Apple Event, Gaming Breakups, and Smart TV Surveillance

Apple's Big September Event

The iPhone Duo and AirPods 5

• Apple launched the iPhone Duo, featuring a 7.6-inch inner display, Apple's thinnest phone ever, and an under-display FaceTime camera, starting at $2,000 U.S. dollars.
• The high cost sparked debate over whether foldables are worth long-term investments versus regular upgrades.
• Apple also updated the AirPods 5, adding active noise cancellation to both tiers and lowering prices for the wireless charging case version.

"The price is the thing that Luke got all upset about, which makes sense because it starts at $2,000 U.S. dollars."

Gaming Industry Shakes And Surprises

Kojima Productions and PlayStation Split

• Sony and Hideo Kojima abruptly ended their collaboration, with PlayStation dropping the spiritual successor to Metal Gear Solid, titled Physint.
• The breakup was reportedly catalyzed by budget concerns and disappointing sales of Death Stranding 2.
• Xbox quickly stepped in to partner with Kojima Productions to publish the upcoming game.

PAX West and Nintendo's Absence

• The video game expo hall at PAX West felt unusually lackluster, with rumors pointing to massive industry dodging around GTA 6.
• Meanwhile, Nintendo announced a massive slate during their Direct, including an Ocarina of Time remake.

Hardware and Software News

LG TVs and Network Privacy

• Gamers Nexus and security researchers revealed that retail LG OLEDs scan local networks, track smart devices, and capture plain text voice transcripts.
• LG defended the features as standard connectivity and opt-in ACR, though critics pointed out heavy use of dark patterns.

HexOS Buddy Backups and Framework Updates

• HexOS launched Buddy Backup, allowing users to request and securely share server space with friends for off-site backups.
• Framework temporarily cut prices on select LP CAMM2 options, even offering retroactive refunds to customers.