DALLAS, Feb. 26, 2024 /CNW/ — Global technology company OnePlus launched its OnePlus Watch 2 during Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. The OnePlus Watch 2 is a stunning flagship smartwatch, and it utilizes the latest version of Wear OS by Google™ (Wear OS 4). The device features a unique Dual-Engine Architecture with two chipsets, Wear OS’s hybrid interface, market-leading battery life of up to 100 hours in full Smart Mode, and a premium build and design. The OnePlus Watch 2 represents a big step forward for the smartwatch market.
As “Your Partner in Time,” the OnePlus Watch 2 embraces OnePlus’ “Never Settle” mantra to bring together all-around top-tier hardware and software in a single device, meticulously designed to motivate and support users to achieve anything they set their minds to. “As a smartwatch that integrates market-leading battery life, premium design, latest Wear OS and innovative health features, the OnePlus Watch 2 definitely qualifies as a reliable companion for your daily life,” said Justin Liu, GM of the Wearable Business Unit at OnePlus.
Industry-leading Battery Life Backed by Dual-Engine Architecture
The OnePlus Watch 2 is packed with flagship features, including exceptional battery and charging performance for unrivaled reliability and longevity. It features OnePlus’s self-developed Dual-Engine Architecture powered by two different flagship chipsets — the Snapdragon W5 performance chipset and the BES 2700 MCU Efficiency chipset. The BES2700 Efficiency Chipset runs RTOS and handles background activity and simple tasks, while the Snapdragon W5 handles more demanding tasks, like running your favorite Google apps. This optimized approach, enabled by the Wear OS hybrid interface seamlessly managing the transition between chips, means users will experience a smartwatch that effortlessly does it all while extending the time between charges.
“We’ve made significant updates to Wear OS’ hybrid interface to support new capabilities that run on OnePlus’ innovative Dual-Engine Architecture,” said John Renaldi, Senior Director of Product and Design, Wear OS by Google. “Through this collaboration, the OnePlus Watch 2 transparently switches between the low power and high-performance engines to deliver a feature-rich, premium smartwatch experience with optimized battery life.”
With this unique Dual-Engine Architecture and a 500mAh battery, the OnePlus Watch 2 can offer up to 100 hours1 of regular use in Smart Mode, or up to 48 hours2with heavy use. With 7.5W VOOC Fast Charging, the 500mAh battery can be fully charged in 60 minutes. With its 2GB RAM and 32GB ROM configuration, the OnePlus Watch 2 also offers plenty of memory and storage to ensure the device always runs smoothly.
A Personal Fitness and Wellness Coach on Your Wrist
Drawing on its advanced combination of hardware and software, the OnePlus Watch 2 provides meaningful insights that drive positive change in health and fitness – thanks to its ability to collect and analyze comprehensive health data in the OHealth app.
The OnePlus Watch 2 and the OHealth app now support Health Connect by Android™, which offers a central hub in Android 14 for managing data permissions from multiple health and fitness apps and devices. With user permission, users can securely sync their health data collected via the watch or the OHealth app with Health Connect-compatible apps.
Fitness features available through the OHealth app include tracking modes for more than 100 sports such as badminton, running, tennis, skiing, and more. Specifically for badminton, the OHealth app can track data such as swing strength and speed. Using the running tracking mode, wearers can track data such as ground contact time, ground balance, and VO2 max. OnePlus and Wear OS teams worked closely to fine-tune these sensor capabilities.
Designed for enhanced accuracy in location tracking, the OnePlus Watch 2 features Dual Frequency GPS with the ability to receive L5 GPS signals in addition to the commonly used L1 signals. Using two separate antennas for each GPS signal further improves the precision and reliability of positioning for wearers.
Building on the OHealth app, the OnePlus Watch 2 also offers detailed sleep tracking analysis – including an all-day sleep record that tracks users’ deep sleep, light sleep, REM and awake times. The device also monitors sleep breathing rate and provides a sleep quality score, sleep snoring risk assessment, and more. It can also monitor stress levels by calculating heart rate variability (HRV).
