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Long Reads for the Long Weekend
(Welcome to the Entertainment Strategy Guy, a newsletter on the entertainment industry and business strategy. I write a weekly Streaming Ratings Report and a bi-weekly strategy column, along with occasional deep dives into other topics, like today’s article. Please subscribe.) Happy Fourth of July weekend! As has been a tradition of mine going back to the beginning of the EntStrategyGuy website, I’m sharing my favorite long reads of the last year, like I did in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024, and 2025. Let’s dive right in! Subscribe “Different Prices for the Same Ride: How Uber and Lyft Use AI to Get More Money Out of You“ by Derek Kravitz in Consumer Reports I don’t think surveillance pricing, like the kind described in this brilliant Consumer Reports article, is long for the world—it’s toxically unpopular—but we’ll see if either party takes on this issue. If I ran a political party focused on affordability, I would focus on a few pro-consumer and pro-market policies: Banning non-compete agreements. Ending surveillance pricing Eliminating junk fees (read more here...) Ensuring “right to repair” for consumer (and military!) products Capping excessive app store fees Stopping digital/algorithmic price-fixing tools. Preventing automatic subscription price increases. And more. If you want to fight inflation, there are a lot of great ways to do it quickly. Speaking of higher prices... “Secret Documents Show Pepsi and Walmart Colluded to Raise Food Prices Across the Economy“ by Matt Stoller in BIG Again, I think a political party should focus on lowering prices for consumers. And deals like this—Walmart making a deal/forcing Pepsi to offer the lowest prices at its stores and nowhere else—hypothetically lower prices at Walmart...but raise them everywhere else. “15 DUIs, still driving: California’s failure to take repeat drunk drivers off the road“ by Robert Lewis and Lauren Hepler in CalMatters CalMatters does terrific reporting in California, something the Golden State desperately needs more of, and this article is a great example of that. “PugLips: The next insanely popular thing you’ve never heard of…” by Simon Carless in Game Discover Co I thought that this parody article (and yes, it’s a parody, but I was definitely unsure at first) was hilarious and totally nailed how much tech/business journalism feels these days. Actually, three of my favorite articles this year were on hype in the video game industry, including Georg Zoller’s “The Video Game Industries Very Dark Night”—which I linked to recently and wrote a follow-up here—and Owen Mahoney’s “Derek Zoolander, Videogame Exec”. In particular, I like Mahoney’s focus on user experience as a guide to what trends will actually grab hold of customers. “The Matrix Lies“ by Evan Shapiro in Media War & Peace Evan Shapiro’s first person account of his experience with AI was hilarious. I think LLMs capabilities have significantly grown from last summer, and yet...my editor/researcher just had an abysmal experience using an LLM to do a quite basic task (which our LLM normally does each week) and the LLM made a mistake on every single data entry...along with seven different mistakes affecting twelve of the twenty or so entries, including mistakes that are explicitly spelled out in the prompt. That’s a brutal failure rate. Again, if you use AI/LLM for data collection, you need to take a lot of extra steps to verify and check the data. “Ghosts in the Balcony: A Cross-Country Trip to 58 Theaters Fighting to Survive“ by Matthew Frank in The Ankler I thought Matthew Frank’s pitch to head across America to visit theaters sounded insane aggressive at the time—at least it felt that way to someone a decade older than him; man, to be in your twenties again, am I right?—but I knew the result would be great. And it was, a terrific feature by a great young writer. Also, I loved Matthew’s recent article on who’s getting the precious few entry level jobs in Hollywood. (Hint: nepotism.) “Disney erased FiveThirtyEight“ and “Did Las Vegas get too greedy?” by Nate Silver in Silver Bulletin I love media history and analysis, and there’s no one better to get the history of FiveThirtyEight than from Nate Silver, who wrote about his personal experience in one of my favorite pieces from this year. I also loved Nate’s breakdown of what’s causing Vegas’ woes, but I’ll offer one criticism, summarized as “Might I suggest antitrust?” Many centrists/center-right/libertarian thinkers (Nate is self-described as the latter) often don’t consider consolidation or antitrust as factors in policy issues like housing, America’s military readiness, or, in this case, Las Vegas. Even if libertarians want to debunk antitrust/consolidation concerns, I’d love to read that debunking. In this case, Vegas is incredibly consolidated (though it also has been for a long time) and I’d have loved to read Nate at least contending with this factor, since he addresses almost every other potential factor for Vegas’ decline. “Why Microsoft’s Carbon Removal Pullback Is Such a Big Deal“ by Robinson Meyer in Heatmap News I’m a big supporter of carbon removal efforts, but this nascent industry faces a lot of headwinds, including this big move most recently. I think it’s clear that solar panels and batteries should be able to get the world to its carbon footprint goals, but effective carbon renewal remains necessary to prevent the worst impacts of global warming. “AI is killing the cheap smartphone“ by David Oks LLMs and AI will impact the world in ways we’re not ready for, and already, third world countries are seeing the prices of cheap cellphones skyrocket due to the cost of chips skyrocketing. This article by David Oks is a terrific breakdown. “100 Days of Madness: Netflix, Paramount, Warner and the Future of Hollywood“ by Wade Major at Hollywood Heretic Wade Major dove deep into Hollywood/streaming’s financials in this must read piece. Not that I agree with everything in this article (read my take on Warner Bros./Paramount here) but the analysis is top notch. I think many people discount how quality thinking, regardless of the argument/conclusion, will make you a better thinker. “Erased by the UFC: Frank Shamrock, The MMA GOAT of the 20th Century“ by Nate Wilcox in The MMA Draw Newsletter Growing up playing the UFC fighting game on the Dreamcast, Frank Shamrock was my favorite MMA fighter, and this history/tribute to him was great. Other Fun Reads “The Hardest Part Of History To Tell Is How It Felt“ by Craig Fehrman at Defector “Unmasking the Sea Star Killer“ by Craig Welch at bioGraphic “What Could Save the Industry? Fin-Syn“ by Richard Rushfield in The Ankler Alex Rollins Berg in Underexposed on movie bumpers, pillow shots, Disney trash cinema, cult films, and Casablanca. David H. Montgomery in YouGov’s The Surveyor on punctuation marks, condiments, dinosaurs, and comic strips and kids media. “How Medium finally pivoted its way to profitability“ and “Why the best journalists on YouTube are all former Vox employees“ by Simon Owens in Simon Owens’s Media Newsletter “It’s Not Just You, Netflix Shows Have Gotten Slightly Shorter: Here’s What the Data Says“ by Kasey Moore at What’s on Netflix “Numlock Awards: How Diane Warren became the biggest loser in Oscar history“ by Nathaniel Rakich and “Numlock Awards: The Oscar Bait era is over. The Oscar Chum era is here.” by Walt Hickey & Michael Domanico at Numlock Awards
Diarrhea-causing parasite that can contaminate raw produce causing misery across several states
This 4th of July weekend, you may want to give those raw berries or green salad the side-eye.
