Andromeda | KitGuru https://www.kitguru.net KitGuru.net - Tech News | Hardware News | Hardware Reviews | IOS | Mobile | Gaming | Graphics Cards Fri, 25 Feb 2022 08:41:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.kitguru.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-KITGURU-Light-Background-SQUARE2-32x32.png Andromeda | KitGuru https://www.kitguru.net 32 32 BioWare gives development update on new Mass Effect game https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/bioware-gives-development-update-on-new-mass-effect-game/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/bioware-gives-development-update-on-new-mass-effect-game/#respond Thu, 24 Feb 2022 15:27:26 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=551539 BioWare is making it a goal to give more frequent updates and communicate more with fans this year, and so far, the studio is off to a good start. In a development update this week, BioWare confirmed that the next Dragon Age is well into production, and also gave us an update on development for …

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BioWare is making it a goal to give more frequent updates and communicate more with fans this year, and so far, the studio is off to a good start. In a development update this week, BioWare confirmed that the next Dragon Age is well into production, and also gave us an update on development for the next Mass Effect game. 

BioWare confirmed that it was working on a new Mass Effect game in late 2020 and even released a teaser trailer for it. Now this week, BioWare GM, Gary McKay, has given an update on the game, which is still in pre-production.

“We’re also working on the next Mass Effect. The team, led by Mike Gamble, is made up of veteran developers as well as some new, really talented people. They are all actively prototyping new ideas and experiences. AAA next-gen games take a long time to make – and we know our fans may want them sooner. But our Number One priority needs to be quality, and that simply takes time to get it right.”

Much of BioWare is currently focused on the next Dragon Age, so we're still some ways off from returning to Mass Effect. By the time Dragon Age 4 releases though, the Mass Effect team should have a good idea of where to take the franchise next and should ramp up development.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: If I had to guess, Mass Effect likely isn't coming until 2025, assuming production ramps up after the launch of Dragon Age. Are you looking forward to the next Mass Effect? Do you think we'll see the return of Shepard, another game set in Andromeda, or something completely new? 

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Microsoft rumoured to be launching a foldable Surface tablet hybrid in early 2020 https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/matthew-wilson/microsoft-rumoured-to-be-launching-a-foldable-surface-tablet-hybrid-in-early-2020/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/matthew-wilson/microsoft-rumoured-to-be-launching-a-foldable-surface-tablet-hybrid-in-early-2020/#respond Mon, 24 Jun 2019 13:01:16 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=416388 Microsoft has been rumoured to be working on a foldable Surface device for quite some time. Initially, this was believed to be a Surface Phone, something that Microsoft has explored the idea of in the past. Now, it looks like the project has taken on a new form and will instead be a 9-inch foldable …

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Microsoft has been rumoured to be working on a foldable Surface device for quite some time. Initially, this was believed to be a Surface Phone, something that Microsoft has explored the idea of in the past. Now, it looks like the project has taken on a new form and will instead be a 9-inch foldable Surface tablet.

IHS Markit has reportedly heard through supply chain sources that Microsoft is planning to release a foldable Surface in the first half of 2020. This device will use a new version of Windows 10 with an optimised UI for dual-display use, it will also be powered by an Intel 10nm ‘Lakefield' processor and be capable of running Android apps.


Image: Surface Phone concept by David Breyer

Of course, LTE and 5G connectivity are also big focus points as device makers around the world attempt to usher in an ‘always connected' 5G future. According to Forbes, this tablet will have two 4:3 9-inch displays, but it seems more likely that it will be two 4.5-inch screens that combine to make one 9-inch display.

So far, Microsoft has not made any official announcements, so this is all still rumour territory for now. If all goes according to plan though, then we should hear something more official early next year.

KitGuru Says: Samsung wasn't the only major tech company experimenting with foldable device designs. It is looking like Microsoft wants to get in on this new market early on. 

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Microsoft is apparently back to the drawing board for its alleged Surface Phone https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/damien-cox/microsoft-is-apparently-back-to-the-drawing-board-for-its-alleged-surface-phone/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/damien-cox/microsoft-is-apparently-back-to-the-drawing-board-for-its-alleged-surface-phone/#respond Tue, 17 Jul 2018 10:18:56 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=380010 Microsoft has been working on an all-but-official Surface Phone for quite some time, according to the many rumours surrounding project Andromeda, building fan hopes for a foldable smartphone without even saying a word. Fans have even created a petition in order to demand the device be released, however the latest news suggests Microsoft has instead …

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Microsoft has been working on an all-but-official Surface Phone for quite some time, according to the many rumours surrounding project Andromeda, building fan hopes for a foldable smartphone without even saying a word. Fans have even created a petition in order to demand the device be released, however the latest news suggests Microsoft has instead gone back to the drawing board due to the handset not being good enough.

According to sources within Microsoft’s development team liaising with Thurrott’s Brad Sams, the Surface Phone has been sent back to its labs due to not meeting the standards that the company holds for its Surface branded devices. Despite consistent repairability and longevity woes, Surface devices on the whole are often made with a high-end market in mind, as well as focusing on aesthetic.

