Tech

Apple Insider Confirms New iPhone 14 Pro Release Shock – Forbes

Published

3 years ago

March 13, 2022

03/13 Update below. This post was originally published on March 10

iPhone 14 leaks have already revealed dramatic design changes are coming to Pro models this year, and now we know that they will impact all new iPhone releases for years to come as well.

In a new blog post, industry display specialist Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), has revealed that within 18 months every iPhone will look very different. According to Young, who has a flawless track record, Apple’s plans to replace the notch in iPhone 14 Pro models with a divisive new i-shaped cutout this year will be expanded to every iPhone model in 2023.

03/12 Update: further information has now leaked revealed Apple’s intentions for the design of standard iPhone 14 models. While the Pro models will move to the controversial i-shaped cutout detailed below, I had missed a new blog post from popular industry insider yeux1122, who reveals that buyers of the iPhone 14 and new iPhone 14 Max (which is tipped to replace the iPhone 13 Mini) will have a very familiar experience.

The anonymous tipster, who has a solid track record, says recent claims that Apple will slim down the bezels on the standard models is incorrect and the phones will be identical to the current iPhone 13. Given they will also retain the notch for a fifth successive generation, the appeal of these phones is going to be entirely dependent on a) what Apple upgrades internally, b) as a way to escape the so-called ‘i-sore’ of the new display cutouts on the iPhone 14 Pro models.

The news also makes sense given Apple’s moves to widen the gap between its standard and Pro devices. In recent years, non-Pro MacBooks and iPads have retained older designs even when getting the latest hardware (such as the M1 chip in MacBooks and, earlier this week, the new iPad Air). In these categories Apple has widened the price gap between Pro and non-Pro devices and, with rumors of iPhone price hikes, it will be interesting to see if this also happens with the iPone 14 range.

03/13 Update: Acclaimed Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has today revealed the names of the upcoming iPhone 14 range and the good news is they align with what we have heard from other leakers. “According to Apple’s rules for naming iPhones, the four new 2H22 iPhones could be called iPhone 14 (6.1″), iPhone 14 Max (6.7″), iPhone 14 Pro (6.1”), and iPhone 14 Pro Max (6.7″),” said Kuo. Apple’s decision to drop the 5.4-inch iPhone 13 Mini has been expected for some time, but its demise is likely to split opinion. While sales had been slower than expected, there is simply nothing else on the market like it for fans of smaller handsets. The iPhone 13 Mini is a genuinely one-handed device with top tier performance.

The flip side is both economic and practical. From an economic standpoint, user interest has clearly migrated to bigger phones with their unwieldiness accepted for the benefits their extra screen-size brings and their form factor allows for bigger, longer lasting batteries to be fitted. This latter is also likely a key element in the transition. Battery life has always been the Achilles Heel of iPhone Mini models and cramming so much top tier tech into its smaller frame likely causes Apple an engineering headache which the move to an ‘iPhone 14 Max’ will ease. The move is also set to justify a price hike for Apple with the company tipped to sell it for $100 more than an iPhone 14, while the Mini sells for $100 less than an iPhone 13.

As such, Apple gets to give customers what they want, streamline their design process (more components can now twin with the iPhone 14 Pro Max) and increase the average selling price of the range. It’s a win-win situation in all areas, other than our carpal tunnels.

“This will be another instantly recognizable display shape for Apple,” explains Young. “The pill + hole design is nearly as wide as the notch but will certainly save some pixels above the holes. In 2023, we believe all four models will have the pill + hole design.”

Yes, there is no escaping Apple’s polarizing design decision, which manages to both follow the trend set by Android handsets for several years yet also look worse. The good news is Young does state Apple will try and reduce the size of the new cutouts in the 2023 models while also working on more discrete options.

iPhone 14 Pro’s actual i-shaped cutout overlaid Vs what was expected

John Prosser

“Apple does have plans to replace Face ID with under panel Face ID, placing all the elements under the display without a visible pill shaped hole,” he explained. “However, we have heard from a few sources that under panel Face ID won’t likely meet the timing for 2023 mass production.”

Reaction to Apple’s new i-shaped cutout has been mixed. It was initially met with a combination of skepticism and incredulity but with multiple sources now confirming the new iPhone 14 Pro design, the reaction to it seems to be softening. That said, there is no denying that after four generations of the notch, few expected this to be its replacement. Especially given its large size.

Price increases are also coming. That said, Apple’s next generation iPhones will undoubtedly be faster and feature better cameras than ever before. A radical plan to scrap the SIM card, alongside a more efficient 5G modem is also expected to boost battery life.

Consequently, while iPhone fans may not like the look of Apple’s upcoming models, I suspect they will still buy them in droves.

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

3 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

3 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.