Nick Mayer Ford Mayfield Expands Ford Transit Van Inventory for Businesses Across Northeast Ohio
Nick Mayer Ford Mayfield helps businesses throughout Mayfield Heights, Cleveland, Mentor, Euclid, Beachwood, Solon, and Northeast Ohio find the ...
Scientists discover giant fan-shaped structure beneath Antarctica's ice sheet: The hidden structure rewriting Earth's ancient history
For decades, Antarctica has been treated as a kind of frozen time capsule, a place where evidence of Earth's deep past sits preserved, undisturbed, beneath layers of ice that have built up over millions of years. As per the study published in Nature Geoscience, scientists have now uncovered something remarkable within that buried record: an enormous, fan-shaped geological structure stretching across a huge swath of East Antarctica, hidden entirely from view beneath the ice.
Meet Melissa Rutland, the Republican running to flip HD 60 with a pledge that 'solutions aren't partisan'
The battle to replace Democrat Lindsay Cross is likely to be one of the toughest this cycle.
The nation’s cartoonists on the week in politics
Every week political cartoonists throughout the country and across the political spectrum apply their ink-stained skills to capture the foibles, memes, hypocrisies and other head-slapping events in the world of politics. The fruits of these labors are hundreds of cartoons that entertain and enrage readers of all political stripes. Here's an offering of the best of this week's crop, picked fresh off the Toonosphere. Edited by Matt Wuerker.
The American Lens: The most impactful sports photos in history
ESPN asked a panel of athletes, photojournalists and others from across the sports world to define the most impactful sports photos in American history
Wayne County health officials track 27 potential cyclosporiasis cases amid growing Michigan outbreak
Wayne County health officials say they are tracking 27 potential cases of cyclosporiasis as part of a growing intestinal illness outbreak spreading across southeast Michigan.
Hot ticket: Fireworks, drones and patriotic celebrations
Fireworks will light up the skies from Galveston Bay to the Gulf this weekend as communities across Galveston County celebrate America’s 250th birthday with parades, concerts, drone shows and patriotic
Global dietary estimates for conducting health, environmental and economic impact assessments
Nature Food - The Global Dietary Database for Impact Assessments provides information on what people eat across countries and demographic groups by integrating data on food availability,...
Europe’s Health Systems Face a Heat Test
New WHO guidance highlights how extreme heat is straining hospitals, with practical measures now shaping safer care environments across Europe.
‘Check Your Political Identities at the Door’: Lawmakers Come to UVA Darden to Practice Leadership
A select group of state legislators will gather at UVA Darden for a nonpartisan leadership program focused on productive disagreement, values-based decision-making and leading across political differences.
India, Japan deepen business ties
The leaders of India and Japan pledged Thursday to strengthen economic ties, as cross-border dealmaking picks up between the two Asian nations.
HOMETOWN ENTERTAINMENT: July 4th celebrations across the region offer fireworks, food and family fun
Multiple fireworks celebrations are scheduled across the region this weekend with live music, food and family entertainment
HCA Healthcare Foundation awards grants to 89 Middle Tennessee nonprofits, advancing community health
In 2026, the HCA Healthcare Foundation has awarded $2.1 million in grants to 89 nonprofit organizations across Middle Tennessee.
‘Explosive’ diarrhea illness reported across US. See map of affected states
Cyclosporiasis can ruin a summery picnic with explosive diarrhea and other food poisoning symptoms, according to the CDC. See the impacted states.
Legacy Business Spotlight: Baton Rouge Clinic
— ESTABLISHED 1946— The Baton Rouge Clinic, AMC has been delivering patient-centered care to the Capital Region for 80 years. Founded by four local physicians, the clinic has grown from a single practice into a network of 18 locations serving nearly 400,000 patients across Louisiana, while remaining true to the physician-led model thathas defined it […]
Democrats demand HHS reinstate cancelled teen pregnancy prevention grants
Democrats across both chambers of Congress are demanding the Trump administration reinstate tens of millions of dollars in teen pregnancy prevention (TPP) grants that were suddenly cancelled last w…
Scott Bessent goes after the top Mexican cartel’s new billion-dollar business: gas stations
Treasury sanctioned two men and nine firms tied to a Jalisco cartel fuel-theft ring that reportedly nets tens of millions a year across 21 Mexican states.
Sports Help Shape Young Lives. Trans Kids Deserve That Chance.
By Lambda Legal Senior Content Manager Lake Geslani When Becky Pepper-Jackson laced up her running shoes, she wasn’t thinking about court cases or political debates. Like countless young athletes across the country, she simply wanted to be part of a team, compete alongside her friends, and proudly represent her school. Instead, Becky found herself at...
