Spotify has begun rolling out lossless audio for premium subscribers, enhancing the listening experience. However, many Android users, particularly those with Samsung and Google Pixel devices, are experiencing issues with the app, including freezing and crashes, especially on certain Wi-Fi networks. These problems do not occur when using mobile data. Spotify is aware of the issues and is working on a fix, but no timeline has been provided. Users are advised to use mobile data or offline mode as a temporary workaround. The Android issues do not seem to be directly related to the lossless audio rollout.
Recent reports indicate that Spotify's Android app is facing significant performance issues, particularly for users with Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices, when connected to specific Wi-Fi networks. Users have reported the app freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive, while it functions normally on mobile data. Spotify has acknowledged these issues and is investigating, but no solution has been announced yet. Some users speculate that the problems may be linked to Chromecast-ready devices.
The 2XKO servers are currently operational, but some players may experience issues logging in, specifically encountering the error code '2XKO-2001 - Failed to log-in'. Riot is aware of this issue and is working on a fix. Many players have successfully logged in after multiple attempts. Additionally, 2XKO has an offline mode that allows access to training and local multiplayer features, as well as all characters and unlocked cosmetics. To access offline mode, players should navigate to the 2XKO installation folder, locate 'OfflineLauncher.exe', and open it.
Payday 3, launched in 2023 by Starbreeze, faces challenges in stabilizing its core mechanics and improving player experience. The game struggles to attract players, with Steam statistics showing Payday 2 consistently exceeding 30,000 daily players, while Payday 3 fails to reach significant numbers. The anticipated offline mode, promised in February 2024 as part of Operation Medic Bag, has not materialized nearly 20 months later, and general manager Jonas Skantz indicated it is no longer feasible due to resource constraints. Player sentiment reflects disappointment over the slow progress and low priority of the offline mode, especially since Payday 2 supports offline play. Starbreeze is focusing on enhancing core mechanics and engine upgrades for Payday 3, but the offline mode remains sidelined for now. Players are encouraged to explore other crime-themed games or engage with the Payday community on Discord.
Jump Space attracted 250,000 players during its opening weekend. The game received an 88% positive rating on Steam. Developer Keepsake Games is organizing its team into two tracks: one for enhancing stability and the other for creating new content. They are optimizing memory usage and refining the save system to prevent progress loss. Upcoming improvements include better in-game error messages, failover systems, and an offline mode. The next update will introduce hangar vendors, additional sectors, sector modifiers, and new melee weapons. The update is expected to be released in a couple of weeks, and Jump Space is available on Steam for .99 / £16.75.
Skate has received mixed reviews on Steam, with approximately 6,000 reviews and only 46% being positive. The game faced server issues at launch, peaking at over 80,000 concurrent users, which hindered access for many players. Concerns have been raised about gameplay, including persistent prompts for in-game purchases, the absence of fan-favorite features from previous titles, and a lack of a story mode. The art style has drawn mixed reactions, and the game does not offer an offline mode due to its live-service model. Skate is currently in Steam Early Access, allowing developers to address player feedback.
Fans of the Skate franchise have received a new installment after a decade, but it requires a constant online connection with no plans for an offline mode. The Skate servers are currently online, having been accessible to alpha playtesters since August, and now available to a broader audience. Players should check the Skate Status X account and EA's Skate forum for updates on server status and potential maintenance periods. Connectivity issues may arise from platform-specific server maintenance, including Steam, the EA app, PSN, and Xbox servers. The multiplayer component is not expected to launch for at least another year.
A new Android player has entered the Play Store, which offers a vast array of app choices, leading to overwhelming search results for users. Comparison platforms have emerged to help users navigate this environment by providing clear, actionable cues regarding app features and performance. These tools allow users to make informed decisions by assessing privacy disclosures, update frequencies, and summarizing permissions and data usage in user-friendly formats. They enable players to filter options based on essential criteria like genre, difficulty, controller support, offline mode, file size, and update frequency. Comparison sites also visualize privacy and permission descriptions, offering context that star ratings may lack. They help users create tailored shortlists based on non-negotiable criteria, such as device compatibility and monetization models. Overall, these platforms are transforming the app discovery process from passive browsing to active selection, allowing players to tailor their gaming experiences to their lifestyles.
This week, a new main menu panorama has been introduced, along with a comprehensive Code of Conduct for servers and ongoing enhancements with Copper Golems. Snapshot 25w34b has been released, addressing connectivity errors with Realms.
New features include an in-game Code of Conduct that players must accept to access a server, with an option to opt out of future displays unless updated. A new boolean field, enable-code-of-conduct, has been added to server.properties to manage this feature.
The main menu has been updated to feature Copper Golems. The sound effect for the End Light Flashes has an increased delay, and the accessibility setting "Hide Lightning Flashes" has been renamed to "Hide Sky Flashes."
Copper Golems will now have invisible eyes when splashed with a Potion of Invisibility, and their hitbox has been adjusted to allow navigation through open doors. Sounds associated with Copper Golems and Copper Chests can now be heard from up to 12 blocks away, with modifications to the volume of copper sorting sounds.
The Data Pack version has been updated to 84.0, introducing a new fetchprofile command for downloading player profiles. The alignitemsto_bottom block state property has been removed from the Shelf block.
Fixed bugs in 25w34b include issues with glowing items, world selection screen overflow, and various interactions with Copper Golems and other entities.
Snapshots are available for Minecraft: Java Edition, and players are advised to back up their worlds before installation.
