CES, the flashy, annual tech show always sure to unveil a few headline-grabbing inventions and tech trends, is usually held in Las Vegas.
But due to the pandemic, the Consumer Electronics Show moved online this year, showcasing 1,800 companies to 150,000 “attendees” from Monday to Thursday.
The lack of neon and glad-handing didn’t stop the event from unveiling its usual array of trendsetting, mindblowing (or head-scratching) products.
From a flying Cadillac to “the world’s smartest mask,” here’s a look at some of the highlights:
The Cadillac of flying cars
General Motors Co. presented a futuristic flying Cadillac — a self-driving vehicle that takes off and lands vertically and carries the passenger above the streets and through the air. A senior GM executive described the concept as “reimagining the future of personal transportation.”
The single-passenger Cadillac — technically, a vertical take-off and landing drone — will be able to travel from urban rooftop to urban rooftop at speeds of up to 88 kilometres per hour. It is fully autonomous and all-electric, with a 90kW motor, a GM Ultium battery pack and an ultra-lightweight body with four pairs of rotors.
Separately, an autonomous Cadillac shuttle, described as “arriving soon,” has wraparound lounge-like seating, plus biometric sensors, voice control and hand gesture recognition. GM declined to disclose further details.
Other automakers, including Toyota Motor, Hyundai Motor and Geely Automobile, have previously shown concept aerial vehicles as part of their future planning.
Robo-friendship for seniors
CareClever presented its latest version of the Cutii companion, one designed specifically for seniors. It proposes activities such as yoga and nature walks, uses voice recognition and offers video calls and messaging via its WiFi connection. It also features games and music playable from its touch screen.
Three years after winning the prestigious “Tech for a Better World” at CES 2017, Boston-based CareClever will officially launch Cutii, the world’s first companion robot specifically designed to overcome social isolation and cognitive decline for seniors at CES 2021. <a href=”https://t.co/UFpkyzPiTr”>pic.twitter.com/UFpkyzPiTr</a>
Among its artificial intelligence features is the ability to adapt to its companion’s behaviours as well as the ability to learn the living space, moving within the room to keep the person company or to return to its charging station.
The French company also plans to use AI to detect posture and use that to determine whether there may be an emergency. So far the company has 30 Cutii robots in senior facilities and 10 in individual homes in France. The company is also branching out in the U.S. with six robots being tested in Connecticut.
Plans for Canada’s 1st zero-emission car enters next stage
Project Arrow, the plan for a zero-emission car entirely designed and made in Canada, launched its formal request for proposal (RFP) process for suppliers on the first day of CES.
APMA Canada released this new, detailed rendering of the Project Arrow vehicle this week. (APMA Canada)
The Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA) says more than 130 firms have expressed interest.
Aiming for the 2022 and 2023 auto show circuit, Project Arrow expects up to 200 companies to bid before the RFP deadline of March 1.
Getting a leg up
Factory workers and surgeons whose jobs require them to stand for hours in one place could see relief from leg and back pain, in the form of a wearable exoskeleton leg device from Japanese startup Archelis.
The device straps to the legs and disperses the wearer’s body weight so it is supported by the shins and thighs, making standing easier and less tiring.
Japanese startup Archelis has designed a wearable exoskeleton leg to assist factory workers whose jobs require them to stand for hours in one place <a href=”https://t.co/xRPmwf6R4Y”>pic.twitter.com/xRPmwf6R4Y</a>
The ArchelisFX device, whose name derives from the Japanese for “walkable chair,” is all-mechanical and does not require any electricity to operate. It will retail for around $5,000 US.
See-through and bendable screens
Each year, big TV makers display the dazzling technology that could eventually come to your home TV set, though generally not soon. In addition to the yearly crop of ever-bigger, brighter and sharper TVs, LG Display showed off a “smart bed” that includes a 55-inch transparent TV that rises from the bed frame.
Another version of the transparent TV is designed for restaurants, so customers could browse the menu and watch a chef prepare food behind it at the same time.
LG has also announced a bendable version of a 48-inch display that can curve on demand — a feature designed for gamers.
LG Electronics showed off its flexible screen technology during last year’s CES in Las Vegas. (Steve Marcus/Reuters)
COVID mask tech
LG is promoting a wearable air purifier and a portable air purifier that you can use to purify air in a car or office. They both have fans and HEPA filters.
A smaller company called AirPop debuted the Active+ Smart Mask, which monitors your breathing and the quality of the air around you.
Also, Razer unveiled what it called “the world’s smartest mask,” a transparent N95 respirator that includes interior lights and a built-in amplifier.
Razer unveiled what it called ‘the world’s smartest mask’. (Razer)
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.
