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From Star Wars to Godforge: Arctic7’s Virtual Magic Revealed!

Austin, TX – Ever wondered how those stunning visuals in your favorite shows and games come to life? Well, Arctic7 is pulling back the curtain, and it’s pretty darn impressive! They’ve been busy working on some major projects, and we’ve got the inside scoop.

First up, Star Wars fans, get excited! Arctic7’s Virtual Production arm, Narwhal Studios, played a crucial role in the latest Disney+ series, Skeleton Crew.

This isn’t their first rodeo with Lucasfilm as they’ve also worked on Kenobi, Ahsoka, and The Mandalorian. Narwhal Studios served as the Virtual Art Department (VAD), building those incredible worlds we see on screen.

Working on the extension of the Star Wars universe on TV has been a delight for everyone at Narwhal, We’re so happy that we have enjoyed the experience multiple times and that we can continue to not only provide the kind of virtual production services required for this monster franchise but that we can also improve our craft at the same time.

says Andrew MacLusky, Chief Production Officer at Arctic7

Seven years of virtual production innovation have culminated in Skeleton Crew showcasing just how far they’ve come.

Arctic7 has partnered with Fateless to create an animated cinematic for the highly anticipated game, Godforge. They handled everything from concept to final rendering using their virtual production expertise.

From Star Wars to Godforge: Arctic7's Virtual Magic Revealed! 1

This project showcased our team’s ability to deliver a complete, high-fidelity game cinematic, managing all aspects of production, It’s a first for us to use our pedigree in film & TV, combined with our game development know-how, to provide this kind of service for a partner, and we couldn’t be happier with how it’s turned out.

MacLusky explains

Mike Berry, CMO of Fateless, adds, “You only get one chance to introduce a new game to market, and with our debut title it is crucial that we set the right tone from the start. To that end we were excited to find a group of equally driven creatives at Arctic7 who understood that goal and were passionate about bringing it to life.”

Godforge is set to release this year, and players can sign up for the beta waitlist and join the Discord community.

From Star Wars to Godforge: Arctic7's Virtual Magic Revealed! 2

Arctic7 is a next-generation media company transforming the gaming, media, and entertainment industries. They offer a range of services, including full-game development, co-development, and virtual production.

To learn more about Arctic7, please visit their website at www.arctic7.com.

Moldova Joins EU Digital Identity Wallet Pilot: Big Step for Digital Future!

Chișinău, Moldova – Moldova is making waves in the digital world! The e-Governance Agency of Moldova (AGE) has officially joined the second round of Large-Scale Pilot Projects (LSP) for the EU Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI).

That’s a mouthful, but it’s a big deal!

Moldova Joins EU Digital Identity Wallet Pilot: Big Step for Digital Future! 3

Basically, Moldova is teaming up with the European Union to test and develop secure digital identity wallets. This is a huge step towards aligning Moldova with EU digital standards. As a member of the WE BUILD consortium, AGE is set to play a key role in this project.

Why is this important? Well, Moldova’s IT sector is booming! The Moldova Innovation Technology Park alone has over 2,100 companies from 40+ countries and contributes 5% to the national GDP. Their super-competitive 7% flat tax on revenue has attracted major tech firms, making Moldova a regional digital hub.

This initiative underscores Moldova’s dedication to digital transformation, driven by its rapidly expanding IT sector,

says a representative from the Moldova e-Governance Agency

AGE will be working on developing and testing Business-to-Government solutions, integrating digital wallets with public services across the EU. This means better, more secure access to online services for everyone.

Moldova isn’t starting from scratch either. They already have a preliminary version of a Digital Identity Wallet in their national public services app, EVO. Plus, they’re pilot testing EVOSign, a robust authentication tool that will eventually become a full-fledged electronic signature app.

This project marks Moldova’s first time as a beneficiary of the Digital Europe Programme. EUDI wallets will allow individuals and businesses to securely access online services, store and share digital documents, and create legally binding electronic signatures.

Each EU member state will develop its own wallet app, ensuring they all work together.

The LSP projects are crucial for refining EUDI development, testing specifications, and integrating EUDI into EU law. The WE BUILD consortium, with about 200 partners from EU member states and the private sector, will lead this 24-month project, starting in autumn 2025.

Moldova formalized its association with the Digital Europe Programme in February 2024, with AGE serving as the national contact point.

