Square Enix has just announced that the PC version of Final Fantasy XVI will be released on September 17, 2024.
The game is already available for preorder, with the Standard Edition coming in at US$49.99 and a Complete Edition retailing for US$69.99.
Surprisingly, a demo is also already up on Steam, letting players test the action RPG’s performance on their system. I’ve given it a short spin and while my machine isn’t anywhere close to the top of the line these days, I found that with DLSS Balanced enabled, I could get a fairly stable 60fps with most settings set to max and Motion Blur disabled on a Ryzen 5 5600x, 32gb RAM and a 3070 (running at 1440p resolution). Keyboard and mouse controls are supported (and don’t seem to be badly implemented from my limited time with the demo).
Our Black Myth: Wukong review hails the game as “a generous Soulsy adventure hybrid that works within its limitations and delivers a beautiful challenge to be unpicked with a magical toolbox”. Reviewer Edders went so far as to find the world more engaging than that of Elden Ring – proper defying-the-gods level rhetoric. Players seem to agree. The game launched last night, and has already accrued a concurrent player peak of 1.44 million – Steam’s fourth highest ever, exceeded only by Counter-Strike, Palworld and PUBG. By that metric, it’s the platform’s most popular strictly single player game of all the time.
All that goodwill has been spoiled, however, by a Steam code handout message to streamers and other “content creators” before launch which includes some reactionary, non-binding requests – no mention of “trigger words” like “Covid-19”, no talk of “politics” or “feminist propaganda”, and no mention of “China’s game industry policies, opinions, news, etc”.
Tips, tricks, and tools for remote production and live video in sports September 10th, 11th, and 12th @ 1pm each day
SCHEDULE
GIVEAWAYS
Tuesday, September 10th at 1pm EST: Getting Started in Live Sports Production
Tips and tricks for youth sports organizations, intramural and club sports, and local independent leagues. Get an introduction to the tools and technology available today with an focus on affordable solutions that will allow you to grow your audience, create value for your sponsors and monetize your sports production.
Wednesday, September 11th at 1pm EST: Elevate Sports Video with Broadcast Production Tools
Major Broadcasters and regional sports networks have created the production standard that your audience expects. Join SportStream as we introduce the graphics, analysis, replay and other tools that help you deliver the content that your sports fans expect.
Thursday, September 12th at 1pm EST: Remote Production Workflow for Sports Coverage
Broadcasting all of your sporting events is easier than ever now that you can remove all production resources from the field. Your production team can control the content from multiple fields and events all at the same time; cover away games with ease and with no added expense; broadcast all events as they happen and distribute the live production across campus, social media and broadcasts simultaneously.
Videomaker One-Year Complimentary Digital Magazine Subscription Everyone who registers will receive a FREE Videomaker one-year complimentary digital magazine subscription!
LiveU Prize Pack Swag items from LiveU and a $50 Visa Gift Card – $100 value
MORE GIVEAWAYS COMING SOON!
Thanks to our sponsors for making this event FREE to attend
I’ve set up a template for a microservice that we will have to create plenty of in an upcoming project. After following all the steps, I was able to create a nupkg package. I’ve installed the template but it only generates an empty folder. All the output returns successfully, so I’m fresh out of ideas.
Might it have something to do with the {{placeholders}} I’ve put in the project names in the csproj files? But then I would think atleast the sln file should be created.
Are you looking into adapting advanced technology in your food business? Leveraging advanced processing technology has become essential for businesses aiming to grow and thrive. With consumers demanding higher quality, safer, and more innovative food products, companies must adapt by incorporating cutting-edge technologies. This article explores the role of advanced processing technologies in the food business and highlights ten ways these innovations can help you grow your food business.
Advanced Processing Technologies in Food Businesses
Advanced processing technologies encompass a broad range of innovations designed to improve the efficiency, safety, and quality of food production. These technologies include automation, robotics, high-pressure processing, ultrasound technology, and more.
Food businesses can streamline operations, reduce costs, and meet the ever-evolving market demands by integrating these advancements. For instance, specialized potato processing equipment can significantly enhance the speed and consistency of potato product manufacturing, ensuring high-quality output while minimizing waste and labor costs.
