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Harrison Ford’s involvement with science fiction is notable, but that’s what happens when you portray the scruffy nerf herder Han Solo and outshine the likes of Jack Nicholson, Paul Newman, and Sean Connery for a role in “Blade Runner.” Although the iconic actor has often downplayed the cinematic legacies he contributed to, they undeniably solidified the career he enjoys today. Nevertheless, looking back, there’s one sci-fi amalgamation that had all the necessary elements to become a wildly successful venture yet instead turned out to be a box-office disappointment of cosmic proportions.

In 2011, Ford joined forces with Daniel Craig, Olivia Wilde, and Sam Rockwell in the Jon Favreau-directed comic book adaptation, “Cowboys & Aliens.” At this juncture in his career, Favreau was thriving, having laid the groundwork for the Marvel Cinematic Universe through his direction of “Iron Man” and “Iron Man 2” in 2008 and 2010. Shifting focus to another section of the comic book realm, “Cowboys & Aliens” was based on a 2006 sci-fi Western, casting Craig as a memory-impaired outlaw who, alongside a rancher (Ford), must defend themselves against extraterrestrial threats armed with far more than just revolvers. Unfortunately, despite the potential for a thrilling adventure, viewers didn’t fully resonate with the film, primarily due to the stiff competition it faced.

Cowboys & Aliens struggled at the box office

With a production budget of $163 million, “Cowboys & Aliens” barely managed to cover its costs, earning around $176 million at the box office, according to The Numbers. The film faced fierce rivalry upon its release in late July 2021, with Chris Evans debuting as the iconic superhero in “Captain America: The First Avenger” — a universe Ford would later join – and losing the top position to “The Smurfs.” This was also the week preceding our introduction to the chest-thumping leader, Caesar (Andy Serkis) in “Rise of the Planet of the Apes,” adding to the robust competition.

Even when sharing the same timeframe as Smurfs and intelligent apes, “Cowboys & Aliens” failed to impress critics. It garnered a mere 44% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with Time Out stating, “what began as ‘True Grit’-meets-‘War of the Worlds’ ultimately resembles — dare we say it — ‘Wild Wild West.'” Slate also viewed the film as a squandered chance, remarking that, “it’s amusing to consider what ‘Cowboys & Aliens’ could have been had any creativity ventured beyond the title page.”

While Ford attempted another foray into science fiction two years later with the similarly received “Ender’s Game,” by 2015 he would return to his roots with “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens,” which remains his most successful film to date. This demonstrates that, despite all the film’s flaws, the nerf herder is truly all we require.

# ‘Xbox Mode’ Is Set to Transform Your PC Into A Gaming Console

There have been numerous [rumors circulating regarding the next Xbox console](https://www.bgr.com/2116738/new-xbox-console-pc-games-support-confirmed/) for some time now. Reports suggest these claims hold weight, as Xbox CEO Asha Sharma affirmed the new console, codenamed “Project Helix,” earlier this month. During the 2026 Game Developer Conference (GDC), additional information about Microsoft’s ambitions with the forthcoming console emerged, highlighting how Microsoft and Xbox aim to enhance the interaction between players and games across the various platforms within Microsoft’s ecosystem.

One strategy to implement this vision is through the “Xbox Mode” on Windows 11. This initiative could serve to further close the divide between Microsoft’s consoles and PCs, particularly as the tech giant strengthens its commitment to enable its next console to support both PC and Xbox titles. According to Jason Ronald, the Vice President of Next Generation at Xbox, the new PC mode is set to begin rolling out in April in select regions.

Moreover, Ronald mentioned that Xbox Mode will feature a user interface akin to that of the ROG Xbox Ally models, even describing the UI on the handheld PCs as an “early version” of the upcoming feature. Given Microsoft’s communication about Project Helix, it wouldn’t be surprising if this Xbox Mode experience becomes what we ultimately see on the company’s soon-to-be-released hardware.

## Creating a more interconnected Xbox experience

By connecting the Xbox handheld gaming PC with Windows systems, Microsoft could be laying the groundwork for Project Helix, further supported by recent reports indicating a shift away from its “This is an Xbox” messaging. The initial announcement for the 2024 campaign, intended to showcase how Xbox games could operate across various platforms, has since been removed. Therefore, the new leadership at Xbox likely hasn’t abandoned the console just yet.

