Tech

Samsung Is Making the Best Phones – Gizmodo

Published

5 years ago

December 31, 2019

Photo: Sam Rutherford (Gizmodo)

Last year after a somewhat lackluster product cycle, I said Samsung couldn’t afford to hold back anymore. And in 2019, it seems Samsung took that message to heart because it released some of the most exciting phone tech we’ve seen in the last 12 months.

Now before I get in trouble for patting myself on the back too hard, it’s obvious that one op-ed doesn’t carry that much weight. What’s more likely is that the powers at Samsung simply came to a similar conclusion, and with Huawei nipping at Samsung’s heels for global smartphone market share and bunch of innovative new tech poised for imminent release, everything lined up just right for a big 2019.

So while Apple and its entire product line maintained a holding pattern devoid of any major advancements, Google got too cute with the Pixel 4, and Huawei got slapped with a ban on using U.S. tech, Samsung released a dizzying amount of phones including its most impressive flagship in years, multiple 5G-ready handsets, a fully revamped budget and mid-range line, and of course the Galaxy Fold. And thanks to all that, it looks like Samsung has managed to maintain its top spot in the phone market for another year.

In early March, Samsung kicked off its strong year with the Galaxy S10, creating a phone that had everything even demanding power users could really ask for: a big beautiful screen with practically no bezel, excellent performance, twice the base storage you got on the S9 (128GB, up from 64GB), in-display fingerprint sensor, wireless (and reverse wireless) charging, triple cameras, and even a headphone jack.

Then Samsung went even further and made the S10e for people who appreciate smaller handsets with a flat (not curvy) screen and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor—a phone that remains probably the most overlooked mainstream phone of the year. And even with its smaller dimensions, the S10e kept its headphone jack too.

After that, Samsung axed the Galaxy J phones, merged them with the Galaxy A line, and piratically revamped its entire budget and mid-range portfolio. With the new Galaxy A50 Samsung made a better phone for $350 than Motorola (though it couldn’t quite take out the Pixel 3a). And if you look at a list of this year’s best selling phones, you’ll find three Galaxy A-series phones (Galaxy A10, A20, and A50) in the top 10, tied only with Oppo (Oppo A5, A5s and A9).

Then, in the fall, Samsung pumped out two versions of the Note 10 for the first time ever, with the Note 10+ being in my opinion damn near perfect (aside from the lack of a 3.5mm jack). Samsung even tested out tech like 3D time of flight sensors, and while they aren’t used for much more than doodles right now, you can already see the potential.

And while all of this was going on, Samsung release not one but two 5G phones. Now it’s true, especially in 2019, there’s no reason the average person should give a shit about 5G. But the value with the Galaxy S10 5G and Note 10 5G is being able to get some real 5G phones out in the wild, so people and companies can learn how they get used, and what to improve on in the future, when, you know, 5G might become important to you.

Samsung even took some time to overhaul its signature wireless earbuds, which at first seemed more like an attempt to keep pace with Apple’s AirPods than anything else. But as time went on, the Galaxy Buds start looking and sounding better and better compared to its competition to now, where it’s actually sort of underrated. This is a sentiment that really hit home for me when my wife asked to trade the Sony WF-1000XM3s I got her for the Galaxy Buds I had been using because they were lighter and more comfortable while still delivering superb sound quality. While I really wish you didn’t need to install a helper app to get full functionality for the Galaxy Buds on non-Samsung phones, the Galaxy Buds are still the best alternative to the original AirPods for Android folk (while also being $30 to $60 cheaper).

There was also the Galaxy Fold and all of its high and lows. Despite its flaws and its exorbitant price, the Galaxy Fold is one of the best devices released this year, and the only device with a foldable screen you could really buy on this side of the Pacific. The Galaxy Fold represents one of the biggest forks in smartphone design since the leap from dumb phones to smartphones, and with Samsung having already teased that its second foldable is already on the way, there’s a good chance Samsung will have created two foldable phones before most phone companies even make one.

Huawei’s Mate X came out even later than the Fold, and LG didn’t even bother, opting to go with dual-screens instead. And if noted Samsung leaker Ice Universe is correct about Samsung having figured out how to install flexible glass on the Galaxy Fold 2, then well…damn.

However, Samsung impressive 2019 still had its faults. The Galaxy Fold was delayed for five months due to potentially easily avoidable circumstances. Samsung Mobile CEO DJ Koh may have apologized and taken responsibility for the matter, but you can bet the Galaxy Fold’s early issues won’t soon be forgotten.

On top of that, when it comes to pure image quality, while triple rear cams are nice, Samsung sits in a solid third place (or fourth if you include Huawei), behind both Google and Apple. With the growing importance of computational photography, image quality has become one of the most obvious categories where simply doubling down on hardware doesn’t guarantee results. Samsung needs better software if it wants to gain a league. Speaking of software–while Samsung’s OneUI has gone a long way towards erasing the painful memories of TouchWiz, it still takes too damn long for Samsung phones to get new versions of Android.

But most importantly, 2019 for Samsung represented a return to form, where a company long known for innovative hardware basically dabbed on a lot of its competition. Now that challenge for next year is to turn its first mover’s advantage into an even better batch of gadgets.

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Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

3 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

3 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

1 month 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.