To find more information about the Moldova e-Governance Agency, you can visit their website.

SOURCE Moldova e-Governance Agency

Apple Drops M3 iPad Air & New Magic Keyboard: Power Meets Portability!

Cupertino, CA – March 4, 2025 – Apple just unveiled the latest iPad Air, and it’s packing some serious heat! The big news? The iPad Air now comes with the powerful M3 chip, bringing a whole new level of performance to this beloved tablet.

Plus, they’ve launched a revamped Magic Keyboard that’s more affordable and feature-packed.

Apple Drops M3 iPad Air & New Magic Keyboard: Power Meets Portability! 4

Let’s dive right in. The M3 chip makes the new iPad Air nearly twice as fast as the M1 model and up to 3.5 times faster than the A14 Bionic. That’s a massive leap! Whether you’re a content creator, gamer, or just someone who loves a snappy tablet, you’ll feel the difference.

“iPad Air is so popular because of its unmatched combination of powerful performance, portability, and support for advanced accessories, all at an affordable price,” said Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. And he’s right!

What’s New with the M3 iPad Air?

Apple Drops M3 iPad Air & New Magic Keyboard: Power Meets Portability! 5
  • M3 Power: Expect faster performance in everything you do, from graphic-intensive games to demanding apps.
  • Apple Intelligence: This iPad is built for Apple Intelligence, which brings handy AI features like enhanced photo editing, natural language search, and more creative expression tools.
  • Two Sizes: Choose between the portable 11-inch model or the larger 13-inch for more screen real estate.
  • New Magic Keyboard: The redesigned Magic Keyboard comes with a larger trackpad, a function row, and a lower price point. It attaches magnetically and uses the Smart Connector for power and data.

And there is more!

Apple has also updated the base model iPad with the A16 chip and doubled the starting storage. This provides a performance boost for everyday tasks and makes it an even better value.

iPadOS 18: Enhancing the Experience

iPadOS 18 brings some fantastic new features:

  • Calculator with Math Notes: Use your Apple Pencil to solve equations and create graphs.
  • Smart Script: Refine your handwritten notes in real time.
  • Audio Recording and Transcription: Capture lectures and conversations with synced transcripts.
  • Customizable Home Screen: Personalize your app icons and widgets.

Pricing and Availability

Pre-orders start today, March 4th, with availability beginning March 12th. The 11-inch iPad Air starts at $599, and the 13-inch starts at $799. Education pricing is also available.

Apple Drops M3 iPad Air & New Magic Keyboard: Power Meets Portability! 6

The new Magic Keyboard starts at $269 for the 11-inch model and $319 for the 13-inch model.

You can pre-order the new iPad Air with the M3 chip and the updated iPad in 29 countries and regions, including the United States, through apple.com/store and the Apple Store app.

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HONOR’s $10 Billion AI Plan: Pad V9 is Just the Beginning

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Barcelona, Spain – March 2, 2025 – HONOR has made a significant splash at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, not only revealing its ambitious HONOR ALPHA PLAN but also launching the sleek and powerful HONOR Pad V9.

The company’s vision to transform from a smartphone manufacturer to a global leader in the AI device ecosystem is backed by a substantial USD 10 billion investment over the next five years, starting with developing an intelligent phone that promises to redefine human-device interaction.

However, it’s the HONOR Pad V9 that’s capturing immediate attention.

Style Meets Durability: The HONOR Pad V9 Design

HONOR's $10 Billion AI Plan: Pad V9 is Just the Beginning 7

The HONOR Pad V9 is a testament to HONOR’s commitment to both style and durability. Featuring a sophisticated double-ring camera design and an industry-first NIL Nano-topography process on its cover, this tablet is built to resist dirt, fingerprints, and smudges.

The microscopic textured surface also enhances its durability, allowing it to withstand the rigors of daily use. With an SGS Gold Five-star Whole Machine High-strength Certification and a bending resistance of 100N/mm, the Pad V9 is designed to last.

Available in elegant white and grey, its slim, unibody design is remarkably lightweight at 475g and ultra-thin at just 6.1mm.

