Tech

5 things I already want from Apple’s Magic Keyboard 2 for iPad Pro – SlashGear

Published

4 years ago

April 25, 2020

It’s been several days and a whole lot of typing since Apple’s Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro landed on my doorstep, and I’m already thinking about version 2. How can Apple make a great keyboard and trackpad even greater? Well, short of buying Brydge and building in the advantages of its Pro+ keyboard, I’d say there are five main things Apple could improve on. Here’s what I’m hoping Apple changes for the next Magic Keyboard.

Hinges, the heart and soul of the Magic Keyboard

Imagine how much more versatile the Magic Keyboard would be, if it simply folded back just like the Smart Folio? Back in 2014, Lenovo unveiled an innovative hinge for the YOGA 3 Pro product line. The design was inspired by watch bands using a mixture of aluminum and stainless steel, consisting of 813 moving parts. I’m actually pretty shocked Apple didn’t do something similar; after all, they’re in the watch business these days.

There are a few limitations with the current design which, though not a show-stopper, all the same are proving a little annoying and inconvenient. First, as I’ve outlined in my review, the bottom edge of the iPad is extremely close to the first two rows of keys. As a result, my fingers are constantly smacking up against it. While this might not seem like a big deal, it’s definitely enough to disrupt your flow, and I suspect it’ll take me a good while longer to train my fingers not to do it.

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Secondly – and more of an inconvenience than an issue – I want flexibility. I want to be able to flip the Magic Keyboard back and turn it into a table tent to place on a surface in tight spaces. I’m particularly thinking of the drinks tray on the seat-back of an airplane. That takes up maybe 3 to 4 inches of space, versus the entire width and depth of the base of the keyboard. On the other hand, when I’m on the go, I want to be able to just use the Magic Keyboard with the iPad Pro attached. In the current form, that’s impossible.

So how can Apple improve the hinges? By adopting the same watchband concept I outlined above. It’s elegant, sturdy and it’s the solution to the current limitations. Such a design would eliminate the need for the second hinge as well; in addition, it should solve the problem of how close the iPad is to the first two rows of keys because the iPad would, in fact, be pushed back to right where the hinges reside.

What about the magical floating design? I know you love it, because I love it too. Who’s to say that still can’t exist? It can, and I would hope that Apple retains it.

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I need my function keys

Another benefit of that redesigned hinge? Moving the iPad further back – 2.5 inches away from the hinge, perhaps – would open up more than enough distance and space to add the much-needed row of function keys.

Honestly, I’m still struggling to comprehend a pro-accessory of any sort that lacks an ESC key. It’s such an important part of the average workflow, whether that’s exiting you out of full-screen videos or applications, or instantly stopping a process in its tracks. The current workaround is to go into the keyboard settings and modify one of the keys: in my case, I changed the Caps Lock key to work as an ESC key. It does the job, but there’s no muscle-memory.

ESC isn’t the only thing I’m missing. Keys such as media control, display brightness, a home button, and others are useful to have quickly at your fingertips, and they’re things that third-party keyboards are offering while the Magic Keyboard does not. Trackpad gestures are great, but they can’t replace everything.

A Lock or Latch system

I hope you had the chance to watch me violently shake the iPad Pro: there’s no doubt Apple’s magnets are crazy-strong, and do a stellar job holding the two parts together. Sadly, at the end of the day, they can still be detached easily if you or someone else accidentally bumps either of the bottom edges of the iPad Pro. Considering the high cost, this can be disastrous, especially when you’re traveling with just the iPad Pro as your work device.

I’ve been toying around with a few ideas as to how Apple might be able to accomplish both having an easily removed tablet but one which also locks a little more reassuringly, but for the moment I’m coming up blank. Perhaps something like the quick-release latches Peak Design uses on its backpacks might work.

Somewhere safe and convenient for the Apple Pencil

I’m finding that the Apple Pencil is growing on me more and more every day. Whether it’s taking notes, working on homework with the kids, or signing documents, Apple’s stylus is proving neat and accurate. The double-duty of magnetically holding the pencil in place while also charging it is convenient, too.

What isn’t convenient is figuring out where to put it in transit. The magnets just aren’t strong enough to prevent the Pencil from being knocked off when it’s brushed against something. That might be okay were it some $20 accessory, but when a replacement will cost you $129 it feels a little more serious. I’d love a dedicated place on the Magic Keyboard to safely stow it.

Faster charging through the Smart Connector

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro’s massive battery is more than welcome, but charging via the USB-C port on the Magic Keyboard is less impressive. In fact, it’s painfully slow. The same charger plugged into the iPad’s USB-C gives noticeably faster results than when you use the keyboard’s pass-through charging port: starting with 47% battery left, for example, after roughly 90 minutes it had climbed to just 69%. On another test with the battery drained to 2%, it took precisely two-hours to charge up to 44%. This sluggish charge rate is just unacceptable because, at this rate, it’s best to charge up the iPad Pro directly, that is unless you’re using the USB-C port for a dongle attachment.

The reality is that it’s not the Magic Keyboard that’s the bottleneck, so much as it is the Smart Connector. That’s the row of contacts near the tablet’s edge, by which it connects to the keyboard. It’s what allows for the quick-release magnetic attachment and, by supplying power from the tablet, means the Magic Keyboard doesn’t need a battery of its own. Problem is, pass-through charging using it is seriously sluggish.

That’s a shame, because it’s a criticism we never leveled at the old MagSafe power connector Apple used to use on its notebooks. Actually, I think that’s a missed opportunity on the Magic Keyboard, too. Since the USB-C port on the peripheral is only used for charging – it doesn’t support data for accessories – why not have a magnetically-attached connector instead? I’m having horrible visions of being at Starbucks and someone tripping over the cable, especially when the only thing holding the iPad Pro to the keyboard are magnets.

If we’re being ambitious, in fact, why not wireless charging? Apple’s attempts to make AirPower didn’t exactly go to plan (though it’s believed to be having a second attempt at the idea), but a large wireless charging pad being enough and powerful enough to keep your iPad Pro and Magic Keyboard charged up while you’re working, and indeed your other Apple devices, would be welcome on my desk.

Refining on a great accessory

For all the room for improvement, there’s a lot to like about the Magic Keyboard. I couldn’t be happier with the typing experience, for example. The keys click and clack just the right amount; the travel for each is perfect. I’m a fan of how well Apple delivers on its key backlighting, too, with just the right amount for dark environments and very little light bleeding out of the edges.

As for the trackpad, it works just as well as Apple’s standalone Magic Trackpad 2: that alone costs $129 if you were to purchase it separately. There’s little to zero lag, whether you’re scrolling, or doing one, two, or three finger multi-touch gestures. If I had one small request, it would be for a slightly larger pad overall. Maybe, while Apple is freeing up all that space with the new hinge design I had in mind, it could spend half an inch or more on giving the Magic Keyboard 2 a bigger trackpad like the MacBook Pro the iPad Pro has replaced in my bag.

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Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

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.

Tech

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

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.

Tech

Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

Published

1 month ago

August 13, 2024

Harry Miller

Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.