Tag Archives: previously

Gaming, News

Microsoft Launches Xbox Repair Parts for Purchase

Microsoft is introducing a new initiative that allows customers to purchase Xbox repair parts directly from the company. While there has been no official statement from Microsoft, it appears to be in a beta or testing phase to assess user behavior. If successful, this program could pave the way for more device repair options in the future.

There are several reasons behind Microsoft’s decision to offer self-repair assistance. The Xbox has a dedicated modding community, and this service would greatly benefit them. Additionally, by providing exclusive and high-quality repair offerings, Microsoft can manage excess stock effectively.

The primary reason, however, is Microsoft’s commitment to transparency and supporting self-service repairs, as outlined in their 2021 agreement with shareholder advocacy group As You Sow. This agreement aims to empower consumers who prefer self-repair options rather than relying on original manufacturers. Over the years, Microsoft has made strides in enabling self-service repairs, starting with products like Surface laptops. Including Xbox products in this initiative marks a significant advancement. Let’s hope it becomes a permanent offering.

Featured

2023 BMW M2 Review: All Grown Up

The 2023 BMW M2 has undergone significant changes compared to its predecessor. Despite its increased size and weight, the new M2 is more powerful and faster than ever before. While some enthusiasts may lament the loss of its playful and tail-happy nature, the M2 has evolved into a more mature and focused performance car.

One of the noticeable changes is the M2’s exterior design. The front end features large air intakes and a grille design that sets it apart from its larger sibling, the M4. The rear end, on the other hand, remains relatively understated with a gloss black diffuser, quad exhaust tips, and an extended rear bumper.

Engine Twin-Turbocharged 3.0-Liter Inline-Six
Output 453 Horsepower / 406 Pound-Feet
0-60 MPH 3.9 Seconds
Base Price $63,195
As-Tested Price $66,945

Under the hood, the 2023 BMW M2 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produces 453 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. With the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the M2 can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but it can be increased to 177 mph with the M Driver’s Package.

While the increased size and weight of the M2 may raise concerns among enthusiasts, the performance of the car has not been compromised. The added power, combined with the close-ratio gear ratios, ensures that the M2 delivers exhilarating acceleration and performance on both highways and twisty roads.

In terms of handling, the M2’s wider stance and adaptive dampers contribute to its improved agility and balance. With 275/35 front and 285/30 rear Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, the M2 offers exceptional grip in all driving conditions. The M Traction Control system allows for 10 stages of stability control intervention, providing added confidence and control.

The interior of the 2023 BMW M2 is more spacious and comfortable, thanks to the increased wheelbase. The cabin layout is similar to the M4, featuring two screens for the digital cluster and infotainment system. The M2 also comes equipped with the latest iDrive 8 software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

With a starting price of $63,195, the M2 remains a bargain within the BMW M lineup. Even with a few optional extras, such as the Live Cockpit Pro, Active Cruise Control, and Toronto Red paint, the as-tested price of the M2 is still significantly lower than the base price of the M4. This makes the M2 a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating driving experience without breaking the bank.

The 2023 BMW M2 may be different from its predecessor, but it remains the best driving experience within the BMW M range. It offers impressive performance, a comfortable interior, and a relatively affordable price tag. The M2 is a grown-up performance car that balances power, agility, and practicality.

News, Technology

Twitter Launches New TweetDeck 2.0, But You’ll Need To Pay To Use It

The good news is that the new TweetDeck — previously available as a preview — is now available to everyone who wants to use it. The downside is that its formal launch comes with a paywall. There’s a 30-day reprieve from paying, according to the announcement tweet from Twitter Support, so that’ll at least give users time to decide whether they want to shell out the money, live without TweetDeck, or abandon Twitter entirely.

If you’re a TweetDeck user, you’ll need to click the “Try the new TweetDeck” flag in the web app. Twitter says the updated version of the platform includes “full composer functionality,” but the Teams aspect is out of commission and won’t be available for “weeks.” In its related FAQ document, Twitter refers to this as TweetDeck 2.0, stating that users only have a one-time chance to migrate their existing data over to the new TweetDeck experience.

The company says that additional features will be added to the new TweetDeck in time, though there’s no indication of what those features may be and how long the soon-to-be-paying users will need to wait. As expected, the paywall announcement hasn’t gone over well with many people, some of whom have expressed concerns that Twitter may not have the personnel needed to handle customer support issues that may arise.

News

Suzuki Unveils Limited GSX-S1000 Race Edition In France

Suzuki has announced its plans to withdraw from racing, but the brand will continue its racing exploits in the EWC with the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team. To celebrate their racing success, Suzuki has released a limited-edition race edition of the GSX-S1000 naked bike. This special edition features a unique colorway inspired by the Suzuki Endurance Racing Team, as well as several upgrades for improved performance. The bike comes with a tail tidy, GB Racing engine and crankcase protectors, a seat cowl, red-painted Brembo calipers, and an Akrapovic slip-on system. It also includes a numbered SERT FW plate and a Welcome Pack with a cap and a T-shirt. Powering the bike is Suzuki’s 999cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four cylinder engine with a maximum output of 152 horsepower. The Suzuki GSX-S1000 Race Edition is a limited release exclusive to the French market and retails for 16,999 Euros ($18,468 USD), which is 3,500 Euros more than the standard model.