A Visual Feast: Revolutionary Display Technology

The HONOR Pad V9 boasts an impressive 11.5-inch LCD display with an 88% screen-to-body ratio. The 2.8K resolution and 144Hz refresh rate deliver sharp, smooth visuals, while 1.07 billion colors and a wide DCI-P3 color gamut ensure vibrant colors and deep contrast. With a brightness of 500 nits, the display remains clear and visible even in bright environments.

HONOR has also prioritized eye comfort with its Eye Protection Technology. Certified by TÜV Rheinland for Low Blue Light (Hardware Solution), it reduces harmful blue light by 6.3%.

Dynamic Dimming mimics natural light patterns, reducing eye fatigue by 18%, and the Circadian Night Display boosts melatonin levels by 20%, providing a healthier viewing experience.

AI-Driven Productivity and Powerful Performance

The HONOR Pad V9 is equipped with AI Efficiency Productivity tools, streamlining multitasking and enhancing workflow.

Running on MagicOS 9.0 based on Android 15, it offers a range of intelligent features.

Despite its slim profile, the tablet houses a robust 10,100 mAh battery, providing extended usage without frequent recharging.

With a high energy density of 729Wh/L, it supports up to 13.5 hours of online video streaming, 7.2 hours of gaming, 16.7 hours of social media browsing, and 40 hours of music streaming. The included 35W wired charger ensures quick recharging.

HONOR’s Ambitious Future

The launch of the HONOR Pad V9 and the announcement of the HONOR ALPHA PLAN underscore the company’s commitment to innovation and its vision for an AI-driven future.

As HONOR invests heavily in AI technology, consumers can expect more groundbreaking devices that seamlessly integrate into their lives.

HONOR Watch 5 Ultra Debuts at MWC 2025: Stunning Design & AI-Powered Ecosystem

HONOR made a splash at MWC 2025, unveiling the stunning HONOR Watch 5 Ultra alongside its ambitious new corporate strategy, the HONOR ALPHA PLAN.

This plan signals HONOR’s transition from a smartphone-centric company to a global leader in the AI device ecosystem.

HONOR Watch 5 Ultra Debuts at MWC 2025: Stunning Design & AI-Powered Ecosystem 8

Part of this new direction includes a commitment to seven years of Android OS and security updates for the HONOR Magic Series, starting with the Magic7 Pro.

But the star of the show was undoubtedly the HONOR Watch 5 Ultra.

This smartwatch boasts a captivating Dome Octagonal Design, blending Eastern and Western aesthetics for a harmonious look. The watch is crafted with a grade 5 titanium case, ensuring it’s both lightweight and durable for everyday wear.

HONOR Watch 5 Ultra Debuts at MWC 2025: Stunning Design & AI-Powered Ecosystem 9

The HONOR Watch 5 Ultra doesn’t just look good; it’s packed with features. It sports a vibrant 1.5-inch AMOLED high-refresh-rate screen with LTPO technology for an always-on display. With a refresh rate of up to 60Hz, users can expect a smooth visual experience. With a robust 480mAh battery, the watch promises up to 15 days of battery life on typical usage.

Health and fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the watch’s intuitive monitoring capabilities. The Quick Health Scan provides an instant overview of your health, while the Healthy Morning Report summarizes your previous day’s data. All-day health tracking features continuously monitor key indicators, promoting both physical and mental wellness.

HONOR’s commitment to innovation and user-centric design shines through with the HONOR Watch 5 Ultra, solidifying its position in the competitive wearable market.

Travelers Take Note: NCB Adjusts Overseas Card ATM Fees & Montego Bay ABM Upgrades Announced

Heads up, travelers and Montego Bay residents!

National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCB) has announced two key updates that will impact your banking experience.

Firstly, effective April 14, 2025, the Automated Banking Machine (ABM) withdrawal fee for non-Jamaican bank cards will be adjusted.

The fee will increase from J$585 (US$4.50) to J$850 (US$6.50).

NCB explains that this change is necessary to maintain the quality of their services sustainably, despite absorbing a portion of the increased costs. Customers with overseas cards should factor this into their travel budgets when planning their Jamaican visits.

Secondly…

NCB is set to upgrade two of its ABMs in Montego Bay, St. James.

Specifically, ABM #345 at Montego Bay Freeport and ABM #326 at MegaMart Montego Bay will be undergoing enhancements from Monday, March 3, 2025, to Monday, March 10, 2025.

During this period, these machines will be out of service.

