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Where does virtual reality go next? Right now, there seem to be two paths: Portable and self-contained headsets or those connected to computers and consoles. Valve is clearly betting on the second way with the Index, its first VR hardware. It crams in just about every feature you’d expect from a high-end headset, including some truly transformative finger-sensing controllers. It’s just too bad the entire Index package costs $999, putting it out of reach for most people. It’s a boundary-pushing headset meant to keep the VR industry from getting stale.

A post shared by Engadget (@engadget) on Jun 28, 2019 at 10:31am PDT

1. Windows 11 sucks slightly less now, thanks to a June update

   The update brings a low-latency profile, speeds up search, and patches hundreds of flaws.

2. Xbox CEO says current margins 'cannot continue' in public letter to staff

   The more things change, the more they stay the same.

3. Canada announces bill banning social media for anyone under 16

   The regulation also imposes new safety expectations on 'AI chatbot services.'

4. Valve will stop producing physical Steam gift cards because of scammers

   The never-ending problem of scammers has made Valve decide to stop producing Steam gift cards.

5. A Fable deep dive video shows off the RPG's compelling life sim system

   The delayed Fable reboot is coming to Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC on February 23.

6. Alien: Isolation 2 keeps the classic horror game's uncompromising approach to raising tension

   We played the opening prologue of the horror sequel, and it's still got ways to bring the scares.

7. Amazon's 'Story So Far' feature is finally rolling out to Kindles

   Amazon's "Story So Far" feature is hitting Kindle hardware and the iOS app, but sadly not the Android version just yet.

8. Take a deep look at Halo: Campaign Evolved before it launches next month

   This remake of the first Halo game's hits consoles on July 28.

9. You can personalize your Instagram algorithm now — unless you want to see more posts from accounts you follow

   Instagram has expanded its algorithm personalization features to its main feed.

10. Ubisoft reportedly shuts down more studios and lays off staff in Barcelona and San Francisco

    Ubisoft is reportedly trying to cut costs without leaving key franchises like Rainbow Six: Siege in the lurch with a new round of layoffs.