Key Advanced Processing Technologies
Food businesses must understand key advanced processing technologies to enhance product quality, safety, and efficiency. The following technologies facilitate the creation of novel products, ensuring that businesses can adapt to changing consumer preferences and emerging market trends.
1. Automation and Robotics
Automation involves using machinery and technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. Robotics takes this a step further by introducing intelligent machines that can perform complex tasks. These technologies help speed up production, reduce errors, and enhance consistency.
For example, pizza chains are now utilizing automated systems to streamline their operations. Robotic systems handle dough preparation, topping application, and even baking. These robots ensure that each pizza is made to exact specifications, enhancing quality control and reducing food waste.
Additionally, automated packaging lines in snack food factories can sort, package, and label products at high speeds, drastically increasing productivity while maintaining stringent hygiene standards. This integration of automation and robotics improves efficiency and allows businesses to meet increasing consumer demands swiftly and reliably.
2. High-Pressure Processing (HPP)
HPP uses high pressure to eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens in food without compromising its nutritional value and taste. This technology is particularly useful for extending product shelf life.
For instance, juice manufacturers often use HPP to ensure their products don’t have harmful microorganisms while maintaining the fresh taste and nutritional benefits of the fruits. Similarly, deli meat producers apply HPP to extend the shelf life of their products without the need for preservatives, making them more appealing to health-conscious consumers.
3. Ultrasound Technology
Ultrasound technology uses high-frequency sound waves to enhance various food processing activities, such as emulsification, extraction, and preservation. It offers benefits like reduced processing times and improved product quality.
For example, ultrasound technology can improve emulsification in the production of sauces and dressings, leading to more stable and homogeneous products. In the extraction of flavors and essential oils from herbs and spices, ultrasound waves can significantly increase yield and efficiency compared to traditional methods.
4. Pulsed Electric Fields (PEF)
PEF technology applies short bursts of high voltage to food products, which can enhance the extraction of juices and other valuable components while preserving their nutritional content.
In the olive oil industry, PEF technology enhances oil extraction efficiency by effectively disrupting olive cell walls, leading to greater oil release. This increases yield and quality, preserving natural antioxidants and polyphenols, resulting in better flavor, aroma, and nutritional properties.
5. Smart Sensors and IoT
These technologies help ensure optimal conditions, reduce waste, and enhance food safety. For example, in the dairy industry, smart sensors assess the temperature and humidity levels in the storage and transportation of milk and other dairy products. By using IoT-enabled devices, dairy producers can receive real-time data and alerts if conditions deviate from the optimal range.
Additionally, these sensors can track the location and status of shipments, providing valuable insights into the supply chain and helping to prevent spoilage or contamination. Implementing IoT and smart sensors in the dairy industry not only improves product quality and safety but also reduces waste and enhances overall operational efficiency.
10 Ways to Grow Your Food Business With Advanced Technology
Food businesses across various sectors can significantly benefit from advanced technology. Restaurants and catering services can enhance food safety and quality through technologies like sous-vide cooking and automated kitchen equipment. Packaged food manufacturers can extend shelf life and improve product consistency with high-pressure processing and modified atmosphere packaging.
Agricultural producers can increase yield and sustainability through precision farming and smart irrigation systems. On the other hand, retailers can optimize inventory and reduce waste with AI-driven demand forecasting and smart shelving. Below are the ways to grow your food business with advanced technology.
1. Enhance Food Safety and Quality
Implementing advanced processing technologies such as HPP and PEF ensures that your food products are free from harmful pathogens while retaining their nutritional value and taste. This commitment to safety and quality can help build trust with consumers, leading to increased brand loyalty and sales.
2. Increase Production Efficiency
Automation and robotics can significantly boost production efficiency by reducing manual labor and minimizing errors. Automated systems can operate continuously, increasing output while maintaining consistent quality. This efficiency can lower production costs and improve profitability.
3. Extend Shelf Life
Implementing technologies like HPP and advanced packaging significantly extend the shelf life of products, reducing spoilage and waste. This leads to reduced losses and expanded distribution opportunities. For example, a food company using HPP for fresh juices extended their shelf life from a few days to several weeks, reducing waste and allowing for distribution to distant markets, ultimately increasing sales and revenue.