If you haven’t explored the [ROG Xbox Ally X](https://www.bgr.com/1997323/rog-xbox-ally-x-review/), its interface closely resembles that of the Xbox app — featuring a side-oriented navigation bar. Nevertheless, the graphics exhibit a style that feels somewhat similar to the Steam Deck’s menu, making navigation simpler than the default Xbox app. Additionally, when using the Ally and Ally X, the interface entirely detaches you from desktop mode, allowing for easier navigation of options and buttons using your Xbox controller. The nearest equivalent on Windows right now is probably Steam’s Big Picture mode, which simplifies interacting with the popular gaming software via a controller.

## The future of Xbox merges console and computer

Project Helix faces the task of revitalizing the underwhelming reign of the Xbox Series X. Ronald disclosed that the company anticipates shipping prototypes of the next console to developers as early as 2027. The rollout of Xbox Mode on Windows 11 will serve as a solid step towards familiarizing users with what to anticipate from Project Helix, providing Microsoft the opportunity to gauge its performance in the hands of everyday gamers.

In addition, early exposure to the platform’s design may attract users to choose the console for their living room, alleviating concerns about building a PC — particularly if Microsoft can offer it at an appealing price point. While Microsoft has yet to disclose further information on pricing, the [current chip shortages](https://www.bgr.com/2012625/ai-chip-shortages-could-lead-to-more-expensive-smartphones/) make low prices appear highly unlikely.

Four years after Valve launched the Steam Deck, the portable gaming device continues to enjoy considerable popularity, often selling out online despite its time on the market. At present, three hardware variants are available: 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB. The first model features an LCD screen, while the latter two come with OLED displays and minor internal enhancements.

The Steam Deck combines the versatility of a handheld with the capability typical of PC gaming, prompting competitors to venture into that sector with their own offerings. As the hardware ages and more powerful alternatives emerge, gamers deliberating between acquiring the Steam Deck or a competing device have more considerations to evaluate. While individual gaming preferences vary, several factors such as power and cost position the Steam Deck as the preferred choice for most users, making it a worthwhile purchase in 2026.

How does the Steam Deck’s power compare to other options?

It’s accurate that the Steam Deck is surpassed by stronger handheld consoles like the ROG Xbox Ally. Valve’s current model utilizes a custom AMD APU with six cores (down from the previous model’s seven cores to enhance efficiency) and 16 GB of RAM. In comparison, the ROG Xbox Ally X boasts a more powerful Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme and 24 GB of RAM, providing a significantly superior experience when engaging with demanding games such as “Cyberpunk 2077” or “Microsoft Flight Simulator.”

As time progresses, it’s likely that fewer major releases, especially those featuring cutting-edge technology, will be available on the Steam Deck. Nevertheless, power isn’t the sole factor in gaming. If your goal is to play the latest AAA titles with high visual fidelity and performance, you may need to explore other avenues. Otherwise, you might want to check out higher-end handheld alternatives.

Nonetheless, the Steam Deck has consistently been more suited for casual gaming experiences like “Stardew Valley,” or grinding in RPGs such as “Elden Ring” or “Persona 5 Royal.” You’ll likely not find a better choice at a comparable price.

Steam Deck offers exceptional value in handheld PC gaming

The Steam Deck isn’t inexpensive, priced at $549 for the 512GB model and $649 for the 1 TB variant. This represents an increase from the original 256 GB model’s $399 price point, which is now out of production and seems to have sold out for good. That said, the Steam Deck is priced significantly lower than newer, more powerful machines. The ROG Xbox Ally X is priced at $999, making it less appealing for the average buyer. There is a budget-friendly option in the ROG Xbox Ally, but at $599, it still exceeds the cost of the comparably powerful Steam Deck. Other handhelds are priced even higher; for instance, the OneXFly F1 Pro starts at $1,099, and the MSI Claw A8 BZ2EM retails for $1,299.

Additionally, there’s the intrinsic value of the Steam platform itself. Steam stands as the largest marketplace for PC games, enabling you to purchase and enjoy nearly any title that isn’t exclusive to a console. If you’re a gamer who has invested a considerable amount into Steam, you’ll already possess a substantial library to download and enjoy on your Steam Deck. Even if you haven’t, Steam is well-known for hosting significant sales throughout the year, making it easier to build your library.

