Welcome to the latest edition of Tech News Friday! In this exciting episode for April 25, 2025, we dive into groundbreaking developments in the tech world. Imagine being able to play your favorite Xbox games without owning the actual console. Well, LG and Samsung are stepping up to make this a reality. Additionally, we’ll discuss Verizon Wireless’s subscriber loss and the much-anticipated OnePlus 13T smartphone that promises to shake up the market.
So, sit back, relax, and let’s jump into the news!
Xbox Gaming Without the Console
What if you could indulge in your favorite Xbox games without the need for an actual Xbox console? Thanks to recent announcements from Microsoft, this dream is inching closer to reality. On April 23, 2025, Microsoft revealed that select Samsung and LG smart TVs will soon feature the capability to download and run Xbox cloud gaming.
This means that with an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, priced at around $20 a month, users can enjoy a vast library of games directly on their TVs. All you need is a compatible LG or Samsung smart TV and a Bluetooth game controller to get started.
- Access to Xbox Game Pass library
- Bluetooth controller required
- Stable internet connection essential for streaming
While this innovation offers a budget-friendly alternative to purchasing an Xbox and individual games, there are a few caveats. You will need a compatible smart TV, a suitable controller, and of course, a good internet connection to ensure smooth gameplay. If you’re considering this option, let us know in the comments: would you prefer paying $20 a month for cloud gaming, or investing in physical games and consoles?
Verizon Wireless Faces Subscriber Loss
In other news, Verizon Wireless has reported a significant net loss of 289,000 subscribers in the first quarter of 2025. As competition in the wireless market heats up, more customers are choosing alternatives like T-Mobile and AT&T, both of which have seen net gains.
What’s behind this exodus? One major factor appears to be pricing. Verizon increased its plans from $60 to $68 per month for families with four or more lines, which many consumers find too steep given the current economic climate.
With affordable options like Mint Mobile offering plans starting at just $15 per month, consumers are clearly searching for better deals. Verizon is attempting to counteract this trend with initiatives such as price lock guarantees, but whether these strategies will be effective remains to be seen. What are your thoughts? What wireless company are you currently using, and how do their prices compare?
Introducing the OnePlus 13T
Finally, let’s talk about the highly anticipated OnePlus 13T. Known for its commitment to delivering high-quality devices without excessive compromises, OnePlus has just unveiled what many are calling a flagship killer for 2025.
The OnePlus 13T boasts an impressive 6.32-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, powered by the Snapdragon 80 processor. Users can opt for configurations with up to 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, making it a powerhouse in mobile technology.
- 50 MP primary camera
- 50 MP telephoto lens
- 16 MP front camera
- 6260 mAh battery with 80W charging
- IP65 rating for water and dust resistance
- Runs on Android 15
All of these features come at a price point of under $500 when converted from Chinese currency, which is astonishing for such advanced technology. However, there’s a catch: the OnePlus 13T is currently only available in China, and while there are importing options, they can cost upwards of $599.
Despite this limitation, the excitement around the OnePlus 13T is palpable, especially for fans of the brand. The OnePlus 12 was a standout device last year, and the 13T promises to continue that legacy. Are you excited about the OnePlus 13T? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Conclusion
As we wrap up this edition of Tech News Friday, it’s clear that 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for technology enthusiasts. From playing Xbox games on smart TVs to major shifts in mobile service pricing and innovative smartphones like the OnePlus 13T, there’s much to discuss and anticipate. Be sure to subscribe and hit the notification bell for more updates! Until next time, stay tech-savvy!
Credit: The Tech Preacher on YouTube
