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Digital distributor DistroKid has acquired Bandzoogle, a platform specializing in helping artists create websites and sell their wares to fans. Launched in 2003 and based in Ottawa, Canada, Bandzoogle powers more than 60,000 artist websites and e-commerce stores, and provides solutions for crowdfunding, subscriptions and mailing lists. “At DistroKid, we’re always working on innovative ways […]
A government watchdog agency in France has ordered Apple to withdraw the iPhone 12 from the French market, saying it emits levels of electromagnetic radiation that are too high.
The National Frequency Agency, which oversees radio-electric frequencies as well as public exposure to electromagnetic radiation, called on Apple in a statement Tuesday to “implement all available means to rapidly fix this malfunction” for phones already being used.
Corrective updates to the iPhone 12 will be monitored by the agency, and if they don’t work, “Apple will have to recall” phones that have already been sold, according to the French regulator’s statement.
Apple disputed the findings and said the device complies with all regulations governing radiation.
The agency, which is known by the French acronym ANFR, said it recently checked 141 cellphones, including the iPhone 12, for electromagnetic waves capable of being absorbed by the body.
It said it found a level of electromagnetic energy absorption of 5.74 watts per kilogram during tests of a phone in a hand or a pocket, higher than the European Union standard of 4 watts per kilogram.
The agency said the iPhone 12 met the threshold when radiation levels were assessed for a phone kept in a jacket or in a bag.
Apple said the iPhone 12, which was released in late 2020, has been certified by multiple international bodies and complies with all applicable regulations and standards for radiation around the world.
The U.S. tech company said it has provided the French agency with multiple lab results carried out both by the company and third-party labs proving the phone’s compliance.
Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s minister in charge of digital issues, told France Info radio that the National Frequency Agency “is in charge of controlling our phones which, as there are software updates, may emit a little more or a little less electromagnetic waves.”
He said that the iPhone 12 radiation levels are “slightly higher” than the standards but “significantly lower than levels where scientific studies consider there may be consequences for users. But the rule is the rule.”
Cellphones have been labeled as “possible” carcinogens by the World Health Organization’s cancer research arm, putting them in the same category as coffee, diesel fumes and the pesticide DDT. The radiation produced by cellphones cannot directly damage DNA and is different from stronger types of radiation like X-rays or ultraviolet light.
In 2018, two U.S. government studies that bombarded mice and rats with cellphone radiation found a weak link to some heart tumors, but federal regulators and scientists said it was still safe to use the devices. Scientists said those findings didn’t reflect how most people use their cellphones and that the animal findings didn’t translate into a similar concern for humans.
Among the largest studies on potential dangers of cellphone use, a 2010 analysis in 13 countries found little or no risk of brain tumors.
People’s mobile phone habits also have changed substantially since the first studies began and it’s unclear if the results of previous research would still apply today.
Since many tumors take years to develop, experts say it’s difficult to conclude that cellphones have no long-term health risks. Experts have recommended that people concerned about their cellphone radiation exposure use earphones or switch to texting.
HipHopWired Featured Video
Source: Mario Tama / Getty / Spectrum
Spectrum customers breathed a sigh of relief on Monday, September 11, when Spectrum’s owner, Charter and Disney struck a last-minute deal.
The new deal between Charter and Spectrum came in the nick of time, delivering millions of Spectrum subscribers to channels like ABC and ESPN so they could watch the premiere of Monday Night Football and watch Aaron Rodgers’ debut season as a New York Jet come to an abrupt end.
Engadget reports the new deal will come with streaming-related perks for Spectrum subscribers, like access to ESPN’s standalone streaming service that is currently still in the works.
Per Engadget:
Those subscribers will also have access to the ad-supported basic tier of Disney+ in the coming months, while Spectrum TV Select Plus customers will be able to check out ESPN+ as part of their plan. According to CNBC, Charter will pay higher subscriber fees to Disney.
It seems that Charter customers having access to ad-supported versions of Disney’s streaming services was a point of contention between the companies before they finally reached a deal. In the meantime, Disney started offering Hulu + Live TV at a discounted rate of $50 a month for three months (the usual rate is $70) ahead of a price increase in October.
As part of the new deal, Spectrum subscribers will gain access to 19 of the Disney-owned networks, including the Disney Channel, FX, the Nat Geo Channel, and ABC-owned networks.