You also needn’t worry about the Steam Deck becoming outdated anytime soon, as Valve has indicated that a successor isn’t on the immediate horizon. In November 2025, software engineer Pierre-Loup Griffais told IGN that while the team has concepts in mind, they desire the next generation to represent a much larger jump forward, exceeding the capabilities of current chips. It’s clear that we’re several years away from the Steam Deck 2, which means purchasing the current model when available remains a sound investment.

rules you should understand prior to purchasing an Android device. Nonetheless, after you’ve navigated through brand and model choices and have settled on a particular device, there are multiple outlets from which you can acquire it. You may obtain it through the various carriers in your locality, from online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Best Buy, or you can simply visit a large electronics shop.

Moreover, you have the option to purchase the phone directly from the manufacturer, as many companies do sell their devices straight to consumers. Android smartphone brands like Samsung, Motorola, OnePlus, and Google maintain sections on their websites for this purpose. You can conveniently place an order for any of the available models, and it will be shipped to your home. Alternatively, if you prefer a traditional retail experience, numerous manufacturers operate physical stores at various locations, allowing you to test out their different devices before making a purchase.

Even though you might find that the prices for the devices are approximately the same across all available avenues, buying directly from the manufacturer offers additional advantages that may be lost if you go through other channels. Manufacturers sell unlocked devices, provide exclusive offers, allow for more personalization, and give you direct support, among other benefits.

At the yearly Mobile World Congress (MWC) event taking place in Barcelona, Spain, numerous firms within the mobile sector presented an array of devices and ideas. Among the key attractions were Chinese smartphones, 6G technology, and dancing robots. One fascinating gadget was a phone that may evoke a feeling of déjà vu.

Chinese smartphone manufacturer Tecno introduced more than 10 concept devices at the exhibition. Among these was the Atom, a concept phone characterized by a sleek design that distinguishes itself by providing modular components that can be added or removed according to your requirements. These components include a telephoto lens, an action camera, a stackable battery module, and a speaker for enhanced audio. The phone utilizes magnets to link the components together, a system Tecno terms Modular Magnetic Interconnection Technology.

If this concept rings a bell, you might recall the LG G5 smartphone from 2016, which included modular components that allowed for hardware customization — although not with magnets. It emerged during a period when Android was exploring its modular phase, with Google’s own Project Ara promising similar degrees of hardware personalization. While the LG G5 was among the more widely available modular phones, sold through carrier outlets and Best Buy, it ultimately proved to be a failure, as LG reverted to a more conventional design the following year.

The modular phone concept is not a recent development. LG unveiled its flagship G5 phone in April 2016, featuring a modular design that allowed users to purchase accessories and attach them for added functionality, such as a 360-degree camera and a wide-angle lens. Intended to rescue the company’s ailing mobile division at that time, the G5 ultimately appeared and disappeared without much excitement, and LG officially closed its mobile division a few years later. According to The Wall Street Journal, the brand “struggled to persuade consumers to invest in extra modules for the G5.” However, LG’s modular device was not as practical as Tecno’s Atom concept since it necessitated powering off the phone just to swap battery modules — unlike the Atom, where you simply connect the battery to the back, and you can even add more than one if desired.

Following disappointing sales results for the G5, LG eventually reduced its focus on modularity. While the Atom evokes memories of LG’s unsuccessful endeavor, it remains uncertain whether Tecno is committed to turning this concept into a tangible device available for purchase. After all, the brand is recognized for displaying various concepts at trade shows that do not always reach widespread market availability, so you might want to temper your expectations regarding a spiritual successor to the LG G5 appearing on retail shelves.

AppleCare One plan provides coverage for up to three devices at a reduced rate.

Among the most famous and widely acknowledged advantages of AppleCare+ are the extended warranty and unlimited repairs for any accidental damage, including those resulting from drops and liquid exposure. These features prevent you from incurring a large repair bill and ensure that an unfortunate incident won’t force you to purchase a new device. Besides these advantages, AppleCare+ includes several additional benefits that can aid in determining whether an AppleCare+ subscription justifies the expense. Here are some AppleCare+ benefits that might surprise you.

