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SpaceX’s Anticipated Starship Launch and Initial Booster Catch Attempt Set for This Weekend

Major Enhancements: SpaceX Readies for Upcoming Starship Flight Test

SpaceX, the private space exploration company established by Elon Musk, has been diligently executing significant enhancements to its Starship program in anticipation of the next important flight test. Recently, SpaceX teams at their Texas facility have concentrated on upgrading the launch tower and catch arms at Starbase, intending to bolster the infrastructure necessary for the launch and retrieval of the Super Heavy booster and Starship upper stage.

### Reinforcing the Launch Tower and Catch Arms

One of the most noteworthy enhancements has been the strengthening of the launch tower and its catch arms. These arms are engineered to capture the Super Heavy booster upon its return to Earth, a vital component of SpaceX’s aim to achieve full reusability for the Starship system. Engineers have been tirelessly working to integrate structural stiffeners into the tower and assess the load-bearing capabilities of the catch arms. These upgrades are designed to guarantee that the tower can endure the tremendous forces encountered while catching the massive booster after its ascent.

SpaceX has highlighted the significance of these enhancements in a recent announcement:

> “Significant upgrades in advance of this flight test have been made to hardware and software across Super Heavy, Starship, and the launch and catch tower infrastructure at Starbase. SpaceX engineers have dedicated years to preparation and several months to testing for the booster catch attempt, with technicians investing tens of thousands of hours in establishing the infrastructure to maximize our chances for success.”

### The Flight Plan: Super Heavy and Starship

The forthcoming test flight will involve the Super Heavy booster reaching the edge of space in about seven minutes. Once it arrives at this altitude, it will separate from the Starship upper stage and initiate its descent back to Earth, targeting recovery at Starbase. Concurrently, the Starship upper stage will activate its six engines to speed up to near orbital velocity, sufficiently fast to complete half an orbit around the Earth before reentering the atmosphere over the Indian Ocean.

This flight path mirrors the trajectory followed by Starship during a prior test in June, when the spacecraft endured a fiery reentry and achieved a controlled splashdown. That mission marked the first instance where SpaceX successfully executed an end-to-end Starship test flight, yielding vital data for upcoming missions.

### Heat Shield Revamp

A critical takeaway from the June flight was the necessity for enhancements to Starship’s heat shield. During reentry, onboard cameras documented pieces of the heat shield detaching from the spacecraft. This led SpaceX engineers to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the heat shield’s efficacy and implement substantial modifications for the next flight.

The company has since revamped the entire thermal protection system on the Starship vehicle. Technicians have dedicated over 12,000 hours to replacing the heat shield tiles with a next-generation design, introducing a backup ablative layer, and adding extra protections between the ship’s flap structures. These enhancements aim to ensure that Starship can endure the extreme heat and pressures of atmospheric reentry.

In an announcement, SpaceX stated:

> “This extensive initiative, along with modifications to the ship’s operations and reentry and landing burn software, is set to enhance the previous flight’s success and facilitate a soft splashdown at the designated area in the Indian Ocean.”

### The Future Path

The upcoming test flight signifies an essential milestone for SpaceX as it progresses in developing the Starship system, designed to be a fully reusable spacecraft capable of transporting humans and cargo to destinations like the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The substantial upgrades to both the hardware and software of the Super Heavy booster, Starship, and the launch and catch tower infrastructure reflect SpaceX’s dedication to refining its technology and enhancing the likelihood of success.

As SpaceX extends the frontiers of space exploration, the insights gained from each test flight will draw the company closer to realizing its long-term goal of enabling multi-planetary life. With the next flight test approaching, all attention will be on Starbase as SpaceX continues to make strides in the realm of space travel.

Samsung Stops Software Updates for 2020 Galaxy Z Fold 2, Initially Priced at $2,000

**Samsung’s Upgrade Policy: Progress Made, Yet Not for All**

In February 2022, Samsung made a notable commitment to its consumers: offering as many as four generations of Android OS and One UI upgrades for “select” Galaxy models, alongside up to five years of security updates. This initiative was largely viewed as a favorable advancement, bringing Samsung closer in line with rivals like Apple, renowned for its prolonged software support. Nonetheless, this promise did not extend to all Samsung devices, with the Galaxy Z Fold 2—a high-end foldable smartphone released in 2020—being a key exclusion.