Sources claim that Microsoft will be focusing on both a hardware and software overhaul of the supposed device, in order to meet the expectations of current smartphones. Microsoft has quite a task on its hands in order to capture the previously tried and tested dual-screen handset market, as well as make up for its failures of the Windows Phone.

Image: Surface Phone concept by David Breyer

One way in which it plans to do this, according to previous rumours, is to further bridge the gap between PC systems and handheld devices with the supposed ‘Windows Core OS’, quelling the lack of apps that its previous attempts suffered from with compatibility to its Universal Windows Platform (UWP).

There’s a possibility that Microsoft could also introduce compatibility with its Xbox platform, given the continued efforts in linking to PC via its Play Anywhere scheme. This would be highly dependent on the hardware the Surface Phone opts for, as well as how mobile friendly the included games are.

As always, this is just speculation until Microsoft decides to pipe up about the project. It’s fair to say that the recent setback has crossed off any chance of a 2018 release date, however, with eyes looking towards 2019 for an official reveal.

KitGuru Says: Although this will be disappointing for the 16,000 people who have signed the petition to coerce Microsoft into releasing the handset, it would be more devastating if the company jumped the gun and released yet another disappointing smartphone. Hopefully development rolls smoothly and we will hear something soon. What are you hoping from the supposed Surface Phone? Would you be willing to jump over to another Microsoft handset venture?

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Fans of alleged Andromeda device start petition to show Microsoft it has a market https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/damien-cox/fans-of-alleged-andromeda-device-start-petition-to-show-microsoft-it-has-a-market/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/damien-cox/fans-of-alleged-andromeda-device-start-petition-to-show-microsoft-it-has-a-market/#respond Mon, 09 Jul 2018 10:19:35 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=379043 Although Microsoft’s foray into the smartphone world didn’t go as planned with the Windows Phone, it seems that the company has itself quite the following for its rumoured foldable Andromeda handset. Fans are becoming quite impatient over Microsoft’s lack of acknowledgement towards reports, however, with many signing a petition to ensure that the company will …

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Although Microsoft’s foray into the smartphone world didn’t go as planned with the Windows Phone, it seems that the company has itself quite the following for its rumoured foldable Andromeda handset. Fans are becoming quite impatient over Microsoft’s lack of acknowledgement towards reports, however, with many signing a petition to ensure that the company will see these rumours come to life.

Project Andromeda is rumoured to be Microsoft’s return to form in the handset market, ushering in a new Surface device that hinges on being foldable. In order to show the company that it already has a target market, Zachary Hinski began a petition titled “Show Microsoft the demand for the Surface Phone or Andromeda!”, already gaining nearly 10,000 signatures.

“I'm doing this petition to see how many people would buy this phone if Microsoft would release it. Money is power and if a lot of people want a Surface phone like the ones in the leaks then they will be forced into action as everyone knows Microsoft wouldn't be able to give a reason on why not to do it to their investors, as its too much of a money opportunity to miss,” describes Hinski.

Andromeda has been hinted for quite some time, with its current foldable incarnation leaking as early as January last year. Another patent emerged at the end of 2017, showcasing a hinged device with a screen on the outside, as well as a screen and keyboard housed within the book-like handset.

The latest leaks, however, suggest that Microsoft has ditched the keyboard in favour of extending the inside screen to form a tablet-like device when unfolded. Despite the ever-changing form-factor, the most persistent part of the rumours is that Microsoft seemingly intends to blend the functionality of personal computers and mobile platforms even further than current handsets.

While we’ve had dual-screen devices and two-in-one tablets that act as a laptop, Andromeda could perhaps break new ground with its proposed ability to act as a smartphone, tablet and potential mini-PC. “I myself wouldn't mind paying between $799-$999 (base figures, I would be willing to pay more if the phone is truly groundbreaking when it comes out),” concludes Hinski.

So far, without Microsoft’s official acknowledgement of potential upcoming handset devices, we are left speculating what Andromeda could possibly be. Needless to say, the petition shows that demand is definitely there for the company to try the smartphone market once again.

KitGuru Says: Lumia smartphones were namely disastrous thanks to their lack of third-party application support that led to slow adoption and therefore stagnation of hardware on the devices. So long as Microsoft secures outside developers for whatever it has in store, it could pave the way to success. What do you think of the proposed Andromeda foldable device? Would you be willing to jump onto a handset developed by Microsoft?

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Microsoft’s foldable Andromeda handset leaks in email https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/damien-cox/microsofts-foldable-andromeda-handset-leaks-in-email/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/damien-cox/microsofts-foldable-andromeda-handset-leaks-in-email/#respond Mon, 02 Jul 2018 15:46:11 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=378429 Microsoft has been working on foldable devices for quite some time, with major patents being pushed through at the end of last year. The mysterious new device codenamed Andromeda reared its head last week thanks to a leak, supposedly creating an entirely “new and disruptive” category of handsets under the Surface moniker. Confirming many suspicions …

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Microsoft has been working on foldable devices for quite some time, with major patents being pushed through at the end of last year. The mysterious new device codenamed Andromeda reared its head last week thanks to a leak, supposedly creating an entirely “new and disruptive” category of handsets under the Surface moniker.

