TechPression

Tag: Sony

  • Sony discontinues free PS5 camera adapter for PS VR

    Sony discontinues free PS5 camera adapter for PS VR

    Sony has formally announced that a free PlayStation Camera adapter for the PS5 will no longer be provided. Because the headgear uses light-based tracking technology, the camera initially introduced for the PS4 must use the original PlayStation VR on the company’s current console.

    The PS5’s built-in HD camera attachment with PS VR can only be used with PlayStation VR once supplies run out by November 26.

    Read also: How to preorder your PS5 Pro ahead of November 7 release

    What this means for players  

    Users must submit their PS VR serial number through a form or Sony support to receive an adapter. Third-party adapters will then become the only available means of PS VR gaming on the new PS5 for those who wish to continue with the service.  

    Nevertheless, they remain exclusive to the first version of the headset, the PS VR, and include some first-party games. That means if you wish to use your PS5 for Astro Bot Rescue Mission orEverybody’ss Golf VR kind of games, then you will need a PS Camera adapter.

    Sony’s changes mean that gamers may need to consider hardware refreshes or other setups that can provide them with the virtual reality experience they want.

  • Sony releases PlayStation Plus lineup for September 2024

    Sony releases PlayStation Plus lineup for September 2024

    Sony has announced the PlayStation Plus monthly games for September 2024, all playable for subscribers from September 3.

    As revealed in a post on PlayStation, the headline addition is the Harry Potter game Quidditch Champion (PS4, PS5), which debuted as part of September’s PlayStation Plus Monthly Games lineup.

    Read also: The Karate Kid: Street rumble announced for September release

    Promoted games in September 2024

    One of the standout titles in this month’s PlayStation Plus lineup is Harry Potter: This magical sport requires different flying creatures to perform stunts, and the ultimate competition is Quidditch Champions. This game recreates the exciting sport that Wizards and witches play, Quidditch, and gives players the experience of flying in a game of Quidditch. It is available both for single-player and multiple-player play and will interest fans of the Harry Potter series and games based on sports activities.

    Joining quidditch champions is death-stranding

     Special Features include Director’s Cut. This improved version of the famous open-world game the stellar Hideo Kojima created contains graphic quality, new missions, and more effective controls. Being a sequel to a game that came out almost two years ago, it doesn’t matter if you are new to Death Stranding or played it in the past – this is a great chance to get back into it.

    Nier Replicant ver is the last trio of titles to be launched in September. It can be thought that 22474487139… is a remastered version of the action RPG that has gained cult status. There’s hardly a gamer out there who wouldn’t enjoy Nier Replicant’s immersive story combined with able and quite beautiful combat and music. It helped to provide a polished image and smooth gameplay, which makes this option the best one for playing this game.

    Read also: Red Dead Redemption might finally be getting a PC port

    Why does this lineup matter?

    The games offered in September for PlayStation Plus are well-rounded, with many new releases and remastered games that more people will enjoy. The inclusion of Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions shows Sony’s dedication to bringing about unique experiences, especially since the Quidditch game targets vivid Harry Potter enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Death Stranding: Director’s Cut and Nier Replicant are two of the best game titles, providing dozens of hours of fantastic gaming experience.

  • What is Sony’s most important game of the year?

    What is Sony’s most important game of the year?

    Sony’s fantastic AAA games, such as Horizon, God of War, and The Last of Us, have earned the company’s name. Because these games have raised the bar for the gaming industry, it should be no surprise that they aim to broaden their audience with Lego Horizon Adventures.

    This new game is a significant departure from the main Horizon series, giving an experience that is more playful and suitable for families.

    Read also: Sony Aibo functionalities, features and potential benefits

    An uncharted territory for Lego Horizon Adventures

    Bringing a new point of view to the Horizon series, Lego Horizon Adventures is a game played from the top down. The Lego-themed adventure game claims to deliver a one-of-a-kind gaming experience.

