Microsoft is releasing two new computers today, the budget-oriented Surface Laptop Go and the second generation version of the premium Surface Pro X.
The Surface Laptop Go is an affordable variant of the more expensive Surface Laptop. It has 12.4-inch display with 3:2 aspect ratio and 1536×1024 resolution. The display is also a touchscreen.
The Surface Laptop Go is powered by a 10th gen Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor with Intel UHD Graphics. It has 4GB or 8GB of LPDDR4X memory and 64GB eMMC or 128/256GB SSD storage.
The Surface Laptop Go also includes a 720p f2.0 webcam, dual far-field microphones, and speakers with Dolby Audio processing. You also get 1x USB-C, 1x USB-A, Wi-Fi 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.0, headphone jack, and Surface Connect port.
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The Surface Laptop Go uses aluminum for the lid and polycarbonate composite resin system with glass fiber and 30% post-consumer recycled content for the base. It’s available in three colors: Ice Blue, Sandstone, and Platinum.
The Surface Laptop Go will come with Windows 10 Home in S mode. It’s priced at $550 for the base model with 4GB memory and 64GB eMMC, $700 for 8GB memory and 128GB SSD, and $900 for 8GB memory and 256GB SSD.
The new Surface Pro X is an update to last year’s model and is an ARM-based Windows tablet. It has a 13-inch touchscreen with 3:2 aspect ratio and 2880×1920 resolution. This is packed into a new design, which Microsoft claims is the thinnest ever for a Surface Pro while still maintaining the distinctive kickstand.
The device is powered by two custom chipsets, the Microsoft SQ 1 from last year and the new SQ 2, made by Qualcomm. Microsoft provides no details on these chipsets but since the SQ 1 was based on the Snapdragon 8cx, it’s likely the SQ 2 is based on the Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2. This is further confirmed in the GPU specifications, where the SQ 1 has the Adreno 685 while the SQ 2 has the Adreno 690, similar to the 8cx and 8cx Gen 2, respectively. Microsoft claims a battery life of 15 hours.
The Surface Pro X offers a choice of 8GB and 16GB of LPDDR4x memory. On the storage front, you get a choice of 128, 256, and 512GB of removable M.2 2230 SSD. However, the driver doesn’t seem user-replaceable, as Microsoft says it can only be removed by a Microsoft technician. Because the hardware is ARM-based, the device will ship with Windows 10 Home on ARM.
The Surface Pro X has a 5MP front camera for 1080p video and also a separate camera for Windows Hello face authentication. On the back is a 10MP camera for recording up to 4K video. There are also dual far-field microphones and 2W stereo speakers with Dolby Audio.
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The Surface Pro X has 2x USB-C ports, Surface Connect port, Gigabit LTE with nanoSIM and eSIM support, A-GPS, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, and Bluetooth 5.0.
The Surface Pro X is compatible with the Surface Pro X keyboard from last year — which now comes in three new colors: Platinum, Ice Blue, and Poppy Red — but it continues to be sold separately for $104. Same goes for the Surface Slim Pen, which costs $145 extra.
The Surface Pro X will be available in six configurations, only two of which use the new Microsoft SQ 2. This includes the 256GB version for $1500 and 512GB version for $1800. Both have 16GB memory, Microsoft SQ 2 and available for pre-order right now in Black or Platinum.
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.
