The block button on X has changed. Now, it allows blocked users to see posts from accounts that blocked them, but they still can’t interact with those accounts. You can’t even follow or message the user.
X previously said the change was being made because users could already see and interact with blocked accounts by switching to a non-blocked account. X also said that blocking the old way could be used to share and hide harmful or private information about people they’ve blocked, so the new feature allows for “greater transparency.”
Experts in social-media abuse disagree, saying these changes will help stalkers and trolls. “Allowing blocked users to see posts is an enabler for abusers and stalkers, emboldening and promoting their behaviour,” wrote London Victims Commissioner Claire Waxman last month.
While this is unlikely to affect X’s opinion, these changes could go against the rules of the iOS and Google Play app stores. For example, Apple states in its developer terms of service that any app with user-generated content must provide “the ability to block abusive users from the service.” Of course, there’s still a block button, but it’s not actually blocking anyone anymore.
Over 50 enhanced games will be available for PS5 Pro at launch
Sony has published a list of over 50 games that will have enhanced versions when the console launches later this week. This includes hit games like Baldur’s Gate 3, The Last of Us Part II Remastered, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and God of War Ragnarök.
Expect to see improvements like advanced ray tracing, higher frame rates and Sony’s proprietary upscaling system, called PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution. Despite an already announced enhanced version, Gran Turismo 7 is missing. It may not be ready yet. Final Fantasy XVI is also absent from the list, with its own frame rate struggles on the base PS5.
Netflix is removing most of its interactive content
According to The Verge, Netflix is removing most of its interactive content. There are currently 24 interactive specials listed on the platform, but only four of them will remain after December 1. Black Mirror: Bandersnatch, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend, Ranvir vs. Wild with Bear Grylls will all be live to stream another day. Sadly, the specials based on Carmen Sandiego, Boss Baby, and Puss in Boots will not be.
Amazon will use AI to recap what you’re watching
Amazon has launched a new tool for Prime Video that uses AI to create personalized recaps. X-Ray Recap uses generative AI to create a “concise, easy-to-digest summary” of entire TV seasons, single episodes, or even parts of episodes.
All personalized. So the recap will go “up to the exact minute of where you’re watching.” There are a number of limitations, though: X-Ray Recaps has launched in beta for Fire TV customers and right now only works with content created by Amazon MGM Studios, such as Upload, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, The Wheel of Time, and The Boys.