The Galaxy Z Flip 5 has only been available in stores for a week, and Samsung has already released the first security update for the class-leading folding smartphone. I’ve had my Z Flip 5 a little longer as I pre-ordered to take advantage of the, frankly, incredible trade-in offers. I cannot lie; I was pleasantly surprised when the security update landed so quickly, not least as it fixes a total of 86 vulnerabilities, including three that are flagged as critical.
It’s Five For Five As The Z Flip Gets 60 Months Of Security Updates
Samsung does seem to have taken firm control of getting these security updates distributed really quickly now, at least as far as their latest flagship devices are concerned. I had previously had delays, sometimes of more than a month, for security updates to arrive on my Note 10+ 5G, for example. Things were better regarding my Z Fold 3, the refurbished, second-user device that I traded in for the very impressive new Z Flip 5 in yellow.
Just as the length and quality of manufacturer warranty is a selling point for cars, so software and security updates are for smartphones. Indeed, the fact that the Flip 5 is guaranteed to get the next four major Android operating system updates and, importantly, security patches for five years was a significant factor for me.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 August 2023 Security Update
The Galaxy Z Flip 5, which ran on Android 13 at launch and came with the July 2023 security update out of the box, now has One UI version 5.1.1 and the August 2023 security update available. So, what does security patch level 1 August 2023 fix?
As always, full and public technical details are in short supply when any new security update lands so as to ensure as many devices are protected as possible first. However, as other devices had got the August update earlier in the month, the SMR-AUG-2023 changelog has now been published by Samsung. This reveals a total of 86 vulnerabilities. There are 51 common vulnerabilities and exposures on the Android side and a further 35 Samsung vulnerabilities and exposures. When it comes to the SVEs, only 19 are included in the changelog, and Samsung says the remainder “cannot be disclosed at this time.” You can refer to the changelog itself for the complete list of CVEs and SVEs (with corresponding CVE numbers), but the three that are rated as critical in this update are as follows:
CVE-2023-21629
CVE-2023-21629 is a memory corruption issue in the modem due to “double free while parsing the PKCS15 sim files.” According to the VulDB database listing for CVE-2023-21629 exploiting the vulnerability impacts “confidentiality. integrity, and availability,” but there is no publicly available exploit at this time.
CVE-2023-21282
CVE-2023-21282 is a remote code execution issue with “no additional execution privileges needed.” What is needed for a successful exploit, as is often the case with this type of vulnerability, is user interaction. Once again, there are no publicly available exploits known at this time.
SVE-2023-0821
SVE-2023-0821 (CVE-2023-30699) is an out-of-bounds vulnerability impacting the libsimba library, which can lead to remote code execution. This vulnerability carries a 9.8 out of 10 criticality rating.
How To Check If Your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Has The Latest Security Update
Because of the fractured nature of the Android ecosystem, software updates, including security updates, do not necessarily arrive for everyone simultaneously. You can check to see if your Z Flip 5 is protected against the latest swathe of security vulnerabilities by heading to Settings|Software update. Hit the download and install option, and your Flip will check to see if you are up to date. While in the software update settings, ensure that the auto-download over Wi-Fi option is enabled, as this will download any updates as they become available, as long as you are connected to a Wi-Fi network.
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.