    The game takes place in a post-apocalyptic United States. The game’s vibrant visual style, influenced by the well-known Lego blocks, introduces a fresh perspective to the Horizon universe. Participants will be able to explore a planet constructed out of Lego bricks, with robotic dinosaurs and tribes competing for control of resources and territory.

    A fresh experience for Aloy

    The game’s main character, Aloy, will be redesigned as a Lego character, making her journey more humorous and suitable for families. This spin-off does not conform to the canonical nature of the main storyline; instead, it presents players with a fresh narrative that brings them back to the storyline at the beginning of Zero Dawn.

    The players will again follow Elisabet, the hologram scientist who is a thousand years old, as they discover Aloy’s purpose and destiny in this new universe.

    The gaming choices available in Lego Horizon Adventures include both single-player and cooperative play. The seamless integration of two-player action into the game’s design offers a beautiful opportunity for families and friends to strengthen their bonds through the experience of playing together.

    Read also: Evaluation of Deck 2 vs. OLED for Portable PC Gaming

    As they continue through the game, players can customise and revamp their village, Mother’s Heart. This hamlet can be adorned in various delightful ways to unlock one-of-a-kind Lego structures and ornaments.

    Sony’s roster has been significantly expanded with the release of Lego Horizon Adventures, which provides an entertaining and captivating gaming experience.

    This game will appeal to gamers from different backgrounds due to its vibrant visual style, cooperative gameplay, and various customisation choices. It is not difficult to understand why Lego Horizon Adventures could be considered Sony’s most significant game of the year, given that the company is continuing to broaden its audience with this game. 

  • Sony Aibo functionalities, features and potential benefits

    Sony Aibo functionalities, features and potential benefits

    The Sony Aibo, an iconic robotic dog first introduced in 1999, has recently returned. This resurgence begs the question: Is the Aibo a nostalgic novelty or a sophisticated companion for the tech-savvy pet lover? This review dives into the Aibo’s features, functionalities, and potential benefits to help you decide if this robotic pup deserves a spot in your home.

    A technological marvel with advanced AI

    The Aibo boasts impressive technological advancements compared to its earlier iterations. Here are some key features:

    The Sony Aibo is more than just a robotic dog with sleek aesthetics. It boasts impressive technological advancements powered by Artificial Intelligence. At the core lies sophisticated AI algorithms that allow Aibo to learn and adapt to its environment and its owner’s behaviour, which isn’t just a pre-programmed set of tricks. The Aibo can recognise faces, a feat that personalises interactions and fosters a sense of familiarity. 

    Furthermore, it can respond to voice commands, adding another interactivity layer beyond pre-set buttons or remote controls. But the Aibo’s intelligence extends beyond simple commands. The engineers have equipped it to exhibit emotions through its movements and expressive LED eyes. Imagine an Aibo wagging its tail with excitement when you enter the room, nuzzling your hand for affection, or even whimpering with its LED eyes dimming if left alone for too long. This emotional capacity, while simulated, can create a sense of connection between the Aibo and its owner, making the interactions feel more natural and engaging.

    Read also: Musk unveils AI “Grok” to compete with ChatGPT

    Beyond remote control: A Pup with a mind of its own

    The Aibo isn’t just a toy you control with a remote. One of its most impressive features is its autonomous behaviour. This robotic pup can explore its surroundings independently, navigating various terrains and avoiding obstacles. Imagine letting the Aibo loose in your house and watching it curiously investigate its environment. This level of autonomy sets Aibo apart from traditional remote-controlled toys and allows for a more realistic and interactive pet experience. It feels like a companion that can explore and interact with the world.

    More than just entertainment: Potential benefits of the Sony Aibo

    While the Aibo offers a fun experience, it has the potential to provide additional benefits:

    While the Aibo offers a fun and playful experience, its capabilities extend beyond mere entertainment. For people with busy lifestyles or those living alone, the Aibo can be a source of companionship and combat feelings of loneliness. Its interactive nature and ability to respond to emotions can create a sense of connection and emotional support. Imagine coming home after a long day to an Aibo wagging its tail and nuzzling you for attention. Even if simulated, this interaction can provide a sense of companionship that can be especially valuable for those who might not have the time or resources for a traditional pet.