### The Progression of Samsung’s Upgrade Policy

Samsung’s choice to grant prolonged support for its devices mirrors the increasing consumer demand for extended software lifespans. Given the rising costs and complexity of smartphones, users anticipate their devices to remain secure and functional for extended duration. In January 2024, Samsung built upon this promise by announcing it would deliver up to seven years of security and OS updates for select devices, echoing a similar declaration from Google.

This marks a considerable change within the Android landscape, where typically, devices have received fewer update years compared to Apple’s iPhones. For instance, Google’s Pixel smartphones, commonly regarded as the benchmark for Android updates, are now dedicated to offering seven years of support, starting with the Pixel 8 series. Samsung’s choice to follow this trend is a positive progression for Android users, although it is accompanied by a caveat: not all devices will be encompassed in this extended support duration.

### The Situation with the Galaxy Z Fold 2

The Galaxy Z Fold 2, a foldable device launched in 2020 costing over $1,500, was excluded from Samsung’s enumeration of devices qualifying for the enhanced update policy. As a result, the Fold 2 is anticipated to cease receiving OS and security updates by 2024, a mere four years post-launch. For a device priced comparably to a high-end laptop, this relatively limited support timeframe has left several users feeling dissatisfied.

While the Fold 2 may continue to perform adequately after 2024, the absence of security updates could pose a considerable risk for users. In a time when smartphones serve as tools for various tasks, including banking and storing personal data, lacking security patches can expose a device to cyber threats. This is a difficult reality for consumers who invested significantly in a cutting-edge device such as the Fold 2.

### Apple vs. Samsung: A Look at Update Policies

Apple has consistently set the standard for software support in the mobile phone sector. The company has reliably issued iOS updates for older devices, frequently for five years or beyond. For example, the latest iOS 18 supports iPhones released as early as 2018, including the iPhone XR. In 2023, Apple officially guaranteed a minimum of five years of security updates for its products, beginning with the iPhone 15 series.

This degree of support is part of the reason iPhones typically have a longer service life compared to many Android models. Consumers are aware that purchasing an iPhone means investing in a device that will remain secure and updated for several years. Samsung’s recent initiative to provide seven years of updates for select devices is indeed a positive movement, yet it still falls short for users of devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 2.

### The Influence of Third-Party Suppliers

One of the obstacles Samsung encounters in extending software support stems from its dependence on third-party suppliers like Qualcomm for the processors that power its products. In contrast to Apple, which fabricates its own chips (like the A-series processors found in iPhones), Samsung incorporates Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors in multiple phones. This reliance means that Samsung’s capability to deliver long-term updates is partially contingent on Qualcomm’s readiness to support older processors.

Historically, Qualcomm has shown reluctance to prolong the lifespan of its processors, which has restricted the number of years Android devices can receive updates. However, with Samsung now pledging seven years of updates for certain models, it appears Qualcomm may be easing its position. This development is promising for Samsung users, although it does not alter the fact that older models like the Galaxy Z Fold 2 remain excluded from these expanded support timelines.

### The Call for Clarity

The comparatively short lifespan of high-priced devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 2 has ignited a wider discussion regarding the necessity for transparency in the tech industry. Some consumer advocates are now urging the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to mandate that manufacturers explicitly indicate on their packaging the duration for which a device will receive software and security updates. This change would provide consumers with more upfront information and aid them in making more knowledgeable purchasing choices.

In a time when smartphones have become vital tools for communication, work, and recreation, understanding how long a device will stay secure and functional is extremely important. If a phone is only going to

Disney Allegedly Shelves “The Acolyte” Amid Escalating Production Expenses

# The Acolyte: A Star Wars Series That Couldn’t Evade the Numbers Challenge

The Star Wars franchise has been a vital part of popular culture for decades, with every new endeavor generating significant anticipation from fans and Disney leadership alike. Nevertheless, not every foray into a galaxy far, far away is poised to become a major success. A prime example is *The Acolyte*, a Star Wars series that, regardless of its bold concept and esteemed cast, ultimately did not meet the elevated expectations surrounding it.

