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    Microsoft Surface Studio 2 review

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    Microsoft Surface Studio 2 review

    Microsoft Surface Studio 2 Review: The Ultimate All-in-One for Creatives

    The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is a premium all-in-one desktop computer designed for creatives, professionals, and anyone who values a sleek, powerful, and versatile workstation. As the successor to the original Surface Studio, this second-generation model refines its predecessor’s strengths while improving its performance in key areas. But does it justify its premium price? Let’s dive into a comprehensive review to determine whether the Surface Studio 2 is the right choice for you.

    Design and Build Quality

    The Surface Studio 2 maintains the breathtaking design of the original, featuring a 28-inch PixelSense touchscreen display that rests on a gravity-defying hinge. This hinge allows seamless transitions between upright desktop mode and the unique Studio Mode, where the display tilts into a drafting-table-like position, perfect for digital artists and designers.

    Crafted from high-quality aluminum, the Studio 2 exudes premium craftsmanship. The display itself is exceptionally thin, housing all computing components in the compact base rather than behind the screen, making for a clean and minimalist aesthetic. The overall design ensures a modern and professional look that fits perfectly in a studio or office environment.

    Display: A Visual Masterpiece

    One of the Surface Studio 2’s standout features is its 28-inch PixelSense display, boasting a 4500 x 3000 resolution with a 3:2 aspect ratio. The display is incredibly sharp and vibrant, covering 100% of the sRGB and DCI-P3 color gamuts. This means accurate colors and deep contrasts, essential for photographers, video editors, and digital illustrators.

    Additionally, the enhanced brightness (up to 500 nits) and increased contrast ratio make the display even better than its predecessor, ensuring clear visuals whether you’re working in bright daylight or a dim studio environment. The touchscreen functionality, combined with Surface Pen and Surface Dial support, enhances interactivity and productivity.

    Performance and Hardware

    Under the hood, the Surface Studio 2 features 7th-generation Intel Core i7 processors (specifically, the Intel Core i7-7820HQ), coupled with 16GB or 32GB of DDR4 RAM. While this is a notable improvement over the first-gen model, the use of 7th-gen Intel chips (rather than 8th or 9th-gen) was already outdated at launch, raising questions about long-term performance.

    For graphics, Microsoft equips the Surface Studio 2 with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or GTX 1070 GPUs. These GPUs provide ample power for creative tasks like 3D modeling, video editing, and digital painting, but they fall short for ultra-high-end rendering or the latest gaming titles.

    Storage options include SSD-only configurations ranging from 1TB to 2TB, offering fast read/write speeds that significantly improve loading times and system responsiveness. However, given the premium price, more modern components, such as NVMe SSDs with PCIe Gen 4, would have been a welcome addition.

    Connectivity and Ports

    The Surface Studio 2 improves upon the first-generation model by including USB-C, though it unfortunately lacks Thunderbolt 3 support, which is a major downside for professionals who need fast external storage or eGPU capabilities.

    Ports include:

    • 4 x USB 3.0 ports
    • 1 x USB-C port
    • 1 x SD card reader (full-size)
    • 1 x 3.5mm headphone jack
    • 1 x Gigabit Ethernet port

    The inclusion of an SD card reader is a great touch for photographers and video editors, but the lack of Thunderbolt 3 limits the expansion potential of the system.

    Surface Pen and Surface Dial

    The Surface Studio 2 is designed to be a digital artist’s dream, and Surface Pen support plays a huge role in that. The Surface Pen offers 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and minimal latency, making it one of the best styluses available for digital creatives.

    Additionally, the Surface Dial, a unique input accessory, works seamlessly with the Surface Studio 2, allowing intuitive control over on-screen menus, brush sizes, and zoom functions. While not essential, the Dial is a nice addition for those working in Photoshop, Illustrator, or 3D applications.

    Software and Operating System

    The Surface Studio 2 ships with Windows 10 Pro, upgradable to Windows 11, ensuring the latest security and productivity features. Microsoft optimizes the OS for touch and stylus input, making it a natural fit for artists and designers who need fluid, responsive interactions.

    Pre-installed applications include Microsoft Office Suite, Windows Ink, and Surface app utilities that allow customization of the Surface Pen and Dial. Unlike Apple’s macOS ecosystem, the Surface Studio 2 benefits from full compatibility with a wide range of professional creative applications, including Adobe Creative Suite, Autodesk Maya, Blender, and more.

