Apple revealed the newest models of its iPad Pro and MacBook Air products today, and there was one particular addition that could change the entire game for the tech giant.
Without the use of a live announcement event, as is customary for the company, information was dropped online and briefings were sent out to press, including Daily Hive, earlier in the day.
Since then, listings and pre-orders have launched through Apple’s website.
New MacBook Air with better keyboard, faster performance, and more storage
MacBook Air/Apple
First introduced on the 16-inch MacBook Pro in November 2019, Apple’s latest “Magic Keyboard” comes built-in on the MacBook Air. It features modern scissor mechanics to provide a stable and comforting feel in its minimal 1mm travel distance, making for a “more satisfying key feel” in the recycled-aluminum body frame.
The new notebook also got a huge speed boost, offering quad-core 10th-generation Intel processors – for the first time in a MacBook Air – which makes it up to two times faster than previous models.
Also doubled is the storage space, which starts at 256GB and can be configured up to a 2TB solid-state drive (SSD). That, plus the up-to-80% graphics boost, means you can engage in more intensive activities faster, like playing games or editing videos.
MacBook Air/Apple
Shipping next week, the new MacBook Air starts at $1,299 – making it the cheapest Apple notebook in the MacBook lineup.
New iPad Pro with a magical keyboard cover and trackpad support
Celebrating 10 years of the iPad, Apple asserts it will sell its 500 millionth iPad this year, a huge milestone for the company that says it makes the number one selling tablet.
New iPad Pro camera with LiDAR Scanner/Apple
In recent years, the iPad Pro lineup has dominated the tablet market, and Apple isn’t keen on letting that slow down anytime soon.
Both the 11-inch and 12.9-inch new iPad Pro models look the same as their predecessors, but they have a mountain of complexities and new hardware added in.
The brain of the new 2020 iPad Pro is Apple’s breakthrough A12Z Bionic chip, which allows for crazy-fast editing (even in 4K) and a large boost in multi-tasking performance. Thanks to the eight-core GPU, the updated iPad Pro brings a brilliantly smooth visual fidelity that’s nearly unmatched in the mobile-computing market.
Apple has also brought the new iPhone cameras to the iPad Pro: the 12MP wide camera with 4K video and 10MP ultra wide camera, a definite game-changer for creative pros.
They’ve also brought five studio-quality microphones to the device (the same as the 16-inch MacBook Pro), making the iPad Pro a mini mobile studio.
DoubleTake by FiLMiC Pro being used on the iPad Pro/Apple
A “breakthrough” for Apple is the “LiDAR Scanner” to go along with the cameras for depth sensing and augmented reality (AR). In the most basic sense, the scanner measures the distance between objects and points based on the low-power laser it shoots out and reflections that come back.
Working with data from both cameras and motion sensors, the AR experience gets significantly better, working near instantly rather than scanning the environment before an app loads.
AR on the iPad Pro/Apple
A new take on the iPad OS (13.4) brings gesture improvements, and cursor support. Yes, cursor support. Why?
Because Apple has finally brought a trackpad into the mix.
The highlight of today’s unveiling was neither product on display. Rather, a highly functional laptop-like case and keyboard for the newest edition of the iPad Pro.
An iPad keyboard that turns one of the best tablets into a lap-able computer is a game-changer in a world where most peripherals are either detached or floppy. Prompting Apple’s new promotional campaign, “Your next computer is not a computer.”
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The new Magic Keyboard is a product that previous iPad owners would have had to search online, with third-party accessory teams, in order to obtain.
Making the iPad Pro as powerful as a MacBook or better, then turning it into something that functions on your lap like a notebook, makes any argument against the iPad Pro as your “go-to” computer pretty much disappear.
The Magic Keyboard is complete with a full-size keyboard that, like the new MacBook Air, is the same as the 16-inch MacBook Pro – and is backlit.
Along with allowing users to sit anywhere and type, the “floating” iPad keyboard and mount, which angles from 90° to 130°, also features a USB-C charging passthrough, which means you can use the USB-C on the iPad Pro itself for any accessories. It also features a fully functional trackpad, which works in perfect tandem with the iPadOS cursor support.
Apple Inc.
Trackpad support will be available on any iPad running iPadOS 13.4 and works with Apple’s Magic Mouse 2 and Magic Trackpad 2, along with third-party mice connected via bluetooth or USB.
The new iPad Pro starts at $1,049 and ships next week.
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.