Confirming many suspicions about Microsoft’s impending device, The Verge received an internal email from Microsoft that claimed Andromeda to be “a new “pocketable Surface device form factor.” This includes its dual screens, a foldable chassis and a pen stylus reminiscent of the cancelled Courier device.

Microsoft’s intention with Andromeda is to reportedly create a “new and disruptive” device that attempts to bridge the gap between PC and mobile, not solely defined by its unique foldable form-factor. In fact, the email boldly claims that the device is set to bring “innovative new hardware and software experiences to create a truly personal and versatile computing experience.”

Previously, it’s been reported that Microsoft is set to ditch its Windows 10 Mobile legacy code, focusing on a brand new operating system dubbed Windows Core OS. Like its predecessor, this is the company’s attempt at penetrating the mobile market, without sacrificing much of the functionality provided on its mainstream Windows 10. To do this, it’s understood to have an increased focus on the Universal Windows Platform (UWP).

Before readers roll their eyes and scoff at yet another of Microsoft’s alleged attempts at the mobile market, this is also an effort to simplify the market. As it stands, manufacturers have to choose between Windows 10 Home, Windows 10 Pro, Windows 10 S, Windows 10 Mobile and many more, making compromises along the way. Windows Core OS attempts to bring modularity into the equation, allowing developers to build on top while remaining malleable enough to transfer between systems of different form-factors with ease.

Although the device is said to be able to function much like traditional smartphones by taking calls and fitting in the user’s pocket, it will still be bogged down if it struggles with a lack of applications like its predecessor. UWP is set to combat this, alongside progressive web applications (PWA), however it’ll be an uphill battle in an already established duopoly between Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS.

It’s worth taking all of this information with a pinch of salt, as Microsoft has not publicly acknowledged anything related to Andromeda throughout its years' worth of leaks. Unfortunately, there's no telling when there might be official confirmation of the device.

KitGuru Says: Many people are asking where this device will fit in the market, however I think that its unusual form-factor could prove a useful test for Microsoft if reports are true surrounding its modular Windows Core OS. Do you like the idea of Microsoft’s leaked Andromeda?

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Mass Effect Andromeda is heading to EA and Origin Access https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-is-heading-to-ea-and-origin-access/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-is-heading-to-ea-and-origin-access/#respond Thu, 12 Oct 2017 12:39:48 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=350128 If you were patient enough to hold off on Mass Effect Andromeda at launch, then that may pay off for you now. Not only has the game been patched up but now it is also heading to EA Access and Origin Access as part of the vault, meaning you can play through the game at …

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If you were patient enough to hold off on Mass Effect Andromeda at launch, then that may pay off for you now. Not only has the game been patched up but now it is also heading to EA Access and Origin Access as part of the vault, meaning you can play through the game at a much lower price.

Bioware announced that it was done patching Andromeda back in August. The game still isn’t quite perfect but many of the bugs and glitches are now fixed. With the game coming to EA Access and Origin Access, subscribers can play the game for as long as they want from start to finish without having to pay the full price of the game.

Aside from Mass Effect, Dead Space 3 is also heading to the Access Vault, capping off the complete trilogy. Finally, EA also has some new ‘Play First’ trials on the way, you will get to play some Star Wars Battlefront II prior to release, there will also be a 10 hour trial for Need for Speed: Payback.

KitGuru Says: Games tend to hit the Access Vault around nine months after release but that timing seems to have been accelerated for Andromeda. Have many of you held off on playing the game? Will you give it a go now that it is part of Origin/EA Access? 

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EA exec confirms that Mass Effect will be returned to https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/ea-exec-confirms-that-mass-effect-will-be-returned-to/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/ea-exec-confirms-that-mass-effect-will-be-returned-to/#comments Thu, 24 Aug 2017 12:43:46 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=344971 Earlier this week, it was confirmed that Mass Effect: Andromeda would not be receiving any single-player DLC or further patches. This appears to be the end for Andromeda but it won’t be the end of Mass Effect as a whole, as EA’s Patrick Soderlund has spoken out, explaining that despite its faults, he still believes …

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Earlier this week, it was confirmed that Mass Effect: Andromeda would not be receiving any single-player DLC or further patches. This appears to be the end for Andromeda but it won’t be the end of Mass Effect as a whole, as EA’s Patrick Soderlund has spoken out, explaining that despite its faults, he still believes Andromeda was a good game. Beyond that, he says there is no reason not to return to Mass Effect down the line.

Speaking with Gamereactor UK, EA’s Executive VP, Patrick Soderlund, said that he believes Andromeda was criticised more than it deserved:

“I usually don't do this, but this is one of those places where I feel like the game got criticized a little bit more than it deserved. I think the game is actually a great game. Yes, we have to acknowledge the fact that there were some things that maybe we could have done better, absolutely, but as a whole, if you go in and you buy the game today with everything that's in it today, I believe that that's a game worth buying, personally”.