Colorado business confidence improves but still pessimistic
Halfway into the year, business confidence across Colorado has improved but is still negative, a new report found. The Leeds Business Confidence Index, a measurement of how business leaders across Colorado feel about the future of the national and state economy, increased by one point to a score of 43, according to a report released […]
Colorado business confidence improves but still pessimistic
Halfway into the year, business confidence across Colorado has improved but is still negative, a new report found. The Leeds Business Confidence Index, a measurement of how business leaders across Colorado feel about the future of the national and state economy, increased by one point to a score of 43, according to a report released […]
Colorado business confidence improves but still pessimistic
Halfway into the year, business confidence across Colorado has improved but is still negative, a new report found. The Leeds Business Confidence Index, a measurement of how business leaders across Colorado feel about the future of the national and state economy, increased by one point to a score of 43, according to a report released […]
Mystery parasite leaves Americans battling ‘explosive diarrhea’ as CDC investigates
The CDC reports 145 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases across 17 states as the parasitic outbreak season climbs, with 20 patients hospitalized so far.
Premier Lacrosse League raises $100 million as sport gears up for ‘biggest moment’ in its history
Another big valuation moment for an up-and-coming sports league.
Ford sales struggle with no Escape, F-Series woes, less rental business
Ford struggled compared to crosstown competitors General Motors Co. and Stellantis NV.
Trump administration’s $46 billion 'smart wall' races ahead
The wall is under heavy scrutiny for the billions of dollars being dedicated to it when border crossings are at their lowest in decades.
Trump administration’s $46 billion 'smart wall' races ahead
The wall is under heavy scrutiny for the billions of dollars being dedicated to it when border crossings are at their lowest in decades.
How Paul Rabil is growing the business of lacrosse
Premier Lacrosse League Co-Founder Paul Rabil joins Yahoo Finance Executive Editor Brian Sozzi on Opening Bid to discuss the business of lacrosse, the sport's rising stars, and how the league plans to lower the cost of youth lacrosse.
Track & Field Alum Pablo Almaguer Celebrates Induction into RGV Sports Hall of Fame
RIO GRANDE VALLEY – The week of Pablo Almaguer's induction into the Rio Grande Valley Sports Hall of Fame for his success as the head girls track & field and cross country coach at Weslaco High School, he was asked if he ever envisioned such an honor coming his way.
Clean bills of health: Which Central Florida restaurants had perfect inspections in June?
After 1,104 restaurant inspections across Central Florida in June, only 162 had no issues for the entire month, according to data from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
What is cyclosporiasis? Know the signs, prevention as Michigan health officials investigate outbreak
Michigan health officials are investigating an outbreak of cyclosporiasis across the state after at least 170 cases were reported within days.
Cowboys and Eagles dominate roster strength comparison across NFC East
Ranking the NFC East rosters by player grades
CVS Health (CVS) Takes A Leading Role In America250 Community Health Events
CVS Health (NYSE:CVS) is partnering with America250 to support community events tied to the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations. The company plans to help lead community engagement at block parties and public celebrations across major cities. CVS Health intends to use its workforce and local footprint to provide health screenings and volunteer support during these events. CVS Health, with its shares recently trading at $104.81, is adding a fresh public health angle to the...
30 Crusaders Named Arthur Ashe, Jr. Sports Scholars
WORCESTER, Mass. – The College of the Holy Cross had 30 student-athletes named 2026 Arthur Ashe, Jr. Sports Scholars, honoring their athletic and academic achievements. The awards were announced in the June 8 issue of Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine. Leading the way was senior Julian Beban of the men's soccer team, who was one of 10 national finalists for the men's Sports Scholar of the Year award. Beban was also joined by senior Julian Jenkins (men's lacrosse) and senior Emma Tweed (women's rowing) as the top honorees in their respective sports.
How first-time candidate Melat Kiros upended Denver politics by defeating one of its biggest figures
“To overcome the millions of dollars in dark money, we were able to have real conversations with folks across the city, and I think that made a real difference,” Kiros spokeswoman Annie Orloff said.
Arts and entertainment events happening July 2nd-5th across the Mid-Ohio Valley
Joe Oliverio joins Daybreak to discuss what’s happening July 2nd-5th across the Mid-Ohio Valley!
Scientists fear cuts may shut radio telescope
The site is part of e-MERLIN, a globally significant group of seven radio telescopes across the UK.
The US healthcare system is in crisis. A Supreme Court ruling could make things worse
The effects of the high court ruling that could lead to mass deportations will be felt across hospitals and emergency rooms, which already operate under persistent staffing shortfalls. But it's the long-term health care sector that will suffer the greatest disruptions, according to experts.
Building connections across molecular life science
ASBMB President Ed Eisenstein reflects on how the society shaped his scientific career and outlines his vision for expanding connections across academia, industry and government to accelerate discovery, translation and community-building.
WHO, Member States discuss expanding South-East Asia Emergency Health Fund SEARHEF
With climate-related disasters, disease outbreaks and other health emergencies becoming more frequent and complex across South-East Asia, WHO and Member States today discussed measures to strengthen and expand the South-East Asia Regional Health Emergency Fund (SEARHEF) to ensure countries have rapid access to life-saving support when crises strike. "Health emergencies are becoming more frequent, more complex and more costly. Countries need rapid, flexible financing that can be mobilized immediately when lives are at risk. SEARHEF represents regional solidarity in action, enabling Member States to support one another when emergencies strike," said Dr Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge WHO South-East Asia Region. She was addressing the Fifteenth Meeting of the Working Group on the Governance of SEARHEF.
Applications Opened July 1 for Wyoming's Rural Health Transformation Funding
CHEYENNE, WY – Today, the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) announced the opening of Requests for Applications (RFAs) for Wyoming’s Rural Health Transformation Program, a major initiative designed to strengthen healthcare access, improve health outcomes, and support innovative solutions for rural communities across the state. The funding opportunity represents an important step in implementing […]
Local health experts explain cyclosporiasis rise in northwest Ohio, southeast Michigan
Local health officials are reporting a rise in Cyclosporiasis cases across southeast Michigan and northwest Ohio, with Lucas County recording approximately 65 cases and southeast Michigan reporting 170 total, including 90 in Monroe County and 33 in Lenawee County.
British Business Bank bolsters board with four new directors
The British Business Bank has appointed four new non-executive directors across its boards, effective July 1, as chair Stephen Welton CBE is confirmed for a second three-year term
State Gaming Commission orders racetracks to implement fire safety measures
Racetracks across New York must implement fire safety provisions in response to directives issued by the New York State Gaming Commission.