The Best of Google apps with Wear OS 4
Powered with the latest version of Wear OS, the OnePlus Watch 2 comes with popular Google apps like Maps, Assistant, Wallet, Calendar, and more third-party apps. Experience enhanced convenience with new features coming to Google apps, like the launch of transit directions on Google Maps that help you navigate public transportation from your wrist. Plus, manage boarding passes, event tickets, and more, directly on your watch with Google Wallet. With Fast Pair, you can quickly connect and set up your OnePlus Watch 2 with your OnePlus phone, or other supported Android smartphone. This seamless pairing experience supports features like calling, messaging, media remote control, and others, directly from your wrist.
Premium Design with Remarkable Durability
The OnePlus Watch 2 shares the same design philosophy with the OnePlus 12 Series. Taking inspiration from the distinctive K-shape design of the OnePlus 12 series, the OnePlus Watch 2 features a round watch face that echoes the series’ camera deco, making it the perfect companion for the OnePlus 12 series devices.
The OnePlus Watch 2 features a 2.5D sapphire crystal cover, making it more scratch-resistant without compromising optical clarity. The watch chassis is made out of stainless steel for added rust and corrosion resistance. Certified to the latest MIL-STD-810H US military standard, the OnePlus Watch 2 can withstand tough conditions and environmental stresses, while its IP68 resistant rating and 5ATM water resistance rating ensure excellent performance even while swimming.
Price and Availability
The OnePlus Watch 2 will be available to purchase in the U.S. and Canada starting on March 4 at USD$299.99 / CAD$399.99. It will be available in Radiant Steel or Black Steel colorways. In addition, users can trade in ANY watch in ANY condition on OnePlus.com for an additional USD$50 / CAD$60 off. The OnePlus Watch 2 will be sold on both OnePlus.com and Amazon. Warranty plans and after-sales programs are subject to terms and conditions.
About OnePlus
OnePlus is a global mobile technology brand that challenges conventional concepts of technology. Founded on the “Never Settle” mantra, OnePlus creates exquisitely designed devices with premium build quality and high-performance hardware. OnePlus is a global mobile technology brand that challenges conventional concepts of technology. Founded on the “Never Settle” mantra, OnePlus creates exquisitely designed devices with premium build quality and high-performance hardware. OnePlus thrives on cultivating strong bonds and growing alongside its community of users and fans.
For more information, please visit OnePlus.com or follow us on:
100 hours of usage time in Smart Mode is based on tests performed by OnePlus in laboratory conditions. Test data is derived from simulations based on the following settings and usage scenarios, actual battery life may vary: Official watch face, AOD off, default health monitoring, 14.2 hours/day Bluetooth connection, 1 hour/day Wi-Fi connection standby, 6.5 hours/day sleep monitoring, 220 times/day raise-to-wake with screen illumination, 130 notifications/day, 20 minutes/day screen use (various applications), 6 times/day incoming call reminder (5s), 5 minutes/day Bluetooth call, 500s/day data sync between phone and watch, 15 minutes/day Bluetooth and headset connection for music (Spotify), 30 minutes/day outdoor running, and 3 times/day alarm.
48 hours of battery life with heavy use of OnePlus Watch 2 in Smart Mode is derived from simulations based on the following settings and usage scenarios, actual battery life may vary: third party watch face (with Dual-Engine Architecture turned off), AOD turned on, default health monitoring, 12.2 hours/day Bluetooth connection, 2 hours/day Wi-Fi connection, 6.5 hours/day sleep monitoring, 300 times/day raise-to-wake with screen illumination, receive 180 messages/day, 30 minutes/day screen operation (various applications), 6 times/day incoming call reminder (5s), 5 minutes/day Bluetooth call, 15 minutes/day Google Maps linked navigation, 500s/day data sync between phone and watch, 30 minutes/day Bluetooth headset connection for music (Spotify), 30 minutes/day outdoor running, and 3 times/day alarm.
Google, Wear OS by Google, Google Maps, Google Wallet and other marks are trademarks of Google LLC.
OnePlus Watch 2 only supports connecting with smartphones with Android 8.0 and above, which should also have a GMS version of 23.45.23 and above. iOS and Android (Go edition) devices are not supported.
SOURCE OnePlus
For further information: Spenser Blank, Head of PR & Communications, OnePlus North America, [email protected]
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.