From there, Soderlund added: “For Mass Effect as a franchise, that has such a big fanbase, and you know I've seen people saying ‘Oh, EA's not making another Mass Effect'. I see no reason why we shouldn't come back to Mass Effect. Why not? It's a spectacular universe, it's a loved series, it has a big fanbase, and it's a game that has done a lot for EA and for BioWare”.

This isn’t the first hint that we’ve had regarding Mass Effect’s future. Back when BioWare first announced that it would no longer be updating Andromeda, Casey Hudson tweeted out that he would want to work on Mass Effect again in the future. For those who don’t know, Hudson was the lead director on the original Mass Effect trilogy, so perhaps once Anthem and Dragon Age are out of the way, we will see Mass Effect revisited.

KitGuru Says: I personally enjoyed Mass Effect Andromeda but there’s no denying that the game had some problems and should have been handled better. Hopefully next time around, Mass Effect comes back bigger and better than ever.

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Bioware confirms Mass Effect: Andromeda will receive no more updates or story content https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/bioware-confirms-mass-effect-andromeda-will-receive-no-more-updates-or-story-content/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/bioware-confirms-mass-effect-andromeda-will-receive-no-more-updates-or-story-content/#comments Mon, 21 Aug 2017 10:23:29 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=344688 Ever since its initial launch, Bioware has been working on addressing community feedback with patches for Mass Effect: Andromeda. Some visual changes were made, some cut scenes were remade but now, it looks like Bioware is ready to call it a day for this game. Over the weekend, the studio confirmed that it was finished …

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Ever since its initial launch, Bioware has been working on addressing community feedback with patches for Mass Effect: Andromeda. Some visual changes were made, some cut scenes were remade but now, it looks like Bioware is ready to call it a day for this game. Over the weekend, the studio confirmed that it was finished patching Andromeda, adding that there are no plans for future single-player or in-game story content.

The final patch for Mass Effect: Andromeda was patch 1.10, which began rolling out on the 1st of August. This particular patch focussed on some small bug fixes, rather than anything major. While future single-player content and patches are being ruled out, Bioware has said that it will continue to support the game’s multiplayer mode.

Here is the quote from Bioware’s blog post: “Early in development, we decided to focus Mass Effect: Andromeda’s story on the Pathfinder, the exploration of the Andromeda galaxy, and the conflict with the Archon. The game was designed to further expand on the Pathfinder’s journey through this new galaxy with story-based APEX multiplayer missions and we will continue to tell stories in the Andromeda Galaxy through our upcoming comics and novels, including the fate of the quarian ark.”

“Our last update, 1.10, was the final update for Mass Effect: Andromeda. There are no planned future patches for single-player or in-game story content. In the coming weeks, our multiplayer team will provide details of their ongoing support and upcoming content, including new multiplayer missions, character kits, and what’s in store for N7 Day.”

So if you were disappointed by any of the loose plot threads in Andromeda, then it looks like you are going to need to keep an eye out for future comics/novels to see how things wrap up. As for the future of Mass Effect, Bioware General Manager and former Mass Effect trilogy director, Casey Hudson confirmed in a tweet that the series will be back in the future. Whether or not it will be a followup to Andromeda remains to be seen.

KitGuru Says: Bioware’s single-player Mass Effect DLC has always been highly regarded, so this is disappointing news, though we did get plenty of warning beforehand, so it isn’t unexpected. How many of you played Mass Effect: Andromeda? What did you think of it? 

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Mass Effect: Andromeda won’t be getting any single-player DLC https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-wont-be-getting-any-single-player-dlc/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-wont-be-getting-any-single-player-dlc/#comments Mon, 03 Jul 2017 08:30:12 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=339437 At this point, many of the issues surrounding Mass Effect: Andromeda's development have come to light. However, while the final game did receive mixed reception, it wasn't completely irredeemable, after all, Bioware has a history of releasing really solid single-player DLC. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Andromeda will be getting any additional content down the …

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At this point, many of the issues surrounding Mass Effect: Andromeda's development have come to light. However, while the final game did receive mixed reception, it wasn't completely irredeemable, after all, Bioware has a history of releasing really solid single-player DLC. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Andromeda will be getting any additional content down the line.

It is important to note that this story is not tied to the fake story from last Friday, in which a Facebook page known as ‘Sinclair Networks' claimed it was working on Andromeda DLC before getting cancelled. Many Bioware employees spoke out to confirm that all single-player DLC is developed in-house and that they had never heard of Sinclair Networks before.

This particular news actually comes from several sources speaking with Kotaku, which has already published an extensive inside look into the troubled development of Mass Effect Andromeda.

