Samsung has announced the Galaxy Watch 4, and with it, Samsung is folding the “Active” moniker back into the main lineup. Compared to the Galaxy Watch Active 2, its spiritual predecessor, there are some big improvements. These come from both the software and hardware sides of things, and it’s kind of a big deal, not just for Samsung but for the broader Android ecosystem as well.
It’s got more RAM, more storage, a better processor, and a lower starting price. But not only that, there’s an entirely new operating system being used. Samsung is finally ditching Tizen in its smartwatches.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 Specs
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2: Specifications
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic
Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2
Display
44mm: 1.36″ (450×450), 330ppi
40mm: 1.19″ (396×396), 330ppi
46mm: 1.36″ (450×450), 330ppi
42mm: 1.19″ (396×396), 330ppi
44mm: 1.4″ (360×360)
40mm: 1.2″ (360×360)
Processor
Exynos W920 (5nm)
Exynos 9110 Dual core 1.15GHz
Memory
1.5GB RAM + 16GB internal storage
LTE: 1.5GB RAM + 4GB Internal Memory
Bluetooth: 768MB RAM + 4GB Internal Memory
Dimension and Weight
Aluminum case
44mm: 44.4 x 43.3 x 9.8mm, 30.3g
40mm: 40.4 x 39.3 x 9.8mm, 25.9g
Stainless steel case
46mm: 45.5 x 45.5 x 11mm, 52g
42mm: 41.5 x 41.5 x 11.2mm, 46.5g
44mm: 44 x 44 x 10.9mm (42g for stainless steel, 30g for aluminum)
40mm: 40 x 40 x 10.9mm (37g for stainless steel, 26g for aluminum)
Hardware: The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 beats the Galaxy Watch Active 2 in every way
The new Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch 4 Classic have Samsung’s own Exynos W920 processor. It’s the first 5nm processor to go in a Galaxy watch. It definitely beats out the dual-core Exynos 9110 that was found in the Galaxy Watch Active 2. There’s no surprise there though. A newer processor is undoubtedly going to be a faster processor.
RAM is the same 1.5GB, but storage has been bumped up from 4GB on the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 to 16GB on the Galaxy Watch 4. That battery is bigger too at 361mAh for the 44mm model, although the smaller model’s battery size is the same. The smaller one is actually 0.1g lighter though, while the bigger one is 0.3g heavier, something literally no one will care about because you won’t be able to tell the difference of 0.3g or 0.1g.
Indeed, everything is a bit better on the Galaxy Watch 4 than it is on the Galaxy Watch Active 2. It has a better processor, four times as much storage, and a bigger battery. While that covers the standard “feels faster”, let’s talk about things you can actually see and feel.
The screen has a higher resolution on the Galaxy Watch 4. It’s 450 x 450 on a 1.36-inch screen with the larger model (44mm or 46mm case depending on the one you choose) and a 396 x 396 1.19-inch display on the smaller one (40mm or 42mm). That gives it a 330ppi pixel density on either one, which is much higher than on the Galaxy Watch Active 2, which has a 360 x 360 screen on either a 1.4 or 1.2-inch size. In other words, things look sharper and prettier on the Galaxy Watch 4.
The Galaxy Watch 4 also has a new Samsung BioActive Sensor, which is a three-in-one sensor that detects heart rate (PPG), ECG, and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The Korean firm says the new sensor is groundbreaking, and indeed, it’s impressive.
Software: Tizen is gone now
Back at Google I/O, the company announced that it was rebuilding Wear OS, a much-needed improvement to a smartwatch OS that hasn’t had any meaningful changes in a very long time. One thing it promised was a unified platform that combines Google Wear OS and Tizen, the OS that’s been used on Samsung smartwatches.
We’re getting a taste of that new unified platform with the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4. It uses what Samsung is calling One UI Watch, and it’s meant to provide the best of both worlds. Those worlds, of course, are Google services and Samsung services.
Those Google services include apps from the Google Play Store. Indeed, with the Galaxy Watch 4, you get access to the ecosystem of Wear OS apps, rather than just the Tizen apps available for the Galaxy Watch Active 2. You also get Google Maps, and whatever else you’re missing. But it still works well with your Samsung phone, syncing your settings and such. It’s really meant to be the best of both worlds. But as a side note, the Galaxy Watch 4 does not work with devices that do not have GMS (Google Mobile Services), which means you can’t even pair it with an Apple iPhone or a Huawei device. The Galaxy Watch Active 2 remains compatible with Android and iOS, so there’s wider compatibility.
Conclusion: Should you buy the Galaxy Watch 4 or the Galaxy Watch Active 2?
The question of which one you should buy is always a tricky one, but that’s especially true of smartwatches. The answer is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, due to the much better hardware, and the software that has been tremendously improved. However, many smartwatch users go for deals. If this is your first smartwatch, you might not see the benefit of spending extra on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4.
Here’s the deal though. Newer products are better than older ones, except in those rare cases where companies make dumb mistakes, such as no compatibility on non-GMS devices. With the newer product, you’ll also get better support. Indeed, don’t expect any new features to arrive on the Galaxy Watch Active 2, considering One UI Watch is the new thing moving forward.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 has a new BioActive sensor, and a new unified software platform called One UI Watch.
Ultimately, Samsung has some of the best watches that can be paired with most Android phones. The newer Watch 4 does not work with iOS, so if that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll want to see how it compares to an Apple Watch. The Galaxy Watch 4, and especially the One UI Watch software, just takes the Android experience to another level.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 still runs Tizen, but it comes in 4G models, or with your choice of aluminum or stainless steel.
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.