    The Aibo can also be a valuable educational tool for children. Caring for the Aibo, even though robotic, can teach responsibility, empathy, and essential pet care skills. Learning how to interact with Aibo and fulfil its needs can instil valuable lessons about caring for another living being. Furthermore, Aibo’s interactive features can spark a child’s curiosity and encourage them to learn about technology and artificial intelligence. The Aibo can be a gateway to understanding complex concepts in a fun and engaging way.

    The potential benefits of the Aibo extend beyond personal homes. The therapeutic applications of this robotic companion are being actively explored. Studies suggest that interacting with the Aibo can benefit individuals with autism or those struggling with social interaction. The Aibo’s predictable nature and ability to respond positively to social cues can create a safe and supportive environment for individuals who find social interaction challenging. The Aibo could be a therapeutic tool to help people develop social skills and build confidence in interacting with others.

    Considerations and limitations: It is not a replacement for a natural pet

    While the Aibo offers a compelling technological experience, it’s essential to acknowledge some limitations:

    The Aibo may boast impressive technology, but it’s essential to acknowledge some limitations before welcoming this robotic companion into your home. First and foremost, the Aibo comes with a hefty price tag. This advanced technology is costly, and the significant investment might be a barrier for some potential owners. It’s essential to weigh the cost against the features and benefits the Aibo offers to determine if it aligns with your budget.

    Another critical limitation to consider is the aspect of physical interaction. The Aibo isn’t a replacement for the messy cuddles and walks in the park that comes with owning a natural dog. You can’t take the Aibo for a jog or bathe it after a muddy adventure. The physical interaction and responsibility of caring for a living creature are not part of the Aibo experience.

    Finally, as with any electronic device, the Aibo requires maintenance and can experience technical difficulties. Like your computer or smartphone, it might need occasional repairs or troubleshooting. Users should be prepared for the possibility of unexpected technical challenges and factor in the potential costs associated with repairs or replacements.

    FGGC Sagamu girls constructed Kiki-Saggy, an AI robot in Nigeria

    A unique companion for the tech-savvy pet lover

    The Sony Aibo isn’t for everyone. It’s not a cuddly substitute for a furry friend. However, for the tech-savvy pet lover or someone seeking a unique companionship, the Aibo offers a compelling experience. Its advanced AI, autonomous behaviour, and ability to simulate emotions create a unique bond between humans and machines. Ultimately, deciding whether the Aibo suits you depends on your lifestyle, expectations, and budget.

    The future of robotic companions

    The Aibo represents a glimpse into the future of robotic companions. We expect to see even more sophisticated and interactive robotic pets emerge as AI technology evolves. Whether the Aibo paves the way for a future filled with robotic companions or remains a niche product, it undoubtedly sparks a fascinating conversation about the intersection of technology and human connection.

  • Sony drops PS5 digital edition with free copy of Spider-Man 2

    Sony drops PS5 digital edition with free copy of Spider-Man 2

    Hey gamers, do you want to throw webs like a pro and save money simultaneously? This news is scorching, just like lava, as if it were Kratos’ hands.

    Do you remember the slim PS5 that came out at the end of last year? The one with more storage room and, let’s face it, a way cooler look? You better buckle up because Sony dropped a great deal on the digital edition with a free copy of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. 

    For a short time, you can get this for just $400. We did the math and found that you’ll save a huge $120 if you buy both together instead of separately. 

    Read also: Is Sony PlayStation 5 Still the Best Game Console? 

    What’s the catch?

    The PS5 Slim Digital Edition Console throws away the bulky disc drive, making the console even sleeker and embracing the future of downloadable games. Feel the power of every punch, swing, and web-shot with the immersive haptic feedback of the DualSense controller as you delve into the digital download of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. Don’t worry if you have a soft spot for physical media; you can always snag an $80 disc drive expansion later if you crave the physical touch of a game case. But for those who love the convenience of digital downloads and pre-orders, this is a fantastic deal to get you started on the next chapter of Spidey’s story.