Speaking with the outlet, three separate sources at Bioware confirmed that as of now, Andromeda won't be getting any single-player DLC unless the studio decides to undertake a “drastic pivot”. This follows earlier news reports stating that Bioware's Montreal team had been downsized with most of the team broken up and sent to work on other projects, like Anthem or Battlefront II, leaving Mass Effect ‘in hiatus'.

KitGuru Says: While Mass Effect Andromeda wasn't the best game in the series, I enjoyed a lot of the story content. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like Bioware is willing to risk returning to Andromeda anytime soon. Did many of you play Mass Effect Andromeda? How do you feel about the lack of DLC?

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Mass Effect: Andromeda might be getting some single-player DLC https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-might-be-getting-some-single-player-dlc/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-might-be-getting-some-single-player-dlc/#comments Fri, 26 May 2017 11:37:41 +0000 https://www.kitguru.net/?p=335609 While Bioware may be giving the Mass Effect franchise a bit of a break over the next couple of years, it looks like we can still expect some new content for Andromeda. During the opening hours of Mass Effect: Andromeda, some dialogue sets up a new race, the Quarians, who do not appear later on …

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While Bioware may be giving the Mass Effect franchise a bit of a break over the next couple of years, it looks like we can still expect some new content for Andromeda. During the opening hours of Mass Effect: Andromeda, some dialogue sets up a new race, the Quarians, who do not appear later on in the game. However, this week, their arrival was teased, hinting that we may get some new single-player content soon.

Quarians had their journey to the Andromeda galaxy delayed, which is why they don't appear in the rest of the game. However, as Eurogamer points out, during this week's multiplayer APEX briefing, the Quarians were hinted to once again. Here is the transmission received from what sounds like the Quarian ark: “Trying to boost the signal. Unknown if… tech seems to be helping even if we don't know the… back to Keelah Si'yah. …way home.”

The Keelah Si'yah is the name of the ark the Quarians are travelling to Andromeda on. The appearance of the ark is also hinted at during the main game itself, so it definitely seems like Bioware is intending to revisit this plot thread at a later date.

At the moment, we don't know if this latest tease was planted prior to Bioware putting Mass Effect on hold. However, given that past games have received single-player DLC, it wouldn't be abnormal for Andromeda to also receive some post-launch content. Perhaps we'll learn more in a few weeks time.

KitGuru Says: While Mass Effect: Andromeda had some problems, I really enjoyed it myself. I'm sure there are others who feel the same and would revisit the game should new content arrive. Hopefully this latest tease actually leads to something but it has come at a rather confusing time given the recent news surrounding the series going on hiatus.

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New Mass Effect: Andromeda trailer introduces the new squad https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/new-mass-effect-andromeda-trailer-introduces-the-new-squad/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/new-mass-effect-andromeda-trailer-introduces-the-new-squad/#respond Fri, 27 Jan 2017 15:22:32 +0000 http://dev.kitguru.net/?p=319998 Mass Effect: Andromeda is coming out very soon but so far, we haven't actually seen that much of the game, or heard that much about its premise. Fortunately, it looks like Bioware is starting to open up a bit more when it comes to Andromeda, starting off with a new trailer released late last night, …

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Mass Effect: Andromeda is coming out very soon but so far, we haven't actually seen that much of the game, or heard that much about its premise. Fortunately, it looks like Bioware is starting to open up a bit more when it comes to Andromeda, starting off with a new trailer released late last night, which introduces us to the new squad of characters and gives us some brief details about the mission to the Andromeda galaxy.

mass_effect_andromeda_november_screenshots_1

The new trailer is cinematic, so there isn't any final gameplay footage. However, it does help set up the story for this game. The basic premise is that you are on a mission to find a new home for humanity somewhere in the Andromeda galaxy, unfortunately upon your arrival, you run into an unwelcoming race known as the Kett, who are led by the Archon.

The trailer itself is narrated by Cora Harper, a biotic member of the Valkyrie Program, she will be your second in command throughout this game. The team also includes Alec Ryder, a decorated N7 operative who served during the first contact war with the Turians. We also get to meet SAM (Simulated Adaptive Matix), who is an AI character, as well as Liam Kosta, a crisis response specialist.

Mass Effect Andromeda is coming out on the 21st of March. However, if you own an Xbox One or PC, you can subscribe to EA Access or Origin Access and play ten hours of the game starting from the 16th of March.

KitGuru Says: It is nice to finally start seeing a bit more of what Mass Effect Andromeda has to offer. Now we just need to sit tight and hope that the game turns out good. Are any of you planning on picking up the new Mass Effect in March?

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Google ‘Andromeda’ will finally merge Chrome OS and Android https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/operating-systems/matthew-wilson/google-andromeda-will-finally-merge-chrome-os-and-android/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/operating-systems/matthew-wilson/google-andromeda-will-finally-merge-chrome-os-and-android/#comments Mon, 26 Sep 2016 15:56:45 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=307113 There has been talk of Chrome OS and Android merging together for a while now and it looks like we may finally see that come to fruition next month, as reports this week are claiming that Google is currently preparing something called ‘Andromeda', a Chrome OS and Android hybrid OS. This new software will reportedly …

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There has been talk of Chrome OS and Android merging together for a while now and it looks like we may finally see that come to fruition next month, as reports this week are claiming that Google is currently preparing something called ‘Andromeda', a Chrome OS and Android hybrid OS. This new software will reportedly run on upcoming tablets and laptops.

