Day: October 19, 2024

Initial Glimpse of the Upcoming Anime by the Creator of Cowboy Bebop

# Lazarus: An Initial Look at the Cutting-Edge Anime from Cowboy Bebop’s Director

Anime enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating the next major undertaking from Shinichirō Watanabe, the acclaimed director of the legendary series *Cowboy Bebop*. Last year, Adult Swim revealed that Watanabe was developing a new anime titled *Lazarus*, and at last, we have our first look at this futuristic series in motion. At New York Comic Con 2024, Adult Swim astonished attendees by presenting the debut episode of *Lazarus*, giving fans a preview of what lies ahead. For those unable to attend, Adult Swim has also made a short clip available online, providing a sneak preview of this much-anticipated anime.

## The Concept of *Lazarus*

Taking place in 2052, *Lazarus* depicts a universe where an innovative drug named Hapna has apparently eradicated all illnesses, heralding a period of tranquility and affluence. The drug was created by neuroscientist Dr. Skinner, who inexplicably vanished shortly after its launch. However, three years later, Skinner resurfaces with a grim proclamation: anyone who ingested Hapna will perish exactly three years after their initial dose. With merely 30 days remaining before humanity faces widespread extinction, a specialized task force known as “Lazarus” is formed to track down Dr. Skinner and discover the antidote.

The series centers on five elite operatives assigned the mission of rescuing mankind. In the clip released by Adult Swim, we meet Axel Gilberto, a wanted criminal, and the squad that is pursuing him. The atmosphere is charged, and the animation is polished, highlighting Watanabe’s unique approach of merging action with profound, philosophical themes.

## A Talented Creative Team

While Watanabe is already a superstar in the anime realm, *Lazarus* assembles an outstanding team of talent from diverse creative backgrounds:

– **Chad Stahelski**, the director known for the *John Wick* series, provided guidance on fight choreography, ensuring that the action scenes are both thrilling and seamless.
– The soundtrack boasts contributions from famous musicians such as **Kamasi Washington**, **Floating Points**, and **Bonobo**, offering a rich audio landscape that enhances the anime’s futuristic vibe.
– **Formosa Group**, the sound design company recognized for their work on films like *Dune* and *Blade Runner: 2049*, delivered Hollywood-quality sound to the series.

## Voice Cast and Characters

The Japanese voice-over cast of *Lazarus* features some of the most recognizable names in the anime sphere:

– **Mamoru Miyano** as Axel Gilberto
– **Koichi Yamadera** as Dr. Skinner
– **Megumi Hayashibara** as Hersch
– **Maaya Uchida** as Chris
– **Yuma Uchida** as Leland
– **Makoto Furukawa** as Doug
– **Manaka Iwami** as Eleina
– **Akio Otsuka** as Abel

Importantly, both Koichi Yamadera and Megumi Hayashibara have previously voiced characters in *Cowboy Bebop*, creating a nostalgic tie for fans of Watanabe’s earlier projects.

## What’s in Store

With its high-stakes plot, breathtaking visuals, and an exceptional creative squad, *Lazarus* is on track to become one of the most thrilling anime releases in recent times. The series’ fusion of sci-fi, action, and deep themes echoes Watanabe’s earlier works while presenting a novel, futuristic angle. Followers of *Cowboy Bebop* and *Samurai Champloo* are sure to revel in *Lazarus*, while those new to Watanabe’s artistry will be captivated by the engaging narrative and vibrant action scenes.

### When Will It Premiere?

Regrettably, the rest of us will need to wait until 2025 to fully experience *Lazarus*, as all 13 episodes are scheduled to air on Adult Swim next year. Until that time, fans can enjoy the teaser clip and speculate on what awaits in this exhilarating new series.

In the interim, keep an eye out for additional updates on *Lazarus* as we near its release. With Watanabe leading the project alongside an outstanding group of collaborators, this anime is set to make a significant mark on the genre and resonate profoundly with audiences globally.

For continued updates on *Lazarus* and other thrilling anime news, make sure to follow BGR’s entertainment coverage.