Do this, not that: Health warnings, tips ahead of 4-day heat wave
To prevent illness and injuries, health officials recommend the following safety tips from the American Red Cross and National Safety Council.
WHO Health Emergencies EPI-WIN webinar: Strengthening the governance of national public health agencies for emergency preparedness and response
This webinar will provide a platform to present the main findings of the cross-country study on governance of National Public Health Agencies for emergency preparedness and response and bring country perspectives from different governance models on how governance arrangements shape emergency action in practice.
$63M in federal funding being used to upgrade airports across New York
The funding is part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program and Airport Infrastructure Grant Program.
Manager Jacqueline Mosher Joins Industry Entertainment
EXCLUSIVE: Manager Jacqueline Mosher has joined Industry Entertainment. Mosher works with a mostly literary-focused client base across film and TV and comes to Industry after seven years at Rain Manag...
2026 World Cup Public Health Guide: Expert Safety Tips for Fans
With the World Cup in full swing, the influx of fans is bringing enthusiasm, passion and potential pathogens. An estimated 6.5 million fans are converging across Canada, Mexico and the United States in 16 host cities, and while it’s possible serious diseases can spread during this event, the risk ...
How Bridge Entertainment Labs' Steven Olikara Is Building Community Across America's Deepest Divides
Steven Olikara identifies a "division industrial complex" where media and politics profit from societal polarization, fostering hatred based on false narratives. To counter this, Olikara, drawing from...
How Bridge Entertainment Labs' Steven Olikara Is Building Community Across America's Deepest Divides
Steven Olikara identifies a "division industrial complex" where media and politics profit from societal polarization, fostering hatred based on false narratives. To counter this, Olikara, drawing from his experiences in music and politics, founded Bridge Entertainment Labs.
Haleon teams up with Microsoft in 5-year AI pact to upgrade consumer health operations
Consumer health giant Haleon has tapped Microsoft to incorporate AI across its operations, joining a growing wave of healthcare and life sciences heavyweights turning to Big Tech to execute enterpr | Consumer health giant Haleon has tapped Microsoft to incorporate AI across its operations, joining a growing wave of healthcare and life sciences heavyweights turning to Big Tech to execute enterprise-wide digital overhauls.
The 4 Skills That Matter Most In Global Business Today
Learn the four essential skills for cross-cultural communication, global leadership, and building trust across cultures in today's increasingly global workplace.
Sony will cease production of discs for new PlayStation games in 2028
New games sold for PlayStation consoles will only be available digitally and won’t be sold on discs effective January 2028, Sony has announced. The move applies to all PlayStation games released from that point on, including those made by Sony and those released by third parties. The PlayStation group calls the change “a natural direction for Sony Interactive Entertainment to adapt to consumer trends as the general preference for digital media significantly outpaces physical discs,” according to a PlayStation blog post reviewed by Game File in advance of its publication. As movies, TV and music have shifted from physical media to an age of downloads and streaming, Sony’s move could speed the demise of physical media in a gaming. The industry has offered consumers games via cartridges, cassettes, floppy discs, CDs, DVDs and Blu-Rays across a 50-year stretch. Sony has been reporting to investors in recent years that PlayStation games have been increasingly purchased as downloads, not as discs. The most recent figures show nearly four in five purchases of full games for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 were purchased digitally in the past year. Stats like that may cause today’s news to carry an air of the inevitable. But Sony’s declaration for 2028 is still likely to produce a shock, as the biggest gaming platform on the planet that uses game discs leaves them behind. Discs going away, but the fate of game boxes is unknown Sony is committing to still selling games in physical retailers even after they drop discs in 2028. Just how those games will be sold—in boxes with codes inside, as cards marked with digital redemption codes—is unclear. Digital games will also continue to be sold in the online PlayStation Store. New games released for PlayStation consoles prior to January 2028 will be unaffected by the policy change, Sony says. That means the PS5 games of 2027, be they a new Madden, a new God of War, a new Call of Duty, a new Sly Cooper (one can dream?), would still potentially be offered on disc. PlayStation 6 implications Sony’s timeline for a transition to a no-disc era will also spin up more speculation about the timing and configuration of Sony’s next-generation console, the probable PlayStation 6. “This pretty much guarantees that PS6 won’t arrive until 2028 at the earliest,” Piers Harding-Rolls, senior games research analyst at Ampere Analysis tells Game File. Harding-Rolls also concludes from today’s news that “the base version of a PS6 will not include a physical media drive,” as Sony looks to keep costs down on the device. Sony itself is saying nothing about the PS6 today: not its timing, nor how it might or might not support internal or external disc drives in order to run disc-based PS4 and PS5 games, should the console be backwards compatible. The many signs this was coming Industry support for games being released on physical media has been waning. As has consumer interest in them. PC games effectively went all-digital years ago, thanks to the popularity of playing games through Steam and other digital storefronts. The Covid-19 pandemic and the lockdowns that kept much of the global population home helped shift shopping patterns toward downloads. Sony’s own data shows PlayStation game downloads being an uncommon consumer choice a decade ago and now becoming the norm. On consoles, physical media has been in such decline that Sony and Microsoft both launched their current gen Xbox Series and PS5 consoles in 2020 with cheaper versions that lacked disc drives. In early 2024, Phil Spencer, then head of Xbox, told me that ““[w]e ship games physically and digitally, and we’re really just following what the customers are doing.” He added that the game industry had become an outlier in still supporting disc-based entertainment, even as movies and TV have bailed on discs in favor of downloads and steaming: “Gaming consoles themselves have kind of become the last consumer electronic device that has a drive. And this is a real issue, just in terms of the number of manufacturers that are actually building drives and the cost associated with those. And when you think about cogs that we’re going to go put in a console—and as you have fewer suppliers and fewer buyers—the cost of the drive does have an impact.” Last year, the Nintendo’s Switch 2, which uses cartridges rather than discs, introduced the concept of game-key cards, which are physical media that contain no game, just a prompt for a download. Even disc-based games aren’t what they once were, now frequently