Along with the release of the all-new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G and Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G smartphones, Samsung has begun shipping two new and innovative smartwatches that are highly functional, versatile, sleek and stylish.
The Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are the first two smartwatches to be powered by the Wear OS 3 operating system, which is a joint development project between Samsung and Google (the developer of the Android operating system for smartphones).
In traditional Samsung fashion, the company is calling this new software “One UI Watch,” which is based on “Wear OS Powered by Samsung.” Announced at Google I/O 2021, Samsung and Google have essentially joined forces in an effort to improve the smartwatch experience for Android users. And with the Galaxy Watch 4 lineup, the culmination of months of hard work has officially arrived.
Unlike many smartwatches on the market, the Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic offer customizability and versatility—from both a visual and functionality standpoint. The operating system comes bundled with a bunch of core apps that allow the watch to communicate and exchange data seamlessly with a smartphone and handle a wide range of tasks.
There’s also a vast and ever-growing selection of optional apps and digital watch faces available. Combine this with the advanced biometric sensors and other tech that’s built into these latest Galaxy smartwatches, and you’ll quickly discover you have a powerful device on your wrist that makes it a superior productivity, communications, organizational, entertainment and health fitness tool. Oh and yes, it does tell time too.
Samsung Galaxy Watch4: Technical Specifications
Price: $249 | Case Sizes: 40mm, 44mm | Display: 40mm: 1.2-inch Super AMOLED (396 x 396), 44mm: 1.4-inch Super AMOLED (450 x 450) | Processor: Samsung Exynos W920 (5 nm) | Memory: 1.5GB | Storage: 16GB internal | Battery size: 247 mAh | Sensors: BioActive Sensor (Optical Heart Rate / Electrical Heart / Bioelectrical Impedance), Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro, Geomagnetic, Light | Dimensions: 40.4 x 39.3 x 9.8mm (40mm), 44.4 x 43.3 x 9.8mm (44mm) | Weight: 25.9g (40mm), 30.3g (44mm) | Durability: IP68, 5ATM, MIL-STD-810G | Wireless Charging: Yes, Qi charging | SIM Card Optional: Yes, LTE
Price: $349 | Case Sizes: 42mm, 46mm | Display: 42mm: 1.2-inch Super AMOLED (396 x 396), 46mm: 1.4-inch Super AMOLED (450 x 450) | Processor: Samsung Exynos W920 (5 nm) | Memory: 1.5GB | Storage: 16GB internal | Battery size: 361 mAh | Sensors: BioActive Sensor (Optical Heart Rate / Electrical Heart / Bioelectrical Impedance), Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro, Geomagnetic, Light | Dimensions: 41.5 x 41.5 x 11.2mm (42mm), 45.5 x 45.5 x 11.0mm (46mm) | Weight: 46.5g (42mm), 52g (46mm) | Durability: IP68, 5ATM, MIL-STD-810G | Wireless Charging: Yes, Qi charging | SIM Card Optional: Yes, LTE
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Colors
Samsung
Priced at $249, the Galaxy Watch4 (Wi-Fi only) is now Samsung’s gateway into the Android smartwatch space. The watch is available in either a 40mm or 44mm case size, bringing either a 1.2-inch or 1.4-inch Super AMOLED display.
Compared to the Galaxy Watch3, this drop in price quite drastic as last year’s model started at $399. However, things don’t look as drastic when you consider that the Galaxy Watch4 is the direct successor to the Galaxy Watch Active 2, which was released at $279.99.
The better comparison to the Galaxy Watch3 is the Galaxy Watch4 Classic, which retains the rotating bezel that many have fallen in love with. The display sizes are the same between the Watch4 and Watch4 Classic. But the casing sizes and battery life are increased, coming in either 42mm or 46mm and including a 361 mAh battery.
For added customizability, a selection of watchbands and casing colors are available based on which watch model you choose. For example, the Galaxy Watch 4 has an aluminum casing that comes in black, green, silver, or pink gold, while the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic has a stainless steal casing that comes in black or silver.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic Side-by-Side
Samsung
Meanwhile, arguably the largest hardware update to the Galaxy Watch 4 series is Samsung’s all-new Exynos W920 chipset. And it’s built on the same 5nm process as the Snapdragon 888 found in many 2021 flagship smartphones.
Samsung claims this new W920 processor offers 20% faster CPU performance and an incredible 10x better GPU performance compared to the last generation. That may not be saying much when you take into consideration that the Galaxy Watch3’s chipset is two years old, but it’s still impressive nevertheless.
Both the Galaxy Watch4 and Watch4 Classic are powered by the Exynos W920 processor, which is paired with 1.5GB of RAM and 16GB of onboard storage. This will provide plenty enough power to handle all of your favorite apps, while also saving room for offline music downloads and more.
In terms of battery life, Samsung claims you’ll get up to 40 hours on a single charge, which is good enough to get you through at least a day and a half. Samsung includes quick charge capabilities, allowing a 30 minute top-off to provide an additional 10 hours of battery life.
Many of the smartwatch’s apps rely heavily on Internet access. For this reason, both a Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + 4G LTE (cellular data) connectivity option is available, although the Wi-Fi + LTE models cost slightly more and may require an extra monthly fee from your smartphone’s cellular service provider. The cellular data functionality, however, allows the watch to work almost entirely autonomously from your smartphone.
Health and Fitness Features Galore
Smartwatches are great for handling a wide range of tasks in a way that supplements your smartphone, but the real benefit comes with the built-in health and fitness tracking features. Samsung really loaded up the Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic with Orange Band
Samsung
For the first time on a Galaxy Watch, you’re able to use the watch’s built-in BioActive Sensor. This is a single sensor comprised of three other sensors including the following:
Optical Heart Rate
Electrical Heart Monitoring (ECG)
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis
With this 3-in-1 health sensor, you are able to monitor your blood pressure, detect an irregular heartbeat, measure your blood oxygen (SpO2) levels and even measure your body composition. Being able to have your watch capture 2,400 data points in just 15 seconds is an incredible feat for those who want to know every detail when it comes to keeping track of health metrics.
How to Order the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
The Galaxy Watch4 is available right now, and you can order it from Samsung’s website. With an eligible smartwatch trade-in, you can receive up to $135 off the watch price. An extra $15 discount is being offered to students, teachers, first responders, government employees and active military personnel.
The Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 4 Classic are also now available from other retailers, including: Best Buy (which offers a price match guarantee), Amazon.com, Target, and Walmart.
Keep in mind, the price you will ultimately pay for the watch depends on whether you choose the Watch3 or Watch4 Classic model, which casing size you select, your chosen watch band, and whether you opt for Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + LTE connectivity. Right now, the best deals to be had involve trading in an older (but eligible) smartwatch model.
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.