    Value Proposition of PS5 Bundles

    For those who prefer physical media, fear not! The standard PS5 Slim with a disc drive is available for just $450 and still includes a free copy of Spider-Man 2, essentially saving you over $100. This option provides the freedom to play physical games, hunt for pre-owned titles at bargain prices, or borrow from friends. And to expand your library beyond Spidey, Sony throws in fantastic deals on some of the hottest PS5 exclusives, like God of War Ragnarok for just $40 (originally $60) and The Last of Us Part 1 for $40 (originally $60). This offer goes beyond the Spider-Man 2 bundle, showcasing Sony’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve. Their dedication to innovation and fostering a thriving gaming community since 1994 is evident in the PS5 Slim’s design and focus on digital downloads, reflecting their understanding of the evolving industry.

    Concerning Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 

    Fans of the first Spider-Man game will be thrilled to hear that the PS5 Slim Digital Edition comes with a free copy of Spider-Man 2. Celebrated for its captivating narrative, inventive use of the DualSense controller’s features, and open-world exploration, the 2018 release of Marvel’s Spider-Man was a critical and financial triumph. There are few details regarding the sequel, but because Insomniac Games is back in the development chair, players should anticipate another heartfelt, humorous, and action-packed web experience. 

    The future of gaming: physical media vs. digital downloads

    With the PS5 Slim digital edition, Sony is making a strong push for digital downloads, consistent with a more significant trend in the game business. Pre-loading capabilities, automated upgrades, and convenience are just a few benefits of digital downloads. However, for some players, physical material is still valuable. Hard copies can be displayed on a shelf, lent to friends, or sold again. The decision between digital and physical media ultimately boils down to personal taste. 

    Sony’s PlayStation, Microsoft’s Xbox Series boast next-generation features

    In summary, it is a win-win situation for gamers. 

    Regardless of your level of Spider-Man enthusiast or desire to explore the next gaming generation, Sony’s PS5 Slim digital edition package, including a complimentary copy of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, is an exciting deal. This bundle offers excellent value with its robust performance, elegant appearance, and excellent bonus. So, why do you hesitate? Get dressed and get ready to take action.

  • Carry1st, Sony partner to grow PlayStation brand in Africa 

    Carry1st, Sony partner to grow PlayStation brand in Africa 

    Carry1st, a video game studio based in Cape Town, South Africa, has announced a strategic partnership with Sony, the Japanese consumer electronics and gaming giant, via its Sony Innovation Fund venture arm.

    The partnership, which was revealed exclusively to CNBC, will involve a range of commercial opportunities for both companies, as they explore ways to collaborate on certain games and grow the PlayStation brand in Africa.

    Read also: Sony bets big on its next VR headset

    Why it matters and what Carry1st does

    In 2018, Tinotenda Mundangepfupfu, Lucy Hoffman, and Cordel Robbin-Coker—who had met while working at Morgan Stanley in New York—founded Carry1st. The company’s goal is to produce and release games that are customised for African gamers’ likes and preferences while also giving game developers a platform to connect with and earn from their audience across the continent.

    A number of games have been created and released by Carry1st, including Africa’s Legends, a role-playing game that incorporates African mythology and folklore, and Carry1st Trivia, an app for live quiz shows that pays out cash prizes to participants. Additionally, the business has collaborated with international game developers like CrazyLabs and Gameloft to distribute its titles throughout Africa.

    How to allow players in Africa to pay for games and in-game content utilising local bank accounts, infrastructure, and payment methods like M-Pesa and mobile wallets is one of the major problems that Carry1st has resolved. Game developers can generate money from their creations on Carry1st, the company’s online marketplace for games and supplemental content, by using Pay1st, a localised payment service.