containing just stubs of games rather than the whole thing. The website Does It Play has tested over 3000 games and found that, for example, that the disc version of this year’s hit 007: First Light, only contained the game’s first mission, with the rest needing to be downloaded. Beyond all that, last week brought the news that Grand Theft Auto VI, likely the biggest game launch this decade, will debut for PS5 and Xbox Series without a disc-based version. Today’s big news comes to you for free. Game File is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and ensure more of my work is possible, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe Discs helped define PlayStation However the trends in entertainment may be going, it is still remarkable to see PlayStation ditch discs given their importance in PlayStation history: In the late 1990s, the first PlayStation’s support for games on relatively cheap CD-ROMs instead of traditional game cartridges allowed the upstart console to outmaneuver cartridge-based systems from Nintendo and Sega, as it drove down game prices down in the process. (The cheaper disc format even prompted Final Fantasy VII maker Square to taunt Nintendo in a magazine ad, saying that if the game was “available on cartridge, it’d retail for around $1200.”) PlayStation devices often doubled as machines for watching movies and TV on the latest disc-based formats. In the late 2000s, for example, Sony’s pricy PS3 gained traction as a go-to device for playing then-novel Blu-Ray discs. In 2013, Sony effectively roasted the digital game-sharing restrictions proposed by rival Microsoft for its upcoming Xbox One console by showing how games could be shared for the then-upcoming PS4. In a 21-second clip that has over 20 million views on YouTube, one PlayStation executive simply handed a game box—presumably with disc inside—to another, who said “thanks.” Sony’s possible motivations The PlayStation announcement today cites “consumer preferences” and a shift away from discs among “the broader entertainment industry,” but does not delve into the decision-making process that brought Sony to this point. Sony is not discussing the economics of this move (I asked!), but there are a number of potential factors: Abandoning discs will spare Sony the cost of manufacturing and shipping them, which analysts and industry veterans I spoke to said could account for $1 or so of a game’s retail price. For first-party games, that’s direct savings for Sony, though the amount is limited by the winnowing percentage of people who were even buying the disc-based versions. For third-party games, Sony could pass the savings on to partners or just retain the better profit margin for themselves. As the 2024 comments from Phil Spencer alluded to, leaving discs behind could mean leaving disc-drives behind, allowing Sony to produce consoles more cheaply. Switching to digital-only for games could diminish the risks of copies of new games leaking. It would also seemingly make second-hand sales of used games impossible, pushing more people to buy their own copies of games. These economic benefits for Sony could be boons for the games industry overall, Ampere analyst Piers Harding-Rolls tells Game File. Among other things, it could free publishers and retailers from having to worry about securing an inventory of game discs when trying to sell games, he noted. “If there is a way to streamline the business of games retail, I generally think it’s a good thing for the industry as it removes unnecessary costs,” Harding-Rolls said. “This will help offset pressure on margins from other directions – development and staffing costs for example.” Should the industry shift from game boxes that contain discs to smaller, cheaper game cards, Harding-Rolls said, that reduces pressure on publishers and retailers. “The advantage of everything going digital for the industry is that sales can be tracked much more easily and there is less commercial risk for publishers wanting to continue selling via retail,” he said. The shift to no discs will also likely impact game development timelines, as developers will no longer face the same urgency to have a build ready to submit to PlayStation for the production of a disc, as industry experts noted around GTA VI’s no-disc news last week. Instead, projects may gain weeks of development time, in the event delivery deadlines for platform approval move closer to release date. Preservationists’ likely worries While millions of gamers have shifted to digital, there are still people who associate game discs—and only game discs—with actual ownership of PlayStation games. That portion of the gaming community spoke up last week about wanting to buy a version of GTA VI that they could hold in their hands, could lend to a friend and could potentially pop into a well-preserved PS5 console three decades from now and still see it run. Such gamers didn’t want to worry that they’d merely purchased a digital copy that could lose access to the game if, say, the company behind the game someday turns of the servers that transmit downloadable copies. Digital copies of games are inherently less long-lasting, because consumers aren’t actually buying a game (on a disc), just buying access to the game. The fine print in online gaming shops notes this, as does a recent law that went on the books in California in 2025. That lasw requires game publishers doing business in the state to refrain from words like “sell” when offering digital copies of games, unless they explicitly tell consumers that what’s being sold isn’t the game itself but a potentially revocable license to access it. A Sony spokesperson noted to Game File that “[w]ith all digital content, including games, movies, and music, players are purchasing a personal license for non-commercial use.” Regarding the fears of PlayStation games being lost to time in an all-digital era, the rep also noted that Sony remains “committed to delivering experiences from past generations to the new platforms our players are using.” They noted that PlayStation has used emulation and remasters to keep offering its classic games to modern gamers. It’s true that many consumers have become accustomed to not having physical copies of new music albums or movies, but the relative precariousness of digital copies of games is in fact being highlighted today by…. Sony’s other big announcement: the upcoming closure of the PS3 and PS Vita online stores Sony said today that it will be closing the online marketplaces for its PlayStation 3 console and PS Vita handheld in most countries in July 2027 (sooner elsewhere: August 2026 for the PS3 store Mexico, Honduras and Nicaragua; late 2026 for PS3 in other Latin American countries and the Middle East). “We know this news may be disappointing to PS3 and PS Vita players who hold a special place in their hearts for this generation of gaming,” Sony said in its announcement, saying the move “was not an easy decision for us to make.” Sony said that PS3 and Vita marketplaces “are no longer able” to support modern commerce systems, prompting a “need” to close the shops and focus on more modern PlayStation platform stores. The news may spark some deja vu. Sony announced back in March 2021 that it planned to take the PS3, Vita and PlayStation Portable marketplaces offline that summer. The move would have caused some 2,000 digital-only games to become unavailable for new purchasers, according to a VGC analysis at the time. Fans complained loudly. By