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How to Enable or Disable Windows 11 Lock Screen Ads
Changing a desktop background or computer lock screen is a great way to customize our devices. From a beloved pet, an idyllic view, or a favorite family snap, selecting a background image can help reset our focus and make us smile throughout the day. However, Windows 11 users who have not specially chosen background or lock screen images may see one anyway in the form of a lock screen advertisement. These lock screen ads often include facts or information about the locations in the photo, prompting users to click and find out more. Windows 11 ads may also include banner alerts and news updates about current affairs.
Why am I seeing ads on Windows 11 OS?
Windows 11 collects necessary and optional data from its users, some of which are used for targeted lock screen ads. Necessary data could include information about a device model or diagnostic details to ensure Windows runs as smoothly as possible. However, a large amount of the information collected by Windows is optional, meaning users can opt out of sharing if they wish. For example, Windows may collect location data to show regional news or traffic updates around their local area. Moreover, Windows may collect information from web searches, past purchases of Microsoft products, and online activity about the user’s Microsoft account to show personalized ads.
Do Windows 11 lock screen ads serve any purpose?
Microsoft shows personalized ads to enhance the user experience and allow users to find products and services more easily. However, this also enables advertisers to reach customers who have shown an interest in their offerings.
How to enable Windows 11 lock screen ads
Users who wish to receive personalized content can enable lock screen ads by following these instructions:
Click the Settings icon > select Personalization > Lock screen > choose Windows Spotlight from the dropdown box under Background. Ads will now be enabled.
How to disable Windows 11 lock screen ads
Those looking to remove distractions can stop Windows 11 ads by following these instructions:
Click the Settings icon > select Personalization > Lock screen > choose Picture or Slide Show. Ads will now be disabled. You can also click the disable notifications toggle, which automatically removes ads.
Personalizing the user experience via Windows 11 lock screen ads
Personalized Windows 11 ads help users stay updated with local news and updates. However, some users find them distracting or dislike their browsing information being shared with Microsoft. Luckily, we can disable or enable ads depending on our needs. To stop ads, follow the steps above and enjoy an ad-free user experience on Windows 11.
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How to Turn Off Web Search Results in Windows 11
Windows 11’s search function is a powerful tool that allows users to quickly find files, apps, and even perform web searches directly from the Start menu or search bar. However, not everyone wants web results integrated into their local searches. If you prefer a more streamlined, local-only search experience, you can disable web search results in Windows 11. Here’s how you can do it.
Why disable web search results?
There are several reasons why you might want to turn off web search results:
* Privacy Concerns: Web searches send queries to Microsoft’s Bing, which may raise privacy issues.
* Faster Local Searches: Removing web results can make searching for local files and apps quicker.
* Reducing Clutter: It prevents unnecessary web suggestions from appearing when looking for specific files or apps.
* Network Efficiency: Limiting searches to local files reduces internet usage, which is beneficial for metered connections.
Method 1: Disabling web search via Group Policy Editor (for Windows 11 Pro & Enterprise)
* Open the Group Policy Editor: * Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
* Navigate to Search Policies: * Go to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Search.
* Disable Web Search: * Find the policy labeled “Do not allow web search”, double-click it, select Enabled, and click OK.
* Additionally, locate “Don't search the web or display web results in Search”, set it to Enabled.
* Apply and Restart: * Restart your computer or run gpupdate /force in the Command Prompt to apply the changes.
Method 2: Disabling web search via Registry Editor (for Windows 11 Home & other editions)
If you are using Windows 11 Home, the Group Policy Editor is not available, but you can achieve the same result via the Registry Editor.
* Open the Registry Editor: * Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
* Navigate to the Search Key:* Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Search
* Modify or Create the Registry Entries: * Look for BingSearchEnabled. If it doesn’t exist, right-click, choose New → DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it BingSearchEnabled, and set its value to 0.
* Look for AllowSearchToUseLocation. If found, set it to 0.
* Find CortanaConsent and set it to 0.
* Restart Your Computer: * Close the Registry Editor and restart your PC for changes to take effect.
Alternative methods: Using third-party tools
If modifying system settings manually seems daunting, you can use third-party tools like O&O ShutUp10++ or W10Privacy, which provide user-friendly interfaces to tweak Windows settings, including disabling web search integration.