According to 9to5Google, Andromeda will be the Android/Chrome OS hybrid and it is already planned to run on a tablet that Huawei is currently producing for Google, on top of that, Android Police has caught wind of a ‘Pixel 3' convertible laptop, which will also run the new OS.

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Google's upcoming laptop won't be marketed as a Chromebook, but will instead be a more ambitious effort with the goal of taking on Windows and OS X devices. According to a report from Android Police, this laptop will have a 12.3-inch display and measure in at 10mm thick. It will feature an Intel processor, two USB Type-C ports, a backlit keyboard and a glass trackpad, similarly to Apple's Macbooks.

While we probably won't be seeing the convertible laptop next month, Andromeda may make its debut on its next tablet, which will be announced alongside Google's next batch of smartphones.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: While Android is hugely successful on the mobile side, Chrome OS hasn't made waves for desktops or laptops. Merging the two systems could be a big step up for Google. What do you guys think of Google's upcoming ‘Andromeda' OS? Do you think it's a good idea, or should Google keep its mobile and desktop systems completely separate?

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EA’s Peter Moore denies chance of Mass Effect remasters https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/jon-martindale/eas-peter-moore-denies-chance-of-mass-effect-remasters/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/jon-martindale/eas-peter-moore-denies-chance-of-mass-effect-remasters/#comments Thu, 01 Sep 2016 07:56:43 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=304795 Although it was only recently that EA executive Patrick Soderlund gave the world hope that a series of Mass Effect remasters may not be too far away, head of EA Sports, Peter Moore, has doused that idea completely. In a statement he made it quite clear that EA wasn't considering remasters and was simply looking …

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Although it was only recently that EA executive Patrick Soderlund gave the world hope that a series of Mass Effect remasters may not be too far away, head of EA Sports, Peter Moore, has doused that idea completely. In a statement he made it quite clear that EA wasn't considering remasters and was simply looking to the future.

“We're a company that is focused on delivering for the future,” Peter Moore said in a chat with IGN (via PCGN). “I was asked a question once [about remasters, but] it's just not what we do. We've got incredibly talented dev. studios around the world who are focused on delivering new IP, new experiences, [and] more and more live services.”

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Sad Effect 2. Source: ReaperofEternity

Although Moore acknowledges that there are people out there who are interested in a retooling of the classic Mass Effect games, he said that EA had its “blinders on”, which meant it was looking to new games and experiences, often with new IPs. He went on to highlight that if EA remastered every game that people wanted it to, it would be there forever.

He even highlighted Road Rash as an example of a game that could, but wouldn't be remastered. More's the pity…

When it comes to Mass Effect though, EA doesn't want anything to distract from the fact that a new game is coming. Andromeda, the fourth title in the franchise – though not a direct sequel – will offer open world environments for the first time, as well as cooperative multiplayer and many of the usual tenets of Mass Effect, like conversation wheels, planets to explore and many characters to meet and interact with.

Andromeda is set for release in Q1 2017.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Perhaps it's ok when games aren't remastered. As long as the games are still playable on contemporary systems, you get to experience them in their original guise. There's also a bunch of graphics mods out there that can bring up the visual quality. 

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Mass Effect Andromeda test footage leaks online https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-test-footage-leaks-online/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-test-footage-leaks-online/#comments Mon, 04 Apr 2016 13:52:04 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=288646 Bioware has been working away on revamping the Mass Effect series for a few years now and while we know that the game is coming, we have seen surprisingly little of it. However, over the weekend, some old test footage/gameplay made its way online, showing off an older prototype build of the game and demonstrating …

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Bioware has been working away on revamping the Mass Effect series for a few years now and while we know that the game is coming, we have seen surprisingly little of it. However, over the weekend, some old test footage/gameplay made its way online, showing off an older prototype build of the game and demonstrating some of the new features to appear in the game.

This particular video comes from a site called AllGamesDelta and was posted onto both YouTube and Daily Motion. However, due to YouTube's copyright process, EA were quickly able to get the video pulled, it is still available on Daily Motion though. You can find the video, HERE, but do keep in mind that the footage is from way back in 2014 so a lot about the game will have changed since then.

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The video itself is less than a minute long so you don't see a ton but it does show some new open-world exploration with the help of your character's jetpack. You also see a new Krogan, an exploding meteor and a few graphical enhancements that come with the new engine.

The game itself was originally due to come out at the end of this year but now it isn't expected to release until Q1 2017. However, a leaked marketing survey from EA also shed some light on the game, giving us information on the new setting and some hints at the plot.

KitGuru Says: As a huge fan of the original Mass Effect trilogy, I have been really looking forward to seeing what's next. However, the game has been kept under wraps pretty well since its initial announcement. Hopefully we will get to see some more up to date gameplay at E3 this year. 