April 2021, Sony walked back the PS3 and Vita shop closures, with then PlayStation boss Jim Ryan saying “it’s clear that we made the wrong decision here.” This time around, Sony is giving a longer notice period in most regions. The closure of those stores is still likely to cut off access to new purchases of digital-only PS3 and Vita games. The current PlayStation 5 marketplace sells PS5 and PS4 games, as well as a selection of PS1 and PS2 games. It does not sell PS3 games, because games for that platform can’t run on the system (some are offered via a PlayStation Plus streaming option). Vita games also aren’t sold via PS5. Sony says digitally purchased PS3 and Vita games will be downloadable after the stores’ shutdowns “for the foreseeable future.” Sony’s move contrasts with Microsoft’s Xbox platform, which continues to sell and support games from all four Xbox console generations. But it puts it in line with Nintendo, which disabled purchases in the marketplace for its Wii console (a contemporary of the PS3) in 2019. Nintendo discontinued purchases in the online shop for its 3DS portable (a contemporary of the Vita) in 2023. The big questions about Sony’s 2028 post-disc era Will Microsoft follow suit, ending support for new disc-based games on Xbox platforms and therefore all game consoles, too? Whether Microsoft does or not, will third-parties that can no longer release games on discs for PlayStation, simply ditch the disc options across the board? Given the GTA VI no-disc experiment launching this November, will more game publishers decide to forgo disc-based offerings even in 2027? How will no-disc PS5/6 games be packaged and sold in brick-and-mortar retail stores? What becomes of game sharing in an all-digital era? Will Sony modify its current set-up, which currently allows some sharing of digital games across a pair of consoles, to allow more casual lending? (See for example, Nintendo’s year-old system of letting players lend a digital game to another player in a “family group” for up to 14 days.) Will there be a version of a PS6 with a disc drive? Or will a drive be offered as an add-on? And how will gamers who want to retain access to PS4/PS5 disc-based games react to whichever configurations Sony chooses to offer? What will the final disc-based PlayStation game be?
LG LIGHTS UP FOURTH OF JULY SAVINGS ACROSS HOME ENTERTAINMENT AND APPLIANCES
Limited-Time Fourth of July Deals Available on Select LG OLED TVs, Gaming Monitors, Refrigerators, Dishwashers, Vacuums, Laptops and Audio Products News...
Food science sector warns proposed US grant rules could weaken research independence
As the deadline for public comment approaches, a proposed overhaul of the rules governing federal financial assistance is drawing increasing attention from research institutions, universities, and industry organizations, with implications that could extend across the US F&B sector.
How a UVA Darden Executive Program Alumnus Helped Bring the Rotunda to Taipei
During America’s Bicentennial, a Taiwanese university president found inspiration in UVA’s Rotunda. Fifteen years later, a Darden Executive Program alumnus helped carry that vision across the Pacific.
AMC Entertainment (AMC) Is Down 8.7% After Equity Raise To Retire 2027 Notes And Fund Upgrades
In late June 2026, AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. completed a registered direct equity offering of about US$200.03 million and moved to fully redeem US$125.47 million of its 6.125% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2027 at par plus accrued interest. The company plans to use the remaining proceeds to bolster cash reserves and fund growth-oriented upgrades across its theatres as early as this autumn. Next, we’ll explore how using fresh equity capital to retire higher-cost debt and invest in...
Unisun Sports Commences, Kicking Off 2026-27 Season
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Unisun Sports, the groundbreaking strategic alliance between the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) and the United Athletic Conference (UAC), has officially commenced as of July 1, 2026. Unisun Sports will serve both conferences, designed to significantly enhance operational efficiency, foster deeper collaboration, and drive innovation across both NCAA Division I organizations.
Unisun Sports Commences, Kicking Off 2026-27 Season
Unisun Sports, the groundbreaking strategic alliance between the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) and the United Athletic Conference (UAC), has officially commenced as of July 1, 2026. Unisun Sports will serve both conferences, designed to significantly enhance operational efficiency, foster deeper collaboration, and drive innovation across both NCAA Division I organizations.
Public-Health Officials Cross Their Fingers During World Cup
Despite a challenging nationwide climate for disease prevention and control, officials in Texas are stepping up their efforts at the 2026 World Cup.
Across north Minneapolis, neighbors help neighbors survive the opioid crisis
An overdose response network of healthcare providers, community coalitions, a fire station and neighbors equipped with naloxone saw opioid-related emergency room visits decline in north Minneapolis in recent years. An MPR News data analysis finds reasons for hope and concern.
AI-Driven Restructuring Accelerates Layoffs Across U.S. Technology Sector
Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the U.S. technology industry, with major companies accelerating workforce reductions.
The new Pac-12 Conference officially launches with the addition of seven full-time members
July 1, 2026 — Today, seven new full-time member institutions officially join the Pac-12 Conference, including Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, Gonzaga, San Diego State, Texas State and Utah State. With the additions, the new Pac-12 features nine full-time members and is set to compete in its first season with the 2026-27 campaign. The league also officially welcomed 12 new affiliate members today across five Olympic sports, including baseball (Dallas Baptist), men’s soccer (Cal Baptist, Cal Poly, UC Riverside, UC San Diego), women’s gymnastics (Southern Utah), women’s swimming (Cal Baptist) and wrestling (Air Force, Northern Colorado, North Dakota State, Northern Illinois, South Dakota State). In addition to official member admissions and the launch of the new Pac-12, and amid celebrations across new member communities, the league also made a series of other announcements related to its basketball tournaments, its official sports sponsorship and championships and a special edition content series in promotion of its first football season.
Associated British Foods Sugar Unit Weighs on Business Ahead of Primark Spinoff
Associated British Foods backed its guidance across all businesses apart from its sugar unit which it said would post a loss as market conditions deteriorate.
How Elite Sports Coaches Make High-Pressure Decisions
Drawing on interviews with 11 elite coaches across major U.S., European, Australian, and New Zealand professional sports leagues, the authors show that high-pressure decisions aren’t a single “formula” but a set of practices that unfold before, during, and after pivotal moments—and translate directly to business leadership. Top coaches combine disciplined preparation with emotional control and social awareness during crunch time and accountability and continual system improvement after the fact.