## An Encouraging Beginning, But a Worrisome Downturn

Upon its release, *The Acolyte* attracted a commendable 11.1 million views in its opening five days, equating to 488 million minutes viewed. While these figures were promising, they were insignificant compared to *Ahsoka*, another Star Wars entry that premiered roughly around the same time and amassed 14 million views in the same timeframe. Although the initial viewership for *The Acolyte* was not catastrophic, it was underwhelming for a Star Wars installment, particularly one that had a considerable budget backing it.

Regrettably, viewership continued to decline over the following weeks, and by the time the finale was broadcast, it marked the unfortunate record of the lowest minutes viewed (335 million) for any Star Wars series conclusion. For a franchise that has historically thrived on fan enthusiasm and anticipation, this was a disconcerting development.

## The Financial Burden of a Post-Pandemic Landscape

As Caroline Reid reported for *Forbes*, *The Acolyte* encountered notable financial difficulties from the very beginning. The series was approved in 2021, during a phase when Disney was heavily pouring resources into new content to increase subscriber counts for its streaming service, Disney+. Although this strategy was bold, it resulted in an alarming $11.4 billion in losses for Disney’s streaming sector.

The financial atmosphere at Disney became even more challenging after Bob Iger resumed his role as CEO and emphasized cost reduction. In this setting, the significant production expenses of *The Acolyte* emerged as a major liability. The series had substantial visual effects (VFX) demands, and the inclusion of a prominent cast—featuring Carrie Ann Moss and Lee Jung-jae from *Squid Game*—only amplified costs. With a reported budget of $230 million, *The Acolyte* was a costly endeavor, and Disney presumably harbored optimistic expectations regarding both viewership and merchandising income to validate the expenditure.

However, the series did not achieve the level of merchandising income that Disney anticipated. Star Wars has typically been a merchandising powerhouse, with toys, clothing, and various products frequently yielding revenue comparable to that of the films and series. Yet *The Acolyte* fell short of engaging fans in the manner that other Star Wars properties have, resulting in lackluster sales in this vital sector.

## An Expensive Venture in a Competitive Arena

While *The Acolyte*’s $230 million budget is undeniably high, it’s important to recognize that it aligns with other sizable streaming productions. For instance, Prime Video’s *The Rings of Power* reportedly costs an astonishing $58 million per episode, while Marvel’s *Secret Invasion* had an estimated cost of around $35 million per episode. When compared, *The Acolyte*’s per-episode expenditure was more reasonable, yet still steep for a Star Wars series.

For reference, *The Mandalorian*, one of the most successful Star Wars series to date, came in at about $15 million per episode—similar to HBO’s *Game of Thrones*. Considering *The Acolyte*’s elevated production expenses and its disappointing ratings, Disney was likely compelled to view the series as an untenable investment. As Reid highlighted in her *Forbes* article, the combination of declining viewership, mediocre reviews, and substantial costs was “the final nail in the coffin” for the series.

## What Went Wrong?

So, what precisely went afoul with *The Acolyte*? Several elements likely played a role in its subpar performance:

1. **Timing and Rivalry**: The series launched in an overcrowded streaming environment, contending not just with other Star Wars properties like *Ahsoka*, but also with major offerings from competing franchises. In such a saturated market, *The Acolyte* found it difficult to differentiate itself.

2. **Elevated Anticipations**: As a Star Wars production, *The Acolyte* was laden with high hopes from both fans and Disney executives. While the series showcased an intriguing concept, it may not have connected with the wider Star Wars audience in the same manner that other installments have.

3. **Budgetary Pressures**: The post-pandemic financial climate at Disney imposed additional demands on the series to deliver. With

Switch Modder Confronts Nintendo’s Legal Challenge Without Legal Counsel

# Modding and Legal Disputes: The Instance of Ryan Daly vs. Nintendo

Within the realm of video gaming, few entities are as diligent in safeguarding their intellectual property (IP) as Nintendo. Throughout the years, this gaming powerhouse has cultivated a reputation for vigorously pursuing legal measures against anyone it suspects of violating its copyrights, trademarks, or other proprietary technologies. Be it **modders**, **ROM thieves**, or **emulator creators**, Nintendo has consistently adopted a stringent approach, frequently sending cease-and-desist notices, initiating lawsuits, or pursuing substantial financial settlements.