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iPhone 17 Air Leak Uncovers 48MP Back Camera, 8GB RAM, and A19 Processor

### iPhone 17 Air: A Streamlined, Revamped iPhone Set to Supersede the Plus Model

Apple’s reputation for innovation and continuous advancement within the smartphone landscape is upheld by the forthcoming **iPhone 17 Air**—also known as the **iPhone 17 Slim**. Based on recent leaks and insights from industry analysts, this upcoming model is poised to replace the existing **iPhone Plus** series, presenting an elegant design that combines both premium and mid-range features. While some speculation indicates that the iPhone 17 Air could be underwhelming and overpriced, fresh details from Haitong Securities analyst **Jeff Pu** clarify what we might anticipate from this eagerly awaited device.

### A Revamped iPhone Featuring a 6.6-Inch Display

The iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to launch during Apple’s 2024 iPhone presentation, boasting a **6.6-inch display**—a dimension that situates it between the standard iPhone variants and the Pro models. This expanded screen could attract users desiring a larger display without the price of the more upscale Pro versions.

Furthermore, Apple is rumored to unveil a **redesigned chassis** for the iPhone 17 series, with the Air variant likely to showcase a thinner and lighter profile. Some reports imply that this sleek design may result from utilizing **new display technology** and **smaller battery capacities**, along with software enhancements to sustain battery performance.

### Driven by the A19 Chip

A highlight of the iPhone 17 Air is its anticipated utilization of the **A19 chip**, produced via the same process as the A18 chip. While improvements in performance and energy efficiency are expected from the A19 chip, it’s important to note that the **A19 Pro chip**—featuring enhanced capabilities—will be reserved for the iPhone 17 Pro models.

The iPhone 17 Air is also slated to include **8GB of RAM**, a considerable upgrade from the standard models that generally have 6GB of RAM. This extra memory ought to facilitate smoother multitasking and the handling of more resource-intensive applications.

### Camera Enhancements: A Mixed Bag

A rather confusing aspect of the iPhone 17 Air is its rumored camera configuration. Per Jeff Pu, the device will sport a **single 48MP rear camera**, differing from the dual-camera systems prevalent in many current iPhone iterations. Although the 48MP sensor is expected to yield superior image quality, the absence of a second lens (like an ultra-wide or telephoto) might constrain the device’s photographic adaptability.

On the front side, the iPhone 17 Air is predicted to come equipped with a **24MP front-facing camera**, marking a notable upgrade from the prevailing 12MP front cameras on the majority of iPhones. This enhanced resolution is anticipated to result in crisper selfies and enhanced video call performance.

### Pro Features Reserved for the iPhone 17 Pro Models

While the iPhone 17 Air is set to deliver a robust array of features, some of the more sophisticated functionalities will be exclusive to the **iPhone 17 Pro** models. According to the analyst, the Pro variants will showcase the **A19 Pro chip**, **increased RAM**, and a **narrowed Dynamic Island**—Apple’s interactive display cutout featuring the front-facing camera and Face ID sensors.

Additionally, the iPhone 17 Pro models are expected to experience significant camera upgrades, with **48MP sensors** across all primary cameras, along with the same **24MP front-facing camera** present in the Air variant. Conversely, the standard iPhone 17 is likely to retain the **12MP ultra-wide camera**, which might seem like a step down compared to the Pro models.

### A Slimmer Future for iPhones?

One of the most captivating elements of the iPhone 17 Air is its projected **slim design**. Some reports indicate that Apple might accomplish this through **new display technology** that permits thinner screens, coupled with software optimizations maximizing a potentially smaller battery. This could yield a device that is lighter, more portable, and also more energy-efficient.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that a trimmer design could come with compromises, such as diminished battery life or fewer hardware features. Apple will need to find a judicious equilibrium between aesthetics and functionality to guarantee that the iPhone 17 Air meets user expectations.