How disabling web search affects your experience, including Copilot
Before making changes, it’s essential to understand the impact:
* You will no longer see Bing-powered results when searching via the Start menu or search bar.
* Voice-based search via Cortana may become limited since it relies on Bing search integration.
* Faster local search results as Windows will not have to fetch online suggestions.
* Copilot's ability to fetch web-based information will be restricted: * Microsoft 365 Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat may fetch data from Bing when web search is enabled.
* If web search is disabled, Copilot will rely solely on local and enterprise data sources.
* Users won’t see responses labeled “From the web” in Copilot's search results.
* Admins can manage Copilot’s web search capability using Microsoft 365’s enterprise settings.
Re-enabling web search results
If you ever want to restore web search functionality, simply reverse the changes:
* In Group Policy Editor, set the policies back to Not Configured or Disabled.
* In the Registry Editor, delete or reset the modified keys.
Alternatively, if you used third-party tools, navigate to their settings and re-enable the web search options.
A search without surf
Disabling web search results in Windows 11 is a great way to improve privacy, speed, and focus in your searches. Whether you use the Group Policy Editor, the Registry Editor, or third-party tools, following these steps will ensure that your Windows search remains local-only. If you ever change your mind, you can easily revert the settings.
By customizing Windows search settings to fit your preferences, you can enhance your overall user experience while keeping control over how your system interacts with the web. Making these adjustments ensures a more efficient workflow while safeguarding your privacy.
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Sony's GOTY Nominations and Wins From the Last Decade (2015 - 2024)
Sony has maintained a strong presence in the gaming industry, producing high-quality titles that have consistently made their mark at The Game Awards. Over the past decade, Sony’s first-party titles have been recognized for their gameplay mechanics, storytelling, and technical achievements, earning numerous nominations and multiple Game of the Year (GOTY) victories. Here’s a breakdown of Sony’s GOTY nominees and winners from 2015 to 2024.
2015: Bloodborne
Developed by FromSoftware and published by Sony, Bloodborne was a spiritual successor to the Dark Souls series, but with a faster, more aggressive combat system. Set in the gothic city of Yharnam, the game’s Lovecraftian horror themes and intricate world design captivated players. The Chalice Dungeons, procedurally generated levels, added replayability, while the game’s cryptic lore encouraged community-driven exploration and theory-crafting. Despite initial criticism for long loading times, patches and updates improved the experience, solidifying Bloodborne as a cult classic and one of the most influential action RPGs of the decade. A few years down the line, FromSoftware would go on to win two Game of the Year awards for Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (2019) and Elden Ring (2022).
p.s. Sony, please release a PC port for Bloodborne
2016: Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
Naughty Dog’s Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End concluded Nathan Drake’s story with a heartfelt narrative about family, legacy, and redemption. The game introduced new mechanics like the grappling hook and expanded stealth options, enhancing its already polished gameplay. Its stunning visuals, particularly in environments like Madagascar and Libertalia, set a new benchmark for graphical fidelity. The multiplayer mode also received praise for its balance and innovation, cementing Uncharted 4 as one of the best action-adventure games of all time.
2017: Horizon Zero Dawn
Guerrilla Games’ Horizon Zero Dawn was a bold departure from their Killzone series, offering a lush open world set in a post-apocalyptic future where robotic creatures roamed the Earth. Players took on the role of Aloy, a hunter and outcast, unraveling the mysteries of her world and its technological collapse. The game’s combat system, which emphasized strategic use of bows, traps, and elemental attacks against robotic foes, was widely praised. Its photo mode became a fan favorite, allowing players to capture the game’s breathtaking landscapes and dynamic encounters.
2018: God of War (Winner), Marvel’s Spider-Man
God of War (2018) marked a dramatic reinvention of the franchise, shifting from Greek to Norse mythology and introducing a more intimate, character-driven story about Kratos and his son, Atreus. The game’s single-shot camera technique, seamless world design, and visceral combat system earned universal acclaim. It also introduced RPG elements like skill trees and crafting, adding depth to the gameplay. God of War won multiple awards, including GOTY, and became one of the best-selling PlayStation 4 titles.
