When released, Apple’s updated MacBook Pro 13 will get the most powerful 10th-gen Intel Ice Lake CPU available. But otherwise Apple’s late to the game—again. We can think of a bunch of Windows laptops that already outstrip it in features, and we’ll tell you about them as we work through the MacBook Pro 13’s major improvements.
One chip that’s been conspicuously absent since the announcement is the higher-wattage Core i7-1068G7 chip. Well surprise: The MacBook Pro 13 will offer it as one of its CPU options.
Intel
Most of Intel’s lineup has been available except the most powerful of them all: The Core i7-1068
The chip’s main difference isn’t more cores, more threads, or even more graphics EU’s; it’ll just be a higher TDP rating of 28 watts. That’s long been the TDP Apple prefers for its MacBook Pro 13. In this case, it’ll officially be the “most powerful” Ice Lake chip in town, but in reality, it may not be that much faster than some 10th-gen Ice Lake laptops, which can be configured to run up to 25 watts. While we don’t know how hard Apple will push its new MacBook Pro 13, we do know that on paper, 25 watts to 28 watts is no big deal.
Laptops to consider instead of the MacBook Pro 13
When you look at competing laptops from the PC platform, it’s clear the MacBook Pro 13 is just phoning it in. Sure, we applaud the return to Apple greatness with a new Magic keyboard that isn’t supposed to break down on you after a year like with the previous generation of MacBook Pro 13 (that’s not exactly a feature, folks). We believe the MacBook Pro 13’s display and SSD will be first-class, too. But there’s just not much risk-taking anywhere other than with the much-maligned Touch Bar.
Gordon Mah Ung
MSI’s Prestige 14 gets a bad rap for throttling performance on heavy loads. But it also has a 6-core CPU and GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q, while weighing as little as an XPS 13.
MSI’s Prestige 14, (currently about $1,547 on Amazon) for example, should get plaudits for featuring a 6-core Core i7-10710U and GeForce GTX 1650 while weighing about as little as an XPS 13. The laptop sheds performance as it heats up (which we document in our review). Considering it offers discrete graphics and higher CPU core count, along with a factory-calibrated 4K panel, while weighing just 1,270 grams versus the 1,400 of the MacBook Pro 13, the MSI Prestige 14 is still impressive.
If you want essentially the same Ice Lake CPU as the MacBook Pro 13 plus discrete GTX 1650 Ti graphics, the Razer Blade Stealth 13 (currently $1,800 at the Microsoft StoreRemove non-product link) is just 78 grams heavier, with a factory-calibrated 4K screen option available. Its Ice Lake CPU has a base TDP of 25 watts, and the Blade Stealth 13’s design is better at keeping the chip cool.
Razer
The Razer Blade Stealth 13 features an Ice Lake Core i7 with a minimium TDP of 25 watts, plus a GeForce GTX 1650 Ti and enough cooling to run it all.
If you can really handle thinking different, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (currently $1,450 at Best Buy) gives you amazing CPU performance thanks to its Ryzen 9 4900HS, and a real graphics card with its GeForce RTX 2060 Max-Q chip. The 8 cores of performance out of the ROG Zephyrus G14 does more than put the newly announced MacBook Pro 13 to shame—it should easily dispatch the MacBook Pro 16, too.
The only real downfall to the ROG Zephyrus G14 for “Pro” user is the less-than-stellar panel, which is better for general use and gaming than imaging work. And while the 720p webcam in MacBook Pro 13 might be as bad as the one in the MacBook Air, that’s better than having none at all—we’re serious, the ROG Zephyrus G14 doesn’t include an integrated webcam. There’s also no Thunderbolt 3, but because you have a real GPU inside the laptop that may be less necessary.
Of course, we’d probably point out that we’ve never understood what exactly is “pro” with the Pro beyond the four Thunderbolt 3 ports. If you’re willing to live with two Thunderbolt 3 ports, Dell’s XPS 13 (currently $1,620 on Dell.com) or its XPS 13 2-in-1 (currently $1,650 on Dell.com) can offer nearly the same performance, with beautiful Sharp IPS panels, too.
Gordon Mah Ung
We suspect Dell’s XPS 13 2-in-1 would offer most of the performance of the new MacBook Pro 13, along with other mind-blowing features like pen and touch support.
Look, the MacBook Pro 13 is a nice laptop. We’re glad to see Apple move up to 10th-gen Intel Core CPUs. All we’re saying is, pretty much everything that’s nice about the MacBook Pro 13 can already be found in a Windows laptop that’s been available for months.
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CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