    Audio and Webcam

    The Surface Studio 2 features stereo speakers powered by Dolby Audio Premium, offering clear and immersive sound. While not a replacement for high-end studio monitors, the built-in speakers deliver impressive clarity for an all-in-one machine.

    The 5MP front-facing webcam is capable of 1080p video recording, making it suitable for video calls and conferencing. It also supports Windows Hello facial recognition, providing secure and convenient login options.

    Performance in Real-World Use

    For creative professionals, the Surface Studio 2 excels in graphic design, photo editing, and video production. Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Premiere Pro run smoothly, though users working with 8K video or highly complex 3D rendering may find the GPU somewhat limiting compared to dedicated workstations.

    For general office work and productivity tasks, the Surface Studio 2 is overpowered, handling multitasking, web browsing, and document editing effortlessly. However, given its premium price, the device is not intended for casual users who don’t need its artistic and creative capabilities.

    Gaming performance is mediocre due to the GTX 1060/1070 GPUs, which, while competent, don’t match the power of newer RTX-series cards. While games run smoothly at 1080p or 1440p, demanding titles at 4K will struggle.

    Battery Life and Power Consumption

    Since the Surface Studio 2 is a desktop, it does not have a battery. However, power consumption is fairly efficient given its high-resolution display and dedicated GPU, drawing around 300W under full load. The cooling system remains quiet, even during intensive tasks.

    Price and Value for Money

    The Surface Studio 2 is undeniably expensive, with pricing starting at $3,499 and going up to $4,799 for the highest configuration. At this price, competitors like the Apple iMac Pro or custom-built workstations offer better raw performance.

    That said, the unique form factor, premium build quality, and stunning touchscreen display make it a one-of-a-kind device. If you’re a professional artist, designer, or photographer who values the interactive display and stylus capabilities, the Studio 2 might be worth the investment. However, those needing raw power for 3D modeling or video editing may find better options elsewhere.

    Conclusion: Who Should Buy the Surface Studio 2?

    The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is an exceptional device for creatives who value design, touchscreen interactivity, and versatility over sheer performance. Its high-quality display, precise pen input, and unique Studio Mode make it ideal for:

    • Digital artists and illustrators
    • Graphic designers
    • Photographers and video editors (working in 4K or below)
    • Architects and animators (who don’t need the latest GPUs)

    However, those who require cutting-edge performance for high-end video editing, 3D rendering, or gaming may find better alternatives at a lower price.

    Pros:

    ✔ Stunning 28-inch PixelSense touchscreen ✔ Unique, flexible hinge design ✔ Great Surface Pen and Dial support ✔ Excellent build quality ✔ Fast SSD storage

    Cons:

    ❌ Outdated CPU and GPU ❌ No Thunderbolt 3 support ❌ High price tag ❌ Limited upgradeability

    In conclusion, the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is a premium, beautifully crafted machine with an unparalleled touchscreen experience, but its aging hardware and high cost may deter power users looking for the best performance per dollar.

    Apple Services hits 390 million paid subscriptions

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    Apple Services hits 390 million paid subscriptions

    In May, Uber launched a new experiment: selling train and bus tickets through its app for its customers in Denver, Colorado. Today, the company reports that it has sold over 1,200 tickets for the city’s Regional Transportation District, which operates Denver’s public transportation system.

    THE COMPANY REPORTS GROWTH AVERAGING 42 PERCENT EACH WEEK DURING THE ROLLOUT PERIOD

    Uber Transit, the company’s in-app ticketing feature, was made available to a small cohort of customers in May, and it has since become available to 100 percent of Uber users in Denver as of June 25th. The company reports growth averaging 42 percent each week during the rollout period.

    Uber may not make any money when it sells bus and subway tickets through its app, but it is seeing an uptick in business as a result. Since Uber launched its transit planning feature in January, Uber trips in Denver that start or end at a transit station have grown 11.6 percent. This helps bolster Uber’s claim that it is helping solve the first mile / last mile challenge that plagues many cities.

    Uber also said that the number of repeat ticket purchases has increased every week since ticketing launched. As of the week of June 24th, approximately 25 percent of tickets sold were purchased by users who had previously purchased tickets on the app.