Marvel’s Spider-Man, developed by Insomniac Games, delivered an exhilarating superhero experience with fluid web-swinging mechanics, a responsive combat system inspired by the Arkham series, and a heartfelt story that explored Peter Parker’s struggles as both a hero and a person. The game’s attention to detail, from its bustling New York City setting to its numerous Easter eggs, made it a standout title in the superhero genre.
2019: Death Stranding
Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding was a polarizing yet groundbreaking title that redefined the concept of connectivity in gaming. Players took on the role of Sam Porter Bridges, portrayed by Norman Reedus, tasked with reconnecting a fractured society by delivering supplies across a desolate, post-apocalyptic America. The game’s asynchronous multiplayer allowed players to leave helpful items and structures for others, fostering a sense of community. Its star-studded cast, including Norman Reedus, Mads Mikkelsen, and Léa Seydoux, delivered memorable performances, while its haunting soundtrack by Low Roar added to the game’s unique atmosphere.
2020: The Last of Us Part II (Winner), Ghost of Tsushima
The Last of Us Part II pushed the boundaries of storytelling in games with its morally complex narrative, non-linear structure, and unflinching portrayal of violence and revenge. The game’s technical achievements, including its stunning visuals, realistic animations, and immersive sound design, set a new standard for the industry. Its gameplay expanded on the original with improved stealth, crafting, and combat mechanics, making it a deeply engaging experience. Despite its divisive story, it won numerous awards, including GOTY.
Ghost of Tsushima, developed by Sucker Punch Productions, offered a breathtaking open-world samurai adventure set during the Mongol invasion of Japan. The game’s emphasis on honor, exploration, and precise swordplay resonated with players. Its “Kurosawa Mode,” a black-and-white filter paying homage to classic samurai films, was a standout feature. The game’s multiplayer mode, Legends, added co-op gameplay with mythical elements, further extending its longevity.
2021: Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart showcased the power of the PlayStation 5 with its near-instant loading times, stunning visuals, and innovative use of the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback. The game introduced a new playable character, Rivet, and expanded on the series’ signature humor, fast-paced combat, and creative weaponry. Its dimension-hopping mechanics allowed for dynamic level design and gameplay, making it a standout title in the platformer genre.
2022: God of War Ragnarök, Horizon Forbidden West
God of War Ragnarök continued Kratos and Atreus’ journey through Norse mythology, offering a more expansive world, refined combat, and emotionally charged storytelling. The game introduced new weapons, abilities, and larger-scale boss battles, while also delving deeper into the relationship between its protagonists. Its narrative complexity and technical polish earned it widespread acclaim.
Horizon Forbidden West expanded on its predecessor with a larger open world, new biomes, and improved traversal mechanics like the Shieldwing and Pullcaster. The game’s story explored Aloy’s quest to save her world from a new threat, while its combat introduced new machines and weapons, providing players with even more strategic options.
2023: Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 elevated the series with a darker, dual-protagonist storyline featuring Peter Parker and Miles Morales. The game introduced the symbiote suit, which added new combat abilities and narrative tension, as well as the fan-favorite villain Venom. Enhanced traversal mechanics, including web wings for gliding, and a larger, more detailed New York City made it one of the most immersive superhero games to date.
2024: Astro Bot (Winner)
Astro Bot took home the GOTY award in 2024, showcasing the PlayStation 5’s capabilities with its innovative platforming mechanics and charming design. The game celebrated PlayStation’s history with numerous references to iconic franchises, while its inventive level design and creative use of the DualSense controller made it a joy to play. Its vibrant visuals, tight controls, and heartfelt storytelling cemented it as one of the best platformers of its generation.
Conclusion
Sony’s consistent delivery of high-quality, technically impressive, and emotionally resonant games has made it a dominant force in the gaming industry. With God of War (2018), The Last of Us Part II (2020), and Astro Bot (2024) earning top honors, Sony has proven its ability to innovate and set new benchmarks in interactive entertainment. As PlayStation continues to evolve, its first-party titles will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of gaming excellence.
