News
Google Pixel 2 already has original Pixel’s biggest flaw
Last year’s #MadeByGoogle event was the company’s first major hardware launch, so the few rookie missteps that transpired were easily forgiven. This year, we aren’t as lenient, especially when the miscalculations are repeats of past incidents.
A few weeks before this year’s Pixel 2 launch, I wrote a piece detailing my wish list for the new Google flagship. Of the five points I made, only two weren’t delivered by the newly unveiled Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL. While the exclusion of the 3.5mm audio port was already written in the stars, I simply can’t accept the shortage issue — again.
Just a few hours after the formalities, Google was already running out of certain Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL units. We ourselves couldn’t secure the panda-colored Pixel 2 XL model despite being right there at the event in San Francisco.
Based on Google’s official online store and a few independent reports, only the black variant of the Pixel 2 is still readily in stock; those wanting the white and blue versions will have to wait several weeks past the planned October 19 rollout to get their units.
The situation is even worse for the larger Pixel 2 XL, with the all-black color option expected to arrive on doorsteps in mid-November and the two-tone white design (the one we want) being on hold until further notice.
Although it’s too early to judge the Pixel 2’s commercial success based solely on initial shipments, this same dilemma that clouded the original Pixel’s first weeks of availability has resulted in a total market share of less than one percent in the US, according to a study by comScore.
That number is absolutely atrocious for the flagship hardware product of the world’s second most valuable brand (Google is a notch below Apple). Considering Google brought in several talents from HTC in a recent acquisition, you would’ve expected the search giant to handle the overwhelming demand more efficiently this time around.
SEE ALSO: Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL stick to proven single-camera setup
[irp posts=”21597″ name=”Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL stick to proven single-camera setup”]
Sony is bringing back one of its iconic Walkman-era headphones with the MDR-3R. The new wired headphones modernize the original MDR-3 with USB-C connectivity and updated features.
Introduced in 1979, the original Walkman and MDR-3 headphones helped popularize portable music listening. The MDR-3R carries that legacy forward with a familiar design and modern conveniences.
The headphones retain the original’s lightweight, open-ear construction. They also feature interchangeable blue and orange ear pads. Sony even gives the packaging and instruction manual a design inspired by the original model.
The MDR-3R connects to compatible smartphones and other devices through USB-C. Users can listen to music without charging, pairing, or installing updates. A built-in microphone and in-line remote also make calls and playback controls more convenient.
Sony equipped the headphones with the same 23mm driver units as the original MDR-3. The company also tuned them to closely reproduce the original’s sound signature. They deliver balanced audio, natural vocals, and the emotional richness associated with Sony headphones.
Sony MDR-3R gets a Stranger Things edition
Sony is also launching a special MDR-3R Stranger Things Edition. The collaboration celebrates the 1980s inspiration shared by the Walkman era and Netflix’s popular series.
Inspired by Max’s signature headphone style and the mysterious Upside Down, the special edition features exclusive design details. These include an engraved Stranger Things logo and custom packaging.
Sony also considered environmental impact when developing the headphones. Approximately 25 percent of the plastic used in the product comes from recycled materials. The packaging is also plastic-free.
Price and availability
Sony has opened preorders for the MDR-3R and MDR-3R Stranger Things Edition. Availability and pricing vary by market.
In the United States, the standard MDR-3R costs US$59.99, while the Stranger Things Edition costs US$79.99. The standard model is available through Sony and authorized retailers.
In Singapore, both models will launch in December 2026. The standard MDR-3R costs SG$89, while the Stranger Things Edition costs SG$129. Both are exclusive to Sony Stores and Sony Store Online.
In the Philippines, Sony has yet to announce local pricing and availability. Based on US pricing, the headphones would cost approximately PHP 3,500 for the standard edition and PHP 4,700 for the Stranger Things Edition, before local taxes and retail adjustments.
Entertainment
The Fellowship of the Ring in Concert finally arrives in Manila
The run goes from March 4 to 6 at Solaire.
As far as films in concert go, The Lord of the Rings is the classic experience for fans. Since 2008, the concert experience has been touring the globe, enamoring fans of the series with live renditions of Howard Shore’s iconic soundtrack. Now, the experience is finally arriving in Manila. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring in Concert will run in the Philippines from March 4 through 6 next year.
There’s a reason why the iconic trilogy is the classic experience for films in concert. Besides being a legendary film franchise, the series features Howard Shore’s Academy Award-winning score. Fans will likely still recognize the dulcet strings of the Shire or the grandiose crescendo of the Fellowship.
From March 4 to 6, The Fellowship of the Ring in Concert will run at The Theatre in Solaire. Under the baton of Reuben Blundell, the concert will star the 96-member Filharmonika Orchestra, the Philippine Madrigal Singers’ 100-member adult choir and 50-member boys’ choir, and soloist Malena Rampi.
Film Community Philippines members can get exclusive pre-sale access from November 9 to 11. Meanwhile, public ticket sales will start on November 20 via TicketWorld.com.ph.
SEE ALSO: Kingdom Come devs are working on a Lord of the Rings RPG
Can you believe that it’s been over eight years since Bethesda announced The Elder Scrolls VI. Since then, we’ve seen neither hide nor hair of the upcoming title. Today, the studio has mercifully revealed a tiny bit more about the game including its title and setting.
Historically, the Elder Scrolls franchise is not known for its numbering. It’s not The Elder Scrolls III, IV, and V; it’s Morrowind, Oblivion, and Skyrim. Now, we know what The Elder Scrolls VI will be called — Sentinel.
The name is also a huge clue as to where the game will take place. Besides being the name of the game itself, Sentinel is also the capital of Hammerfell, a region in northwest Tamriel. The teaser, which shows a sword being uncovered from a pile of sand, confirms this. After all, the Alik’r Desert is one of the region’s highlights.
Now, Hammerfell is not a new region for players. The region, especially the titular Sentinel, was previously featured in The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall. Obviously, not a lot of gamers would have played this classic game before, so a return will introduce the region to a lot more modern players.
Unfortunately, despite throwing us a bone with the name and the setting, Bethesda did not reveal when the title is coming. Given that Grand Theft Auto VI is launching very soon, the time is ripe for the launch of another much-awaited title.
SEE ALSO: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is out now
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