Official Sony PS5 Rental Service Goes Live in UK Starting at £11/Month
Sony has just opened an official PS5 rental service in the UK, with lease term options of 12, 24 or 36 months, or monthly rolling. The PlayStation Portal and the PS VR2 headset are also available for lease. In terms of pricing, the rates for the three PS5 models vary based on lease term length.
This development highlights the evolving nature of consumer electronics rentals, where companies like Sony are expanding their offerings to cater to a broader range of customers.
How will the proliferation of rental services impact the used market for gaming consoles and accessories in the long-term?
PlayStation Direct has introduced a rental service in the UK, allowing customers to lease various PlayStation hardware including the PS5, PS5 Pro, and PS Portal for monthly fees. The service, provided by Raylo, offers flexible leasing terms ranging from 12 to 36 months, with the option of a rolling monthly contract. While this presents a more affordable way to access gaming hardware, consumers should be aware that they will not own the equipment at the end of the rental term.
This rental model could democratize access to gaming technology, appealing to a broader audience who may be deterred by high upfront costs, and potentially altering the purchasing landscape in the gaming industry.
What implications could this rental approach have for future gaming hardware sales and the broader consumer market in the gaming sector?
It's time to upgrade your PS5's storage! Japanese storage solutions company Nextorage just launched three new 4TB NVMe SSD models in the U.S., offering a significant discount on all three models for a limited time. The company is putting all three models on sale, with the 4TB M.2 NVMe G-LE SSD (without heatsink) available at 50% off for $249.99. On the other hand, the two remaining models will be available at 40% off for just $299.99.
The discounted prices of these high-capacity storage drives make it an attractive option for those looking to expand their PS5's storage without breaking the bank.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve and more games become increasingly demanding, it will be interesting to see how the performance and capacity of SSDs like these Nextorage models hold up in the long term.
Sony has introduced a new beta program aimed at streamlining the process for gamers to participate in testing updates and features for the PS5 and PC. By signing up just once, players can express their interest in accessing various beta tests, including games, new console features, and enhancements to the PlayStation App. This initiative represents a significant shift from previous beta sign-up processes, which required multiple registrations for different tests.
This move could enhance community engagement by making it easier for players to contribute feedback on new features and improvements, potentially leading to a better overall gaming experience.
What implications will this beta program have on the quality and speed of updates released for the PS5 in the future?
PlayStation Plus subscribers are officially receiving compensation following the PlayStation Network outage last month. The almost 24-hour outage, which prevented online gaming, has been addressed by Sony. Members should now see the compensation added to their PlayStation accounts as of March 4, five days of service will be automatically added to their expiry date.
The sudden shift in favor of customers from companies can lead to changes in the way we value and prioritize customer loyalty programs.
How will this new trend influence the future of subscription-based services across various industries?
The best TV deal is offered by Currys, providing an incredible bundle that includes an LG C4 OLED TV, a £399 gift card, and a PlayStation 5 worth up to £390, along with the option to trade-in an old TV for up to £100. The LG C4 takes pride of place in our best TVs guide due to its gaming capabilities, incredible picture quality, and intuitive smart TV platform. This deal superseseds other options, offering significant improvements over the LG C3 OLED, including better image quality, a 144Hz refresh rate, and four HDMI 2.1 ports.
The bundling of a PS5 with this TV deal highlights the growing trend of gaming-focused consumer electronics, where brands are investing heavily in enhancing gaming experiences.
How will the widespread adoption of 8K resolution impact the gaming industry's demand for higher-end hardware like the LG C4?
The first prices for LG's brightest OLED TVs ever are out, and it's good news for consumers in the UK. The launch prices for the LG G5 OLED TV have appeared online, with identical pricing to its predecessor, the LG G4. John Lewis is the first retailer to list prices for four of the LG G5's models, including the 55, 65, 77 and 83-inch sets.
The fact that LG has maintained the same price point for its flagship model despite the introduction of new features like a 40% fullscreen brightness boost suggests that the company is confident in the quality and value of its OLED technology.