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All Unlockable Officer Companions in Dynasty Warriors Origins
Dynasty Warriors Origins captures the chaos of epic battles, and one of its standout features is recruiting powerful companions to fight by your side. While romance isn’t part of the game, the bond mechanic lets you deepen relationships with these characters, unlocking their full combat potential. In this guide, we’ll dive into how to unlock every companion, explore their unique abilities, and maximize their strengths on the battlefield.
Understanding companions in Dynasty Warriors Origins
Companions are more than just allies—they're game-changers. At the start of each mission, you can select one to join you. Their availability depends on your faction alignment during the campaign. Once you complete the main story, you gain access to:
* Unrestricted Companion Use: All unlocked companions can be used in replays, regardless of faction.
* Chapter and Battle Replays: Revisit missions via the Inn.
* Lu Bu: The ultimate post-game companion, unlocked after finishing the campaign.
How to unlock companions by faction
Each faction offers unique companions with distinct playstyles and strengths. Below is a breakdown of how to unlock each one.
Shu-Han Faction Companions
* Guan Yu 關羽 – The Jade Tornado * Weapon: Green Dragon (Crescent Blade)
* Battle Arts: Azure Dragon Bellow, Divine Energy Domain, [Sp.] Relentless Whirl Slash, Rising Cloud Crusher
* Playstyle: AOE damage and tank-like durability
* How to Unlock: Align with Liu Bei’s faction and complete Shu-specific missions.
* Zhang Fei 張飛 – The Formidable Mountain * Weapon: Serpent of Yan (Lance)
* Battle Arts: Battle Cry Blast, Inner Fire Fury, [Sp.] Crouching Tiger Strike, Crushing Earth Gambit
* Playstyle: Balanced offense and defense with strong counterattacks
* How to Unlock: Available during Shu missions alongside Liu Bei.
* Zhao Yun 趙雲 – The Silver Blur * Weapon: Dragon Heart (Spear)
* Battle Arts: Earth Shatter, Flying Dragon Rend, [Sp.] Aerial Assault, Dragon Flash
* Playstyle: High-mobility, single-target damage
* How to Unlock: Progress through Shu-Han missions where he plays a key role.
Cao-Wei Faction Companions
* Xiahou Dun 夏侯惇 – The Master of the Qilin * Weapon: Qilin Blade (Podao)
* Battle Arts: Immortal Blade, Sharp Fang Flurry, [Sp.] Sea of Flames, Burgeoning Devastation
* Playstyle: High-damage melee combat
* How to Unlock: Join Cao Cao’s faction and complete key missions.
* Guo Jia 郭嘉 – The Warrior Savant * Weapon: Sword of the Savant
* Battle Arts: Tornado Dance, Flying Dragon Slash, [Sp.] Absconding Slash, Divine Eagle Dance
* Playstyle: AOE damage and mobility
* How to Unlock: Play missions where Guo Jia serves as Cao Cao’s strategist.
* Zhang Liao 張遼 – The Master of Twin Pikes * Weapon: Twin Raptor Pikes
* Battle Arts: Spinning Gale, Battle Roar, [Sp.] Wings of the Phoenix, Furious Dual Rush
* Playstyle: Versatile combat with excellent mobility
* How to Unlock: Available after Lu Bu’s fall when he joins Cao Cao.
Eastern Wu Faction Companions
* Zhou Yu 周瑜 – The Sun’s Flame * Weapon: Flaming Lotus Staff
* Battle Arts: Furious Tiger Dance, Double Wave Slam, [Sp.] Chaotic Flurry, Vaulting Leap
* Playstyle: Fast-paced combat with exceptional mobility
* How to Unlock: Assist Sun Jian or Sun Ce in Eastern Wu missions.
* Sun Shangxiang 孫尚香 – The Sun’s Radiance * Weapon: Heaven and Earth (Wheels)
* Battle Arts: Flying Ring Rend, Triple Tempest, [Sp.] Tornado Slam, Twin Tiger Blast
* Playstyle: Massive AOE damage from a distance
* How to Unlock: Join missions under Sun Ce or Sun Quan.
* Huang Gai 黃蓋 – The Sun’s Wrath * Weapon: Raging Tiger Claws (Gauntlets)
* Battle Arts: Raging Tiger Rampage, Hurricane Kick, [Sp.] Ardent Energy Strike, Heaven and Earth’s Wrath
* Playstyle: High survivability and devastating melee attacks
* How to Unlock: Available during Eastern Wu missions under Sun Jian’s leadership.
