HeyWhatsNew: Tech & Tariffs and Everything New About the Nintendo Switch 2
Hey there, Heyuppers! Let’s take a look at all things gaming, tech, and trending this week, beginning 03/02/2025.
Netflix Cancels Six Upcoming Game Titles
As part of a strategic shift, Netflix has canceled six forthcoming games, including "Compass Point: West," "Don't Starve Together," "Lab Rat," "Rotwood," "Tales of the Shire: A Lord of the Rings Game," and "Thirsty Suitors." These titles will remain available on other platforms such as mobile devices, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Steam. Netflix, which offers over 100 mobile games to its subscribers, cited the cancellations as efforts to better align with members' preferences.
This move reflects the company's ongoing reassessment of its content strategy in response to changing preferences and market dynamics. The decision highlights the competitive nature of the streaming industry and the need for platforms to continually adapt. The company plans to focus more on tie-in games, following the success of "Squid Game: Unleashed."
EU Advances Comprehensive AI Regulation
The European Union is moving forward with the AI Act, aiming to establish the world's most comprehensive regulatory framework for artificial intelligence. This initiative has faced criticism from U.S. tech companies, including Meta, which argue that the regulations may hinder innovation. The act seeks to address various aspects of AI deployment, emphasizing ethical considerations and user safety.
Nintendo Switch 2 Unveiled
Nintendo has officially unveiled the Switch 2, confirming a larger design, magnetic Joy-Con attachments, and backward compatibility with original Switch cartridges. While details on power and display specs remain unclear, excitement is building ahead of the April 2nd Nintendo Direct, where more information on the console and its games—potentially including a new Mario Kart and Metroid Prime 4—will be revealed. Nintendo is also planning a global “Switch 2 Experience” tour, allowing fans to try the device firsthand before its 2025 release.
Despite the hype, the Switch 2 faces stiff competition from handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck, which has gained traction with its flexibility and growing game library. Nintendo is taking risks to ensure enough supply for launch, learning from the original Switch’s stock shortages in 2017. However, with 150 million Switch units sold and a strong lineup of beloved franchises, the company is betting that an iterative but refined upgrade is exactly what fans want.
Apple Faces Antitrust Investigation Over App Store Policies in China
China's antitrust regulator is reportedly preparing to investigate Apple's App Store policies, focusing on potential anti-competitive practices. This investigation could have significant implications for Apple's operations in one of its key markets and reflects the increasing global scrutiny of major tech companies' business practices.
Musk’s DOGE Seizes Control of U.S. Government Data
Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a Trump administration advisory board, has taken unprecedented control over vast amounts of U.S. government data, including personal information on millions of Americans and classified intelligence. With questionable security clearances and little oversight, Musk’s mostly private-sector team has gained access to critical systems across federal agencies like the Treasury, Education, and Health and Human Services.
Concerns are mounting over lax cybersecurity practices, with reports of staff using personal email accounts and unauthorized servers, raising alarms about potential breaches, data leaks, and national security risks. Lawmakers and cybersecurity experts remain in the dark about DOGE’s activities, fueling bipartisan backlash and legal scrutiny. The ramifications of DOGE’s unchecked access could be severe, both domestically and globally.
Vodafone Conducts First Satellite Video Call Using Standard Smartphone
Vodafone has successfully made the first satellite video call using a standard smartphone, marking a significant advancement in telecommunications. This breakthrough could enhance connectivity in remote areas and improve communication resilience during disasters. The technology aims to integrate satellite and terrestrial networks to provide seamless coverage.
Another thrilling week in tech comes to a close, but the innovation never stops. Stay tuned for more updates—there’s plenty more ahead!