4. Innovate Product Offerings
Advanced processing technologies enable the development of new and innovative products. For example, ultrasound technology can create novel textures and flavors, while smart sensors can help in creating personalized nutrition products. Innovation keeps your product line fresh and appealing to consumers.
5. Optimize Supply Chain Management
IoT and smart sensors offer real-time data on inventory levels, production status, and supply chain conditions, enabling optimized supply chain management. This technology helps reduce delays and ensures products reach the market promptly and in perfect condition.
For example, a retail company integrated IoT sensors throughout its supply chain, allowing them to monitor stock levels and track shipments in real-time. As a result, they could respond quickly to disruptions, maintain optimal inventory levels, and reduce out-of-stock situations.
6. Reduce Environmental Impact
Many advanced processing technologies are designed with sustainability in mind. For instance, PEF technology uses less energy compared to traditional thermal processing methods. Implementing eco-friendly technologies can reduce your environmental footprint and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
For example, a dairy company adopted PEF technology for milk pasteurization, significantly reducing their energy consumption compared to traditional methods. This not only lowered their carbon footprint but also attracted a growing segment of environmentally conscious consumers, enhancing their brand image and boosting sales.
7. Improve Traceability
Advanced tracking systems enabled by IoT can enhance traceability throughout the supply chain, crucial for food safety as it enables for quick identification and resolution of issues. Improved traceability also helps meet regulatory requirements and maintain consumer trust.
For instance, a dairy company implemented IoT-enabled tracking for their products, which allowed them to monitor the entire journey of their milk from farm to shelf. This system ensured that any contamination or quality issues could be quickly traced back to their source and addressed promptly. As a result, the company improved compliance with food safety regulations, enhanced its product quality, and strengthened consumer confidence in its brand.
8. Enhance Customer Engagement
Leveraging technology to gather data on consumer preferences and behavior provides valuable insights that can be used to tailor marketing strategies, create targeted promotions, and enhance customer engagement.
Technologies like augmented reality (AR) can create immersive and interactive experiences for customers. For example, a cosmetics company utilizes AR in its mobile app to enable customers to try different makeup products virtually. By analyzing user interactions and preferences, the company personalized marketing campaigns and recommended products tailored to individual customers.
9. Streamline Regulatory Compliance
Advanced processing technologies, combined with robust data management systems, can simplify compliance by providing accurate and timely documentation. This ensures that your business meets all regulatory standards and avoids costly penalties.
For example, a meat processing company integrated a comprehensive data management system that tracks raw material sourcing to final packaging. This system automatically generated detailed reports and compliance documents, making it easier for the company to adhere to regulatory requirements. As a result, the company not only avoided potential fines but also enhanced its reputation for safety and reliability in the industry.
10. Facilitate Scaling
As your food business grows, advanced processing technologies can facilitate scaling operations. Automated systems and smart technologies can be easily expanded to accommodate increased production volumes without compromising quality, ensuring that your business grows smoothly and efficiently.
Conclusion
Advanced processing technologies provide significant advantages for food businesses, enabling growth and competitiveness. These technologies enhance food safety, quality, efficiency, and sustainability, meeting modern consumer demands. Embracing these innovations ensures long-term success and profitability. While initial investments are required, the long-term benefits far exceed the costs.
It’s a sad day in a galaxy far, far, away. Deadline reports that the Star Wars Disney+ show The Acolyte has been canceled after its first season. Lucasfilm confirmed to io9 it won’t be moving ahead with a season two, which had never been officially greenlit.
Set during the era of the High Republic, The Acolytetold the story of two sisters, Mae and Osha, whose mysterious existence raised a number of questions for the Jedi and Sith of the time. In the end, the pair switched roles, with the former Jedi apprentice Osha siding with the evil Sith, the Stranger, and former Sith apprentice Mae ending up with the Jedi. It was a fantastic show that told a bold, exciting new Star Wars story. Which is probably why audiences rejected it.
After a debut that put up very good numbers, those numbers dwindled as the series went on so news of its cancelation isn’t a total surprise. However, fans like myself certainly hoped that the exciting direction season two was teeing up, as well as the inclusion of a fan-favorite character at the end, may have given it a second chance. But it seems there’s no luck.