    Uber’s new transit feature is powered by Masabi, a London-based tech company that builds mobile ticketing software for public transportation. This is the first incarnation of Uber and Masabi’s partnership since the two companies first struck a deal last year to integrate the latter’s mobile ticketing platform into the former’s app. Uber riders in Denver have been able to see real-time bus and rail information when they open the app since January, courtesy of transit data firm Moovit.

    For now, Uber is taking its first foray into public transportation slowly, one city at a time. So far, the company offers real-time subway and bus schedules, time and cost comparisons, and point-to-point directions for customers in London and Boston. It most likely will launch ticket purchasing in those cities later this year.

    SpaceX to debut new crew capsule in test flight

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    SpaceX to debut new crew capsule in test flight

    SpaceX to Debut New Crew Capsule in Test Flight

    SpaceX is set to take a monumental step in the future of space travel with the debut of its new crew capsule during an upcoming test flight. The spacecraft, designed to transport astronauts to low-Earth orbit and beyond, is part of the company’s ongoing mission to revolutionize space exploration. This test flight marks a significant milestone in SpaceX’s goal to advance human spaceflight technology and make space travel more accessible and affordable.

    What’s New with SpaceX’s Crew Capsule?

    The new crew capsule, a part of SpaceX’s Crew Dragon series, builds upon the lessons learned from previous missions and improves on both safety and performance. It’s engineered to carry up to seven astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS), but its flexibility allows for various mission types, including lunar and deep space flights. The capsule is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including advanced life support systems, touchscreen interfaces for astronauts, and the ability to autonomously dock with space stations.

    One of the most exciting features of this capsule is its enhanced safety measures. SpaceX has included an advanced launch escape system, which can quickly propel the capsule away from the rocket in case of an emergency during launch. This system is crucial in ensuring the safety of astronauts as SpaceX takes on more ambitious missions, such as potential lunar and Mars expeditions.

    What to Expect from the Test Flight

    The upcoming test flight, although uncrewed, will serve as a crucial evaluation of the capsule’s performance in real-world conditions. The capsule will be launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket, SpaceX’s reliable workhorse. During the test, the crew capsule will undergo a series of critical evaluations to ensure it can handle the rigors of space travel, including its docking procedure, emergency systems, and re-entry capabilities.

    This test flight will also be a chance for SpaceX to gather essential data on the capsule’s design, ensuring that any tweaks or improvements can be made before it carries its first crew members into orbit. NASA, SpaceX’s long-time partner, will be closely monitoring the test flight, as this mission is an essential part of NASA’s Artemis program to return humans to the Moon and eventually send astronauts to Mars.

    The Future of SpaceX’s Crew Capsule

    SpaceX’s new crew capsule represents a major leap forward for the private spaceflight industry. If successful, this test flight could pave the way for more frequent missions to the ISS and other low-Earth orbit destinations. In the long term, SpaceX aims to use the crew capsule to help fulfill NASA’s ambitious goals of returning astronauts to the Moon and beyond. With SpaceX at the forefront of this technological development, the future of human space exploration looks brighter than ever.

    SpaceX’s vision for the new crew capsule is more than just about reaching orbit—it’s about pushing the boundaries of what is possible in space travel and making space more accessible to all. As the company moves closer to its test flight, the excitement surrounding this innovation continues to grow, with many eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the era of commercial spaceflight.

    Stay tuned for updates on the test flight, as SpaceX prepares to make history once again.

    Hands on: Google Pixel 3a XL review

    Small hoverboard upgrade with big potential

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    Small hoverboard upgrade with big potential

    In May, Uber launched a new experiment: selling train and bus tickets through its app for its customers in Denver, Colorado. Today, the company reports that it has sold over 1,200 tickets for the city’s Regional Transportation District, which operates Denver’s public transportation system.

    THE COMPANY REPORTS GROWTH AVERAGING 42 PERCENT EACH WEEK DURING THE ROLLOUT PERIOD

    Uber Transit, the company’s in-app ticketing feature, was made available to a small cohort of customers in May, and it has since become available to 100 percent of Uber users in Denver as of June 25th. The company reports growth averaging 42 percent each week during the rollout period.

    Uber may not make any money when it sells bus and subway tickets through its app, but it is seeing an uptick in business as a result. Since Uber launched its transit planning feature in January, Uber trips in Denver that start or end at a transit station have grown 11.6 percent. This helps bolster Uber’s claim that it is helping solve the first mile / last mile challenge that plagues many cities.

