CRKD's Nitro Deck 2 works for both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

CRKD's Nitro Deck 2 works for both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

Even though Nintendo made some serious upgrades with the Joy-Con 2 , you still might end up ditching them for CRKD's Nitro Deck 2. After winning over Nintendo Switch owners with its first Nitro Deck , CRKD followed it up with an improved design that works for both the original Switch and the Switch 2 . To refine the original design, CRKD added several upgrades to the Nitro Deck 2 based on community feedback. The new-and-improved accessory features the company's CaptiStick Technology, which prevents stick drift and isn't affected by magnetic interference like other Hall effect joysticks . CRKD also offset the right thumbstick and contoured the outer shell for a more ergonomic feel. The Nitro Deck 2 is keeping the swappable stick top feature, but CRKD added the ability to swap out the D-Pad for even more customizability. At the back of the Nitro Deck 2, CRKD managed to squeeze in extra L2 and R2 shoulder buttons alongside the programmable back buttons, which were first seen with the predecessor. CRKD Even if you don't own a Switch 2 yet, the Nitro Deck 2 features a new retractable locking mechanism that can be adjusted to fit both the original Switch and Switch OLED. The Nitro Deck 2 supports a low-latency wired mode thanks to an included adapter, but you can also connect the devices through Bluetooth. Thanks to its wireless connection, the Nitro Deck 2 even works as a controller with PC, mobile or smart TVs. The Nitro Deck 2 will release in white and smoke black, starting at $99.99. That's a $30 increase from the original Nitro Deck's price tag when it debuted in 2023. CRKD will also offer a carrying case for $39.99 and additional D-Pad and Stick Top packs for $19.99. Nitro Deck 2 is currently available for preorders on CRKD's website and is expected to start shipping in spring 2026. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/crkds-nitro-deck-2-works-for-both-the-nintendo-switch-and-switch-2-173920127.html?src=rss

CRKD's Nitro Deck 2 works for both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

CRKD's Nitro Deck 2 works for both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

Even though Nintendo made some serious upgrades with the Joy-Con 2 , you still might end up ditching them for CRKD's Nitro Deck 2. After winning over Nintendo Switch owners with its first Nitro Deck , CRKD followed it up with an improved design that works for both the original Switch and the Switch 2 . To refine the original design, CRKD added several upgrades to the Nitro Deck 2 based on community feedback. The new-and-improved accessory features the company's CaptiStick Technology, which prevents stick drift and isn't affected by magnetic interference like other Hall effect joysticks . CRKD also offset the right thumbstick and contoured the outer shell for a more ergonomic feel. The Nitro Deck 2 is keeping the swappable stick top feature, but CRKD added the ability to swap out the D-Pad for even more customizability. At the back of the Nitro Deck 2, CRKD managed to squeeze in extra L2 and R2 shoulder buttons alongside the programmable back buttons, which were first seen with the predecessor. CRKD Even if you don't own a Switch 2 yet, the Nitro Deck 2 features a new retractable locking mechanism that can be adjusted to fit both the original Switch and Switch OLED. The Nitro Deck 2 supports a low-latency wired mode thanks to an included adapter, but you can also connect the devices through Bluetooth. Thanks to its wireless connection, the Nitro Deck 2 even works as a controller with PC, mobile or smart TVs. The Nitro Deck 2 will release in white and smoke black, starting at $99.99. That's a $30 increase from the original Nitro Deck's price tag when it debuted in 2023. CRKD will also offer a carrying case for $39.99 and additional D-Pad and Stick Top packs for $19.99. Nitro Deck 2 is currently available for preorders on CRKD's website and is expected to start shipping in spring 2026. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/crkds-nitro-deck-2-works-for-both-the-nintendo-switch-and-switch-2-173920127.html?src=rss

A look at Netflix House in Philadelphia, a new 100K sq. ft. location for in-person experiences, which resembles a Disneyland attraction and a Dave & Buster's (Sarah Holder/Bloomberg)

A look at Netflix House in Philadelphia, a new 100K sq. ft. location for in-person experiences, which resembles a Disneyland attraction and a Dave & Buster's (Sarah Holder/Bloomberg)

Sarah Holder / Bloomberg : A look at Netflix House in Philadelphia, a new 100K sq. ft. location for in-person experiences, which resembles a Disneyland attraction and a Dave & Buster's —  The entertainment company's new “Netflix House” experience is bringing the brand's shows into former department stores.

Your monitor’s USB ports are hiding secret powers

Your monitor’s USB ports are hiding secret powers

Many modern monitors come with built-in USB hubs. These hubs don’t just provide extra ports, they can transfer data at high speed and supply devices with power. These are often USB 3.0 or even USB 3.2 Gen1/Gen2 ports, offering transfer rates of up to five or 10 Gbps, which is ideal for fast external SSDs or high-quality peripherals. Nevertheless, these ports are often left unused, even though they can significantly improve both the technical and ergonomic setup. By using the monitor as a central USB hub, you can shorten cable runs, organize devices efficiently, and increase accessibility. High-quality mice, mechanical keyboards, or graphics tablets benefit from this, as short, direct connections often provide more stable data transfers and lower latency. The USB ports on the back of the monitor—here on a Dell model—add practical connection options directly from the monitor to the workstation. You can often also use them to charge devices such as your notebook. Dell Webcams can also be integrated in this way: connecting the camera to the monitor avoids long cables and prevents strain on the cable when the display is moved. The ports are ideal for storage media such as USB sticks, SD card readers, or external SSDs because they can be accessed directly without having to bend down to the PC case. Gamers and streamers can quickly connect controllers, microphones, audio interfaces, or capture cards, as these devices do not usually need to be permanently connected to the system. The USB hub also provides a solution for power-hungry gadgets such as LED light strips, USB fans, charging pads for wireless mice, or headset docks. It’s worth checking the monitor’s technical data to ensure the port provides sufficient power. For example, 1.5 amps at five volts. Some monitor USB ports also support fast charging protocols such as BC 1.2 (Battery Charging), which can be used to quickly charge smartphones or tablets. The USB ports on the monitor are also practical as an extension of hard-to-reach connections, for example, if the computer is mounted under the table or cable ducts make direct access difficult. If you utilize these options strategically, you can transform the inconspicuous sockets on the display into powerful, flexible interfaces that increase both working comfort and the technical efficiency of the entire system.

Locked out: How a gift card purchase destroyed an Apple account

Locked out: How a gift card purchase destroyed an Apple account

The locking of an Apple Account and the difficulty one loyal Apple customer has experienced in regaining access is a stark reminder to be vigilant when buying gift cards for the holidays. A selection of Apple Gift Card designs - Image Credit: Apple While holiday presents tend to involve physical items or cash, gift cards are often included in the mix, especially as a last-minute purchase. However, as one prominent Apple user has discovered, sometimes buying a gift card can be hazardous, even if they take a lot of precautions. Posted on Saturday , Paris Buttfield-Addison of game studio Secret Lab explains how access to their entire Apple digital life has been blocked off. All stemming from an Apple Gift Card purchase. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums