Topic
entertainment
Manufacturing Soundcore Nebula P1i Projector Offers Pop-Out Speakers and Google TV for Affordable Home Cinema
WIRED's Chris Haslam reviewed the Soundcore Nebula P1i projector, highlighting its pop-out surround sound speakers, 1080p resolution, 380 ANSI lumens brightness, and Google TV integration. The budget-friendly device offers solid picture quality and punchy audio, ideal for impromptu movie nights.
Paramount and Warner Bros Pause $110bn Merger Amid Legal Challenge from States and Unions
Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros Discovery have agreed to pause their $110bn merger until June 2027 while a US judge considers a legal challenge from 12 US states and the Writers Guild of America. The pause follows European regulatory approval, conditioned on ending a film distribution partnership with Universal Pictures. The companies insist the merger is necessary to compete with streaming giants, but opponents argue it harms competition and reduces bargaining power for creators.
Business US Judge Temporarily Blocks $110bn Paramount-Warner Bros Merger Amid Antitrust Concerns
A US federal judge has temporarily blocked the proposed $110bn merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros Discovery, granting a 14-day restraining order in response to an antitrust lawsuit filed by 12 US states. The judge cited serious questions about the deal's impact on movie distribution and the public's interest in antitrust enforcement.
Valve's Steam Machine Brings the Best and Worst of PC Gaming to the Living Room
Valve's Steam Machine aims to bring PC gaming to the living room with 4K 120Hz support via AMD FSR. Testing on multiple games shows variable performance depending on resolution and settings, with best results at 1080p. Poorly optimized games struggle.
Technology Xgimi Titan Noir Max Projector Offers Premium Home Theater at Sub-$6,000 Price
The Xgimi Titan Noir Max is a $5,999 home theater projector that supports IMAX Enhanced mode, features a 10,000:1 native contrast ratio, 7,000 lumens brightness, and a dual intelligent iris system. It raised $19 million on Kickstarter and beats competitors like the Epson Pro Cinema LS9000 and Leica Cine Play 1 in benchmarks.
MINI 12 Best Movies to Stream This Month: Poor Things, I Am Frankelda, and More
WIRED has selected the 12 best movies to stream this month, featuring Yorgos Lanthimos's Poor Things on Netflix, the stop-motion Mexican horror I Am Frankelda, and the Bill & Ted trilogy on Prime Video. The list also includes Spielberg's A.I. Artificial Intelligence on Hulu and early James Bond films on Criterion Channel.
First 2026 Streaming Deals Arrive for Amazon Prime Day: HBO, Peacock, Paramount Plus at $1/Month
Amazon Prime Day 2026 introduces major streaming subscription discounts. Services including HBO, Peacock, Paramount Plus, Britbox, MGM Plus, and Crunchyroll offer nearly-free two-month trials at $1 per month, available exclusively to Amazon Prime members. These deals represent the first actual 2026 streaming offers, according to WIRED.
Business Sky to Acquire ITV's Broadcast Arm in Landmark UK Media Takeover
Sky, the pay-TV and broadband company owned by Comcast, is expected to buy ITV's television and streaming channels, including ITVX, in one of the largest takeovers in British media history. The deal will create a new American-owned British media company, with ITV's production arm, ITV Studios, remaining as a separate publicly traded entity. Key ITV shows will remain free-to-air until at least 2034 due to public service broadcasting obligations.
Business ITV Agrees £1.6bn Sale of Media and Entertainment Arm to Sky
ITV is selling its media and entertainment divisions, including broadcast channels and ITVX streaming service, to Sky for £1.6bn. The deal, one of the largest in British media history, excludes ITV's studio arm and is backed by Comcast, which owns Sky. Sky CEO Dana Strong called it a 'defining moment for British media'.
Technology Sony's PlayStation to End Physical Game Disc Production by 2028, Raising Digital Ownership Questions
Sony announced that from January 2028, it will stop producing physical game discs for new PlayStation games, citing consumer preferences for digital. The decision highlights challenges of digital ownership, as Sony plans to remove over 550 Studio Canal titles from UK consumers' libraries due to licensing agreements, with no compensation.