    Uber also said that the number of repeat ticket purchases has increased every week since ticketing launched. As of the week of June 24th, approximately 25 percent of tickets sold were purchased by users who had previously purchased tickets on the app.

    Uber’s new transit feature is powered by Masabi, a London-based tech company that builds mobile ticketing software for public transportation. This is the first incarnation of Uber and Masabi’s partnership since the two companies first struck a deal last year to integrate the latter’s mobile ticketing platform into the former’s app. Uber riders in Denver have been able to see real-time bus and rail information when they open the app since January, courtesy of transit data firm Moovit.

    For now, Uber is taking its first foray into public transportation slowly, one city at a time. So far, the company offers real-time subway and bus schedules, time and cost comparisons, and point-to-point directions for customers in London and Boston. It most likely will launch ticket purchasing in those cities later this year.

    Apple settles chip dispute, changing future of iPhone

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    Apple settles chip dispute, changing future of iPhone

    In May, Uber launched a new experiment: selling train and bus tickets through its app for its customers in Denver, Colorado. Today, the company reports that it has sold over 1,200 tickets for the city’s Regional Transportation District, which operates Denver’s public transportation system.

    THE COMPANY REPORTS GROWTH AVERAGING 42 PERCENT EACH WEEK DURING THE ROLLOUT PERIOD

    Uber Transit, the company’s in-app ticketing feature, was made available to a small cohort of customers in May, and it has since become available to 100 percent of Uber users in Denver as of June 25th. The company reports growth averaging 42 percent each week during the rollout period.

    Uber may not make any money when it sells bus and subway tickets through its app, but it is seeing an uptick in business as a result. Since Uber launched its transit planning feature in January, Uber trips in Denver that start or end at a transit station have grown 11.6 percent. This helps bolster Uber’s claim that it is helping solve the first mile / last mile challenge that plagues many cities.

    Uber also said that the number of repeat ticket purchases has increased every week since ticketing launched. As of the week of June 24th, approximately 25 percent of tickets sold were purchased by users who had previously purchased tickets on the app.

    Uber’s new transit feature is powered by Masabi, a London-based tech company that builds mobile ticketing software for public transportation. This is the first incarnation of Uber and Masabi’s partnership since the two companies first struck a deal last year to integrate the latter’s mobile ticketing platform into the former’s app. Uber riders in Denver have been able to see real-time bus and rail information when they open the app since January, courtesy of transit data firm Moovit.

    For now, Uber is taking its first foray into public transportation slowly, one city at a time. So far, the company offers real-time subway and bus schedules, time and cost comparisons, and point-to-point directions for customers in London and Boston. It most likely will launch ticket purchasing in those cities later this year.

    How a brain training app helps Tom Brady play faster

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    How a brain training app helps Tom Brady play faster

    In May, Uber launched a new experiment: selling train and bus tickets through its app for its customers in Denver, Colorado. Today, the company reports that it has sold over 1,200 tickets for the city’s Regional Transportation District, which operates Denver’s public transportation system.

    THE COMPANY REPORTS GROWTH AVERAGING 42 PERCENT EACH WEEK DURING THE ROLLOUT PERIOD

    Uber Transit, the company’s in-app ticketing feature, was made available to a small cohort of customers in May, and it has since become available to 100 percent of Uber users in Denver as of June 25th. The company reports growth averaging 42 percent each week during the rollout period.

    Uber may not make any money when it sells bus and subway tickets through its app, but it is seeing an uptick in business as a result. Since Uber launched its transit planning feature in January, Uber trips in Denver that start or end at a transit station have grown 11.6 percent. This helps bolster Uber’s claim that it is helping solve the first mile / last mile challenge that plagues many cities.

    Uber also said that the number of repeat ticket purchases has increased every week since ticketing launched. As of the week of June 24th, approximately 25 percent of tickets sold were purchased by users who had previously purchased tickets on the app.

    Uber’s new transit feature is powered by Masabi, a London-based tech company that builds mobile ticketing software for public transportation. This is the first incarnation of Uber and Masabi’s partnership since the two companies first struck a deal last year to integrate the latter’s mobile ticketing platform into the former’s app. Uber riders in Denver have been able to see real-time bus and rail information when they open the app since January, courtesy of transit data firm Moovit.