### Conclusion: A Mid-Range iPhone with Aspirations for Premium Quality

As we look forward to 2024, the **iPhone 17 Air** appears to be an enticing choice for users seeking a larger display and a premium design without the Pro models’ hefty price. With a **6.6-inch display**, **A19 chip**, **8GB of

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“The Fish Fitted with Leg-like Fins for Ambulating and Detecting”

# The Extraordinary Sensory Legs of Sea Robins: Evolutionary Wonders of the Ocean Floor

Evolution has given rise to a variety of peculiar organisms, and among them are the sea robins—fish that not only traverse the seafloor but also employ their leg-like appendages to “taste” for food. These captivating bottom-dwellers have fascinated researchers for years, and new studies have illuminated the remarkable sensory functions of their legs, showcasing a distinct evolutionary adaptation.

## What Are Sea Robins?

Sea robins, part of the family *Triglidae*, are fish that dwell on the ocean floor and can be found in seas globally. They are characterized by their unique pectoral fins, which look like wings, and their “legs”—three transformed fin rays originating from their pectoral fins. These appendages enable sea robins to move along the ocean floor in search of sustenance, but recent findings have shown that some species utilize these legs for more than just movement.

### A Sensory Revelation

An international team of scientists from Harvard University, Stanford University, and the Max Planck Institute has made a notable discovery regarding the legs of the northern sea robin (*Prionotus carolinus*): they function as sensory organs. These legs feature small protrusions known as papillae, akin to taste buds found on a human tongue. These papillae house taste receptors, enabling the fish to sense chemical signals from prey concealed beneath the sand or mud. When a sea robin “tastes” something appealing, it burrows into the seafloor to reveal its next meal.

This revelation was groundbreaking because, although scientists had long theorized about sensory roles for sea robin legs, definitive evidence had remained elusive—until now.

### How Do Sea Robins Taste with Their Legs?

To examine the sensory abilities of sea robin legs, the researchers performed experiments by burying mussels, capsules filled with mussel extract, and capsules containing only seawater. Sea robins consistently unearthed the mussels and mussel extract capsules, disregarding the seawater capsules, thus confirming that their legs could indeed sense chemical indicators from food.

Subsequent tests indicated that the legs of *P. carolinus* also reacted to mechanical stimuli and other food-related chemicals. However, the sensory neurons within the papillae did not respond to chemical signals as was initially anticipated. Instead, the papillae acted like taste buds, housing dense populations of sensory neurons that reacted to mechanical signals, such as the movement of prey underneath the seafloor.

### A Comparison of Two Species

Interestingly, not every sea robin possesses equivalent sensory abilities. When the researchers captured additional sea robins, they observed that another species, *Prionotus evolans*, did not respond to hidden food or extract capsules. This species only targeted prey that was visible on the seafloor. Unlike *P. carolinus*, *P. evolans* does not have the sensory papillae necessary for chemically detecting hidden food. Additionally, the legs of *P. evolans* are more rod-like, whereas those of *P. carolinus* feature a shovel shape, better adapted for digging.

### The Influence of Genetics

The scientists further explored the genetics of *P. carolinus* to unravel the origins of its sensory legs. They discovered that the taste receptor gene *t1r3*, which is typically active in oral taste buds, was significantly active in the legs of *P. carolinus*, especially at the tips of the papillae. This gene likely plays a vital role in the fish’s capacity to taste its prey through its appendages.

To investigate the development of these sensory legs, the team monitored sea robins maturing from eggs. They found that the legs develop from three pectoral fin rays near the abdominal region and gradually detach from the fin as the fish grow. A crucial gene involved in this development is *tbx3a*, a transcription factor essential for the formation of both legs and sensory papillae. When the researchers employed CRISPR-Cas9 to disrupt *tbx3a* in genetically modified sea robins, the fish emerged with fewer or malformed legs, indicating the gene’s critical role in proper leg development.

### Evolutionary Perspectives

The evolution of sensory legs in sea robins exemplifies how organisms can uniquely adapt to their environments. The researchers speculate that the ancestors of sea robins primarily utilized their legs for movement. Over time, these legs likely evolved to incorporate sensory functions, enabling the fish to detect prey on the ocean floor’s surface. In species like *P. carolinus*, which evolved to locate prey buried beneath the sand, the legs further adapted to include taste receptors, allowing them to find concealed sustenance.