How will the widespread adoption of OLED TVs by retailers impact the competition between TV manufacturers, particularly in terms of pricing and innovation?
Nacon has introduced the RIG 900 Max HS, a wireless gaming headset tailored for PlayStation and PC gamers seeking low latency and a convenient charging dock. This headset features official PlayStation licensing, supports Bluetooth connectivity, and includes a dedicated app for customizable settings, making it versatile for both gaming and everyday use. With a battery life of up to 60 hours and advanced noise reduction technology, the RIG 900 Max HS aims to enhance the gaming experience significantly.
The introduction of the RIG 900 Max HS highlights the growing demand for high-quality, multifunctional gaming accessories that cater to both competitive and casual gamers alike.
In what ways might advancements in gaming headset technology influence the overall gaming experience in the near future?
Sony now pools all beta programs on one website to simplify participation. Those wanting to try out new PS5 and PC games, PlayStation app features and PlayStation 5 firmware updates in advance are advised to try out the new PS5 beta program, which gives much easier access to all beta programs. Sony has announced a new beta program for the PlayStation 5 on the PlayStation Blog, which is intended to consolidate all future beta programs.
By streamlining the registration process and providing a centralized hub for beta testing, Sony is attempting to democratize access to its latest features and games, potentially reducing the influence of early adopters who have previously benefited from exclusive beta access.
Will this move also lead to a more diverse pool of testers, or will it still be dominated by enthusiasts who are willing to spend hours providing feedback on often buggy software?
Resident Evil 5 is currently available on Fanatical with a 79% discount for $4.30 instead of its typical price of $20. The game, released in 2009, has been well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for its immersive sound design, strong voice acting, and thrilling cutscenes. Despite some drawbacks, such as strict linear level design and AI issues with Sheva's character, the game still holds a Metascore of 86 on Metacritic.
This discount highlights the ongoing popularity of classic games in the gaming industry, where nostalgia and fan loyalty continue to drive demand for titles like Resident Evil 5.
How will the availability of retro games like Resident Evil 5 at affordable prices affect the gaming market's shift towards more modern, high-end experiences?
Forza Horizon 5 PS5 gamers will need a Microsoft Xbox account despite no cross-progression, which may lead to frustrating experience for players who already invested time and money in the game. The lack of cross-platform progression means that players must start leveling up from scratch on each console they play on, potentially wasting some progress. This policy is consistent with Sony's approach for games like Sea of Thieves and Helldivers 2.
The strict adherence to Xbox account requirements raises questions about Microsoft's commitment to providing a unified gaming experience across its platforms, particularly in light of Sony's similar policies.
How will this move impact the overall gaming landscape, where console exclusivity and online requirements are increasingly blurring the lines between traditional gaming genres?
Home buyers in England and Northern Ireland are scrambling to complete purchases by the end of March or face paying thousands of pounds extra in stamp duty. First-time buyers, already struggling with affordability, will be hit particularly hard as the government's new threshold increases from £125,000 to £425,000 for those buying their first property. The higher thresholds will revert to previous levels on 1 April, leaving many in the "danger zone" facing significant extra costs.
As the deadline looms, it is becoming clear that the government's measures are more likely to increase housing costs and exacerbate the UK's affordability crisis.
What role do policymakers believe lenders should play in helping first-time buyers navigate these increased stamp duty demands and avoid falling into debt?
Ministers have outlined plans to abolish the leasehold system in England and Wales, moving towards a commonhold system where flat-owners own a share of their buildings. The government aims to restore control over homes and reduce "unfair practices and unreasonable costs" faced by landlords. By adopting commonhold, homeowners would have more autonomy over what they pay for maintenance and who they appoint to manage their building.
The proposed reforms could significantly impact the financial lives of leaseholders like Kasia Tarker, who faces rising service charges that are rendering her home unaffordable.
Will the government's plans to end leasehold effectively address the root causes of housing insecurity and affordability crises in England and Wales?