More than 32 million Spectrum subscribers have been in the dark since August 31 due to the dispute. While it was going on, both companies’ stock prices took a hit, with Reuters reporting Spectrum’s shares fell 2% due to ESPN not being available to customers, while Disney’s shares fell to 2.7%.
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Photo: Mario Tama / Getty
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Stability AI, one of the world’s most prominent generative AI companies, has joined the likes of Google, Meta and Open AI in creating a model that generates clips of music and sound. Called “Stable Audio,” the new text-to-music generator was trained on sounds from the music library Audio Sparx.
Stability touts its new product as the first music generation product that creates high-quality, 44.1 kHz music for commercial use though a process called “latent diffusion” — a process that was first introduced for images through Stable Diffusion, the company’s marquee product. Stable Audio uses sound conditioned on text metadata as well as audio file duration and start time to allow for greater control over the content of the generated audio.
By typing prompts like “post-rock, guitars, drum kit, bass, strings, euphoric, up-lifting, moody, flowing, raw, epic, sentimental, 125 BPM,” users can create up-to 20 seconds of sound through its free tier, or up-to 90 seconds of sound via its pro subscription.
In its announcement, the company touts Stable Audio as a tool for musicians “seeking to create samples to use in their own music.” The music generated could also be used to soundtrack advertisements and creator content, among other commercial applications.
“As the only independent, open and multimodal generative AI company, we are thrilled to use our expertise to develop a product in support of music creators,” says Emad Mostaque, CEO of Stability AI. “Our hope is that Stable Audio will empower music enthusiasts and creative professionals to generate new content with the help of AI, and we look forward to the endless innovations it will inspire.”
This is not the AI giant’s first foray into audio and music AI. The company already has an open-source generative audio label, HarmonAI, which is designed to create accessible and playful music production tools “by musicians for musicians.” Parts of the HarmonAI team, including Ed Newton Rex, its vp of product, took part in the designing of Stable Audio.
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Getting that “20% battery” message can be a major jump scare for some, which is why investing in a portable charger is essential for keeping your phone juiced up on the go. But what about when your smartphone, Bluetooth earbuds, tablet and smartwatch all have low batteries? Not every environment is packed with outlets — especially when you’re traveling.
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Charging stations can offer a solution to hunting down multiple outlets or plugging in extension cords galore. Instead, these create compact and even versatile ways to charge multiple devices at once. Now, rather than leave your phone charging on the nightstand, Apple Watch powering up on the dresser and tablet charging downstairs, you can keep everything within arm’s reach.
No matter what your budget or needs are, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular charging stations, from travel-friendly styles to ones you can keep right beside your bed.
Keep reading to shop our picks and get ready to have all your commuter gadgets juiced up in one place.
Amazon
SooPii 6-Port Charging Station for Multiple Devices
$31.99 $45.99 30% OFF
SooPii’s charging station is ready to keep all your gadgets charged as it’s able to have six devices plugged in at once. The comes with slots to hold your tablet, phone and even portable charger as well as a stand for your wireless earbuds case and smartwatch holder. This version is compatible with Apple devices.
Amazon
4-in-1 Multi-USB Charging Cable
$16.75
No matter if you’re an Apple, Samsung or Android user, this multi-USB charger has four ports to support a variety of devices. Simply plug the end of the cord into an outlet, then use the four ports to charge your desired devices.
Walmart
Foldable 3-in-1 Charging Station
$32.99 $167.99 80% off% OFF
Rather than carry a backpack full of charging cables, keep things tidy and organized with a foldable charging station. It comes with MagSafe charging areas each illustrated with the device type it can charge such as a smartwatch, wireless earbuds and a smartphone. When you’re done using it, just unplug the station and fold it up for easier storage.
Best Buy
OtterBox – 3-in-1 Charging Station for MagSafe
$75.99 $79.95 5% off% OFF
OtterBox isn’t just known for their iPhone cases under $20, the brand has also come out with a 3-in-1 charging station you can store on your nightstand, counter and more. It has the ability to charge MagSafe compatible devices and features multiple spots to put all your small electronics.
