Insider reports point to a potential collaboration between Microsoft and ASUS on a handheld device that shares some similarities with the ROG Ally. The rumored project is still in its early stages, but the partnership suggests a Windows-based handheld with Xbox integration could arrive sometime in 2025. While no official confirmation has been provided, industry watchers believe this device could focus on cloud gaming and compatibility with Xbox Game Pass, following Microsoft’s strategy of expanding its ecosystem across multiple form factors.

Meanwhile, Sony is said to be exploring a more traditional console-like PlayStation 6 Portable handheld. Information surfaced in March from leaker Kepler_L2, who has previously provided early details about AMD hardware. According to their posts, Sony is working closely with AMD on a custom chipset for what has been referred to as a “PS6 Portable.” The device, rumored to be based on a 15-watt system-on-chip (SoC) manufactured on a 3 nm process node, is expected to offer performance that sits between the Xbox Series S and the standard PlayStation 5.

Reports suggest that the handheld will be capable of running PlayStation 5-era games, albeit with reduced visual fidelity due to power and bandwidth limitations. Resolution and frame rates may be scaled back to accommodate the constraints of portable hardware. The GPU portion of the SoC is speculated to include fewer than 40 compute units—likely below 36, based on multiple media interpretations—placing it somewhere between Sony’s existing PS5 hardware and Microsoft’s smaller Series S.

Notably, this upcoming PlayStation 6 Portable handheld is not believed to share much in common architecturally with Sony’s next-generation home console, the PS6. While both may utilize AMD technology, the portable device appears to be purpose-built with mobile gaming in mind, rather than being a scaled-down version of the home console.

Sony’s rumored return to the handheld space is drawing interest from long-time fans of the PSP and PS Vita. Although both earlier devices built up dedicated fan bases, they struggled to maintain momentum against Nintendo’s handheld lineup. With more powerful mobile hardware and access to a robust library of PS5 titles, Sony’s new handheld could offer a more competitive experience in the portable gaming market.

As of now, neither Sony nor Microsoft has officially confirmed these developments. More concrete details are expected to emerge over the coming months, especially if launch windows in late 2025 or beyond are accurate.

Sources: GamingLeaksAndRumours Subreddit, Notebookcheck, Wccftech #1, Wccftech #2, HotHardware, Insider Gaming, Wired (archive image source)

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Enhanced Edition Arrives on PC Game Pass

The PC version will include the GTA V: Enhanced Edition, previously only accessible on newer generation consoles. This version includes quality-of-life improvements, visual upgrades, and new in-game content. Among the highlights are the additions from Hao’s Special Works, including modified high-performance vehicles, unique tuning options, and Chameleon Paints for cosmetic customization.

Game Pass Ultimate and PC subscribers will be able to access both console and PC versions, enabling cross-platform access regardless of where friends are playing. Microsoft noted that players should ensure they are using the same game edition—Standard or Enhanced—when entering GTA Online to avoid compatibility issues with multiplayer sessions.

New Update: “Oscar Guzman Flies Again”

Coinciding with the Game Pass return is the inclusion of the latest GTA Online update, Oscar Guzman Flies Again. In this update, players take over operations at the McKenzie Field Hangar in Grapeseed. The update introduces new aircraft, a set of arms trafficking missions, and expanded flight gameplay mechanics. All Game Pass users will have access to the update regardless of platform.

Cross-Platform Flexibility

Microsoft emphasized that Game Pass users on PC will be able to access both Standard and Enhanced editions, with no restrictions tied to the storefront. This means players can team up with friends whether they’re using Game Pass, Steam, or the Epic Games Store. Console users on Game Pass Standard or Ultimate will also have full access across Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.

Countdown to Return

With less than two weeks to go, fans eager to revisit Los Santos can catch up by tuning in to the official Grand Theft Auto radio playlists available on Spotify. The April 15 re-release will likely bring a spike in online activity as returning and new players drop back into the game’s expansive open world.

Players can keep up with the rollout by following updates on @GamePass and @XboxGamePassPC across social platforms.=

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Global Release Timings

As with many major releases, Assassin’s Creed Shadows will have a staggered global launch, with exact release times varying by region. Here’s a breakdown of when players can start their journey:

• Tokyo: March 20, 1:00 PM JST
• Montreal / New York: March 20, 12:00 AM EDT
• Los Angeles: March 19, 9:00 PM PST
• Mexico City: March 19, 10:00 PM CST
• São Paulo: March 20, 1:00 AM BRT
• London: March 20, 4:00 AM GMT
• Warsaw / Paris: March 20, 5:00 AM CET
• Abu Dhabi: March 20, 8:00 AM GST
• Johannesburg: March 20, 6:00 AM SAST
• Shanghai: March 20, 12:00 AM CST
• Seoul: March 20, 1:00 PM KST
• Sydney: March 20, 3:00 PM AEDT

Pre-Purchase Bonuses and Special Content

Players who pre-purchase Assassin’s Creed Shadows will receive additional content at no extra cost. This includes the Thrown to the Dogs bonus quest available at launch, as well as the Claws of Awaji expansion, which is set to release later in 2025. Pre-ordering also ensures access to pre-loading, allowing players to have the game installed and ready to play the moment it becomes available in their region.

