Nintendo Expands Switch Online Playtest Program to 40,000 Users, Teasing New Online Service for Switch and Switch 2
Nintendo has announced the second iteration of its Switch Online Playtest Program, opening applications on July 18th to 40,000 Switch Online + Expansion Pack members for a closed beta of an unannounced online service. This marks a significant expansion from the 10,000 participants in the 2024 trial, quadrupling the user base to gather broader feedback ahead of a potential full launch. The test will run from July 29th to August 11th, 2025, and supports both the current Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, signaling strategic alignment with the next-gen console’s launch plans .
StackSocial Offers Windows 11 Pro Lifetime License for $9.97 Ahead of Windows 10 Support End
Online marketplace StackSocial is currently running a limited-time promotion, offering lifetime license keys for Microsoft Windows 11 Pro at a heavily discounted price of $9.97—down from the original $199. The deal is set to expire on July 20 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time, making it a time-sensitive opportunity for users looking to upgrade their operating systems.
Twitch to Exit Russian Market Amid Regulatory Pressures, Facing $800,000 in Fines
Amazon-owned live streaming platform Twitch is planning a full withdrawal from the Russian market, citing concerns over economic viability and mounting regulatory pressures, according to recent reports.
Brazilian Retail Rebounds in May: Street Commerce Drives Recovery, Holidays and Climate Play Pivotal Roles
SAO PAULO, Brazil, June 25 (News Wire) – Brazil's retail sector staged a recovery in May, with foot traffic at physical stores rising 1.86% year-on-year, marking a significant turnaround from April's 3.99% decline. This rebound was primarily fueled by a robust 3.8% surge in street commerce, according to Seed Digital's Retail Purchase Intent Index (IICV Seed).
Russian Online Pharmaceutical Sales Surge 35.7% in Q1 2025, Driven by Cold Remedies and Smoking Cessation Products
Online pharmaceutical sales in Russia soared by 35.7% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, reaching 139.5 billion rubles, triple the average growth rate of the sector. This marked the first time online drug sales accounted for over 1.15% of the total pharmaceutical market share.
Global Toy Market to Hit $446B by 2032, Fueled by Tech & Shifting Trends
The global toy market is poised for steady growth, projected to rise from $316.14 billion in 2024 to $445.97 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.33%, according to latest insights.
Middle East Turmoil Drives Shipping Risks: China-Middle East Container Rates Surge 50%
The ongoing tension and volatility in the Middle East are significantly impacting the global shipping industry. On June 24, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced the immediate 生效 of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, a move that caused international oil prices—previously soaring due to escalating conflicts—to plunge sharply. However, the region's uncertain situation continues to disrupt the shipping sector.