Walmart
Wireless Charging Station
$35.99 $59.99 40% off% OFF
Android users can snag this wireless charging station that’ll help cut down on the number of outlets you use while keeping all your essential gadgets nearby. The design comes with a front port, top magnetic charger and two connected plugs to charge up to two additional devices.
Best Buy
Mophie Multi-Device Travel Charger
$99.99
Mophie’s travel charger not only looks sleek in its folded up design, but comes with three MagSafe spots that’ll charge up to four devices. The center square includes a USB-C port and USB-A port to adjust to your needs whether you or a friend need some battery life.
Amazon
3-in-1 Fast Desk Charging Station
$39.99
Whether you’re working from home or just want a stylish spot to place your electronics, this charging station comes in a crisp white that’ll wirelessly charge your Apple devices. One spot is designated for your phone while the other two work with smartwatches and AirPods.
For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of thetravel necessities, laptop deals and Apple Watch deals.
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Source: Warner Bros. Games / NetherRealm Studios / Mortal Kombat 1 / Shang Tsung
It has begun. Mortal Kombat 1 is days away, and the latest launch trailer gives us more clues about the game’s new story, a look at sorcerer turned snake oil salesman, Shang Tsung’s moves, and more.
A new launch trailer has arrived ahead of Mortal Kombat 1’s September 19 release September 14 for those with early access. In it, we get more story beats about what’s going on in Fire God Lui Kang’s new world he made following the events of Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath.
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A previous trailer revealed a younger Shang Tsung will return in Mortal Kombat 1. Still, he is no longer the formidable soul-stealing, shapeshifting sorcerer we have known him to be for many iterations of the iconic fighting game franchise, but a down-on-his-luck snake oil salesman.
His fortune changes when MK 11’s main villain, Kronika, shows up, offering him a chance to restore himself to his former glory. Well, somehow, he gets his ability to launch his signature fireballs, or flaming skulls, and shapeshift into other Kombatants.
The trailer also shows some gameplay footage of Reiko, who is described as General Shao’s second in command and is “the savage warrior with a fighting style that matches his fierce persona, as well as bone-krushing highlights of other launch roster fighters.”
Accessibility Features Are Coming To Mortal Kombat 1
Additionally, Warner Bros. / NetherRealm Studios announced additional accessibility options for the game, like audio descriptions, cues for on-screen action, and much more, which you can learn about here.
Welcome to the New Era. Will you fight for peace, or embrace the khaos? #MK1 pic.twitter.com/3RexJuvyoP
— Mortal Kombat 1 (@MortalKombat) September 12, 2023
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Mortal Kombat 1 punches and kicks onto PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam and Epic Games Store) on September 19, 2023.
Shang Tsung will be available as a playable character if you hit the pre-order button.
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Photo: Warner Bros. Games / NetherRealm Studios / Mortal Kombat 1
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For most of us, our phones are always with us whether we’re texting the group chat, scrolling through social media or listening to music with our Bluetooth earbuds. That’s why it’s important to add an iPhone case for protection, but not all of us have the money to drop $50+ on a designer case — and that’s where our wallet-friendly picks come in. Rather than splurge on pricey protection, though, you can still have the best iPhone case for under $20.
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Not only are affordable phone cases available in stylish patterns and colors, but they can still offer just as many protective qualities compared to the pricey ones. Plus, with Prime Big Day Deals coming sometime in October, you’re guaranteed stellar deals. That way, you can spend your savings on other necessities, like Apple Music deals or celebrity headphones.
Don’t want to wait for holidays or major shopping events? We did the digging for you and rounded up a mix of iPhone cases under $20 no matter what your aesthetic or needs are.
Keep reading to shop our picks below.
Casely
Grateful Dead Tie Dye Tour Sticker Case
$From $15
Deadheads, this one is for you! Show off your love for your favorite band with a groovy tie-dye pattern case that features the iconic Grateful Dead teddy bear in the center. The case is also customizable, giving you the option to make it extra protective and MagSafe. Models compatible with this phone case include the iPhone 6 all the way to the iPhone 14 Pro Max.
Amazon
Danzel Barbie Silicone Case
$13.99
Barbie is calling and your cart is begging you to pick up by adding this Barbie phone case to your phone. It comes shaped as a vintage cell phone made from a protective silicone case that’s scratch- and waterproof. Just choose from the 18 iPhone sizes and you’ll be ready to complete all of your Barbiecore outfits.