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New Mass Effect: Andromeda details leak after survey https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/new-mass-effect-andromeda-details-leak-after-survey/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/new-mass-effect-andromeda-details-leak-after-survey/#comments Wed, 30 Mar 2016 17:55:41 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=288363 While Mass Effect 4: Andromeda might not be coming out this year anymore, we do have a few more details about the game as someone appears to have broken their embargo and leaked a recent EA survey that shed some light on plot details for the game in an effort to get feedback from a …

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While Mass Effect 4: Andromeda might not be coming out this year anymore, we do have a few more details about the game as someone appears to have broken their embargo and leaked a recent EA survey that shed some light on plot details for the game in an effort to get feedback from a select group. It looks like Andromeda will be taking us pretty far away from Earth's galaxy to a place where humans are seen as the aliens.

The survey opens up with a description of the game itself before asking how likely participants are to buy it based on this information. It reads: “Mass Effect: Andromeda takes players to the Andromeda galaxy, far beyond the Milky Way, where players will lead the fight for a new home in hostile territory – where WE are the aliens – opposed by a deadly indigenous race bent on stopping us.”

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“Experience the freedom to traverse and explore a planet-dense but seamless open-world galaxy, rich with discovery. Play as the leader of a squad of military-trained explorers in an intense third-person shooter, with deep progression and customization systems. This is the story of humanity's next chapter, and player choices throughout the game will ultimately determine our survival in the Andromeda galaxy.”

While in the original Mass Effect games the reapers were the big evil, Andromeda will feature two races, the Remnant and the Khet, rival races that may not take too kindly to human presence in their galaxy.

KitGuru Says: As someone who loved the original Mass Effect trilogy, I am looking forward to seeing what Bioware does next and from what we've heard so far from leaks, it sounds promising. Are any of you looking forward to the new Mass Effect? 

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Mass Effect: Andromeda Senior Editor leaves Bioware https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-senior-editor-leaves-bioware/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-senior-editor-leaves-bioware/#comments Tue, 08 Mar 2016 13:53:29 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=286397 Bioware has been losing quite a few staff members linked to Mass Effect: Andromeda recently. Over the last couple of months, the game has lost its development director, its lead writer and now, Bioware's senior editor is leaving the studio and exiting the games industry entirely. While we don't know why the development director left, …

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Bioware has been losing quite a few staff members linked to Mass Effect: Andromeda recently. Over the last couple of months, the game has lost its development director, its lead writer and now, Bioware's senior editor is leaving the studio and exiting the games industry entirely.

While we don't know why the development director left, we do know that Mass Effect's lead writer switched over to Bungie to begin writing for Destiny after wrapping up the story content of Mass Effect: Andromeda.

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As for Bioware's Senior Editor, Cameron Harris, who was also working on the new Mass Effect, she is choosing to exit the games industry entirely to pursue other opportunities. Writing on Twitter she said: “I've decided to exit the video-game industry to return to Seattle for new opportunities there. I'll be leaving BioWare in mid-April. I had a great time at BioWare, working with so many talented, passionate folks. I'm grateful for everything you taught me over the years. I wish all the best for my friends and colleagues at BioWare and across the games industry. You are some of the finest people I know.”

Despite these few key departures, according to EA, Bioware still has Mass Effect 4 on track for a Q1 2017 release, which is pushed back slightly from the previously forecast Q4 2016 release date.

KitGuru Says: Bioware has seen quite a few departures recently which leaves me pretty curious as to what is going on behind the scenes over there. Hopefully this doesn't end up spelling trouble for the new Mass Effect trilogy. 

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Mass Effect: Andromeda is now coming out next year https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-is-now-coming-out-next-year/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/matthew-wilson/mass-effect-andromeda-is-now-coming-out-next-year/#comments Wed, 02 Mar 2016 16:00:31 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=285795 Last year at E3, Bioware and EA began ramping up the teasing for Mass Effect: Andromeda, the fourth main game in the franchise and the first to not feature the main character, Sheppard. Over the last year, the game has been scheduled to launch holiday season 2016 but now it looks like things have slipped a …

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Last year at E3, Bioware and EA began ramping up the teasing for Mass Effect: Andromeda, the fourth main game in the franchise and the first to not feature the main character, Sheppard. Over the last year, the game has been scheduled to launch holiday season 2016 but now it looks like things have slipped a bit as the game won't be coming until next year.

Considering how little we have actually heard about the game, this move may not come as a complete surprise. This slight push back was confirmed by an executive at EA, who claims the game will be releasing ‘early 2017'.

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Speaking at a conference this week, EA's CFO, Blake Jorgensen explained that the publisher would be launching Mirror's Edge early this year,  Battlefield 5 and Titanfall late this year and that Mass Effect would be coming during its fourth quarter of the financial year, which pins its release somewhere between January and March 2017.