The genetic prevalence of sensory legs was validated when the researchers engineered hybrids of sea robin species with and

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Evaluating the Accessibility for Newcomers in MechWarrior 5: Clans

# **MechWarrior 5: Clans – A Fresh Chapter in the BattleTech Universe**

The **MechWarrior** franchise has established itself as a fundamental presence among enthusiasts of strategic mech warfare, drawing extensively from the intricate lore of the **BattleTech** universe. With the soon-to-be-released **MechWarrior 5: Clans**, developer **Piranha Games** aims to provide a novel perspective on the series, presenting both seasoned players and newcomers with the opportunity to command towering BattleMechs once more. Set to launch on **October 16, 2024**, this standalone installment is poised to offer a fusion of strategic complexity, engaging storytelling, and, naturally, the excitement of piloting enormous mechs into combat.

## **A Standalone Adventure**

In contrast to earlier titles like **MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries** or **MechWarrior Online**, **MechWarrior 5: Clans** stands as an independent game. Players do not need any previous knowledge of the series, although having some familiarity with the **BattleTech** universe can certainly enrich the experience. The game is positioned within a crucial period of the **BattleTech** timeline, centering on the **Clans**—a group of genetically modified warriors dedicated to retrieving the **Inner Sphere** in pursuit of their vision for humanity.

### **The Narrative of Jayden Smoke Jaguar**

In **MechWarrior 5: Clans**, players embody **Jayden Smoke Jaguar**, a member of the **Smoke Jaguar Clan**, renowned as one of the fiercest and most powerful Clans. The narrative chronicles Jayden and his squad (known as a “Star” in Clan language) as they undergo intensive training, engage in significant battles, and contend with the moral dilemmas surrounding their objective. As part of the Smoke Jaguar Clan, Jayden and his allies are engineered for warfare, tasked with reclaiming the Inner Sphere, the central sector of human-inhabited space.

While the storyline is deeply rooted in **BattleTech** lore, **Clans** strives to be inviting for newcomers. The plot delves into themes of loyalty, honor, and warfare ethics, as Jayden and his team ponder the legitimacy of their mission as they advance. However, the game’s dialogue and cutscenes, although appreciated by some reviewers, might seem repetitive or overly formulaic to players not well-versed in the series’ lore.

## **Gameplay: Strategic Complexity and Customization**

At its essence, **MechWarrior 5: Clans** serves as a tactical simulation that prioritizes squad-oriented combat and mech customization. Players command a squad consisting of five mechs, each piloted by a distinct character equipped with specific skills and abilities. The game features 16 different mech chassis to select from, each of which can be intricately tailored for various combat roles.

### **The ‘Mech Lab’ – A Customization Paradise**

A highlight of **Clans** is its extensive customization system, commonly known as the **’Mech Lab’**. Every mech is divided into eight sections, or “pods”—the head, torso (center, left, and right), arms, and legs. Players can modify the armor, weaponry, speed, and weight distribution of each part, facilitating a substantial degree of personalization. This detailed customization is sure to engage dedicated fans of the series, who relish optimizing their mechs for peak performance in battle.

Nevertheless, for newcomers, the multitude of customization options might feel intimidating. Although the game provides tutorials and incrementally reveals new capabilities, the intricacies of managing armor, firepower, and mobility could prove challenging for those lacking prior exposure to the series. Players who prefer to dive straight into combat may find the time invested in the **’Mech Lab’** to be a barrier to the action.

### **Squad-Oriented Combat**

During battles, players must oversee not only their own mech but also the maneuvers of their squad. Each squad member fulfills a specific role, and players can issue commands to guide their movements and strategies. The game presents a range of mission types, including direct assaults, reconnaissance, and defense, requiring players to adjust their tactics for success.

Combat is characterized by a combination of slow, deliberate movement and frenetic skirmishes. Unlike faster-paced mech titles such as **Armored Core**, **MechWarrior** emphasizes the heft and might of its mechs. Movement is purposeful, necessitating that players manage their mech’s heat levels, armor status, and weapon cooldowns. This slower tempo may not resonate with everyone, but for aficionados of tactical simulations, it brings an added layer of realism and strategy to the overall experience.

## **A Learning Curve for New Players**

While **MechWarrior 5: Clans** has garnered acclaim for its richness and meticulousness, it might not be the most accessible

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Apple Ought to Explore the Possibility of Launching a More Budget-Friendly Vision Pro to Draw in Developers

# The Obstacles Encountered by Apple Vision Pro: High Cost and Limited Developer Engagement

Launched in February 2024, Apple’s Vision Pro has garnered attention for its advanced technology and engaging capabilities. Nonetheless, despite the initial buzz, the product has faced challenges in establishing a foothold in the market. With a starting price of $3,500 in the U.S., it has primarily attracted technology aficionados, leaving many potential users and developers hesitant. This article delves into the current landscape of the Vision Pro, the challenges in app development, and the possible strategies that could facilitate its acceptance among the general public.

## Developers Appear Uninterested in Crafting Apps for Vision Pro

One of the major obstacles for the Vision Pro is the noticeable lack of developer enthusiasm for building applications on its platform, visionOS. A year ago, industry experts predicted that a more budget-friendly variant of the Vision Pro would be crucial for making the device more mainstream. While high-end products can appeal to a niche demographic, the steep price has discouraged numerous developers from committing time and resources to the platform.

Upon its launch, Apple claimed that around 600 apps and games would be accessible in the visionOS App Store. Fast forward to August 2024, and the count of native apps had merely risen to 2,500—an increase that accounts for compatibility with existing iPhone and iPad apps. Research firm Appfigures indicates that the momentum for new app development has diminished considerably, with only ten new apps launched in September 2024, a stark contrast to the hundreds introduced in the early months post-launch.

Conversations with developers indicate a shared belief that the Vision Pro’s user demographic is insufficient and that the platform is lacking critical features. Hrafn Thorisson, CEO of the Icelandic VR game development company Aldin Dynamics, remarked, “We’re not in a hurry. We’re waiting for a more favorable trajectory and the arrival of the next device.” In a similar vein, Scott Albright, CEO of Combat Waffle Studios, pointed out that the absence of designated game controllers renders the Vision Pro less attractive to gamers.

Personal experiences echo this viewpoint. Software engineer Rostyslav Alieksieienko bought a Vision Pro but resold it six months later, citing inadequate integration into his routine and a swift decline in engaging content.

## Vision Pro Urgently Requires a Price Reduction or More Affordable Model

Market analysts, including Ming-Chi Kuo, have adjusted their shipment forecasts for the Vision Pro, cutting projections from 800,000 units to 400,000 by 2024. The elevated price presents a substantial obstacle for the majority of consumers, consequently dissuading developers from creating apps for visionOS. This forms a detrimental cycle: fewer apps result in diminished user interest, which further decreases the motivation for developers to engage with the platform.

Former Apple Vision team member Bertrand Nepveu posits that Apple might explore funding developers to produce essential apps for visionOS, a tactic that has effectively boosted Meta’s VR Quest platform. However, many experts contend that a more immediate remedy would be the introduction of a lower-cost, non-Pro variant of the Apple Vision. Regrettably, such a model is not anticipated until at least late 2025, casting doubts on the long-term sustainability of the Vision Pro.

Another possibility could be to lower the price of the existing Vision Pro, but many analysts remain skeptical that this would drastically alter the current situation.

## Conclusion

The Apple Vision Pro finds itself at a critical juncture. Although it features remarkable technology and potential, its substantial price and limited app ecosystem obstruct its growth. For the device to gain momentum, Apple may need to reconsider its pricing approach and explore ways to encourage developers to create appealing applications for visionOS. Until then, the Vision Pro may continue to be a niche offering, primarily attracting tech enthusiasts rather than the wider consumer audience.

What do you believe is necessary for the Apple Vision Pro to become successful? Share your insights in the comments section below.