The move also makes The Acolyte the first Disney+ Star Wars show to be out-and-out canceled. While shows like Obi-Wan Kenobi and The Book of Boba Fett have not returned for second seasons, there has yet to be any official word on either. (Plus, in the case of Kenobi, a second season doesn’t make much sense.)
Next up for live-action Star Wars on Disney+ is Skeleton Crew, which similarly to The Acolyte faces an uphill battle without any recognizable characters. That’ll be followed by season two of Andor in 2025 and after that… we don’t know. Season two of Ahsoka is in development; the first movie since 2019, The Mandalorian & Grogu, is in production. Any number of other other movies are in various stages of development.
The Acolyte seemed as if it was going to be a great place to fit new, exciting Star Wars stories. But now, it seems we’ll never find out the tale of Darth Plagueis the Wise, what was next for Osha and the Stranger, and how the Jedi would react to their blatant disregard for decency. See? Doesn’t that all sound awesome? I’m going to go cry now.
Created by Leslye Headland, The Acolyte starred Amandla Stenberg, Lee Jung-jae, Charlie Barnett, Dafne Keen, Rebecca Henderson, Jodie Turner-Smith, Carrie-Anne Moss, Manny Jacinto, and Joonas Suotamo. You can, at least for now, stream the entire series on Disney+.
Update 8 p.m. August 19:We added Lucasfilm’s confirmation to the story.
With the dog-eat-dog world out there, it has become necessary for companies to stand out, or they risk becoming a failure, and this is where 3D logo design enters the picture. 3D logo design services are transformative services that go beyond the ordinary, enticing audiences and engraving your brand in the target audience’s mind.
Unparalleled benefits of 3D company logo design
Imagine your brand’s logo popping up on the page or screen, commanding interest with its larger-than-life presence, depth, and vibrancy. Aesthetics is not the only concern here; it is also about making a lasting impression. Studies revealed that businesses that use 3D company logos enjoy increased consumer engagement compared to traditional designs. In this fast-paced modern digital world, being stagnant means you’ll become irrelevant before you even know it.
There is this palpable fear of missing out, and fittingly so. Many popular brands have embraced 3D modeling design firms for 3D logo design and exploited its use to enjoy a competitive edge. There are also other tangible benefits of using 3D company logo designs. Imagine a real estate agency that showcases properties with 3D logos that add more depth to their brand and foster a sense of professionalism and trust. Think of a tech start-up that conveys futuristic vision and innovation through 3D emblems that attract customers and investors alike.
Ask any successful business why they use 3D logo design, and they will have one answer: it’s all about impact. Using 3D company logo designs is about setting yourself apart from the competition. It’s about imprinting that indelible mark on the psyche of your audience to create an immediate association with reliability, innovation, and quality.
3D logo designers and why you need them
Logos are also called lettermark, wordmark, device mark, symbol, mascot, monogram, combination mark, emblem, 3D logos, and others. Logos are critical elements that form a part of your business identity. This unique identity reflects your company or brand’s values and leaves a first impression among customers. The goal is to create an authentic and impactful logo for businesses to represent their brand message. All businesses must have a recognizable and unique visual brand identity. 3D logo designers can help develop logos that represent the values, mission, and ethos of a company’s brand.
3D company logo designers can come up with logos that are memorable, appealing, balanced, and different from competitor logos. They can also render guidance on branding and the most effective way of using the logo across various media channels. They help businesses form a solid brand identity that will resonate with their consumers. A 3D company logo designer can help businesses develop a logo that personifies the brand in a way that appeals to the visuals. Logos are essential for all companies because they create brand recall and recognition. 3D logo designers can also help your business improve recognition and customer loyalty.
Reasons to hire an experienced 3D logo designer
Working with experienced 3D company logo designers offers several exciting benefits, and these include the following:
Brand establishment
3D logo designers can deliver the 3D logo files in different formats, including .png, .svg, .jpg,.pdf, .cdr, and .ai. This makes it easier and faster to establish and retain the brand’s identity across different platforms.