Mass Effect: Andromeda will be the start of an entirely new trilogy set in the universe and will not feature Sheppard. Aside from that, we don't know much else about the story, or even if there will be a nod to the events of the first three games.

KitGuru Says: Mass Effect 4 has been kept heavily under wraps, to the point that we still don't really know anything with the game around 12 months away. Are any of you looking forward to Mass Effect: Andromeda? 

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Hubble takes photo stitching to new heights https://www.kitguru.net/channel/science/andrzej/hubble-takes-photo-stitching-to-new-heights/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/science/andrzej/hubble-takes-photo-stitching-to-new-heights/#comments Sat, 10 Jan 2015 11:35:18 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=230006 Anyone who has used a digital camera and some editing software, will have tried to create a panorama by combining two or more photos together. It's a technique that can be easily accomplished – with a product like Photoshop – for half a dozen photos or so. The folks at NASA have been a little …

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Anyone who has used a digital camera and some editing software, will have tried to create a panorama by combining two or more photos together. It's a technique that can be easily accomplished – with a product like Photoshop – for half a dozen photos or so. The folks at NASA have been a little more ambitious. KitGuru stitches the facts together.

Launched into low Earth orbit back in 1990, Hubble has been pointing its 2.4 metre mirror at astronomic bodies for 25 years – and it continues to amaze. Especially when you consider that its main lens was faulty and could not function properly until the 11,000Kg telescope had been orbiting the Earth for 3 years.

There was a chance that the programme would be canned around 2009, but one final maintenance mission was launched and there are now hopes that Hubble will continue to capture the universe through to 2020.

That brings us to the Panchromatic Hubble Andromeda Treasury project – which spans many years – and involves the capture and integration of more than 7,300 individual images into a single shot of our nearest galactic neighbour.

The shots themselves were taken from July 2010 through to October 2013 and have, finally, been brought together with fidelity.

The result is a single shot that shows the combined beauty of around 117 million stars. Even so, this ‘three year compilation' is less than half of everything in the area.

Technically, the images were shot in monochrome, but Hubble is a smart device and can use multiple filters to capture a specific part of the spectrum, from infrared to ultraviolet – which are then combined using special techniques to create false-colour final images.

Hubble collects data on solid state devices that were fitted, in space, between 1997 and 1999 – and the telescope sends around 120GB of data back to Earth each week.

Below is a small version of the final version – click on it to get a 1920 ‘HD' version or use this link for the full 10,000 pixel version. For more info, you can visit the PHAT mission page here.
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KitGuru says: Should we spend all our time and money getting to Mars – or is there more to be learned through instruments like Hubble?  

Let us know how you see space exploration over on Facebook.

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Andromeda darknet market ‘seizure’ was admin-scam https://www.kitguru.net/channel/jon-martindale/andromeda-darknet-market-seizure-was-admin-scam/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/jon-martindale/andromeda-darknet-market-seizure-was-admin-scam/#respond Wed, 19 Nov 2014 13:57:09 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=222385 In the wake of big dark-net drug market seizures and arrests, there's always a scramble from everyone related to them. Vendors go to ground as they try and make sure that they too aren't about to be busted, buyers rush to try and find the next great market and admins often do even stranger things. In …

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In the wake of big dark-net drug market seizures and arrests, there's always a scramble from everyone related to them. Vendors go to ground as they try and make sure that they too aren't about to be busted, buyers rush to try and find the next great market and admins often do even stranger things. In the past, we've seen them shut down to avoid heavy publicity and we've also seen them turn tail and run off with everyone's money. Unfortunately, in the aftermath of Silk Road 2's shutdown and the arrest of its alleged admin, similar darknet market Andromeda looks to have continued this trend and scammed its users out of their bitcoins.

Andromeda has gone by many names and transitioned through many different incarnations, including Darkbay, Ultravioletcity, Silk Road 3, Diabolus and its most well known title, Andromeda. Attempting to visit it now, actually turns up a page that looks identical to Silk Road 2's, suggesting that the FBI had seized the domain and its servers. However not everyone believes that that's true.

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Some of the users over at the Darknetmarkets subreddit have put together some coincidences that actually seem to be anything but. In the past few weeks, ex-vendors on the site reported strange occurrences, like being unable to withdraw bitcoins from their accounts. End users were also being encouraged not to deposit ‘coins to the site, but to send them direct to a ‘vendor' wallet. However a few days later, very soon before the ‘seizure,' everyone's wallets were wiped.

Some vendors were even seen to have upddated their profiles urging peoople not to order and that the site was a scam. Those profiles were often quickly updated once again, removing the warnings. Disabled listings were also re-enabled.

Of course all of this could mean that law-enforcement seized the site leading up to the take down, but there's one other piece of evidence that suggests that the FBI ‘seizure' is fictitious. Andromeda's other pages, like its login landing page, do not show the law enforcement seizure notice, but instead report ‘file not found.' On other seized sites like Silk Road 2, every associated URL is reditected to the FBI notice.

KitGuru Says: As usual, KitGuru doesn't advise any one visit these sites.

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