HeyWhatsNew: Binance Hit by Record $6.3 Billion Hack, and Sony Brings Back See-Through PS5 Controllers
Hey, Heyuppers! November is here, and the tech and gaming world is as busy as ever. We've got plenty to talk about as the new month kicks off, so let's see what's been happening, starting 02/1/2026.
Sam Altman Says RAM Is Better Off in Data Centers Than Personal PCs
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman thinks the world's limited RAM supply would be better used in data centers than personal computers. Speaking on the Cheeky Pint podcast, he argued that most people only use a small portion of their computer's memory, while data centers can put it to work more often.
His comments come as OpenAI and other major tech companies buy up large amounts of RAM for AI projects. Samsung and SK Hynix have already committed much of their supply to cloud companies, making it harder for consumer electronics manufacturers to get what they need. This is also pushing up prices for laptops, phones and other devices.
Anduril and Qualcomm Team Up on a US-Made Laptop
Anduril founder Palmer Luckey wants to bring computer manufacturing back to the US, and he's working with Qualcomm to make it happen. The two companies have announced BlueChip, a rugged laptop built for military personnel, government agencies, first responders and law enforcement. Preorders are expected to open in 2027.
BlueChip will use Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Series processor, manufactured in Arizona. Around 90% of its components will initially come from the US and allied countries, with plans to eventually make the entire laptop in America. It's designed to handle harsh conditions and offer greater control over its hardware and software. Pricing hasn't been confirmed, but Luckey expects it to cost around 20% more than a typical high-end laptop.
Hackers Steal $6.3 Billion From Binance in Just 20 Minutes
Hackers managed to steal around $6.3 billion in cryptocurrency from Binance in just 20 minutes on October 29. The attack targeted wallets across at least 10 blockchains, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Solana, and is believed to be the largest crypto hack in history.
Security researchers suspect North Korean hacking group TraderTraitor was behind the theft. The hackers reportedly began preparing at least 36 hours beforehand, and Binance says a compromised employee laptop may have played a role. Around $3 billion of the stolen funds were initially frozen, but much of the remaining cryptocurrency could be difficult to recover. Binance has promised to cover all losses.
Nintendo Switch 2 Lite Rumoured to Launch in 2027 for $299
Nintendo may be planning a cheaper version of the Switch 2, with new leaks suggesting that the Switch 2 Lite could arrive in 2027. According to reports from GameGPU, the handheld will reportedly cost $299 and feature a 7.1-inch screen, making it slightly smaller than the standard Switch 2. It's also rumoured to use Samsung's 8LPU Plus technology, which could reduce power consumption by around 15%. The console is expected to support native 1080p gaming and include a dedicated performance mode for more demanding games.
Nintendo has released smaller and more affordable versions of its consoles before, including the original Switch Lite. With the Switch 2 reportedly selling more than 23 million units since its June 2025 launch, a Lite model could appeal to players looking for a cheaper way to enjoy its games. However, Nintendo hasn't officially announced the Switch 2 Lite, so the price, specifications and 2027 release date are still unconfirmed.
Sony Reveals New Transparent PS5 Controllers and Console Covers
Sony is bringing back the see-through look with its new Prism Collection for the PS5. The collection includes translucent DualSense controllers and matching console covers in three colours: Flare Orange, Emerald Green and Graphite Gray. Each controller has a glossy transparent shell that shows off some of the parts inside, with a metallic finish across the middle. The designs are inspired by the transparent gaming accessories that were popular in the late 1990s.
The new controllers and console covers will be available from February 4, 2027, with preorders starting November 10, 2026. Controllers will cost $84.99 each, while the matching console covers will be $74.99 per set. US customers can preorder the controllers through PlayStation Direct and participating retailers, but the console covers will only be sold through PlayStation Direct where available. Pricing and availability may differ in other regions.
Call of Duty to Remove Seoul Tragedy Footage Following Criticism
Activision has apologised for including real footage from the 2022 Itaewon crowd crush in Seoul in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4. The footage was used in the game's opening scene to depict the aftermath of a fictional North Korean invasion. The tragedy, which claimed the lives of nearly 160 people, deeply affected families and the wider community. Families of those who lost their lives expressed their distress over the use of footage showing the emergency response to the disaster in an entertainment setting.
Activision has acknowledged the concerns and confirmed that the footage will be removed in an update scheduled for November 12. The company said it had never intended to trivialise the tragedy and offered its condolences to those affected. While the families welcomed the decision to remove the footage, their association said they had not yet received a direct apology from Activision.
That's all for now, Heyuppers! We'll keep an eye on how these stories develop and be back with another roundup next week. See you then!
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