More often than not, those targeted by Nintendo’s legal threats choose to seek a swift resolution—either by conforming to cease-and-desist requests, settling outside of court, or admitting guilt in order to sidestep the expenses and uncertainties of a drawn-out legal confrontation. Nonetheless, the case of **Ryan Daly**, purported owner of **ModdedHardware.com**, stands out as an anomaly. Daly has opted to represent himself in a lawsuit filed against him by Nintendo, a choice that could lead to significant legal and monetary implications.

## Nintendo’s Legacy of Legal Action

Nintendo’s legal confrontations with modders, ROM thieves, and emulator developers are well-established. The company has a lengthy record of targeting individuals and companies that it believes are infringing on its IP. Some notable examples include:

– **Modders**: In 2020, Nintendo delivered a cease-and-desist directive to a business providing **Switch modchip installation services**, enabling users to run unapproved software on their consoles. The enterprise promptly complied with Nintendo’s requests.

– **ROM Thieves**: In 2021, the proprietor of a well-known ROM website was ordered to pay **$2.1 million** to Nintendo following litigation. The site had been sharing unauthorized versions of Nintendo games, which the company contended was a blatant breach of its copyrights.

– **Emulator Developers**: In 2024, the creators of the popular **Ryujinx Switch emulator** ceased development after receiving legal communication from Nintendo. Emulators, allowing users to experience console games on non-console devices, have long posed issues for Nintendo, as they can facilitate piracy of its titles.

In most instances, individuals or entities confronting legal action from Nintendo tend to settle or adhere to the company’s mandates rather than endure an expensive and prolonged trial. However, Ryan Daly’s situation appears to be distinct.

## The Situation of Ryan Daly and ModdedHardware.com

Ryan Daly, the purported owner of **ModdedHardware.com**, has found himself under scrutiny from Nintendo’s legal team. According to Nintendo, Daly’s website was engaged in selling **modded Nintendo Switch consoles**, providing **console modding services**, and distributing **piracy-enabling devices** such as the **MIG Switch card**, pre-loaded with sought-after Nintendo games.

Nintendo first contacted Daly in **March 2024**, notifying him that his operations were infringing upon the company’s IP. At that point, Daly allegedly consented, both verbally and in writing, to halt these activities. However, according to Nintendo, Daly persisted in selling modded consoles and piracy-enabling devices, largely disregarding further attempts by the company to reach out to him.

After several months of what Nintendo describes as non-compliance, the company initiated a lawsuit against Daly in **June 2024** in a federal court located in Seattle. The lawsuit claims that Daly violated Nintendo’s copyrights and trademarks by distributing unauthorized game copies and facilitating piracy through modded hardware.

## Daly’s Choice to Self-Represent

Typically, individuals facing lawsuits from large corporations like Nintendo seek legal counsel to navigate the intricacies of the legal landscape. Initially, Daly seemed to be adhering to this approach. In June, Nintendo indicated that it had received correspondence from a lawyer claiming to represent Daly. However, shortly thereafter, Daly notified Nintendo that he was in the process of securing new representation.

As it turns out, Daly’s quest for new legal assistance appears to have stagnated. Last week, Daly submitted a **pro se response** to Nintendo’s lawsuit, indicating he is now self-representing without a lawyer’s aid. This decision is noteworthy, as legal experts typically advise against self-representation in complicated cases, especially when facing a well-resourced adversary like Nintendo.

In his pro se response, Daly refuted many of Nintendo’s accusations, though the particulars of his defense remain ambiguous. Representing oneself in court is a precarious undertaking, especially in a case involving complex copyright and trademark legislation. Lacking legal knowledge, Daly might find it challenging to establish a solid defense against Nintendo’s assertions.

## The Perils of Self-Representation

Self-representation in court, particularly in a case involving a significant corporation like Nintendo, carries noteworthy risks. **Copyright law**, in particular, is a field with considerable specialization, and comprehending the subtleties of the law is crucial for formulating a viable defense.

Here are some critical risks Daly faces by