HeyWhatsNew: Microsoft Cuts 650 Jobs in Gaming Division and Snap Unveils AR Spectacles for Developers
Hey there Heyuppers. Let’s look at the tech news that had us at the edge of our seats this week, beginning 16/09/2024.
Discord Launches End-to-End Encryption for Secure Voice and Video Calls
Discord is introducing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for both voice and video calls across its platform. This new feature applies to DMs, group DMs, voice channels, and Go Live streams, with desktop and mobile clients already supporting it. Other clients are expected to receive the update next year. Discord has emphasized transparency around its encryption protocols, providing detailed information publicly, and assuring users that call quality will not be affected by the new security measures.
However, messages will not be encrypted under this protocol to allow them to remain subject to Discord’s content moderation rules. End-to-end encryption has become increasingly common on other platforms like Signal, WhatsApp, and Zoom, where it is often a default or optional feature.
Snap's AR Spectacles Are Now Available to Developers for $99/Month
Snap's new Spectacles 5 are physically large augmented reality glasses designed specifically for developers, offering a middle ground between full extended reality headsets and compact smart glasses. Despite their size, they weigh just half a pound and feature impressive AR capabilities, although the field of view remains limited at 46 degrees—still nearly three times larger than the previous version. Powered by dual Qualcomm Snapdragon processors and Snap's Spatial Engine, the glasses deliver spatial awareness for immersive AR experiences.
The Spectacles are available to developers through a $99/month hardware-as-a-service subscription with a one-year commitment. Approved participants, via Snap's Lens Studio, will also receive support from Snap Lab. Key content partners like Lego, Niantic, and ILM Immersive are already on board, with new titles like a "Star Wars" game and updates from Pokémon GO-maker Niantic. Snap is also introducing a new SnapOS operating system built on Android, along with AI video tools and enhanced chatbot features.
EA Ditches ‘The Sims 5’ for New Multiplayer Expansion and Creator Kits for User Content
EA is opting out of releasing “The Sims 5” and instead focusing on expanding “The Sims 4” through ongoing updates and a new multiplayer direction. Kate Gorman, VP and GM of “The Sims,” explained that the decision is aimed at preserving players’ decade-long progress and enhancing the existing game. The franchise will continue to evolve with new content, including Creator Kits that will allow user-generated content to be sold, and updates to “The Sims 4” will keep adding features without resetting players' achievements.
The future of “The Sims” will include new ways to experience the game across various platforms, with a focus on integrating multiplayer elements and community-driven content. Additionally, EA is preparing to launch “Project Rene,” a multiplayer experience, and is re-releasing fan-favorites like MySims on Nintendo Switch. Exciting updates and expansions, including a significant base game update and new events, are also on the horizon as EA celebrates the franchise’s 25th anniversary.
Microsoft Cuts 650 More Gaming Jobs
Microsoft is laying off 650 employees from its gaming division, primarily in corporate and support roles, as part of efforts to restructure after the 2023 acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Xbox chief Phil Spencer, in a memo to staff, emphasized that no games, devices, or studios are being canceled or closed. These cuts follow the 1,900 layoffs earlier this year, which affected studios like Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin. Spencer acknowledged the difficulty of these decisions but stressed they are necessary to ensure long-term success.
Despite the layoffs, Microsoft's gaming revenue has increased significantly due to its acquisition of Activision Blizzard, though Xbox hardware sales have dropped. Phil Spencer highlighted that Xbox’s multi-platform strategy aims to grow the business and meet the high expectations within the company. Upcoming releases include Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 in October and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle in December, with next-gen Xbox consoles and a potential Xbox handheld also on the horizon.
Chinese Chip Stocks Soar on News of Equipment Breakthrough
Chinese chip stocks surged following claims of a breakthrough in domestic semiconductor equipment, potentially easing the impact of US sanctions. Changchun UP Optotech Co. hit the daily 10% limit, while Sai Micro Electronics Inc. and Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp. also saw significant gains. The boost comes as China announces advancements in laser-based immersion lithography, with new equipment achieving a resolution of 65 nanometers, an upgrade from the previous 90 nanometer standard.
This development signals progress in China's efforts to circumvent US export restrictions on essential chip-making machinery. Despite the progress, Chinese firms like Shanghai Micro Electronics Equipment Group Co. face a challenging road ahead to compete with industry leaders like ASML Holding NV, which are currently restricted from selling to China.
Stay tuned for more updates on the latest tech developments. Join us again for fresh insights and breaking news.