Expertise
An experienced 3D logo designer is armed with the knowledge of design principles critical to creating an unforgettable logo.
Future-proofing
Seasoned 3D company logo designers can create timeless logos that will endure and last for years to come. These will never go out of style, unlike DIY logos.
More personalized approach
3D logo designers will consider your target audience and the objectives of your brand that best reflects its identity.
3D company logo designers can create logos suitable for high-quality printing on different materials, including signboards, brochures, promotional products, packaging, business cards, and stationery. This ensures the integrity and clarity of the 3D logo design.
Professionalism
A carefully crafted 3D logo portrays credibility and professionalism as well. This can also build trust among prospective customers and make them feel more confident in your brand.
Scalability
3D graphic designers create scalable logos that are resizable without compromising the quality. The logo won’t become pixelated or distorted once printed in various sizes.
Unique logo
Dedicated 3D company logo design services can also create distinctive logos that set them apart from the competition. At the same time, they also ensure that the logo will perfectly suit the requirements and standards of your company or business.
Versatility
Versatile logos are those that are ideal for all platforms, digital and print alike. They don’t lose their clarity or quality even if you use them in numerous mediums.
Benefits of well-designed 3D logos for start-ups and small businesses
Small businesses and start-ups can greatly benefit from hiring professional 3D logo designers in many ways, including the following:
Expertise
Start-ups and small businesses may still lack the specialized skills and knowledge their established counterparts already have. Hiring a 3D logo designer who can oversee the 3D logo design process will allow the owner to focus on other vital areas of the business.
Gain confidence
A well-thought-out and carefully made 3D logo can boost confidence when it’s finally time to present the brand in the cutthroat business world. It can lead to a better reputation for the business.
Increased credibility
Hiring an expert 3D modeling design company can also increase the credibility of small businesses and start-ups. This can also allow them to form relationships with investors and customers. This investment can be extremely valuable for new companies that hope to expand and succeed soon. Small ventures need a reliable 3D logo designer who will significantly influence their potential growth.
Owners of small businesses and start-ups are usually left with no choice but to wear several hats while trying to juggle numerous responsibilities. Working with an expert 3D logo designer can give them more free time that they can use to grow their business further.
Visibility
Logos of big brands are easily recognizable due to launch and marketing events. Unfortunately, small businesses and start-ups cannot afford this kind of luxury. This is why they need a standout logo that will get noticed easily.
Popular and iconic company logos in the world
There are several popular brands whose iconic logos have proven the power of recognition:
Apple
Apples have been part of stories since time immemorial, from the apple that fell on the head of Isaac Newton to the apple in the biblical story of Eve and Adam. This is why it’s no surprise that the Apple company chose its namesake fruit as its logo. Rob Janoff, the Apple logo designer, stated that the iconic bite was a way of setting apart the very simple apple from other fruits.
The fashion label Chanel is almost synonymous with elegance, luxury, and the Parisian identity of its founder. This explains why her initials are interlocked into the logo that everyone recognizes today. Chanel has a white and black color scheme, and the wordmark logo, which is the brand name, usually sits right under it with lots of negative space. The interlocking alone is the only enhancement or effect on the logo, making it perfectly symmetrical and neat.
McDonald’s
The logo of McDonald’s also called the Golden Arches, was inspired by the golden arches that were part of the original restaurant design of the fast food chain. This logo design brings two arches together that adorn all restaurant chains. It turns into an M, a lettermark logo.
Nike
Carolyn Davidson designed the swoosh of the Nike brand, which also happens to be one of the world’s most iconic logos. This swoosh resembles the wings of Nike, Greek mythology’s goddess of victory and the company’s namesake. The logo resembles a checkmark that represents getting things done, or as its tagline says, “Just do it.”
Unsurprisingly, the company’s futuristic look left an undeniable mark on one of the world’s largest industries. The logo may seem like just a simple but cool-looking letter T at one glance. The company’s founder described their logo as an electric motor’s cross-section.
How Cad Crowd can help
In this modern world where perception has become more paramount than ever, the right choice is more than obvious. Now is the perfect time to embrace the power of recognition a 3D logo design can offer. With the burgeoning demand for 3D company logo designers, Cad Crowd can point you toward the best choice that can help your brand logo transcend the ordinary and traditional and rise to embrace the extraordinary. Contact us for a free quote.