The Retroid Pocket Mini, a handheld gaming console designed for playing retro games, has been plagued by an unfixable issue that affects graphical effects. The company has announced a limited return policy, accepting only 200 overseas returns during a specific window, but with some conditions that may raise concerns about customer satisfaction and quality control. This move highlights the challenges faced by small companies in addressing product issues while maintaining profitability.
The lack of transparency in Retroid's return policy, including the requirement for customers to pay shipping costs, raises questions about the company's priorities and commitment to its customers.
What long-term consequences will this return policy have on Retroid's reputation and relationships with customers who may feel they are being penalized for purchasing a defective product?
123 Reg is offering a unique deal where users can register a UK domain name for just 1p for the first year, making it an attractive option for those looking to establish their online presence. This limited-time offer is available exclusively through our website and allows individuals and businesses to secure their desired domain without breaking the bank. To capitalize on this opportunity, one must act quickly before the offer expires.
This promotional deal highlights the importance of timely domain registration in today's digital landscape, where having a unique online identity can make or break a business.
How will this unprecedented pricing strategy impact the competitive domain registrar market and force other companies to reevaluate their pricing strategies?
The PlayStation 5 version of Forza Horizon 5 will necessitate linking a Microsoft account to the player's PlayStation Network account to play the game, as stated in the game's official FAQ. This requirement may inconvenience players who prefer not to share their online gaming experience with Microsoft, given that there is no cross-platform saving between versions. The game's publisher has established a clear expectation for players to link their accounts before playing, potentially setting a precedent for future exclusive titles on PS5.
The implementation of required account linking in Forza Horizon 5 may signal a broader trend towards greater integration between console manufacturers and the gaming industry's major platforms.
Will this precedent be followed by other game developers and publishers, potentially leading to a more uniform approach to online gaming across different systems?
Samsung has launched a limited-time sale offering discounts of up to 47% on its premium products, including the Galaxy S24 Ultra and the S90D OLED TV. This sale, lasting only 48 hours, presents an opportunity for customers to upgrade their devices at significant savings, particularly with trade-in offers that enhance the discounts further. The urgency of this sale, ending March 12 at 10 AM AEDT, encourages quick action from consumers looking to capitalize on these exclusive deals.
This sale highlights the competitive nature of the tech market, where companies like Samsung are leveraging limited-time offers to drive consumer engagement and boost sales amid a rapidly evolving landscape.
How might consumer behavior shift in response to frequent flash sales versus traditional pricing strategies in the tech industry?
Disney Plus has announced a 40% discount on its annual Premium subscription in Singapore, with the offer available until March 31, 2025. The deal brings down the annual price from SG$189.98 to just SG$113.98, making it an attractive option for Disney fans. This promotion comes at a time when popular shows like Daredevil: Born Again and Moana 2 are set to release on the platform.
The timing of this offer couldn't be more strategic, as it coincides with the highly anticipated releases of two popular Marvel and Disney shows, potentially boosting subscriber numbers and driving engagement.
How will this promotional push influence Disney's long-term strategy for expanding its subscriber base in the Asian market?
As we say goodbye to February (the longest month ever, it seems), Best Buy has launched a huge weekend sale. The retailer is slashing prices on its best-selling OLED TVs, laptops, headphones, and iPads from all your favorite brands. I've gone through Best Buy's weekend sale and curated a list of the 27 best deals that are worth buying, including record-low prices on last year's best-selling products.
This massive sale showcases the evolving nature of consumer demand in the tech industry, where flexibility and affordability become key drivers for purchasing decisions.
Will this trend towards lower prices and more flexible payment options signal a permanent shift in the retail landscape, or is it just another temporary sales cycle?
The Lenovo Legion Go has reached a new low price of £498 at Amazon, making it an attractive option for gamers looking for a high-performance handheld console. This deal marks a significant drop from its original price of £699.99, and with the inclusion of a free 60-day Audible subscription, it's an unbeatable value for those interested in purchasing this device. With its powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip, QHD display, and customizable features, the Legion Go is well-suited for playing PC games on the go.