Post-Game Companion
* Lu Bu 呂布 – The Unstoppable Force * Weapon: Sky Piercer (Halberd)
* Battle Arts: Unmatched strength and dominance
* Playstyle: Overpowered and game-breaking
* How to Unlock: Complete the campaign to unlock Lu Bu for one-off battle replays.
Pro tips for maximizing companion effectiveness
* Faction Alignment Matters: Choose companions based on your faction during the campaign.
* Bond System: Strengthen your bond with companions to unlock their full potential.
* Experiment in Replays: Use battle replays to test different companions and find your ideal team.
* Save Lu Bu for Tough Battles: Deploy him strategically to dominate the most challenging missions.
Fight on
Dynasty Warriors Origins offers a diverse roster of companions, each with unique abilities and playstyles. Whether you prefer Guan Yu’s sweeping attacks or Lu Bu’s raw power, mastering these allies will elevate your gameplay experience. Let’s conquer the battlefield!
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Acer’s 2025 Education Lineup - New Features & What to Look Out For
As the new year gets into gear, we’ve got some funky fresh TravelMate and Chromebook laptops for 2025. If you’re searching for the perfect laptop to maximize your learning potential, then search no longer, as we have five spiffing new laptops for your consideration. Today’s lineup includes two durable TravelMates, and three new Acer Chromebooks. Each of these exciting devices is tailored for diverse educational environments, so wherever you are in your learning journey, we’re sure that one of these laptops will meet your needs. Let’s jump right in and discover how these laptops can help you to learn.
1. TravelMate B3 11
You may have heard of Acer’s TravelMate family of laptops before, but in 2025 the MIL-STD 810H certified tough laptops balance brains and brawn, featuring a suite of AI enhancements. The 11.6-inch TravelMate B3 11 is a highly efficient, durable learning tool. Powered by the latest Intel processors, low power usage and stellar performance mean that you’ll get your schoolwork done better and faster than ever before.
Online classes and hybrid learning have become an integral part of many students’ lives. The quality of your video and audio can have a huge impact on your learning. To ensure smooth and clear video calls, the TravelMate B3 11 features Acer PurifiedVoice, an AI solution to background noise, with three preset modes: Conference Call, Personal Call, and Off. When we’re engrossed in learning, screen time can quickly build up. The TravelMate B3 11 has Acer’s own inbuilt user-sensing technology, to remind users when they are too close to the screen, as well as a break reminder to encourage regular breaks while hitting the books.
2. TravelMate B3 Spin 12
If adaptability and durability are equally important features in your laptop, then the TravelMate B3 Spin 12 may be just what you need. Boasting a 12-inch touchscreen, TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light certified display and world facing camera, readability and comfort are prioritized. For learners who like to use a pen, the garaged stylus is your key to natural note taking, sketching, painting and more, while the convertible display allows you to fold the screen to your preferred angle, optimizing your learning experiences.
The TravelMate B3 Spin 12 is also certified for MIL-STD 810H, with a shock-absorbent bumper and reinforced brackets to protect against the occasional inevitable drop. Mechanically anchored keys and a spill-resistant keyboard offer further protection, while the replaceable keyboard and serviceable USB Type-C port mean lower total cost of ownership. This laptop shares the reliable connectivity and easy management features of the TravelMate B3 11. Windows Autopilot allows simplified device enrollment, and Wi-Fi 7, optional 4G LTE, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, RJ-45, and HDMI provide a full range of connectivity options.
3. Acer Chromebook Spin 511
Chromebooks and education go together like macaroni and cheese, and if you’ve got an appetite for the best laptop for students, then you’re in the right place. The Acer Chromebook Spin 511 provides students with ultimate flexibility in the digital classroom. Instantly convertible for flipped classrooms, this Chromebook is powered by the latest Intel processor, meaning rapid startup and smooth operations for faster task completion.