A New Setting for the Franchise

Assassin’s Creed Shadows takes players to feudal Japan, a setting that has been highly requested by fans for years. The game is expected to feature a blend of stealth, parkour, and open-world exploration, with a rich historical backdrop. Ubisoft has yet to reveal extensive gameplay footage, but expectations are high following the success of Assassin’s Creed Mirage and previous entries in the series.

Where to Buy

The Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be available for purchase on Steam, Ubisoft Connect, PlayStation, and Xbox digital stores. While pricing details may vary by region, pre-purchase options are already live on several platforms.

With just a few days to go before release, fans can prepare by ensuring they have enough storage space and pre-loading the game in advance. Stay tuned for further updates, including performance reviews and gameplay impressions as launch day approaches.

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The Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard is priced at $199.99, while the Retro R8 Mouse comes in at $59.99. Both items are currently available for pre-order on Amazon, although the initial stock of the mouse appears to have sold out.

8BitDo Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard

The Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard has undergone a visual transformation with the transparent green case, reminiscent of early Xbox accessories. Beyond its new look, the keyboard includes updated keycaps and additional macro buttons to enhance functionality.

The hardware features Kailh Jellyfish X switches, which were selected for their compatibility with the transparent design. A standout addition is the inclusion of per-key RGB backlighting, a departure from previous 8BitDo keyboards, offering eight lighting modes for further customization. Users can also take advantage of the mode selector knob and volume control knob, located in the top-left corner.

Configuration options for the keyboard include customizable keymaps, profiles, macros, and lighting effects, all managed through the 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2, which is exclusive to Windows systems.

8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse

Marking 8BitDo’s debut in the gaming mouse category, the Retro R8 Mouse complements the keyboard with its matching transparent green design and multi-color accents. Built for versatility, the mouse features USB-C, 2.4 GHz wireless, and Bluetooth LE connectivity options, alongside a PAW 3395 optical sensor capable of up to 26,000 DPI resolution.

The ambidextrous design includes eight programmable buttons, a DPI adjustment button, and a matching charging dock. The dock not only charges the mouse in 2.5 hours but also acts as a signal extender. Battery life is impressive, with a 450 mAh Li-ion battery offering between 26 and 105 hours of use, depending on polling rates and connectivity modes.

Additional technical specifications include Kailh Sword GM X Micro switches, providing a durable, tactile feel with a 100 million click lifespan. The mouse supports an 8 kHz polling rate in wired mode, reduced to 4 kHz in 2.4 GHz wireless mode and 125 Hz in Bluetooth mode. The USB Type-A receiver can be conveniently stowed in the mouse’s base when not in use.

Availability and Nostalgic Appeal

Both the Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard and Retro R8 Mouse reflect 8BitDo’s continued focus on merging modern functionality with retro-inspired aesthetics. The transparent green design with colorful accents aligns with the nostalgia of Xbox enthusiasts while offering high-performance features suitable for gaming and productivity.

With these latest additions, 8BitDo has strengthened its position as a brand that bridges the gap between classic gaming aesthetics and contemporary peripherals. Pre-orders are live, but the demand for these nostalgic designs indicates they might be hard to come by once they officially hit the shelves.

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One noteworthy revelation from the podcast involves Microsoft’s dealings with AMD! a key player in providing the silicon for gaming consoles. Unlike Sony, which reportedly signed multiple post-PS5 contracts with AMD! Microsoft had not inked a next-gen contract with the semiconductor giant until very recently. This departure from their typical approach, where Microsoft shops around to negotiate lower prices, raised eyebrows in the gaming community.

Industry insiders suggest that Microsoft’s negotiations with AMD for the next-gen Xbox’s silicon may have entered a serious phase only recently. This development has led to an intriguing twist, with Intel entering the fray by bidding to produce the console’s silicon. Sources claim that Intel has offered exceptionally low prices and the full capacity of its fabs! seizing an opportunity to revitalize its Arc and fabs simultaneously.

Despite Intel’s efforts, speculation remains rife that Microsoft is likely to stick with AMD for the next-gen Xbox. However, the delay in negotiations and potential shift to Intel have created concerns that the console may have only recently entered the design phase. This puts Microsoft at risk of trailing behind Sony and its PlayStation 6, either delaying the Xbox release or hastening it to align with Sony’s timeline.

While Intel made a bid to power the next-gen Xbox! industry analysts argue that it would not have been a practical choice. The potential use of Intel’s silicon could have posed challenges for multiplatform releases, affecting compatibility and game development. As of now, no official confirmation has been provided, leaving room for speculation until Microsoft unveils the console and reveals its specifications.

Details about the next generation Xbox remain scarce, leaving gamers and industry enthusiasts eagerly awaiting official announcements. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available! ensuring our readers stay informed on the latest developments in the highly competitive world of gaming consoles. Stay tuned for all the latest news on Microsoft’s next-gen Xbox.

Source: Wccftech

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