    For now, Uber is taking its first foray into public transportation slowly, one city at a time. So far, the company offers real-time subway and bus schedules, time and cost comparisons, and point-to-point directions for customers in London and Boston. It most likely will launch ticket purchasing in those cities later this year.

    Android developer news and features round-up: May 2019

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    Android developer news and features round-up: May 2019

    In May, Uber launched a new experiment: selling train and bus tickets through its app for its customers in Denver, Colorado. Today, the company reports that it has sold over 1,200 tickets for the city’s Regional Transportation District, which operates Denver’s public transportation system.

    THE COMPANY REPORTS GROWTH AVERAGING 42 PERCENT EACH WEEK DURING THE ROLLOUT PERIOD

    Uber Transit, the company’s in-app ticketing feature, was made available to a small cohort of customers in May, and it has since become available to 100 percent of Uber users in Denver as of June 25th. The company reports growth averaging 42 percent each week during the rollout period.

    Uber may not make any money when it sells bus and subway tickets through its app, but it is seeing an uptick in business as a result. Since Uber launched its transit planning feature in January, Uber trips in Denver that start or end at a transit station have grown 11.6 percent. This helps bolster Uber’s claim that it is helping solve the first mile / last mile challenge that plagues many cities.

    Uber also said that the number of repeat ticket purchases has increased every week since ticketing launched. As of the week of June 24th, approximately 25 percent of tickets sold were purchased by users who had previously purchased tickets on the app.

    Uber’s new transit feature is powered by Masabi, a London-based tech company that builds mobile ticketing software for public transportation. This is the first incarnation of Uber and Masabi’s partnership since the two companies first struck a deal last year to integrate the latter’s mobile ticketing platform into the former’s app. Uber riders in Denver have been able to see real-time bus and rail information when they open the app since January, courtesy of transit data firm Moovit.

    For now, Uber is taking its first foray into public transportation slowly, one city at a time. So far, the company offers real-time subway and bus schedules, time and cost comparisons, and point-to-point directions for customers in London and Boston. It most likely will launch ticket purchasing in those cities later this year.

    Hands on: Google Stadia review

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    Hands on: Google Stadia review

    Hands-on: Google Stadia Review – The Future of Gaming or a Failed Experiment?

    Google Stadia promised a revolutionary shift in gaming, eliminating the need for high-end consoles or PCs by delivering high-quality gaming experiences through cloud streaming. Launched in November 2019, Stadia aimed to redefine how we play games by offering instant access to AAA titles on multiple devices without downloads or updates. However, despite its ambitious vision, Stadia struggled to gain mainstream traction and was eventually shut down in January 2023. In this hands-on review, we explore Stadia’s features, performance, user experience, and the factors that led to its demise.

    What is Google Stadia?

    Google Stadia was a cloud gaming platform that allowed players to stream games over the internet without requiring powerful hardware. The service was accessible through a web browser, Chromecast Ultra, Android devices, and select TVs. Unlike traditional gaming platforms that require dedicated consoles or PCs, Stadia streamed games directly from Google’s data centers, offering the potential for high-fidelity gaming on virtually any device with a stable internet connection.

    Setup and Accessibility

    Setting up Stadia was remarkably easy. Users simply needed a Google account, a compatible device, and a stable internet connection. The platform supported multiple controllers, including the official Stadia Controller, PlayStation DualShock 4, and Xbox controllers. Stadia could be accessed through Chrome on desktops, a dedicated Android app, and Chromecast Ultra for big-screen gaming.

    Subscription Model and Pricing

    Google offered two main ways to access Stadia:

    1. Stadia Base (Free Tier) – Allowed users to purchase and stream games at up to 1080p resolution with stereo sound.
    2. Stadia Pro ($9.99/month) – Provided access to higher-quality 4K HDR streaming, 5.1 surround sound, and a rotating selection of free games.

    The main drawback was the lack of a true “Netflix for gaming” model. Instead of offering an extensive library for a single monthly fee, players had to buy most games individually, which made Stadia less appealing compared to services like Xbox Game Pass.

    Performance and Gameplay Experience

    Stadia’s core promise was lag-free gaming with stunning visuals. During testing, performance varied depending on internet speed. With a stable 35 Mbps connection, gameplay was smooth, even at 4K resolution. However, for users with slower connections (under 20 Mbps), input lag and resolution drops became noticeable, impacting fast-paced games like Doom Eternal and Destiny 2.