Walmart
Onn. Tropical Pink Floral Phone Case
$6.98
Want to really make your iPhone flourish? This floral iPhone case comes patterned with different color flowers on a clear background — so you can still show off your iPhone’s unique color. It’s made from a gel material and has been drop tested at up to 4 feet. The style is only compatible with the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13.
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Speck Clear Case
$18.49 $39.99 54% off% OFF
Keep things simple with a clear iPhone case for over half off, dropping it down to an affordable $18.50. Your phone will be protected from drops up to 13 feet as it uses a rubber material to absorb shock. The raised bezel edges will help prevent your screen from shattering while the built-in antimicrobial treatment from Microban assists in keeping the cover from discoloration.
Amazon
Caseative Cute Curly Wave Frame iPhone Case
$12.99
You’ll want to wave hello to friends with your phone in hand just for a chance to show of this wavy phone case. It comes in a variety of colors including pink, blue, yellow, white, black and more. You can choose from 15 iPhone sizes and enjoy carrying your phone around with less of a sweat as it’s dirt-, drop- and scratch-resistant.
Urban Outfitters
Wildflower Brown Checkered iPhone Case
$18 $35 49% off% OFF
Consider this Wildflower iPhone case a total checkmate in comparison to others on the market. Not only does it boast a stylish white and brown checkered pattern, but it’s on sale for 49% off and can fit an iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Pro.
Walmart
ULAK iPhone SE Case With Screen Protector
$10.99
Get the most bang for your buck with this ULAK iPhone case as not only does if feature a thick, drop-resistant casing, but has ridged edges for added protection. The set also includes a screen protector to keep your touchscreen from garnering any cracks and scratches. This can fit an iPhone SE 3rd and 2nd generation.
Best Buy
Spigen Thin Fit Hard Shell Case
$15.99
Some cases come with too much bulk that makes slipping your iPhone into your pocket or purse almost impossible. Spigen’s Hard Shell case attempts to correct that by using a more thin design that’s able to fit on an iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Pro Max. The design has an anti-scratch backing and features cutouts for buttons and charging ports.
Amazon
Elago iPhone 13 Pro Liquid Silicone Case
$13.99 $24.99 44% OFF
Go for a sleek look using Elago’s iPhone case that’s made from a smooth silicone material. With 18 colors to choose from, you can customize the look to your liking while the raised lips help protect your case from scratches, cracks and more. This design is MagSafe compatible and can fit on an iPhone 13 Pro.
Target
OtterBox Mini Commuter Case
$17.99
Get the benefits of an OtterBox case without having to drop a ton of money on one. This under $20 phone case is compatible with iPhone 13 and iPhone 12 models, can be used with an Apple MagSafe charger or wireless charger and was made with 35% recycled materials for added sustainability. If that doesn’t seal the deal, the brand also claims the hard case has Drop+, which is 3X as many drops as military standard.
For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best commuter gadgets, over-ear headphones and Amazon music deals.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes. Remote or hybrid models still remain the dominate form of working even if some workplaces are starting to require employees to […]
NBA 2K24 is here (our review is in progress), but to celebrate the arrival of the annual basketball video game, 2K put on a massive celebration in New York City. On Wednesday, September 6, celebs, your favorite Hip-Hop stars, the press, NBA 2K fans, and athletes converged in NYC at the ArtsDistrict Brooklyn to celebrate the launch of NBA 2K24.Those in attendance could experience several activations, including a barbershop, sneaker cleaning station, Brotherhood Deli with NBPA, Def Jam Freestyle Booth, and gaming stations to NBA 2K24 for a spin.Among those in attendance include Ronnie 2K, of course, Hip-Hop stars Swae Lee, Fabolous, A Boogie Wit da Hoodie, Fivio Foreign, Maino, Jadakiss, Jim Jones, and Coi Leray, NBA stars Donovan Mitchell, Cade Cunningham, Tim Hardaway Jr. and, NBA 2K24 cover athlete and NY Liberty all-star guard Sabrina Ionescu and more.As with all NBA 2K launch parties, there has to be a performance to cap off a great night, and it was pretty fitting to have Lil Uzi Vert hit the stage to perform his mega-hit, “Just Wanna Rock,” to usher in NBA 2K24.The celebration didn’t stop there. On Thursday, Ronnie 2K, Swae Lee, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Cade Cunningham, and professional tennis superstar Frances Tiafoe hit the streets of Times Square NYC to play the first-ever 2K24 game on the big screen to celebrate the franchise’s 25th anniversary.NBA 2K24 is now available on every damn platform you can think of. Keep it locked on Hip-Hop Wired Gaming for our review of the game, and hit the gallery below for more photos from the launch party.
1. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
Source:Getty
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: (L-R) Fabolous, Maino and Jadakiss attend a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,maino – rapper,jadakiss
2. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Cade Cunningham attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) vertical,photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,cade cunningham
3. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Fivio Foreign attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event
4. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Jim Jones attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) vertical,photography,people,one person,arts culture and entertainment,attending,usa,new york city,looking at camera,brooklyn – new york,sport,sunglasses,basketball – sport,event,three quarter length,james jones – basketball player
5. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Coi Leray attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,coi leray
6. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Connie Diiamond attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) vertical,photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event
7. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Key Glock attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event
8. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Taylor Rooks attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) vertical,photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event
9. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Lil B attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) vertical,photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,lil b
10. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: A Boogie Wit da Hoodie attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,a boogie wit da hoodie
11. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Don C attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event
12. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Sabrina Ionescu attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,sabrina ionescu
13. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Armani White attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,armani white
14. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Zaytoven attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,zaytoven
15. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Dave East attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,dave east
16. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Jeff Hamilton attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event
17. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Tim Hardaway attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,tim hardaway
18. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
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BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: (L-R) Nav and Ronnie Singh attend a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event
19. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
Source:Getty
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Lil Uzi Vert performs onstage during a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,horizontal,usa,new york city,performance,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,stage – performance space,lil uzi vert
20. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
Source:Getty
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Lil Uzi Vert performs onstage during a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,horizontal,usa,new york city,performance,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,stage – performance space,lil uzi vert
21. NBA 2K24 Launch Event
Source:Getty
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 06: Dave East attends a NBA 2K24 Launch Event on September 06, 2023 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NBA 2K24 ) photography,arts culture and entertainment,attending,horizontal,usa,new york city,brooklyn – new york,sport,basketball – sport,event,dave east
HipHopWired Featured Video
Source: Warner Bros. Games/ NetherRealm Studios / Mortal Kombat 1 / Jean-Claude Van Damme
It’s a complete full circle moment for legendary action film star gymnast Jean-Claude Van Damme (Bloodsport, Kickboxer) and the Mortal Kombat video game franchise.
It only took 30 years, but Jean-Claude Van Damme is finally where he belongs in Mortal Kombat.
Van Damme’s appearance in the game was already known, but today marks the first time we see him in action in Mortal Kombat 1.
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Unlike his fellow Hollywood brethren Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallon, who appeared in Mortal Kombat 11 as DLC characters, Van Damme is a skin for MK OG Johnny Cage, and his likeness and voice are in the game.
This Is A Reunion 30 Years In The Making
Van Damme has a long history with the world of fighting video games. Mortal Kombat creator Ed Boon revealed on a recent episode of First We Feast’s popular show Hot Ones that he originally wanted to make a video game starring Van Damme before making Mortal Kombat.
Conversations between Van Damme’s team and Boon’s crew never amounted to anything. Eventually, Van Damme would star in one of the worst video game movie adaptations ever, Street Fighter, and star in the even worst fighting game based on the film.
In the trailer, Van-Damme makes a hilarious Street Fighter reference in a pre-fight scene.
He finally gets to redeem himself with his appearance in Mortal Kombat 1, and it’s pretty fitting because, honestly, we all knew Johnny Cage was based on his character from Bloodsport.
Jean-Claude Van Damme skin for Johnny Cage will be available at launch as part of the first Kombat Pack, alongside early access to six new downloadable content (DLC) playable characters – Quan Chi, Ermac, Takeda Takahashi, Peacemaker, Omni-Man, and Homelander (all available post-launch) – and five new Kameo Fighters (available post-launch).
We hope Ed Boon and the crew even sneak in some of Van Damme’s other looks from his other “classic” films.
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Photo: Warner Bros. Games/ NetherRealm Studios / Mortal Kombat 1
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