Tech

Samsung Unveils New Gaming Monitors, Including QD OLED And World’s First Dual UHD Design

Published

2 years ago

January 3, 2023

This year’s CES in Las Vegas looks set to bring us one of the busiest shows ever when it comes to showcasing new screen technologies – and this applies to the gaming monitor world as well as TVs.

In fact, Samsung has headed up its CES announcements with news of a series of new monitors it’s bringing to market for 2023 that will literally change the shape of gaming.

Two models in particular stand out from the new Samsung monitor range: The Odyssey Neo G9 with its 57-inch, dual UHD curved display, and the Odyssey OLED G9 with its Quantum Dot OLED screen.

Looking first at the Neo G9 first (the exact model number will be the G95NC), this huge monitor is the first in the world to deliver both a 7680×2160 resolution and a 32:9 aspect ratio in a single screen. Its relatively extreme 1000R curvature ensures that the picture wraps round the player for even greater immersion in gaming worlds, while its use of Quantum Dot mini LED backlight technology should ensure excellent picture quality.

In fact, its VA panel is also certified to VESA Display HDR 1000 specification, showing that it can deliver a true HDR experience capable of hitting 1000 nits of peak brightness. Most rival monitors sit in VESA’s HDR 400, 500 or 600 tiers. The use of mini LED technology should help the Neo G9’s impressive brightness peaks be joined by strong black levels and shadow detailing, too.

Samsung doesn’t state how many dimming zones the Neo G9 will get, so I guess it’s possible there could be backlight blooming. Though experience of other recent Samsung’s mini LED displays and TVs suggests that blooming likely won’t be much of an issue at all provided you’re sat right in front of the monitor (as you will want to be given the extent of the G95NC’s curvature).

The 57-inch Neo G9’s immersive qualities should be further enhanced by its used of a reflection-rejecting Matte Display finish, while its connectivity also claims a world first in the shape of a DisplayPort 2.1 port. This is capable of transferring data around twice as fast as the previous DisplayPort 1.4 spec, and allows lossless industry-standard Display Stream Compression (DSC) to transmit huge quantities of data without distortion.

Finally, the Odyssey Neo G9 will support refresh rates of up to 240Hz, a 2ms gray to gray response time, and variable refresh rates including the Freesync Premium Pro format.

Pricing has yet to be confirmed, but you can expect a figure above $2,000.

Turning to the Odyssey OLED G9, its 49-inch Quantum Dot OLED screen features a Quad-HD, 32:9 resolution (5120×1440). It’s curved like the G95NC, too, but the degree of its curvature reduces to 1800R.

The New Odyssey OLED G9 uses Quantum Dot OLED technology for extreme contrast and a pure RGB colour … [+] experience.

Photo: Samsung

The big story here performance wise is the way its OLED technology allows each pixel in the image to produce its own light and colour, leading to a peerless local contrast performance and immaculately rich, deep black levels. In fact, Samsung claims a 1,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio for the OLED G9 (actual model number G95SC).

What’s more, since this screen uses QD OLED technology, it delivers a true RGB colour palette without the white element and colour filters associated with rival WOLED panels.

Response time is rated at just 0.1ms, which combines with 240Hz refresh rate and Freesync Premium Pro support to eliminate lagging and skipping.

The G95SC is also equipped with Samsung’s Gaming Hub – an all-in-one game streaming platform that lets gamers stream games from the cloud via partners such as Xbox and NVIDIA GeForce Now.

Finally, the OLED G9 is actually more than just a gaming monitor, as it carries apps from the likes of Amazon Prime Video, Netflix and YouTube through a built-in Smart Hub.

I have been lucky enough to see a prototype of the G95SC and have to say it looked seriously awesome. Fingers crossed the finished product is at least as impressive.

The Odyssey OLED G9 delivers a true 360-degree design.

Photo: Samsung

Although they’re not as focused on gaming as the OLED G9 and Neo G9, Samsung also unwrapped a couple of other new monitors as part of its pre-CES announcement that it’s worth covering before we settle back to await the unveiling of Samsung’s 2023 TV range.

First there’s the ViewFinity S9 (S90PC), which is the first Samsung monitor to feature a 5K (5120×2880) 27-inch screen with a view to catering for creative professionals such as graphic designers and photographers. This monitor can cover 99% of the DCI-P3 colour gamut with an extreme degree of accuracy, and a Color Calibration Engine is built in to help users adjust white balance, gamma and RGB colour balance for total accuracy using just their smartphones and Samsung’s Smart Calibration app.

The Matte Display reduces reflections too, while USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 connections are provided to enable users to easily transfer large files from storage devices to their PCs.

The ViewFinity S9 ships with a 4K SlimFit camera and also carries Samsung’s Smart Hub, enabling native video conferencing through apps such as Google Meet.

Samsung’s popular Smart Monitor M8 range, meanwhile, with their handy blend of TV-like and work productivity features, is to get a new 27-inch screen size to go with the existing 32-inch model. Despite its relatively small size, the 27-inch M8 will still benefit from a 4K resolution, and ships with the same stylish, ultra-slim design available in four colour options: Daylight Blue, Spring Green, Sunset Pink and Warm White.

The height adjustable stand the new M8 sits on includes tilt support, can pivot through 90 degrees and supports VESA mounting points if you want to wall hang it.

As part of the Samsung’s Smart Monitor range, the 27-inch M8 will support both SmartThings and the Smart Hub, the former opening up a world of multi-device monitoring and control, the latter providing direct access to entertainment services such as Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video and Samsung’s Gaming Hub.

Other cool features of the new Smart Monitor M8 include automatically showing a user’s photos, schedule and other useful things on screen whenever the monitor detects while in standby mode a registered smartphone nearby; an upgrade to 2K resolution for the integrated SlimFit camera (which works with provided video conferencing apps); and Samsung’s Knox Vault security system, which encrypts personal data and keeps stored files and information isolated from the device’s main operating system to protect key data from hackers.

Samsung tells me it is also looking to introduce more new features to its Smart Monitor range in the coming months, such as mouse control support for both the home and app interfaces, support for more multi-tasking scenarios (such as MS365 integration for work); a multi-screen Multi-View system; and potentially a game pad to deliver a more engaging gaming experience.

—

Source link

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

4 weeks 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.