Last month Danish audio company Jabra announced a new range of premium speakerphones designed for home and office use, as well as life on the road when you might need to set up an impromptu conference call or Zoom meeting with up to six colleagues.
The all-new Jabra Speak2 75 is a direct competitor to the best-selling EPOS SP30T speakerphone that has established itself as a premium portable speakerphone in the past few years. The Jabra Speak2 75 is tapping into a market that has grown recently as more of us adopt hybrid working. In fact, according to Jabra’s 2022 Hybrid Ways of Working Global Report, 80% of all meetings are now conducted remotely or as a mixture of in-person and online.
The phenomenal growth in hybrid meetings has convinced Jabra to develop its new Speak2 range of intelligent speakerphones, which can be used for conference meetings, direct phone calls, streaming media, making presentations or even listening to music or watching a movie when the day’s work is done.
The beautifully made Jabra Speak2 75 has an illuminated ring around its edge as well as … [+] touch-sensitive controls. The speaker in the centre is a 65mm full-range driver which serves up excellent sound.
Jabra
To date, some nine million speakerphones have been sold worldwide and Jabra hopes to carve out a dominant position in a swiftly expanding market. The company claims its new Speak2 range offers higher-quality audio in a form factor that’s both mobile and futureproof.
I recently had a chance to get my hands on a sample of the flagship Jabra Speak2 75 model and my first impressions are that this is a superb premium device that exceeds the build quality and finish of the evergreen EPOS SP30T, which is beginning to look a little dated.
The Jabra Speak2 75 is about the size of an ice hockey puck out of the box. It’s finished in black anodized aluminum and has a finely woven speaker grille made from sustainable material. A circular ring around the speaker grille hides LED symbols illuminating when the Jabra Speak2 75 is turned on. On the underside of the speakerphone, a fixed USB cable winds around the base for traveling.
The new Jabra Speak2 75 ships with a felt storage pouch and USB Bluetooth dongle.
Jabra
You don’t have to use the USB cable to connect the speakerphone to a computer as the Jabra Speak2 75 includes a Bluetooth receiver. Jabra also supplies a high-quality USB Bluetooth dongle that provides super-wideband audio when connected to computers that don’t have Bluetooth built-in. Unfortunately, there’s no slot on the speakerphone for stowing the USB dongle, but the Jabra Speak2 75 is supplied with a smart felt carry case with a little pocket for holding the Bluetooth dongle.
Turning on the speaker phone illuminates the touch controls around the speaker grille. Some of these symbols are touch controls, including a power indicator, accept and reject call buttons, a battery level indicator, volume controls, and a Bluetooth status light. When the Jabra Speak2 75 is connected to a computer running Microsoft Teams, a dedicated Teams button lights up and varies in color depending on the status of the video meeting software.
The Jabra Speak2 75 can be used by just one person making a personal phone call or it can be used for a video meeting. Additionally, the Jabra Speak2 75 can be placed on a table where everyone taking part in a meeting can hear and be heard thanks to full duplex audio. This clever feature enables both sides in a meeting to hold a more natural, two-way dialog where everyone can speak simultaneously and still be heard at each end of the conversation without stilting the flow.
Thanks to its four beamforming microphones and Voice Level Normalisation technology, the Jabra … [+] Speak2 75 is ideal for round-table meetings and phone calls.
Jabra
Built into the Jabra Speak2 75 are four high-performing beamforming microphones that feature Voice Level Normalisation technology. This is specifically tuned to eliminate any unwanted background noises while focusing on voices, making whoever is speaking sound much clearer.
Whether you use the USB connection or the built-in Bluetooth receiver for connecting a smartphone, the sound quality of the Jabra Speak2 75 is superb. The Jabra Bluetooth dongle also provides high-quality wireless communication with super-wideband audio on a desktop or laptop. The connection is incredibly robust and has a good range. During my tests, I didn’t notice a single dropout. The Jabra Speak2 75 also supports Multipoint connections, so you can connect to the speakerphone with your laptop and your smartphone and switch seamlessly between the two.
The Jabra Speak2 75 has a custom-designed Microphone Quality Indicator that appears as a 360˚ LED ring that shows how well the beamforming microphones are picking up voices. It’s easy to see if everyone’s voice is being picked up properly because the LED ring around the edge of the device will glow green. If the positioning is poor, the ring will glow orange or even flash when it’s not good enough. The speakerphone can be repositioned using the LED ring as a guide to produce optimum results.
The Jabra Speak2 75 is ideal for digital nomads who need to dial into meetings and phone calls from … [+] almost anywhere.
Jabra
The 65mm speaker built into the Jabra Speak2 75 is a full-range driver that reproduces sound, music and movie soundtracks incredibly well, considering its size. There’s plenty of bass on offer and the speaker’s midrange is tuned perfectly for the human voice. It makes it much easier to hear people on the other end of the line, especially compared to the usually poor quality of most laptop speakers.
Jabra also provides free Sound+ software for Windows, macOS, iOS and Android. This classy software can update the Jabra Speak2 75’s firmware, customize its sound and tweak essential settings. And should you fancy holding a conference call while lazing on the beach, it’s good to know that the Jabra Speak2 75 is rated IP64 for dust and water resistance. A full charge of the onboard battery provides up to 32 hours of use before it needs to be topped up again. If the battery has run flat, it’s always possible to plug the Jabra Speak2 75 into a computer or a USB charger to get it working and charging again.
Verdict: The flagship Jabra Speak2 75 speakerphone is a superb piece of kit that’s ideal for the home office or life on the road. I believe this is the best premium speakerphone on the market and has eclipsed the excellent EPOS SP30T speakerphone. The Jabra Speak2 75 performs incredibly well, is superb at picking up voices around a meeting table, and has enough power to ensure everyone in the room can hear those on the other end of the line. The sound quality is so good; it’s also great for winding down in your home office or hotel room with music or sleeping with a favorite podcast. Highly Recommended.
Pricing & Availability: The Jabra Speak2 75 is available now and costs $369 / £297 / €339.
The build-quality and components used in the Jabra Speak2 75 are premium and capable of reproducing … [+] sounds ranging from phone calls to movie soundtracks.
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.