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“Netflix Set to Launch Almost 20 New Titles in the Coming Week – Check Out This Must-See Highlight”

## Netflix’s Upcoming Drama *Territory*: A Neo-Western Set in Australia’s Remote Wilderness

Netflix is about to unveil a fresh drama series, *Territory*, which is already being likened to the immensely successful *Yellowstone*. Created by Timothy Lee and Ben Davies, *Territory* comprises six episodes that plunge viewers into the depths of the Australian Outback, where a family legacy teeters on the edge of destruction. The series explores themes of power dynamics, generational disputes, and the struggle for supremacy over a vast cattle ranch, echoing the narrative of *Yellowstone*, the neo-Western led by Kevin Costner that has captivated audiences.

### The Impact of *Yellowstone*

The impact of *Yellowstone* on the television market is undeniable. The show’s triumph has prompted a wave of neo-Western dramas, with major streaming services racing to develop their own adaptations of the acclaimed series. Paramount+, the platform behind *Yellowstone*, has even broadened its universe with spin-offs like *1883*, *1923*, and the forthcoming *1944* and *The Madison*.

Netflix’s *Territory* seems to align with this trend, providing a similar mix of family tensions, power conflicts, and rugged scenery. Although the story is set against the backdrop of Australia’s wilderness rather than the American frontier, the themes and atmosphere will resonate with *Yellowstone* enthusiasts.

### The Essence of *Territory*

Central to *Territory* is the Lawson family, proprietors of Marianne Station, an expansive cattle ranch located in the Australian Outback. The patriarch, Colin Lawson, portrayed by Robert Taylor (famous for his role as a Wyoming sheriff in *Longmire*), faces the daunting challenge of securing a successor following the demise of his heir, Daniel Lawson.

Colin’s choices are scant. His daughter-in-law presents one option, but he perceives her as a gold-digger. Conversely, his remaining son is an alcoholic, hardly suitable to inherit the family business. As the family navigates inner turmoil, outside forces start to converge. Competing cattle magnates, desert criminals, Indigenous leaders, and wealthy miners are all eyeing Marianne Station, eager to stake a claim on the Lawson legacy.

With billions of dollars at stake, the tension is palpable. The series pledges to immerse viewers in the rugged and unyielding frontier of Australia, sharply contrasting with the sun-drenched beaches and vibrant cities often associated with the nation. Instead, *Territory* delivers a gritty, unrefined perspective on life in the Outback, where survival is anything but certain.

### A Character Echoing John Dutton

A particularly compelling aspect of *Territory* is the figure of Colin Lawson, who bears striking similarities to *Yellowstone*’s John Dutton, portrayed by Kevin Costner. Much like Dutton, Lawson is a tough, no-nonsense rancher, deeply committed to safeguarding his land and family. He’s a man who has dedicated his life to building an empire, only to witness it jeopardized by both internal strife and external threats.

Robert Taylor’s depiction of Lawson is anticipated to be a standout feature of the series. Taylor is well-versed in embodying rugged, multifaceted characters, having gained praise for his performance in *Longmire*. Devotees of *Yellowstone* will likely find much to admire in Taylor’s portrayal, as he brings a similar depth to Lawson’s character.

### An Uncommon Locale

While *Territory* shares numerous thematic elements with *Yellowstone*, its setting in the Australian Outback imparts a distinctive character. The series aims to show viewers a seldom-seen segment of Australia on screen. Rather than the well-known sights of Bondi Beach or the Sydney Opera House, *Territory* is set in a harsh, unforgiving terrain where societal norms frequently fall away.

The Australian Outback embodies extremes, where the land can pose as much of a threat as the inhabitants themselves. This tough, rugged environment serves as an ideal backdrop for a narrative centered around power, avarice, and survival. The creative minds behind the show, Timothy Lee and Ben Davies, have designed a universe that feels simultaneously familiar and unfamiliar, intertwining Western genre conventions with the distinct challenges confronted in the Outback.

### More to Watch on Netflix

If the family-centric drama and high-stakes power battles of *Territory* don’t catch your interest, Netflix has a wealth of other new offerings arriving within the coming week. For sports aficionados, there’s *The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox*, a new docuseries documenting the legendary resurgence of the Red Sox in the 2004 American League Championship Series. There’s also *Simone Biles Rising* Part

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