The 11.6-inch touch display stays clean thanks to the Antimicrobial Corning Gorilla Glass coating, while a world facing camera (up to 5 MP MIPI) and webcam with 75º wide-field-of-view means top-quality photos for engaging school projects and activities. The optional stylus pen is a necessity for artists and aspiring artists, letting you write, shade and paint as if you were using a real pencil. The Acer Chromebook Spin 511 has 12 hours battery life and Wi-Fi 6E, keeping you connected and respected throughout the flipped classroom day, without ever needing to search for a power outlet.
4. Acer Chromebook Spin 512
With a slightly larger WUXGA (Wide Ultra Extended Graphics Array) screen, Acer Chromebook Spin 512 has an impressive display resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels, and TÜV Rheinland certified low blue light display for ultimate viewing comfort. This Chromebook is equipped with an array of diverse learning tools, including a USI 2.0 stylus for natural note taking, highlighting, and drawing. The 8-megapixel high quality Live Camera brings school projects to life, making learning easier and more convenient.
Similar to the other models discussed today, the Acer Chromebook Spin 512 also has an innovative, modular design, as well as MIL-STD 810H certification. In practical terms, this means lower total cost of ownership, as the replaceable keyboard can be quickly repaired, reducing downtime and letting learners learn. Chromebooks simplify a variety of tasks, and the Acer Chromebook Spin 512 has Chrome Education upgrade and zero-touch registration mechanism to further facilitate device registration operations.
5. Acer Chromebook 511
Last but not least on our tour of Acer’s 2025 education lineup, let’s check out the Acer Chromebook 511. An impressively reliable 11.6-inch notebook, the Chromebook 511 blends power and portability, combining high performance with low power consumption. This model shares many of the great features of the devices discussed above. A USB Type-C port ensures quick charging and easy maintenance for a full day of classes, while the entire keyboard can be swiftly switched out by simply removing two screws. Featuring a double rubber strip seeding on the underside of the Chromebook for support and grip when picking up and carrying, the textured surface helps students hold the device more securely.
MIL-STD 810H certified as standard, the Acer Chromebook 511 is classroom and hallway ready for whatever the days throws at it, soda cans and their contents included! This model is also designed for sustainability, with an OceanGlass touchpad crafted from recycled ocean-bound plastic, as well as PCR plastic material and environmentally friendly paper-plastic packaging to reduce overall environmental impact.
School’s in!
We hope that you’ve enjoyed our exploration of Acer’s 2025 education lineup. As you can see from the five devices above, adaptability and durability are the name of the game. With all-day battery and diverse connectivity options, the choice is yours: do you want a stylus and touchscreen, or would you prefer to stick with the classic laptop design? Hopefully one of the TravelMate or Chromebook notebooks discussed today can meet your needs both inside and outside the classroom, accompanying you as you progress on your learning journey.
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Predator X34 X5 Gaming: Curved Visions and QD-OLED Brilliance
Fed up with gaming on a flat display? Then jump into the curve of the cortex and engulf yourself in the panoramic embrace of the Predator X34 X5 gaming monitor! The Acer Predator X34 is a QD-OLED beast ready to transform your gaming journeys into an Odyssey that even Homer would be impressed by.
As we enter the year of the snake, if you’re ready to take your gaming experience to the next level, then read on to discover all you need to know about the Acer Predator X34. We’ll also cover the display technology questions that you may have been asking yourself -namely what is a QD-OLED monitor? We’ll sort out the differences between OLED and QD-OLED.
Display Essentials: QD-OLED
Before we get stuck into the Acer Predator monitor X34, let’s take a look at the technology behind this display. First, the acronym QD-OLED is short for Quantum Dot Organic Light Emitting Diode. QD-OLED is essentially an enhanced version of OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology, and the magic is in the dots. QD-OLED has a blue light source, when the quantum dots receive an electrical signal, they emit red and green light. In combination with the blue light source, a white spectrum is created. This passes through the LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) matrix and color filter to create an image with improved brightness, color vibrancy, and contrast, as well as deep blacks.
QD-OLED vs OLED
In terms of screen evolution, these are both pretty recent display technologies, yet there are a few notable differences that might affect your decision to go for a QD-OLED monitor instead of a regular old OLED display. Let’s not beat around the bush, QD-OLED is an improvement on OLED display technology, delivering better color accuracy, with a wider color gamut, and more color brightness. On top of these benefits, QD-OLED also performs more efficiently, especially when it comes to HDR (High Dynamic Range) displays.