    Stadia used dynamic resolution scaling to maintain smooth frame rates, adjusting image quality based on network conditions. While this often worked seamlessly, artifacts and blurring were occasionally present, particularly in graphically intensive titles.

    Input Lag and Latency

    For casual gamers, input lag was rarely an issue. However, competitive players in fast-paced FPS or fighting games noticed latency, especially when playing wirelessly. The Stadia Controller’s direct Wi-Fi connection to Google’s servers helped reduce delay, but it wasn’t perfect. Games like Mortal Kombat 11 and Cyberpunk 2077 showed minor but perceptible lag compared to local hardware setups.

    Game Library and Exclusive Titles

    At launch, Stadia’s library was limited, but it grew over time to include popular titles like:

    • Cyberpunk 2077
    • Doom Eternal
    • Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
    • Red Dead Redemption 2
    • Destiny 2 (available for free with Stadia Pro)

    Despite these strong third-party offerings, Stadia struggled to secure compelling exclusives. Stadia Games & Entertainment, Google’s in-house development studio, was shut down in early 2021, signaling a lack of commitment to first-party content. Without major exclusives, Stadia failed to differentiate itself from competitors like Xbox Cloud Gaming or NVIDIA GeForce Now.

    User Interface and Features

    Clean and Simple UI

    Stadia’s interface was minimalist and user-friendly. Navigating the library, store, and settings was intuitive, and game launching was instant—eliminating the need for downloads or patches.

    Crowd Play and State Share

    One of Stadia’s standout features was State Share, allowing players to create sharable game states, enabling friends to jump directly into specific moments of gameplay. Crowd Play, another innovative feature, let YouTube streamers invite viewers to join their game sessions instantly. While promising, these features were underutilized due to Stadia’s limited user base.

    Multiplayer and Social Features

    Cross-Platform Play and Limitations

    Stadia supported cross-platform play for select games like Destiny 2, but overall, its multiplayer community was small. Unlike PlayStation Network or Xbox Live, Stadia lacked a strong social infrastructure, with minimal in-game matchmaking or communication tools.

    Lack of Offline Play

    A major downside was the complete reliance on cloud servers. Unlike digital storefronts like Steam or PlayStation Store, purchasing a game on Stadia didn’t grant ownership outside of the platform. If Stadia shut down (which it eventually did), players lost access to their purchased games entirely.

    The Downfall of Stadia

    Several factors contributed to Stadia’s failure:

    1. High Competition – Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce Now, and PlayStation Now provided compelling alternatives with better pricing models and larger libraries.
    2. Lack of Exclusive Titles – Without must-play exclusives, Stadia struggled to justify its existence.
    3. Internet Dependency – The requirement for a consistently strong internet connection made it impractical for many gamers, especially in regions with limited infrastructure.
    4. Poor Marketing and Confusing Business Model – The mix of subscription and full-priced game purchases was off-putting to potential customers.
    5. Google’s History of Killing Projects – Many gamers hesitated to invest in Stadia, fearing that Google might abandon the project—a concern that proved to be valid.

    Final Verdict: Was Stadia Ahead of Its Time?

    Google Stadia was a bold experiment that showcased the potential of cloud gaming. Its instant access, lack of downloads, and unique features like State Share were truly ahead of their time. However, the service ultimately suffered from a lack of commitment, a weak business model, and stiff competition.

    Who Would Have Benefited from Stadia?

    • Casual gamers looking for console-quality gaming without hardware investments.
    • Gamers with fast and stable internet who didn’t want to deal with downloads or updates.
    • People who valued mobility, playing on different devices seamlessly.

    Who Was Left Disappointed?

    • Competitive and hardcore gamers who needed precise input responsiveness.
    • Players in areas with slow or unreliable internet.
    • Gamers who wanted true game ownership rather than cloud-locked purchases.

    Pros:

    ✔ Instant game access, no downloads or updates ✔ High-quality streaming with strong internet ✔ Unique features like State Share and Crowd Play ✔ Worked across multiple devices

    Cons:

    ❌ Lacked strong exclusives ❌ Inconsistent performance based on internet speed ❌ No offline play or game ownership ❌ Confusing pricing model ❌ Small multiplayer community

    Conclusion: A Glimpse into the Future

    Despite its failure, Stadia demonstrated the viability of cloud gaming. Competitors like NVIDIA GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and PlayStation Plus Cloud continue to refine the concept. While Stadia itself is gone, its influence on the future of gaming will remain. Cloud gaming isn’t dead—it just needs the right execution, pricing, and infrastructure to truly succeed.

