More evidence is emerging that this year’s high-end Apple iPhone 14 Pro models and the regular models will differ in more ways than just their screens and cameras. Yesterday, trusted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said that only the Pro models would get a new chip. 9to5Mac corroborates the news, while also adding that the satellite data transfer feature that was expected to come to the iPhone 13 will be included in this year’s lineup.
The outlet has corroborated rumors that the 5.4-inches iPhone 13 mini will not be getting a successor. Instead, the iPhone 14 series will feature the 6.1-inches iPhone 14 and the 6.7-inches iPhone 14 Max, codenamed D27 and D28, respectively, and 6.1-inches and 6.7-inches iPhones 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, internally known as the D73 and D74.
The Pro models are expected to have the same resolution as their predecessors, meaning the iPhone 14 Pro will have a 1170 x 2532 screen, and Pro Max’s display will have a resolution of 1284 x 2778 pixels.
Per today’s scoop, the Pro variants will also have slightly taller displays than the outgoing models, which means they will have a different aspect ratio than the current variants’ 19.5:9 ratio. This would give the phones a slimmer look, but we don’t think Apple will copy Sony Xperia 1 III’s 21:9 ratio, but who knows.
The alleged reason behind this design is the new dual pill and hole cutout setup that’s expected to replace the notch on the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max.
Only the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max will flaunt the new A16 Bionic chip
2013 was the last time that Apple divided its smartphone range according to the type of chip explicitly. Otherwise, if we pay attention to details, the A15 Bionic chip in the iPhone 13 Pro models has an extra GPU core.
That said, an extra GPU core is not the same as a chip built on a new manufacturing process. The A15 Bionic is based on the 5nm process and the rumored A16 Bionic will reportedly be manufactured using the more advanced 4nm tech which should make it faster and more energy-efficient.
It’s not clear why Apple is breaking from the decades-long tradition of outfitting all phones in a series with the same chip, but insiders such as Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman have suggested it may have something to do with the supply shortage.
It’s not all gloom and doom for the regular models as the phones will likely have a minimum of 6GB of RAM, up from 4GB, but only the Pro variants are expected to feature the faster LPDDR 5 RAM tech. Previous rumors had said that Apple would bump up the maximum RAM to 8GB, but this again would only apply to the Pro models.
It’s also not clear if iPhone 13 Pro’s fluid 120Hz display will trickle down to the iPhone 14 and 14 Max, but what’s fairly certain is that only the Pros will get a new 48MP camera that will help them outshine the best camera phones of 2022.
Lastly, today’s report also says that the satellite communication feature that Apple has allegedly been working on since 2017 may arrive with this year’s lineup. The system is internally known as “Stewie” and the company is said to be testing a prototype that can send a message over satellite, eliminating the need for cell service.
The 2022 lineup will likely break cover in September.
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.