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Back in 2023, Netflix unveiled intentions to pour a staggering $2.5 billion into Korean content over the next four years. Consequently, the platform has been delivering a consistent flow of outstanding K-dramas in recent times, featuring some genuinely gripping horror series, such as “Parasyte: The Grey,” and “Kingdom.” However, if you’re a dedicated horror enthusiast who has already consumed these shows, there’s another binge-worthy Netflix series that is definitely worth diving into.

Certified “Fresh” on Rotten Tomatoes, boasting an 89% Tomatometer score, Netflix’s “All of Us Are Dead” is a 12-episode Korean-language horror series that chronicles a group of students who find themselves trapped when their high school becomes the epicenter of a lethal zombie virus outbreak. Although this series isn’t brand new, having premiered back in January 2022, now is an ideal time to start viewing if you haven’t done so yet, as its highly anticipated second season is officially on the horizon.

What is All of Us Are Dead about?

Inspired by a Webtoon of the same title, “All of Us Are Dead” portrays a group of South Korean high school students striving for survival when a highly contagious zombie virus erupts in their school after a student receives a (seemingly innocuous) bite from a rat in the science lab.

It turns out that the bite was far from harmless, and it swiftly becomes apparent that their classmates begin transforming into flesh-hungry beings. While the school serves as the epicenter for this deadly outbreak, the virus rapidly spreads to the adjacent city of Hyosan, where governmental authorities struggle to comprehend and control it.

The remaining survivors, including Nam On-jo (played by “House of Hummingbird”‘s Park Ji-hu) and Lee Su-hyeok (played by “Sweet Revenge”‘s Lomon), are compelled to rely on their instincts to combat their zombified classmates, escape the school, and reach a quarantine camp.

The first season of “All of Us Are Dead” consists of 12 gruesome episodes, each lasting about an hour, and is accessible for viewing on Netflix.

All of Us Are Dead Season 2

Netflix confirmed its renewal of “All of Us Are Dead” for a second season in June 2022, which wasn’t particularly surprising, given that viewers reportedly consumed 362,643,000 hours of the first season within 30 days of its release on the streaming service.

Nevertheless, the wait for “All of Us Are Dead” has been lengthy. In April 2024, Park Chul-soo, the CEO of the series’ production company, Film Monster, announced that filming for the second season would commence that year and would debut in the latter half of 2025. However, in May 2024, it was revealed that Netflix had delayed the production of the show by one year.

Season 2 of “All of Us Are Dead” officially completed filming in February 2026, though a release date is yet to be confirmed. This new season reportedly introduces new cast members, including Roh Jae-won (“Squid Game”), Lee Min-jae (“Hide”), Kim Si-eun (“Voice”), and Yoon Ga-i (“Undercover High School”), and is anticipated to delve into the aftermath of the virus beyond the high school setting.

Your New Monitor Might Be Concealing a Multitasking Enhancement You Were Unaware of

If you regularly alternate between a work laptop and a gaming setup or a personal desktop, it’s easy to picture your workspace being overwhelmed with wires. Whether it’s the link between your laptop and monitor or the devices attached to your desktop, those cable connections can accumulate rapidly. Although you can tackle the mess using inexpensive tools or this stylish Amazon DIY kit, you won’t be able to lower the number of cables unless you utilize a concealed multitasking enhancement found in numerous contemporary monitors.

Today’s monitors frequently feature built-in support for a KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) Switch. While KVM switches are also available separately and enable you to effortlessly switch your monitor and peripheral connections among several computers, manufacturers have been incorporating them into monitors for some time to streamline things for users. Here’s how a KVM switch in your monitor can improve your setup and elevate your multitasking capabilities.

How does a KVM switch function?

A KVM switch fundamentally allows you to connect multiple computers using a single keyboard, mouse, and monitor, letting you toggle between them effortlessly. This is particularly useful if you wish to utilize the same set of monitors and peripherals with both your laptop and your desktop, or any mix of two or more computers, without needing to disconnect cables from one device and reconnect them to another every time you want to switch. Monitors with an integrated KVM switch simplify matters even further, as you can have all your peripherals plugged into your monitor, which is then connected to two different computers.