    Spotify Premium now has 100 million subscribers

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    Spotify Premium now has 100 million subscribers

    Spotify Premium Now Has 100 Million Subscribers: A New Milestone in Music Streaming

    Spotify has officially hit a major milestone—100 million paying subscribers worldwide! This achievement solidifies Spotify’s position as the world’s leading music streaming service, outpacing competitors like Apple Music and Amazon Music. The growth highlights the increasing global demand for streaming and the success of Spotify’s premium offerings.

    The Growth of Spotify Premium

    Since its launch, Spotify has revolutionized how people listen to music. The company’s ability to provide a vast library of songs, personalized playlists, and exclusive content has attracted millions of users. The premium tier, which offers an ad-free experience, offline listening, and higher-quality audio, has proven to be a major driver of subscriber growth.

    Reaching 100 million subscribers is a testament to Spotify’s dominance in the industry. This number represents nearly half of its total user base, as the platform also boasts over 200 million active users who use the free, ad-supported version.

    Key Factors Behind Spotify’s Success

    Several factors have contributed to Spotify’s massive growth, including:

    • Global Expansion: Spotify has aggressively expanded into new markets, including regions in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, helping drive subscriber numbers.
    • Exclusive Podcasts & Content: The company has invested heavily in exclusive podcasts and content, such as partnerships with celebrities and influencers, making it more than just a music app.
    • Personalized Experience: Features like Discover Weekly, Daily Mixes, and AI-driven recommendations keep users engaged and encourage them to stay subscribed.
    • Family & Student Plans: Spotify’s discounted plans for families and students have made the premium subscription more accessible to a broader audience.

    The Battle for Music Streaming Supremacy

    While Spotify leads the industry, competition remains fierce. Apple Music, its closest rival, has been gaining traction, particularly in the U.S., while Amazon Music and YouTube Music continue to grow. However, Spotify’s deep market penetration and continued innovation give it an edge.

    With 100 million premium subscribers and counting, Spotify shows no signs of slowing down. As the platform continues to evolve, users can expect even more features, exclusive content, and an enhanced listening experience in the future.

    Are you a Spotify Premium subscriber? What do you love most about it? Let us know in the comments! 🎵🔥

    SpaceX to debut new crew capsule in test flight

    New app gives cancer patients their voice back

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    New app gives cancer patients their voice back

    In May, Uber launched a new experiment: selling train and bus tickets through its app for its customers in Denver, Colorado. Today, the company reports that it has sold over 1,200 tickets for the city’s Regional Transportation District, which operates Denver’s public transportation system.

    THE COMPANY REPORTS GROWTH AVERAGING 42 PERCENT EACH WEEK DURING THE ROLLOUT PERIOD

    Uber Transit, the company’s in-app ticketing feature, was made available to a small cohort of customers in May, and it has since become available to 100 percent of Uber users in Denver as of June 25th. The company reports growth averaging 42 percent each week during the rollout period.

    Uber may not make any money when it sells bus and subway tickets through its app, but it is seeing an uptick in business as a result. Since Uber launched its transit planning feature in January, Uber trips in Denver that start or end at a transit station have grown 11.6 percent. This helps bolster Uber’s claim that it is helping solve the first mile / last mile challenge that plagues many cities.

    Uber also said that the number of repeat ticket purchases has increased every week since ticketing launched. As of the week of June 24th, approximately 25 percent of tickets sold were purchased by users who had previously purchased tickets on the app.

    Uber’s new transit feature is powered by Masabi, a London-based tech company that builds mobile ticketing software for public transportation. This is the first incarnation of Uber and Masabi’s partnership since the two companies first struck a deal last year to integrate the latter’s mobile ticketing platform into the former’s app. Uber riders in Denver have been able to see real-time bus and rail information when they open the app since January, courtesy of transit data firm Moovit.

    For now, Uber is taking its first foray into public transportation slowly, one city at a time. So far, the company offers real-time subway and bus schedules, time and cost comparisons, and point-to-point directions for customers in London and Boston. It most likely will launch ticket purchasing in those cities later this year.

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