Central College to offer data science major
Central College will begin offering a new degree program this fall aimed at preparing students for data-focused professions across a number of industries. The Pella private college announced in a
STARTO ENTERTAINMENT Launches the “STARTO NEWS ARCHIVES” Newsletter Service
Japanese talent agency STARTO ENTERTAINMENT, Inc. has launched the “STARTO NEWS ARCHIVES,” a free digital newsletter service for fans across Asia and beyond ...
Wilmington Small Business Coalition: Building Momentum in 2026 by Heather McWhorter
This article was contributed by Lydia Thomas, UNCW CIE Program Manager. North Carolina continues to be one of the best states to start a business and in 2025, Wilmington, North Carolina earned a spot on the GoDaddy list of the top 10 most entrepreneurial cities in the U.S. While many know Wilmington as small beach town with exceptional food, lots of coffee shops, and fun, vibrant summer activities, a closer look reveals a thriving innovation economy. You’ll find startups emerging across industries including software, healthtech, bluetech, and fintech. At the core of this entrepreneurial ecosystem is the Wilmington Small Business Coalition, with small business advocates and entrepreneur support organizations (ESOs) dedicated to helping founders grow, thrive, and succeed. “No Wrong Door” Established in 2016, the Coalition was designed to make it easier for individuals and small businesses to access resources most suited to their particular needs. The Coalition is designed to have a “no wrong door” entryway into the regional startup ecosystem. Whether you are exploring a new idea sketched on the back of a napkin or leading a more established, growth-stage company, Coalition members can help connect you with the programs, funding opportunities, mentors, and resources best suited to your needs. No matter where you are in your entrepreneurial journey, any Coalition organization can help point you in the right direction. Coalition Members and Leadership Coalition members include the UNCW Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (UNCW CIE), AARP, Brunswick Community College Small Business Center, Cape Fear Community College Small Business Center, Cape Fear Region SCORE, Genesis Block Foundation, Network for Entrepreneurs in Wilmington (NEW), Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC), Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, YWCA Living the Dream Center for Entrepreneurship, Carolina Community Impact Fund (CCI Fund), Partner Community Capital, 717mkt Office Collaborative, NC Biotech, and Institute NC. In May 2026, the Coalition held its leadership elections, resulting in the selection of a new executive team. The following officers were elected to serve two-year terms: Chair: Lydia Thomas, UNCW CIE Vice Chair: Diane Lantz, CCI Fund Secretary: Aariene Hansley, Genesis Block Foundation Treasurer: Gloria Monroe, SBTDC Vision for the Wilmington Small Business Coalition In 2026, the Wilmington Small Business Coalition continues its work as a collaborative network of organizations. By connecting programs, expertise, and services across partner organizations, entrepreneurs can more easily find the right support at the right time. Rather than operating in silos, the Coalition aims to function as a unified, cohesive system of support for small businesses and entrepreneurs, ensuring that resources and expertise across partner organizations are visible and accessible. Through stronger collaboration and shared pathways, entrepreneurs can move more seamlessly from idea to startup to growth. Looking to dive into the Wilmington entrepreneurial ecosystem? Connect with any of the Coalition partners to get started! Connect with CIE To learn more about CIE and our services, programs, and events, join the CIE newsletter. You can also follow us on social media: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, or YouTube. CIE’s website is uncw.edu/cie. Heather McWhorter is the director of the UNCW Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE). CIE supports innovation-forward start-ups and helps to build a vibrant innovation economy for all in southeast NC.
Series of protests held across New York against Hochul's nuclear agenda
The event comes on the heels of the governor’s kickoff of the Nuclear Reliability Backbone process earlier this month.
Golden Knights & Silver Knights Announce Organizational Promotions & New Team Members
Vegas & Henderson personnel updates support continued growth across Foley Entertainment Group
The Lasting Consequences of Bad Climate Science
The retirement of flawed baseline emissions scenarios will initiate changes across energy policy, regulation, and law.
How safe is your favorite restaurant in the Hudson Valley?
Search our database to see the latest health inspection results and violations for restaurants across New York state.
Small Businesses Could Lose Access To Billions In Contracts As New HubZONE Deadline Kicks In
Certain areas across the U.S. that were previously designated as HUBzones will see that status expire on July 1.
Politics: High Cost Of Healthcare And The Political Fallout
Americans are grappling with a rising cost in healthcare. For the first time in five years, fewer than half of Americans can consistently afford healthcare. That’s according to the latest data from Gallup. The cost of healthcare in the US remains higher than any other large, wealthy country. According to a report from the Department of Health and Human Services, five million fewer people are enrolled in marketplace plans for 2026, compared to last year. That’s as average premium costs rose about 58%.With health care costs increasingly becoming a stress for Americans, voters are now making the issue a top priority at the ballot box. And it’s an issue that crosses party and geographic lines. According to new polling from The Century Foundation, 71% of Democrats, 66% of Republicans and 75% of rural voters agree that reigning in hospital costs should be a top priority for lawmakers. While new polling from Ipsos and Axios suggests that a majority of Americans say they’re more likely to vote for candidates in November who will lower their health costs.How will the issue of healthcare shape the midterms? And how are Americans grappling with the cost of their health?Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.
Politics: High Cost Of Healthcare And The Political Fallout
Americans are grappling with a rising cost in healthcare. For the first time in five years, fewer than half of Americans can consistently afford healthcare. That’s according to the latest data from Gallup. The cost of healthcare in the US remains higher than any other large, wealthy country. According to a report from the Department of Health and Human Services, five million fewer people are enrolled in marketplace plans for 2026, compared to last year. That’s as average premium costs rose about 58%.With health care costs increasingly becoming a stress for Americans, voters are now making the issue a top priority at the ballot box. And it’s an issue that crosses party and geographic lines. According to new polling from The Century Foundation, 71% of Democrats, 66% of Republicans and 75% of rural voters agree that reigning in hospital costs should be a top priority for lawmakers. While new polling from Ipsos and Axios suggests that a majority of Americans say they’re more likely to vote for candidates in November who will lower their health costs.How will the issue of healthcare shape the midterms? And how are Americans grappling with the cost of their health?Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.