Technology GTA VI Release Nears as Gaming Industry Pins Hopes on $1 Billion Mega-Title
Grand Theft Auto VI is scheduled for release on November 19, 2026, with preorders starting today. Rockstar Games invested over $1 billion in the title, which analysts believe could become the single highest-grossing entertainment property of all time, serving as a bellwether for the gaming industry amid AI threats and consolidation.
Technology A24's $75 Million Google AI Partnership Sparks Backlash From Independent Film Fans
A24 announced a $75 million research partnership with Google DeepMind to create AI filmmaking tools. The deal has sparked significant backlash from the studio's fanbase, who see it as a betrayal of independent cinema values. A24 defends the partnership as giving artists a voice in tool development.
Technology Alien: Isolation 2 Brings Classic Horror's Uncompromising Tension to New Setting
At Summer Game Fest 2026, Sega and Creative Assembly unveiled the full trailer for Alien: Isolation 2. The sequel, set months after the original, introduces a new protagonist on a remote colony world. Creative director Al Hope discussed the game's focus on survival and immersion, and Engadget reported on a hands-on prologue demo that highlights the familiar tension in a new outdoor environment.
Technology Spyro: A Realm Beyond Revives Classic Platformer for New Generation
Developer Toys for Bob announced Spyro: A Realm Beyond at the 2026 Xbox Games Showcase. The game marks the first core Spyro title in nearly 20 years, focusing on fluid movement and aerial gameplay. Studio head Paul Yan and associate creative director Lou Studdert shared insights on reviving the classic franchise.
Business How to Watch Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix 2026 F1: Live Stream, Schedule
The 2026 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix runs June 12-14. Free live streams are available in Austria, Spain, Belgium, and Luxembourg. The race is the first F1 event at the circuit not called the Spanish Grand Prix, as that name now belongs to Madrid's new street circuit. Key storylines include Kimi Antonelli as favourite, Red Bull's engine advantage per the ADOU verdict, and McLaren's expected upgrades.
MINI Russell T Davies Leaves Doctor Who; No Christmas Special in 2026 as BBC Seeks New Partner
Russell T Davies has confirmed his departure from Doctor Who, along with production company Bad Wolf. The BBC has announced no Christmas Special in 2026 and is putting the series 'out to tender' to find a new co-producer. The future direction of the show is uncertain.
Technology Pokémon Pokopia Diving Update and Paid Expansion Pass Announced by Nintendo
Nintendo has announced a free update adding underwater mechanics to Pokémon Pokopia, releasing in August 2026. Additionally, a paid Expansion Pass with three DLC packs, including the Bubbly Basin, will launch over the next two years.
Technology Hand-Drawn Searching Game Hidden Folks 2 Announced for 2027 PC and Mobile Release
Hidden Folks 2, the sequel to the 2017 hand-drawn hidden object game, was announced during Summer Game Fest's Wholesome Direct. It will launch on PC, mobile, and possibly Nintendo Switch in early 2027, bringing back the black-and-white art style and silly sounds.
Technology Undead Labs finally shows off State of Decay 3 gameplay in new trailer - Engadget
Undead Labs has finally revealed gameplay footage for State of Decay 3 at the Xbox Games Showcase 2026. The trailer confirms a 2027 release on Xbox, Steam, and PlayStation 5, featuring solo and co-op modes. The reveal follows an announcement of alpha playtests by co-creator Brant Fitzgerald.
Technology The Creepshow Video Game Launches on Steam in August 2026
The Creepshow video game, a point-and-click adventure based on Shudder's horror anthology series, will be released in August 2026 on Steam. Developed by PHL Collective and published by DreadXP, the game follows Danny and his friends in a dark mall mystery with pulp-inspired visuals and dark humor.
Technology Denon and Marantz Reference Home Theater: A 9.4.6-Channel Dolby Atmos Setup That Sets the Benchmark for AV Receiver Tuning
TechRadar visited Denon and Marantz's factory in Shirakawa, Japan, and experienced their 9.4.6-channel Dolby Atmos reference home theater. The room, established in 1983, features eight Bowers & Wilkins 801 D4 speakers and four subwoofers, costing about $250,000. It is used by Sound Masters to tune AV receivers like the new X3900H and X2900H and the flagship AVC A1H.
