Apple’s annual developer’s conference, WWDC, is just weeks away, which means we may soon find out what new features Apple has in store for the iPhone with iOS 14. But in the meantime there are plenty of rumors to unpack about what we can expect.
Apple is said to be focusing heavily on bringing more stability to the iPhone with iOS14 and smoothing out some of the issues people experienced in iOS 13. Over the past few months, a number of Apple rumor sites have reported getting their hands on early test versions of iOS 14 with details about everything from interface changes to new apps. And while we can’t know for certain whether or not these leaks are the real deal, or whether the changes listed will even make it to the final build of iOS 14, there’s plenty to be excited about.
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iOS 14: Everything we know
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Launch date
If all goes according to plan, which so far it has not, Apple will introduce iOS 14 at WWDC 2020, which starts on June 22. This year the conference will be held virtually, but we’re still expecting it to be announced at the keynote that usually kicks off the event, alongside all the other major software update announcements.
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In the past, the announcement was followed by the release of the developer beta, then the public beta a few months later, with the official release of iOS at the iPhone launch event in early September.
But this year the timeline is subject to change. The coronavirus pandemic is rumored to have caused production delays for the next iPhone and Apple may be forced to push back the launch event, along with the release of iOS 14, to October. Apple has yet to comment.
Updates to the home screen
The home screen may look drastically different in iOS 14. According to 9to5Mac, iOS 14 will bring a list view option that would allow you to organize apps as a list instead of the current grid view. The Apple Watch already allows you to view apps listed alphabetically, but on the iPhone you’d also be able to sort them by most used or by the number of unread notifications.
Changing default apps
Since the existence of the iPhone, Apple has made its own preinstalled apps like Maps or Music the default choice. This may change in iOS 14, as rumors suggest Apple could allow you to choose third-party apps instead: Spotify instead of Apple Music, Google Maps or Waze instead of Apple Maps, or Chrome instead of Safari.
@ mentions in Messages
Apple’s Messages app is rumored to be taking a cue from other messaging apps like Slack and WhatsApp by allowing you to mention specific people in group chats by adding an @ symbol before their name. According to MacRumors, the app would also include an option to delete a message once it has already been sent or mark a message as unread as you would with an email. We’re also expecting a new batch of emojis along with some new tricks for Animojis and Memojis.
iPad-like multitasking features
iOs 14 may also bring multitasking features to the iPhone. Apple Leaker Ben Geskin posted a video on Twitter of what this would look like on an iPhone 11 running an early version of the OS. Since then people have responded saying it’s just a current jailbreak version rather than an iOS 14 feature. Apple is rumored to be launching an iPhone 12 Max with an even larger screen than the current Max which would benefit from more iPad-like features, but that doesn’t mean we will see it in this version of iOS.
New features in Safari
Siri can already translate words and phrases, but iOS 14 could allow you to translate text on your screen. According to 9to5 Mac, Safari will get translation powers similar to those found on Google Chrome and allow you to toggle between languages at the click of a button, even if you don’t have cell signal or Wi-Fi. The report also mentioned it may be available on some of Apple’s other apps as well.
Safari may also gain Apple Pencil support with the ability to use it as a cursor to click and scroll as well as take notes or mark-up pages.
More accessibility options
Yet another 9to5Mac report also mentions an accessibility feature that would allow you to translate sounds, like the sound of an alarm ringing, or even a crying baby, into haptic feedback for people with hearing loss.
A new workout app
There are also two new app rumors to be coming with iOS 14. The first one is a workout app that would guide you through different exercise routines.
According to MacRumors, this would include running, cycling, rowing, strength training, dance, yoga and a number of other activities. The app would also be available on the Apple Watch and Apple TV. The report says the app would be free, but Apple may charge a subscription for the service, or put more premium content behind a paywall as it does with Apple News Plus.
Augmented reality app
Apple may also be working on a new augmented reality app for iOS 14. The app, mentioned in 9to5Mac, would allow you to get more information about a physical product you’re seeing at a store without having to search for it online. The report references the Apple Store and Starbucks at launch, but it could be expanded to other retailers as well.
Forget your car keys
Your iPhone or Apple Watch may soon be able to unlock your car. According to 9to5Mac, Apple has been working on a feature called CarKey that would enable users to turn their devices into a key fob for their car. BMW is rumored to be one of the manufacturers working with Apple on this, but its unclear whether or not this would include other manufacturers and which car models would be compatible. It’s also possible only the newer iPhones and Apple Watches would be CarKey-enabled.
Compatibility
Aside from the CarKey feature, the rumors so far suggest that iOS 14 will be compatible with all devices running iOS 13. This is good news for people holding on to older devices, as previous iOS updates have excluded older models of the iPhone and iPad.
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.