The End of Independent Federal Agencies Will Change Your Business
For executives, the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Slaughter v. Trump will likely lead to less certainty and consistency for the regulated aspects of their businesses, with federal rules and their enforcement increasingly determined by political expediency rather than expert analysis. Specifically, there are five ways in which all U.S. businesses will be affected: regulation will become more informal and less transparent; consistency across administrations will disappear; oversight by Congress and the federal courts will be diminished; expert advice will be devalued; and politically-connected lobbyists will drive decision-making. In this environment, business leaders will need to plan accordingly, honing their ability to shift strategy, perhaps dramatically, after every election—and perhaps even during administrations.
Acti puts AI agents directly into your smartphone keyboard
Startup Acti is betting the smartphone keyboard is the next home for AI assistants. Its new keyboard for iOS and Android works across apps and lets users create custom AI-powered shortcuts using natural language.
The invasive fern that science misidentified for decades
Salvinia molesta can double its biomass in 36 hours. It spreads across ponds, lakes and slow-moving waterways in a smothering green mat, blocking sunlight, consuming oxygen and collapsing the ecosystems ...
The Sims 4 Update: Official Patch Notes (June 30th, 2026)
Maxis and EA have just released a brand new The Sims 4 Update across all officially supported platforms. Including PC, Mac, Xbox and Playstation platforms.
Protecting Access to Established Research-Backed Healthcare
Protecting Access to Established, Research-Backed Healthcare, Including Transgender Healthcare, Is a Shared Responsibility Across Providers, Advocates, and ...
Stein creates bipartisan commission to address rising North Carolina health care costs
Gov. Josh Stein signed an executive order Tuesday creating a bipartisan commission to recommend ways to lower health care costs, improve transparency and expand access to care across North Carolina.
Rethinking “Soft” Leadership Skills in Public Health
Learn how public health leaders can leverage interpersonal skills to better navigate cross-sector partnerships in this blog post.
Opinion: Proposed cuts to federal funding put the stars out of reach for Alaska science students
For students at UAA and across the state, federal research support can be the difference between opportunity here and leaving for good.
Pacers Sports & Entertainment hires Jas Bell to lead merch design
Pacers Sports & Entertainment's effort to appeal to global fans and cross into culture got a boost with its hiring of Jas Bell as global design and product director.
Community Health Workers Learn Perinatal Outreach Approaches at UAMS Training
LITTLE ROCK — Twenty community health workers (CHWs) from across Arkansas recently gathered in Springdale with a shared goal: to build connections and learn how to better support mothers across the state. Hosted by the UAMS Institute for Community Health Innovation, the three-day Perinatal CHW Upskill Training provided interactive, hands-on…
Invisible Narratives Bolsters Leadership Team with Veteran Entertainment Executives Across Content, Franchise Development, Partnerships, and Finance
Invisible Narratives, a leading entertainment company dedicated to helping digital creators build global franchises, today named three senior leaders to its ...
SGMC Health Names Chad Nelms Associate Vice President of Nursing
SGMC Health announces the promotion of Chad Nelms, RN, to Associate Vice President of Nursing. In this role, Nelms will provide strategic and operational leadership for nursing services across the organization, supporting a cohesive and patient-centered approach to care.
Band Together to Take Down Criminals and Earn Bounty Hunter Bonuses
Bring dangerous criminals across the frontier to heel and earn 3X RDO$, XP, and Role XP dragging in Regular Bounties, and 3X RDO$, XP, and Gold hauling in Legendary and Infamous Bounties.
Lexus expands its MSG presence across arenas, theaters and Knicks games
Lexus gains entitlement rights at Chase Square entrances and more signage across MSG venues, plus expanded exposure during Knicks and Rangers games.
Strengthening Collaboration between Workforce, Health, and Human Services to Meet New Federal Requirements
Human Services Policy Advisors Institute | June 24th, 2026 H.R. 1, or “The One Big Beautiful Bill”, introduced significant changes to work requirements across major health and human services programs. including expanding the populations subject to SNAP time limits, reducing state/territory SNAP waiver flexibility, and creating new work requirements in Medicaid. These changes accelerate the […]
Nutanix and the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics Partner to Expand Computer Science Access Across North Carolina
$250,000 Corporate Grant From Nutanix Establishes Endowed Professorship to Fund Public K-12 Teacher Training and Open-Source STEAM Curriculum NCSSM Nutanix Endowed Professorship Charles Robinson, Nutanix Endowed Professor of Computer Science at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics SAN JOSE, Calif., and DURHAM, N.C., June 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nutanix (NASDAQ: NTNX), a leader in hybrid multicloud computing, and the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM), t
Round table: Manufacturing Revoultion
••• SPONSORED SECTION ••• Manufacturing historically has conjured a certain perception, one of low skills, low pay and low advancement. But times are changing, and they’re changing fast. Spurred by North Carolina’s often lauded economic environment, manufacturers from a variety of sectors are advancing, investing and expanding across the state. But those moves come with […]
Argonne Open House 2026: Science comes to life for visitors
Argonne’s June 27 Open House welcomed more than 8,000 visitors for hands-on science, tours of major research facilities and opportunities to meet researchers across four themes: AI, energy, scientific tools and the universe.
How the Improved Shell App Drives Business Success
The app creates a unified experience to support ‘future growth across the retail network.’
Meet the 2026 NJBIZ Leading Women in Business
NJBIZ names more than 60 Leading Women in Business across industries, plus three Rising Stars, honoring New Jersey professionals.
Trafalgar Entertainment Announces Acquisition Of The London Theatre Company
Trafalgar Entertainment is delighted to announce its acquisition of the London Theatre Company (LTC). | The deal includes The Bridge Theatre and a King’s Cross venue which hosts immersive entertainment business, Lightroom.
Premier Lacrosse League lands $100 million to chase Olympic moment
The funding comes at a crucial period of preparation for PLL, as it looks to capitalize on lacrosse being a part of the 2028 Summer Olympics.