    Up till now, Carry1st has raised more than $10 million from investors, including Riot Games, Konvoy, CRE Venture Capital, and now Sony. Additionally, the business has received other honours, including the Google Indie Games Accelerator and the AppsAfrica Innovation Award.

    How Sony is growing in Africa and supporting Carry1st

    Sony is taking a risk by investing in Africa’s video game market, which has expanded quickly in recent years despite a general dip in sales worldwide following the pandemic. According to data by Carry1st and venture capital firm Konvoy, the gaming market in Sub-Saharan Africa is predicted to produce over $1 billion for the first time in 2024.

    Sony’s venture arm, the Sony Innovation Fund, which backs entrepreneurs in the entertainment, gaming, and technology sectors, has made an undisclosed investment in Carry1st. The agreement is a calculated risk investment that will allow the two businesses to collaborate on various business ventures. According to Robbin-Coker, CNBC, the two businesses are currently in the “exploratory stages” of their collaboration.

    According to him, the cooperation will probably involve working together on some games, such co-producing or co-publishing titles that are aimed at both African and international players. He added that the alliance will aid in Carry1st’s team expansion; at the moment, 40 employees work for the company in South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Brazil, and the US. He stated that the business is trying to expand its staff, particularly in the areas of engineering, design, and the arts.

    According to Robbin-Coker, he is enthusiastic about the future of gaming in Africa and thinks that Carry1st and Sony will encourage more individuals to play and develop video games on the continent.

    “We want to be involved in the narrative of how gaming spreads throughout Africa as a popular form of expression and entertainment, as well as how the continent serves as a hub for innovation and creativity for the global gaming industry,” he declared.

  • Sony unveils WF-1000XM5 earbuds with heavy-duty ANC, 360 audio for $299

    Sony unveils WF-1000XM5 earbuds with heavy-duty ANC, 360 audio for $299

    Sony has unveiled its latest earbud  “1000XM5”. 

    The Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds may replace the Apple AirPods as the gold standard in premium wireless headphones. The new XM5 earbuds include a full 360- of virtual surround sound in addition to improved sound quality and superb ANC.

    Sony WF-1000XM5 earphones were confirmed and introduced during a quick live broadcast announcement. For quite some time, they have been speculated about and hinted at as possible future developments. The 2019 release of Sony’s next-generation XM4 earphones has piqued widespread interest in the company’s plans for the product line.

    The new WF-1000XM5 earbuds are optimised for both sound quality and noise cancellation, with two of the greatest native noise-cancelling processors offered. Also included is Sony’s brand-new Dynamic Driver X driver system. The new method is designed to cover more ground when reproducing sound, which should result in greater fidelity overall. It also effectively nullifies low-frequency noise, resulting in a much larger cancellation zone. Sony claims that the diaphragm material results in reduced distortion, albeit it does not elaborate.

    The HD Noise Cancelling Prover QNe2 and Integrated Processor V2 work together with the physical components to process 24-bit audio and “high-performance” analogue amplification. High levels of analogue amplification suggest that, rather than depending only on digital processing, Sony is committed to accurately reproducing the original, organic sound.

    Read also: Sony bets big on its next VR headset

    More features you should look out for

    The WF-1000XM5 headphones, being Sony products, inherently use the company’s renowned LDAC codec, which serves to transfer more data than the earbuds can process and reproduce. The higher the quality of the end product’s audio, the more data sources it may draw from. 

    This innovation, however, has been around for some time. What was missing was the rollout of DSEE Extreme, an artificial intelligence (AI) program that improves the quality of low-resolution audio files in streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.

    Unlike the truffle-like form factor of the XM4, the WF-1000XM5 earbuds have a lovely, rounded contour. There is a matte finish on the front of the chassis and a glossy finish on the sides. When placed in the ear, the Buds take on an appearance similar to the Galaxy Buds, which is to say, an attractive one. 