Summer may be starting to cool down but that doesn’t mean we’re done celebrating all the amazing games launched this season on console and PC.
There have been more than 200 games launched this summer like Pizza Bar Tycoon, Sam & Max: The Devils Playhouse, Just Crow Things, and the releases just keep on coming – with many having launched day one with Game Pass!
We’re highlighted a few of the more recently released titles for you below, and a few that are on the way, so be sure to check back every Tuesday on your Xbox console, Store on Windows, and the Xbox app on PC to see the latest summer releases as we head into fall.
Pizza Bar Tycoon – Lookout! This pizzeria will soon become the talk of the town! Well… at least that’s the plan. Your customers are already queuing up, so you’ll have to serve them as quickly as possible. However, that’s easier said than done! Everyone’s in a hurry and you’ll have to prepare each order correctly, or else your customers are going to get crossed! Give it your all and you’ll come out on top!
Sam & Max: The Devils Playhouse – The final game in Telltale’s Sam & Max trilogy, beautifully remastered! Explore odd locales, meet eccentric characters, and solve brain-tickling puzzles in this bizarre paranormal adventure with a surprise around every corner. Jump into Max’s brain and use the Toys of Power to see the future, teleport, and read minds.
Just Crow Things – You’re a little crow trying to prove herself to the world. Make new animal friends, poop on unsuspecting hoomans, and steal all the shiny trinkets! Each level is a little sandbox full of fun items to discover and puzzles to solve, while leaving a bit of chaos behind. Why? Just caws!
Here are a few titles in pre-order that are coming soon:
Visions of Mana– A new adventure begins in Visions of Mana – the first mainline title in the Mana series in over 15 years! Immerse yourself in the vibrant graphics of this beautiful world, where the powers of nature blend with the elemental aspects of mana to create a rich tapestry of life. Journey through enchanting locations with near-seamless transitions in a semi-open field that’s yours to discover. Brace yourself for fast-paced, multi-dimensional actions in battle to enrich your fighting experience. Use the magic of the Elementals to explore this vast world to your heart’s content!
Casting of Frank Stone– The storytelling prowess of Supermassive Games meets the Dead by Daylight universe in a haunting horror game that won’t soon be forgotten. The shadow of Frank Stone looms over Cedar Hills, a town forever altered by his violent past. As a group of young friends are about to discover, Stone’s blood-soaked legacy cuts deep, leaving scars across families, generations, and the very fabric of reality itself.
Perks for Ultimate Game Pass Members.
MultiVersus – The MultiVersus MVP Pack offers in-game content to further customize and boost your play for subscription members. MVP Pack 2 includes a Legendary Leave me Alone Ringout and an Epic Respects Sticker Emote.
Stampede: Racing Royale– Join the herd in style! Kit out your kart with the Xbox KartCore 3000 Wrap, update your avatar with the Xbox Pic and get a head start with 25,000 coins! This Perk content requires Stampede Racing Royale to use.
The First Descendant– Play a next-generation looter shooter, The First Descendant now and claim an exclusive launch edition bundle: Elevate your weapon with a stunning weapon skin and customize your Descendants with vibrant paints and a stylish back accessory!
Newer Games That Launched Day One with Game Pass
Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn – The Door to the Great Below has been opened unleashing the Gods and their armies of the Dead. The lands of Kian are besieged, the city of Dawn is on the brink of destruction. It’s time for the Coalition army to fight back. Embrace vengeance, gunpowder and magic as you embark on an epic journey to defeat the Gods, close the door and retake the world. Your battle begins now.
Still Wakes the Deep – Return to the first-person narrative horror genre for The Chinese Room, creator of critically acclaimed games such as Amnesia: A Machine for Pigs, Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture, and Dear Esther. You are an offshore oil rig worker, fighting for your life through a vicious storm, perilous surroundings, and the dark, freezing North Sea waters. All lines of communication have been severed. All exits are gone. All that remains is to face the unknowable horror that’s come aboard.