When it’s time to switch computers, you merely change the source on the monitor, and all connected peripherals and devices will seamlessly transition their connection to the second computer without needing manual changes. However, some monitors may require you to access an option in the OSD (On-Screen Display) menu or press a physical KVM switch button to alternate the connected USB devices. KVM-capable monitors usually accommodate two computers, though some may support more. Beyond making the switching of the monitor and peripherals more straightforward, the inclusion of the KVM switch keeps your desk arrangement neater, as you aren’t constantly relocating cables, and everything can be organized neatly.

Additional advantages of monitors with KVM switch support

While the name might imply that this feature is only usable with your keyboard, mouse, and monitor, you can actually utilize your monitor’s USB ports as part of the KVM to connect any peripherals, such as a webcam, microphone, and headphones, and toggle them between computers with a single button press. This is excellent for maintaining an orderly workspace and not complicating things when you suddenly need to use a dedicated webcam or USB microphone with your laptop.

Monitors that feature a built-in KVM switch sometimes include functions like picture-by-picture (PBP) or picture-in-picture (PIP), which let you view video input from both computers simultaneously. Some also support seamless input switching as you engage with different computers while using PBP. For instance, it will shift the mouse input from one computer to the other as you move the mouse across the “border” of the two distinct video outputs on the monitor, known as “mouse roaming.” All these functions can prove very useful during multitasking. So when you’re next in the market for a new monitor, remember to check the product listing to determine if it includes a KVM switch.

Google is entirely overhauling its Google Maps experience starting this week, as the company incorporates Gemini into one of the most well-known internet services available. With this announcement, the company is exploring new methods for users to receive recommendations with a simple prompt, in addition to a completely fresh driving experience. This means an updated map experience that resembles what Apple Maps has been providing with a 3D perspective of the route, but enhanced with AI and Google’s community data accessible on the move.

These updates include the new “Ask Maps” feature and four new enhancements aimed at assisting drivers in reaching their destinations, whether it’s their first visit to that spot or a familiar route or commute. These features will begin to roll out this week for users in the U.S., and Ask Maps will also be available for users in India. Global expansion is planned throughout the remainder of 2026, or when the company is ready to share further details.

Ask Maps may be one of the most beneficial features Google has ever launched.

Have you ever been in a new city, or maybe you’re organizing a date, but you don’t typically keep track of all the interesting places you’ve visited using Google Maps, and you’re unsure of where to go? Well, Ask Maps should assist with that: By posing a straightforward question to Google Maps, like “I’m dining with three friends, and I need a vegetarian place between work and midtown that has a table available for 7 p.m.,” Gemini will provide several suggestions based on user experiences and information submitted by restaurant owners, allowing you to quickly book a table at one of the locations with just another tap.

The same applies if you’re planning a trip and want Gemini to create an itinerary featuring a few hidden gems, specific criteria, and so on. Google showcased the experience to BGR, and from what we’ve observed, it appears highly promising. Google informs us that, currently, Gemini won’t consider sponsored content from Google Maps, nor will companies be able to pay for sponsorship within that experience, as the team is focused solely on delivering the best possible experience. Consequently, Google will only consider user reviews and information from merchants to generate suggestions.

Driving with Google Maps will significantly differ, yet remain familiar.

With the new driving experience, Google aims for users to quickly orient themselves, provide more natural navigation, explain why Maps has selected a specific route, and assist them in confidently moving from door to door.

A brand-new 3D view enhances the driver’s understanding of what they need to do next by emphasizing buildings, landscapes, different lanes, crosswalks, traffic signals, and more. It has a distinctly Apple Maps-like appearance, and Google asserts that this update is not merely about aesthetics but actual utility. One of the most exciting aspects of this update is how natural language will aid drivers in situating themselves. Instead of just instructing to turn left in 200 meters, Google will advise the driver to turn left after the upcoming traffic light.

Google Maps will also provide more noticeable alerts regarding changes to the route in real-time, clarify the trade-offs of opting for an alternative path, in addition to any real-time disruptions that might occur while driving. Immersive Navigation is being rolled out across the U.S. on iOS and Android devices, CarPlay, and Android Auto. Google also mentions that this experience is currently tailored for drivers, as the company has no announcements for pedestrians and cyclists; which aligns with Apple, as it continues to face challenges regarding those who depend on public transit or walk frequently.