These features do, however, mean that QD-OLED displays are more expensive than OLED displays. Being a newer display technology, the size options of QD-OLED displays are also more limited than OLEDs. Finally the QD-OLED display reliance on blue OLEDs can lead to faster degradation than regular OLED monitors. Now that we’ve cleared up any questions you may have about these exciting display technologies, let’s check out the Acer QD-OLED brilliance of the Predator X34 X5.
Enter the center
This is a display that simply needs to be seen and played to be believed. A 34-inch UltraWide QHD (3440 x 1440) 240 Hz display that delivers insane levels of contrast, the Predator X34 X5 QD-OLED monitor can be yours for a mere $999.99. For just under a thousand bucks, you can equip yourself with a display that transcends reality. Let’s take a look at the tasty tech specs:
* Screen Size: 34 inches
* Aspect Ratio: 21:9
* Resolution: 3840 x 1440
* Screen Mode: UWQHD
* Panel Technology: AMD FreeSync Premium
* Standard Refresh Rate: 240 Hz
* Response Time: 0.01ms to 0.03ms (G to G)
* Color Supported: 1.07 billion colors
* Brightness: 1000 Nit
* Contrast Ratio: 100 million:1
* Color Gamut: DCI-P3 99%
* Ports and connections: 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x Type-C DisplayPort, USB 3.0
* Built-in Speakers: Dual 5W
* Mounting: VESA mounting compliant (100 x 100 mm)
* Tilt Angle: -5° to 20°
* Horizontal & Vertical Viewing Angle: 178°
* Dimensions (with stand): 22.96 x 37.83 x 14.76 inches
* Weight: 19.84 lbs
* Color: Black
Contrast to queue for
As you can see from these stunning specifications, the Predator X34 X5 provides a visual feast unlike many others. The UWQHD resolution is stretched across 34-inches of display, delivering true 10-bit color gamut (DCI-P3 99%) and Vesa Display HDR 400 True Black Certification. In practical terms this means amplified color luminosity, courtesy of the quantum dots, coupled with true blacks and nuanced shades from the OLEDs. With each pixel coming to life, the color vibrancy, contrast and detail will take your gaming adventures deep into uncharted waters.
Swerve with the curve
Traditionally monitors have been flat. Gamers in the know have seen the light and felt the panoramic embrace that comes when they swerve with the curve. The Predator X34 X5 has a 1800R curve, not dissimilar to the curved screens you’ve enjoyed at movie theaters. Measured in millimeters, screen curvature is expressed as “R.” A more pronounced curve means a lower radius, and the “R” number also gives you a rough guideline to the ideal distance to sit from the screen.
The 1800R curvature of the X34 X5 engulfs users in its panoramic 21:9 aspect ratio, creating a gaming experience that becomes an extension of your vision. Let’s not neglect the sound: two 5W front-facing speakers are positioned for direct impact, rivalling the sharpness and clarity of the display!
Refresh with the best
The 1.07 billion colors supported, and all of the other features of this QD-OLED display would be in vain without a rapid response time: 0.01ms to 0.03ms (G to G). High speed chases and precision manoeuvers require the swiftest of responses, well 0.03ms will give you complete control, accuracy and minimal blur. AMD FreeSync Premium Pro technology syncs the monitor's refresh rate with the GPU, eliminating tearing, and minimizing stuttering and input lag. If you’re aiming to be the best, then this is a monitor that truly pushes the boundaries of gaming refresh speeds: 240 Hz standard refresh rate means that you’ll never miss a beat.
Final considerations
Before we depart, there’s a few other features we must mention. The X34 X5 comes armed with an inbuilt KVM switch, allowing you to instantly jump between devices with no hassle. Ports wise, the X34 X5 has more than you’ll likely need, including a pair of HDMI 2.1 ports, and the highly adaptable Type-C 65W PD. Finally, the display has inbuilt features including BlueLightShieldPro, and Low-Dimming Technology to help the display adapt to your environment as well as protect your eyes during marathon gaming sessions. Whatever games you play, swerve with the curve of the Predator X34 X5 gaming monitor, we assure you that you won’t be disappointed.
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