Palworld – In this game, you can peacefully live alongside mysterious creatures known as Pals or risk your life to drive off a ruthless poaching syndicate. Pals can be used to fight and breed, or they can be made to work on farms or factories. You can even sell them or eat them. Collect all kinds of exciting Pals to fight, farm, build, and work for you in this completely new multiplayer, open world survival and crafting game! In the Sakurajima update you can find new pals, features, and map. The update also introduced Xbox dedicated servers, a new building and level cap, new subspecies, a new raid, faction, boss, and more.
This is just a small taste of the over 200 new games on Xbox this summer. Make sure you check your Xbox console, Store on Windows, and the Xbox app on PC every Tuesday to discover the new titles to play. Perks offers vary by region and game, so make sure you check the Perks gallery on your Xbox console or the Xbox app for more details.
Visual Studio 2022 v17.11 includes fantastic updates to everyone working with Git. They bring the richness of both GitHub and Azure DevOps into Visual Studio and part of your natural workflow. This greatly simplifies your inner loop, making you even more productive than before. Download this update and see the release notes for all the details.
More meaningful code reviews
We’ve made it easier to view your GitHub and Azure DevOps pull request comments directly in your working file in Visual Studio. You can now stay in your context, make necessary code changes, and interact with your colleagues’ suggestions without switching contexts to the browser.
Fix for CodeLens timeline
CodeLens timeline now respects the configuration of your timeline to show the correct information. This fix addresses an issue where the timeline was not honoring the months set in the file changes hover preview.
Updates to pull request creation
We’ve improved on the create a pull request experience with target branch selection, commit counts, and other stabilization fixes. Additionally, we now automatically create links to work items that have been mentioned in commits that are part of the pull request. We also draft pull requests which was one of the top requests.
We hope you enjoy this update to Visual Studio, and we look forward to hearing what you think. You can share feedback with us via Developer Community, by reporting issues via report a problem and share your suggestions for new features or improvements to existing ones.
Apple is getting closer to releasing its own suite of artificial intelligence features, and with every step it takes, it’s compared with AI built-ins already on the market. Early peeks at Cupertino’s offerings reveal that Apple Intelligence isn’t anywhere near as helpful or impressive as Google’s Gemini, which is easily Apple’s biggest competitor in the AI space.
This disclosure comes from Apple insider Mark Gurman. Though Gurman has said for a while that Apple Intelligence is “far from living up to the hype,” the suite’s disappointments became more obvious after Google showed off its Pixel 9 series last week. Thanks to their Tensor G4 chips and increased RAM, the phones in Google’s new multi-tiered lineup run the Gemini Nano model locally, offering improvements to the camera, keyboard, and several generative AI tools. Gurman calls the latter “gee-whiz features”—tools that cross-reference your photos with your calendar, change the background of a photo with a tap, and upgrade video quality to something Google calls “8K-like.”
These features leave Apple Intelligence in the dust, according to Gurman. In the latest issue of his Power On newsletter, Gurman wrote that Apple is “years behind rivals like Google” in the AI sphere. Despite Apple leading the built-in smart assistant space with Siri, Google’s long history of scouring the internet for information has allowed it to charge ahead. Gurman also believes Apple’s focus on privacy limits its ability to “fully exploit AI.”
Apple Intelligence can transcribe or summarize your phone calls, but more visual AI features are reportedly in Google’s wheelhouse, not Apple’s Credit: Apple
“Apple and Google are not only miles apart in AI—they are in a completely different universe,” Gurman writes.
That isn’t good news for a company spending $1 billion to catch up with Google and other rivals through AI alone. Apple has developed a whole new chip line, the M4 series, with AI front of mind. And while Apple Intelligence probably won’t be ready for the iOS 18 release loosely slated for this fall, Apple is reportedly upgrading the forthcoming iPhone 16’s RAM to accommodate the suite, which, as most AI functions do, requires a little extra working memory.
We heard earlier this year that Apple’s version of AI “substantially” outperforms GPT4, the technology behind Gemini, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, and Microsoft’s Copilot. But that area of performance specifically involves language processing—a concession Gurman gives Apple. “Apple Intelligence will do stuff like summarize your messages and make voice-memo transcripts,” he writes, but Pixel will offer more of those gee-whiz features.
