Digital Phablet

Tag: pre-orders

  • Stellar Blade 2 Faces Backlash Over ‘AI Slop’ Music Video, Fans Cancel Pre-Orders

    Stellar Blade 2 Faces Backlash Over ‘AI Slop’ Music Video, Fans Cancel Pre-Orders

    Digital Phablet – Korean game developer Shift Up faced significant criticism after releasing an entirely AI-generated music video to promote their upcoming game, Stellar Blade: Blood Rain.

    The music video was uploaded to the company’s official YouTube channel, featuring the game’s main character, Evie. Fans quickly pointed out the uncanny and inaccurate visuals created by AI, particularly noting issues with Evie’s facial expressions. YouTube notes that “sounds or visuals were altered or fully generated.” At the end of the video, Shift Up revealed, “This video was created using game resources from Stellar Blade: Blood Rain and regenerated with AI support.”

    Titled “Wanna be in LOVE,” the song draws heavily from K-pop influences but features Japanese lyrics. The video concludes with AI-generated images of Shift Up’s crew interacting with Evie. Overall, the response from the gaming community has been largely negative, with many social media users criticizing it as “AI slop.”

    A fan commented, “Just trying to make a point here. We pay developers for their creative work, not AI slop. I could make this in 30 seconds.” Another added, “They really thought this AI slop was going to impress anyone.” One user pointed out, “Bayonetta did it 16 years ago without AI, using in-game models and with a much smaller budget compared to Stellar Blade.”

    Shift Up announced Stellar Blade: Blood Rain at Summer Game Fest on June 5, 2026, but fans may have to wait until late 2027 or 2028 for its release. According to IGN, Hyung-tae Kim, CEO of SHIFT UP Corporation, has been a strong supporter of AI in game development. He recently stated, “We dedicate around 150 people to each game, but China invests between 1,000 to 2,000. We’re unable to compete in terms of quality and content volume.” Kim also claims that AI won’t lead to job losses but will instead make workers more valuable, as “one person can perform the work of 100.”

  • Circular Ring 2 with ECG Support Now Available for Pre-Orders

    Circular Ring 2 with ECG Support Now Available for Pre-Orders

    Almost two months after unveiling its second-generation smart ring, Circular has opened pre-orders for the Ring 2, set to begin shipping in June. This version represents a significant upgrade and serves as a second chance following the lukewarm reception of its initial model.

    Crafted from high-quality titanium, this smart ring includes features such as ECG, PPG, and a temperature sensor. It is capable of measuring heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), blood oxygen levels, and electrocardiogram activity.

    Circular proudly claims that it is the first smart ring to receive FDA clearance for ECG monitoring, a feature popularized by the Apple Watch and adopted by various brands since then.


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    The Ring 2 is designed to monitor over 140 biomarkers, which allows it to track sleep patterns, energy levels, stress, recovery time, and much more. Its built-in AI assistant analyzes the data to provide personalized insights.

    Front view of the Circular Ring 2
    Circular

    The Circular Ring 2 has also gained clearance for detecting atrial fibrillation (AFib), a heart condition caused by irregular heart activity. An added feature is the Women’s Health Suite, which provides insights on cycle tracking, fertility, and related wellness trends.

    The Ring 2 features an IP68 rating, meaning it’s water-resistant and suitable for swimming and exercise. Circular claims that this second-generation device offers a seven-day battery life, with a full charge taking just 30 minutes.

    The Circular Ring 2 is available in Obsidian Black, Gold, Silver, and Rose Gold. Pre-orders are now open, offering early backers savings of up to $310. The retail price is set at $549, but early adopters can secure it for just $239.

    Addressing Two Major Issues

    Circular opts for a no-subscription model for its smart rings. Unlike competitors such as Oura, users only pay a one-time purchase fee and they’re set to go.

    Person wearing the Circular Ring 2
    Circular

    Additionally, the companion app includes a system of digital coins that can be earned by achieving specific activity goals and maintaining healthy habits like getting enough sleep. “These coins unlock exclusive features, insights, and perks within the app,” the company adds.

    The Circular Ring 2 also eliminates the hassle of traditional sizing kits. Many smart ring brands first send test kits with dummy units in various sizes. Customers only receive their actual rings after finding the right fit through the kit.

    In a groundbreaking move, Circular has introduced what it calls “Digital Ring Sizing technology.” Users simply place their hand with fingers spread on a card, and the app will capture the measurements via its in-camera preview.

  • Pre-Orders for Apple iPhone 16e Are Now Open Grab Yours

    Pre-Orders for Apple iPhone 16e Are Now Open Grab Yours

    Apple has commenced pre-orders for its new smartphone, the iPhone 16e, in the United States and other locations. Aimed at budget-conscious consumers, this device marks a significant step forward from the discontinued iPhone SE, sitting below the flagship models while sharing several features, albeit with some notable reductions.

    The starting price for the iPhone 16e in the U.S. is set at $599 for the 128GB model. If you’re looking for more storage, the 256GB and 512GB options are available for $699 and $899, respectively.

    For those considering financing, Apple offers monthly payment plans beginning at $25 through its online store. Additionally, Apple Care+ (including Theft and Loss coverage) is available at $10 per month or $100 annually. Carriers listed for purchase include Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Boost, but customers also have the option to buy the unlocked version.

    iPhone 16e shown in black and white colors
    Apple

    Apple is also facilitating trade-ins with values reaching up to $630, specifically for individuals looking to exchange an iPhone 15 Pro Max, which is a pricier alternative to the iPhone 16e. It’s worth mentioning that the trade-in values for Android devices are notably lower, making them less appealing.

    The package includes only a charging cable, meaning you’ll need to buy a charger separately. While this model does not support MagSafe charging, it does allow for wireless charging.

    In a surprising move, Apple has chosen to limit color options for the iPhone 16e to just black and white. However, customers can purchase colorful cases from Apple’s own accessories line or from various third-party vendors.

    What can you expect from the iPhone 16e?

    On the inside, the iPhone 16e features a 6.1-inch OLED display and a battery designed to surpass the longevity of the iPhone 16. It also introduces Apple’s custom network modem, the C1, a development that has been years in the making.

    Front and back images of the iPhone 16e
    Apple

    This device is optimized for artificial intelligence, powered by the A18 chip. It’s worth noting that the variant used in the iPhone 16e features four GPU cores, differing from the five found in the standard iPhone 16.

    In the camera department, the iPhone 16e boasts a 48-megapixel Fusion Camera with 2x optical zoom capabilities. However, it lacks several advanced features that the iPhone 16’s equivalent camera offers.

    The phone showcases Apple’s signature industrial design, combining aluminum with a glass back for a polished appearance. It also includes satellite connectivity for emergency communications.

    One significant change is the introduction of a USB-C port, officially replacing Apple’s Lightning connector on iPhones, marking the end of an era for that particular technology.