The affordability of the Lenovo Legion Go sets a new standard for handheld gaming consoles, making it a viable option for gamers who previously considered their options.
How will the growing popularity of handheld gaming consoles impact the future of traditional home gaming setups?
The proposed 25% tariff on imported disc games could lead to a shift towards all-digital strategy in the gaming industry, with potential price increases for physical copies. Digital distribution is becoming increasingly popular, and recent changes have already led to more affordable pricing for AAA titles. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the tariffs' fate means that the market's response will be closely watched.
As the gaming industry becomes increasingly reliant on digital infrastructure, the loss of physical media could lead to a cultural shift in how gamers consume games, with potential consequences for the used game market and retro gaming communities.
How will the rise of all-digital gaming impact the long-term sustainability of smaller independent developers who rely heavily on physical media sales?
I've scoured Currys' latest sale and picked out the top tech deals, including the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones for £180 (was £279.99), the Samsung Galaxy Book4 for £399 (was £499), and the LG C4 55-inch OLED TV for £1,199 (was £1,499). The sale offers thousands of deals, ranging from discounts on appliances to savings on smartphones and laptops. Currys' Epic Deals sale is a great opportunity to upgrade your tech without breaking the bank.
This massive sale underscores the growing trend of retailers using limited-time promotions to clear inventory and drive sales, which can lead to a surge in demand for popular products.
How will consumers adapt to the shift towards online-only shopping during sales events like this one?
Sony has announced a new initiative named Beta Program at PlayStation, which aims to offer a convenient hub to keep track of any and all pre-release tests for upcoming games on PS5 and PC as well as new features. This centralized platform allows users to express interest in gaining beta access to test participating games, with only one registration required. The program's benefits include streamlining the process of tracking multiple betas and making it easier for fans to participate.
By standardizing the process for accessing pre-release tests across both PS5 and PC, Sony's Beta Program at PlayStation may help level the playing field for indie developers and smaller studios.
How will this new initiative impact the business models of game developers who traditionally rely on early access and beta testing as a means to generate revenue?
The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro is currently available for $90 at Amazon, offering a 50% discount on the battery model. This limited-time deal allows consumers to save $90 and take advantage of the camera's reliable performance, removable battery pack, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa. The camera's features, including Bird's Eye View and enhanced two-way talk, are available with a Ring Home subscription for $5/month.
By taking advantage of this deal, consumers can upgrade their home security without breaking the bank, setting a new standard for affordable yet effective surveillance solutions.
How will the proliferation of smart home devices and affordable security cameras like the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro impact the future of traditional doorbell sales, with some manufacturers shifting focus to more convenient and cost-effective alternatives?
Lenovo has won an appeal in Britain in its attempt to get an interim licence to use Ericsson's patents, the latest ruling in the companies' global licensing dispute. English courts have recently permitted parties to pursue short-term patent licences pending trial, including in Amazon's dispute with Nokia. Lenovo sued Ericsson at London's High Court in 2023, one of a number of cases brought by one or other of the two companies around the world over 4G and 5G wireless technology.
The outcome of this ruling may have significant implications for the global telecom industry, where patent licensing disputes are becoming increasingly common, and could set a precedent for future cases involving FRAND licensing.
How will the increasing reliance on short-term interim licences impact the traditional model of patent licensing in the tech sector, and what are the potential long-term consequences for companies involved?
PSV vs Arsenal is streaming for free on Tabii in Turkey. To unlock this service from abroad, use NordVPN to make your device appear to be back in Turkey. The PSV vs Arsenal live stream is on Paramount Plus in the USA, with a subscription starting at $7.99/month, or you can save by committing to a yearly subscription. In the UK, watch the match on Amazon Prime Video, which comes included with an Amazon Prime subscription for £8.99/month or £95/year, and also offers a standalone Prime Video subscription for £5.99/month.
The fact that both teams have fallen away domestically yet are now all-in on Europe suggests that there's more to their motivations than just financial gain.
Will the outcome of this match influence Mikel Merino's future role in Arsenal's team, given his perceived struggles in his preferred position?