Business US States Reportedly Plan Lawsuit to Block Paramount's $110B Warner Bros. Takeover
Multiple US states are reportedly preparing a lawsuit to block Paramount's $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. California Attorney General Rob Bonta has raised concerns about market consolidation, and the suit is expected within weeks. The deal has faced opposition since its announcement in February 2026.
Business DoJ Clears Paramount Skydance-Warner Bros. Merger, Expanding Ellison Media Empir
The US Department of Justice approved the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Paramount Skydance, a deal backed by $45.7 billion in equity from Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison. The merger places Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison in control of historic studios, HBO, CNN, and Warner Bros. Games, while drawing scrutiny from state attorneys general and European regulators.
E-Commerce & Marketplaces Paramount+ Coupon Codes and Deals for June 2026: Save on Subscription Plans
WIRED reports on Paramount+ coupon codes and subscription deals for June 2026, including a 7-day free trial, Essential ($8/mo) and Premium ($13/mo) plans, and 50% off for students and military members. The article covers content highlights like South Park, NFL, UFC, and Champions League.
Technology Saw: Genesis Offers Unique Asymmetric Gameplay Experience
Saw: Genesis, developed by Bloober Team and Anshar Studios, introduces an asymmetric gameplay experience where players can become a mastermind or one of the accused. The game features strategic trap-setting and resource management, promising a thrilling addition to the Saw franchise.
Technology Final Fantasy 16 Leads June's PlayStation Plus Additions
Sony's PlayStation Plus Game Catalog for June features Final Fantasy 16 as its headline addition. The game will be available to subscribers in all markets on June 16, marking a shift in Sony's strategy to stagger game releases throughout the month.
Business Weekend Streaming Guide: 7 New Titles on Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, and More (J
This weekend (June 12-14) brings a diverse slate of new streaming releases, including the comedy-drama 'Alice and Steve' on Disney+, the romance series 'Every Year After' on Prime Video, and the return of 'Sweet Magnolias' season 5 on Netflix. Other highlights include 'It Ends with Us' on Hulu, Polish-language drama 'Proud' on HBO Max, horror film 'They Will Kill You' on HBO Max, and Netflix's World Cup talk show 'The Rest is Football'.
Best of Summer Game Fest 2026
Read the full story for in-depth analysis.
Technology Fable's Life Sim System: A Deep Dive into RPG Dynamics
The upcoming Fable RPG introduces a complex life simulation system with over 1,000 interactive NPCs. Players' choices impact their reputation and relationships within the game, offering a dynamic and immersive experience.
Technology China's 33,615-Drone Record Showcases Coordinated Tech for Logistics
China launched 33,615 drones simultaneously over Dujiangyan, Sichuan, setting three Guinness World Records for the largest drone display, most drones forming an aerial pattern, and largest mid-air LED mesh screen. The event, organized by Yufengzhe Technology, demonstrates large-scale coordination capabilities that have applications beyond entertainment, including logistics and mapping, relevant for international trade in drone technologies.
Business BBC's The Split Up Spinoff Signals Content Franchise Strategy for Media Execs
BBC has released the trailer for The Split Up, a six-episode spinoff of the popular legal drama The Split. The new series, created by Ursula Rani Sarma, shifts to Manchester’s high-net-worth divorce circuit and introduces a new family, signaling BBC's strategy to extend valuable IP without original creator Abi Morgan. For media investors, the spinoff represents a common tactic to maximize returns on established brands while refreshing creative direction.
Business Gen Z Drives Cinema Revival, PVR Inox Reports
Gen Z consumers are driving a resurgence in cinema attendance, according to PVR Inox. The demographic accounts for 57% of Hindi box office collections and 70% of first-day revenues, per Ormax Media’s TOBAR 2026 report. Original films like 'Obsession' and 'Backrooms' are resonating with younger audiences, signaling a shift away from franchise content.
Technology Samsung XR meditation demo eases blood donation stress, sparks everyday app idea
Samsung employees in South Korea tested immersive meditation using the Samsung Galaxy XR headset while giving blood, a program set to expand globally. The author suggests three additional XR applications: gamifying exercise, encouraging reading with eye-tracking, and making chores fun. The demo will also appear at Augmented World Expo in Long Beach.
Business Dutton Ranch Star Denies Set Clash as Showrunner Feehan Exits Taylor Sheridan We
TechRadar reports that Dutton Ranch star Berto Colón denied any disruption on set following showrunner Chad Feehan's exit. Feehan reportedly left due to behind-the-scenes friction with stars Cole Hauser and Kelly Reilly, as well as Taylor Sheridan. Colón said he saw no disruption and praised the cast and crew.
Technology Zelda Fans Yearn for Sequel Over Ocarina of Time Remake
Nintendo's announcement of a new Ocarina of Time remake for Switch 2 has fans excited, yet many long for a sequel to Majora's Mask. The remake promises enhanced graphics and gameplay, but the community hopes for a continuation of Link's story.
Business Rick and Morty Season 9 Episode 4 Release Details
Rick and Morty Season 9 Episode 4, titled 'A Ricker Runs Through It,' will premiere on Adult Swim on June 14 at 8pm PT / 11pm ET. Streaming on Hulu and HBO Max follows 24 hours later. The season consists of 10 episodes, with a weekly release schedule.
Business Doctor Who's Future Uncertain as BBC Seeks New Partner
The BBC has paused Doctor Who's production, seeking a new partner after Disney's exit. The show will not air a Christmas special, focusing instead on long-term planning.
Technology Capcom Unveils Dragon's Dogma 2 Expansion with Major Update
Capcom has announced a major expansion for Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen, set to release on October 9, 2026. A significant quality-of-life update is already available, enhancing gameplay and addressing player concerns.
Technology Nintendo Switch 2 Sports Game Adds Thumb Wrestling
Nintendo is set to release a new sports game for the Switch 2, featuring thumb wrestling among 12 activities. The game, Nintendo Switch Sports Resort, will be available on October 22, with pre-orders open now.
Business Clarkson's Farm Season 5 Highlights Toxic Fandom Impact
Clarkson's Farm Season 5 on Prime Video highlights the challenges faced by British farmers and the impact of toxic fandoms. The series reveals financial strains due to thefts at Jeremy Clarkson's pub, The Farmer's Dog, illustrating broader issues in fan culture.
Technology Final Fantasy Resonance Brings HD-2D Art to Consoles and PC
Square Enix announces Final Fantasy Resonance, the first HD-2D game in the series, set to launch on October 22, 2026. The game features a blend of classic and modern elements, with appearances from iconic characters.
Technology Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake Announced for Switch 2
Nintendo has officially announced a remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, set to launch later this year for the Switch 2. The announcement was made during the latest Nintendo Direct, featuring a trailer showcasing a significant graphical update.
Business Toy Story 5 Creators Keep Future Open for Woody, Buzz, and Jessie
Pixar's Toy Story 5 creators have no plans to retire Woody, Buzz, and Jessie, leaving the door open for future films. Jessie takes the lead in the upcoming movie, marking a shift in character focus.
Business Dutton Ranch's Strategic Shift: Potential Landman Crossover
Dutton Ranch's latest episode suggests a strategic shift with potential ties to Landman, as characters navigate complex alliances and threats. This could signal a crossover, impacting the narrative and business dynamics.
Technology Paramount+ to Release Dutton Ranch Episode 6 on June 12
Paramount+ will release episode 6 of the popular series Dutton Ranch on June 12, 2026. The series continues to capture audience interest with its engaging storyline and strategic character developments.
Technology AI and Automation Transform Global Supply Chains
AI and automation are significantly impacting global supply chains by reducing costs, improving efficiency, and minimizing errors. This article explores the technology stack, competitive landscape, and real-world applications of these innovations.
Regulations & Compliance China Tightens Controls on Micro Drama Content
Effective June 2026, China's National Radio and Television Administration enforces stricter content regulations on micro dramas, targeting violence and misogyny. This move aims to promote healthier social norms.