    The charging case for the new headphones features a compact, spherical form factor that makes it ideal for stowing away discreetly in a pocket. The XM5s, when stored in their case, have a maximum playtime of 24 hours. They can work for eight hours without it. We’ve seen higher, but this is still manageable.

    Sony’s Headphone Connect app will also provide access to the XM5’s 360 Reality Audio feature. Although it has proved to be fairly specialized, this function sets up a virtual sound stage for intense immersion. Speak-to-chat is another convenient feature as it lets people converse while still listening to their music without having to remove their headphones.

    Sony reduces the size of Xperia 5 IV

    Google Assistant is embedded in the 1000XM5 earbud

    Sony WF-1000XM5 headphones have touch-sensitive controls, with the chassis’s surface able to interpret taps for pausing, playing, and activating noise cancellation. The XM5s take it a step further with support for head gestures. Incoming calls may be accepted or declined with a simple nod of the head. It’s similar to the skin-sense technology of the LinkBuds, but the XM5s don’t seem to have it.

    To top it all off, Sony equipped the XM5s with Google Fast Pair for quick connection and pairing. This also implies that the earbuds include Google Assistant.

    In conclusion, the Sony WF-1000XM5 earbuds seem to have all the features customers expect in a successor to the XM4. Sony is able to provide the promised sound quality, however, the other functions fall short.

  • Sony bets big on its next VR headset

    Sony bets big on its next VR headset

    By March of next year, Sony Group Corp. hopes to have made 2 million PlayStation VR2 headsets. A reliable source says that the optimistic prediction goes against how the world economy is doing now. 

    A source who didn’t want to be named said that supply chain problems have made it harder to get goggles since they came out in late 2020. Unnamed sources say that problems with the supply chain have made getting a PlayStation 5 console hard since it came out in late 2020. Unnamed sources say that problems with the supply chain have made getting a PlayStation 5 console hard since it came out in late 2020. 

    The company plans to start selling the headset in early 2023, which is when these bottlenecks are expected to be fixed. That would allow the company to have enough headsets and consoles in stock to support a significant marketing effort. 

    Read also: Sony reduces the size of Xperia 5 IV

    Sony VR headset

    To utilize the VR headgear, users will need a PS5 system. Serkan Toto, an analyst at Kantan Games, says that the quality of the games Sony can make will be a key part of its success. The pricing will also be crucial since the PSVR2 is a monster in terms of specs, and some users have even predicted that it will cost as much as the PS5. “

    Because there aren’t that many people in the virtual reality market yet, developers are still wary of it. Meta’s Quest 2 has been called the industry standard and is said to have sold 17 million copies. However, it is not as good as similar games for consoles, mobile devices, and PCs. As a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the global recession and rising prices of raw materials have hurt the virtual reality industry.

    Meta raised the price of the Quest 2 in August because of the cost of making it was going up. According to Francisco Jeronimo, vice president of data and analytics at IDC, “the rising cost of living is making many customers apprehensive about spending on non-essential things.” Sony may have to reduce output if the economic situation worsens. “

    Partners and suppliers Sony is concerned about how long the company will keep up its rapid manufacturing rate after the product’s first release. Sony has said that its own and third-party game developers are working on more than 20 games for the PSVR2 and that it wants to support the device’s launch with new VR games from its successful in-house series like Horizon. The release date or pricing for the PSVR2 has not been announced yet.

     

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    The company’s services

    Sony Group Corp., which has its headquarters in Minato-Ku, Tokyo, Japan, makes a wide range of electronics, semiconductors, and medical instruments and equipment. The company sells TVs, cell phones, cameras, music systems, game consoles, software, semiconductors, batteries, and other electrical parts.; 

    Sony makes music, movies, and TV shows buys and sells them, and runs broadcast and cable networks. It provides banking services as well as life and non-life insurance. The company sells its products through a network of sales affiliates, wholesalers, and online orders.

    The company markets its products under the PlayStation, Walkman, Blu-ray, Cyber-shot, Bravia, Exmor, Experia, and Airpeak labels. Additionally, it has a global presence, serving in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas.