New Clip from the Minecraft Movie Revealed During Minecraft Live 2024

During the recent Minecraft Live event, fans were treated to an exciting new clip from the upcoming Minecraft movie, offering a deeper look into the highly anticipated project. This new footage builds upon the brief crafting scene shown in the initial teaser, giving fans a sneak peek at the movie's creative direction. The segment, which features a conversation between Mojang creative director Torfi Frans Olafsson and Minecraft Movie director Jared Hess, occurs at the 4:51 mark and includes a glimpse of a Minecraft bee—a visual that's left some fans unsure of its portrayal.

Minecraft Movie Release Date Set for April 2025

After years of development delays and shifting release dates, A Minecraft Movie is finally set to hit theaters in April 2025. The movie boasts a star-studded cast, including Jack Black as Steve, alongside Jason Momoa, Danielle Brooks, Emma Myers, and Sebastian Eugene Hansen. The film has been in the works for over a decade, with numerous hurdles along the way. However, it now seems ready to bring the iconic Minecraft world to life on the big screen.

A Decade in the Making

Plans for the Minecraft movie were initially announced ten years ago, with various release dates being proposed and then canceled throughout the development process. Despite the long wait, excitement has been building as more details about the movie emerge. Fans of the globally popular sandbox game are eager to see how the blocky world of Minecraft will be translated into a cinematic experience.

What to Expect from the Minecraft Movie

The Minecraft movie aims to capture the essence of the beloved game while introducing new adventures and characters. With Jack Black leading the cast as the iconic character Steve, expectations are high for a fun, family-friendly film that stays true to the game's core elements, like crafting and exploration. The inclusion of Jason Momoa and other notable stars adds even more anticipation for what promises to be a unique addition to the world of video game adaptations.

As the release date approaches, fans can look forward to more trailers, teasers, and behind-the-scenes insights into what could be one of the most eagerly awaited video game movies in recent years.

Conclusion

The Minecraft Movie, set for release in April 2025, is generating significant buzz following the latest clip reveal at Minecraft Live. With a decade of development and an impressive cast, the film is poised to be a must-watch for Minecraft fans and moviegoers alike.

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Elastic Returns to Open Source with AGPL License Amid Industry Licensing Trends

 

Licensing disputes have been a central challenge in the commercial open-source space. Many companies, including Grafana and Element, have adopted more restrictive "copyleft" licenses, while others like HashiCorp have gone fully proprietary. However, Elastic, an $8 billion company, has taken a different route by returning to open source.

Elastic, known for its enterprise search engine Elasticsearch and Kibana visualization dashboard, surprised the industry last month by announcing a shift back to open source after nearly four years of operating under proprietary "source available" licenses. This decision comes at a time when many companies are moving away from open-source models, with some developing entirely new licensing structures like "fair source."

Elastic’s Transition to Closed Source and the AWS Conflict

Elastic initially switched to closed-source licenses in 2021 following a prolonged conflict with Amazon Web Services (AWS). AWS offered its own managed version of Elasticsearch under the Apache 2.0 license, which was permitted, but Elastic believed that AWS's use of the "Amazon Elasticsearch" brand caused confusion among customers. This led Elastic to pursue legal action against AWS for trademark infringement.

While Elastic eventually reached a legal settlement with AWS, the ongoing legal battles consumed valuable resources, which detracted from the company’s core mission. Elastic co-founder and CTO Shay Banon noted, “It was just taking too long — you can spend years winning a legal case, and by then, you’ve lost the market due to confusion.”

As a result of the conflict, AWS forked Elasticsearch and launched OpenSearch, which is now under the stewardship of the Linux Foundation. With OpenSearch well-established, Elastic decided to return to an open-source model.

A Return to Open Source with AGPL

Elastic’s return to open source isn't a full-circle move back to its original Apache 2.0 license. Instead, the company has adopted the AGPL (Affero General Public License), a more restrictive license that requires any derivative software to be released under the same AGPL terms. This contrasts with Elastic's previous proprietary licenses, which allowed more flexibility but lacked the "open source" stamp recognized by the Open Source Initiative (OSI).

Elastic’s transition back to AGPL was driven by the desire to reconnect with the open-source community. Banon stated, “I love open source. It encapsulates a set of freedoms that we developers love having.”

Looking Forward: New Licensing Possibilities

Elastic aims to collaborate with the OSI to create a new type of license that strikes a balance between AGPL and SSPL (Server Side Public License), the latter being a license pioneered by MongoDB. The company hopes this potential new license could offer the benefits of open-source licensing while addressing the challenges that led to its previous conflicts.

For now, Elastic is content with being able to label itself "open source" once again, a designation Banon believes is critical in attracting developers and businesses that prioritize open-source solutions.

Conclusion

Elastic’s move back to open source is a significant development in the tech industry, especially as many companies shift toward proprietary models. By adopting the AGPL license, Elastic is positioning itself as a leader in the open-source community while addressing the licensing challenges that have plagued the commercial open-source sector.

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Popular Songs Disappear from YouTube Amid SESAC Deal Negotiations

Some of the biggest hits from artists like Adele, Green Day, Bob Dylan, and R.E.M. are disappearing from YouTube as the platform's deal with SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers) nears expiration. Fans trying to watch these videos are now greeted with a message: "This video contains content from SESAC. It is not available in your country."

The removal of these videos has impacted the US audience, though not all songs from these artists have been blocked. Songs like Adele's "Rolling in the Deep" now display a black screen, signaling restricted access due to copyright disputes.

YouTube’s Response to the Situation

In response, a YouTube spokesperson confirmed that the platform is in active discussions with SESAC to renew their licensing agreement. Despite ongoing efforts, they have yet to reach a deal, leading to the removal of content protected under SESAC's rights. YouTube emphasized its commitment to copyright, stating, "We take copyright very seriously, and as a result, content represented by SESAC is no longer available on YouTube in the US. We are hopeful for a resolution soon."

However, sources suggest that the current agreement hasn't officially expired yet. Industry insiders speculate that YouTube may be using the removal of content as a negotiation strategy, with the deal expected to expire next week.

SESAC’s Role in Music Licensing

SESAC, which represents over 35,000 songwriters, composers, and music publishers, plays a critical role in ensuring that artists receive royalties for their work. The current standoff with YouTube echoes previous industry disputes, such as the one between TikTok and Universal Music Group earlier this year. However, SESAC has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the current negotiations.

For now, US users may see more popular music videos disappear as the situation unfolds. Fans and creators alike are eagerly awaiting a resolution that could bring back access to these beloved tracks.

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Podcasting Setup Guide: How to Create a Professional Podcast from Home

Podcasting has become an accessible and popular medium, allowing anyone with a voice and an idea to share it with the world. Whether you're using a high-end studio or a simple USB microphone setup, your podcast can thrive with the right tools and environment. Here's an inside look at how Alex Goldman, co-founder of the popular podcast Reply All, creates his podcast Hyperfixed from his home studio.

Creating the Perfect Podcasting Space

Since the pandemic, many podcasters have transitioned to home setups, turning small spaces into functional recording studios. For Goldman, his podcasting sanctuary is a cozy 8x8 room in his basement. It may not look like much, but it's perfect for achieving high-quality sound.

The key to a good recording space is controlling sound reflections. By cluttering the room with soft materials and using sound baffles, echo is minimized. One clever trick Goldman uses is hanging a Black Sabbath Vol. 4 flag over a wool blanket to improve acoustics while adding a personal touch to his space.

Essential Podcasting Gear

Goldman’s podcasting equipment consists of tried-and-true tools used across the industry:

• Microphone: A Shure SM7B—a staple in radio and podcasting for its reliable sound quality.
• Audio Interface: He uses both a Focusrite 2i2 and a Focusrite 18i8, depending on the recording needs. The 18i8 is ideal for desktop recording, while the 2i2 is portable and easy to use.
• Software: For audio editing, Goldman sticks with Pro Tools, the industry standard, now available as a subscription for $10/month.

Music and Sound Design

Creating music for podcasts doesn't have to be complicated. Goldman often collaborates with The Mysterious Breakmaster Cylinder for his shows' music, but he also enjoys crafting his own sounds using synthesizers like the Sequential Circuits Prophet 6 and Moog Matriarch. These synthesizers are perfect for adding rich, textured sounds to his podcast, giving it a unique feel.

For drum sounds, he mainly relies on Ableton's stock drums, but also incorporates beats from samplers and drum machines like the Erica Synths LXR-02 and SOMA Pulsar-23.

Final Thoughts

Podcasting is more accessible than ever, and with a well-prepared space and the right gear, anyone can create a professional-sounding podcast from home. Whether you're producing content in a small room or a full-fledged studio, focusing on sound quality and staying creative with your equipment will set your podcast apart.

Goldman’s setup proves that with the right tools, even a basement studio can become a hub for high-quality, engaging content.

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Related Podcasting Resources:

• Left Handed Radio’s Anna Rubanova
• Science Vs’ Rose Rimler
• Criminal/This Is Love’s Lauren Spohrer
• Jesse Thorn of Bullseye

These creators share their own podcasting setups, providing valuable insights into how to build a workflow that suits your unique podcasting style.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold Review: Google’s Best Foldable Yet

 

Samsung deserves credit for pioneering foldable smartphones with its Galaxy Fold in 2019, despite initial skepticism. However, it was the Galaxy Flip, released a year later, that truly showcased the potential of foldable technology. Fast forward to 2023, and Google entered the foldable market with the Pixel Fold, which quickly became a favorite for its refined design and usability.

Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Bigger, Better, and More Refined

Building on the success of its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold takes the foldable experience to a new level. Google has carefully refined the form factor, making the device more manageable while maximizing screen real estate. The front display has expanded from 5.8 to 6.3 inches, providing plenty of space for day-to-day tasks, while the interior display now boasts a full 8-inch 120Hz AMOLED screen—comparable to an iPad Mini.

Despite the increase in screen size, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is lighter than its predecessor, weighing 257 grams, down from 283 grams. This weight reduction is impressive, although it comes with a slightly smaller battery (4,605mAh compared to 4,821mAh). However, the new Pixel Tensor G4 chip ensures greater power efficiency, compensating for the smaller ba

One of the standout features of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is its impressive tri-camera system, which rivals some of the best on the market. The main camera features a 48MP wide lens, complemented by a 10.5MP ultrawide and a 10.8MP telephoto lens. Google’s continued improvements in computational imaging ensure that photo quality is top-notch, making the Fold an excellent device for both casual and professional photography.

The Foldable Market Heats Up

The Pixel Fold family has added significant competition to the foldable smartphone space. Along with other entrants like OnePlus Open and Oppo’s foldables, innovation in this space continues to push forward. Samsung, while still a leader in foldable technology, now faces serious competition that’s raising the bar for consumers.

Final Thoughts: A Worthy Successor

The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has grown in both size and capability while maintaining a sleek, manageable design. Its expanded screen, powerful tri-camera system, and lightweight build make it a strong contender in the foldable market. With each iteration, Google refines its foldable technology, and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold is no exception—easily positioning itself as one of the best foldables available today.

Key Features:

• 6.3-inch front display
• 8-inch 120Hz AMOLED interior screen
• Pixel Tensor G4 chip
• 48MP wide, 10.5MP ultrawide, 10.8MP telephoto cameras
• 257 grams with a 4,605mAh battery

For those seeking a premium foldable experience, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold delivers in every aspect—from productivity to photography.

YouTube Faces Blocked Music Videos Amid SESAC Negotiations Breakdown

A number of popular YouTube videos featuring music from renowned artists like Adele, Green Day, Bob Dylan, Nirvana, and R.E.M. have become unplayable in the United States since Saturday. Users attempting to access iconic tracks such as Bob Dylan’s “Like A Rolling Stone” are greeted with the message: “This video contains content from SESAC. It is not available in your country.” In some cases, ads play before the video is blocked.

Interestingly, not all videos from these artists are affected, and it remains unclear whether the playable ones are exempt from the current dispute or simply overlooked.

The cause of the blockage stems from failed negotiations between YouTube and SESAC, a performing rights organization that represents over 35,000 music artists and publishers. In a statement, YouTube explained the situation, saying, “Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we were unable to reach an equitable agreement before its expiration. As a result, content represented by SESAC is no longer available on YouTube in the US. We are actively working to reach a new deal.”

This scenario mirrors a similar situation earlier in the year when Universal Music Group pulled tracks from artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish off TikTok amid royalty negotiations.

SESAC, unlike record labels, functions as a collection agency for songwriters and publishers, akin to ASCAP and BMI. In addition to the artists affected, SESAC also represents big names such as Burna Boy, George Clinton, and Kings of Leon.

As negotiations continue, users are left hoping for a quick resolution to restore access to their favorite music on YouTube. Stay tuned for updates.

Spotify Faces Outage: Users Report App and Web Player Issues

Spotify users across the globe faced disruptions as the music streaming giant confirmed it was experiencing technical issues that rendered both the app and web player temporarily unusable for many. The outage began late Sunday morning, causing frustration among users who reported a variety of problems, including songs pausing mid-play and being completely locked out of their accounts.

Spotify acknowledged the issue through its official Spotify Status account on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “We’re aware of some issues right now and are checking them out!” The company has not provided further details on the cause or a timeline for when services will be fully restored.

If you're encountering similar problems, you're not alone. Spotify is actively working to resolve the situation and restore seamless music streaming to all users.

Stay tuned for updates as Spotify continues to address these technical glitches.