-gollum-will-hit-theaters-in-2026-140141386.html?src=rss
This infographic looks at key findings from LinkedIn's B2B CMO survey, outlines three key strategies for driving growth, and covers how the platform's tools can help with budget optimization. Read the full article at MarketingProfs