For those needing immediate access to ABMs, NCB has provided a list of alternative locations nearby, including:

  • the Fairview Branch, Hi-Lo Bogue, and several other sites across Montego Bay.
  • Notably, MegaMart Montego Bay will still have ABM #327 available for deposits only.

NCB encourages customers to plan their transactions accordingly and utilize their mobile app or online ABM locator to find the nearest available machine.

This upgrade is part of NCB’s ongoing commitment to providing a first-class banking experience.

Stay informed by visiting www.jncb.com/fees for the updated fee schedule and www.jncb.com/abms or the NCB Mobile App to locate alternative ABMs.

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Skype is DEAD! Microsoft Pulls the Plug

A chapter in online communication is closing. Microsoft has officially announced that Skype, the once-dominant video calling and messaging app, will be discontinued in May 2025.

This move marks the end of an era for the platform that famously replaced Windows Live Messenger 14 years ago.

The confirmation comes after a BleepingComputer reader discovered telltale strings within preview versions of Skype for Windows and Mac. These strings revealed that Microsoft will prompt users to migrate to the free version of Microsoft Teams, automatically transferring their contacts and call logs.

Skype is DEAD! Microsoft Pulls the Plug 10

The official message, as seen on the splash screen, reads: “Starting in May 2025, Skype will no longer be available. By logging in to Microsoft Teams with your Skype account, your chats and contacts will appear in the app so you can pick up where you left off.”

Microsoft has confirmed that the shutdown will occur on May 5th, 2025. Users will have over 60 days to either export their Skype data, including chat history and images, or log into Teams and migrate their accounts.

“Over the coming days, we will roll out the ability for Skype users to sign into Teams (free) on any supported device using their Skype credentials—starting today with those who are part of both the Teams and Skype Insider programs,” stated Jeff Teper, president of Microsoft 365 Collaborative Apps & Platforms.

You can watch a short video explaining the migration process here:

Skype, launched in 2003, quickly revolutionized online communication with its free voice and video calls. Its popularity soared, leading eBay to acquire it in 2005 for $2.6 billion. However, eBay’s ownership proved short-lived, and in 2011, Microsoft stepped in, purchasing Skype for a staggering $8.5 billion. This acquisition signaled Microsoft’s intent to integrate Skype’s technology into its broader communication strategy, ultimately leading to its eventual replacement with Microsoft Teams.

Skype’s gradual decline can be attributed to several factors, including the rise of Microsoft Teams itself, the surge in popularity of Zoom during the pandemic, and the availability of numerous other chat and video calling apps catering to a younger generation.

This decision reflects Microsoft’s strategic focus on consolidating its communication tools under the Teams umbrella.

Source: Microsoft (Official Confirmation)

Photo by Eyestetix Studio on Unsplash

Leap Financial Partners with Visa to Revolutionize Digital Remittances

Miami, FL – Leap Financial has announced a new collaboration with Visa to integrate Visa Direct into its white-label digital remittance platform. This partnership aims to streamline cross-border money transfers, benefiting clients worldwide with faster and more secure transactions.

By leveraging Visa Direct, Leap Financial will enable financial and non-financial institutions to offer seamless remittances directly to eligible cards, bank accounts, and digital wallets globally.

The initial focus will be on the US and Latin America (LAC) markets, addressing the growing demand for efficient cross-border money transfers within the $64 billion US-Latin America corridor.

Leap Financial’s CEO, Lionel Carrasco, highlighted the significant cost savings this partnership will bring. “Traditional money transmitters charge around 6% in remittance fees,” Carrasco explained. “With advanced technology, Leap reduces this cost to under 1%, streamlining remittance flows and eliminating inefficiencies. Our collaboration with Visa Direct will further enhance our ability to provide faster, more secure transactions.”

Leap Financial’s platform uses embeddable solutions to originate remittances via federal banks, allowing for digital payments and real-time money delivery. The platform also offers full KYC and AML traceability, enhancing compliance and security.

To further improve its technology, Leap recently introduced Lola, an AI-powered “Transactional AI Agent.” Lola provides instant assistance through platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram, making cross-border payment services more accessible.

With the global shift towards digital payments, and a projected 40% decline in cash usage by 2025, Leap Financial’s digital remittance solutions are poised to play a crucial role in fostering financial inclusion.