I’ve been a Windows user for a long time, and in 2019 for work, I started using a macOS-powered iMac. However, I’ve never really spent time with Chrome OS.
I primarily use Android handsets, so I figured it made sense that I finally try a Chromebook so I could have a more cohesive experience across my devices.
So when I was offered Acer’s Chromebook the Spin 13, I jumped at the chance to test out the laptop.
This story is a review/guide for anyone considering buying their first Chromebook. And while reading, keep in mind that the Spin 13 I used is a premium Chromebook that costs $999.99.
The Spin style
First and foremost, the Acer Spin 13 isn’t stylish, but that’s not an issue across all Chromebooks. For example, Google’s Pixelbook, Pixelbook Go and the Acer Chromebook Flip are great looking devices.
The laptop sports a 13.5-inch screen with a 2256 x 1504 pixel resolution. Images are clear and detailed; however, it doesn’t offer the best viewing experience out there, but I didn’t find this to be an issue. What I do take issue with is the thickness of the Chromebook’s sizable bezels. They’re unsightly and remind me of a laptop from a few years ago.
The Acer Spin 13 is also pretty big and clunky. It features a 360-degree hinge that allows users to flip the screen and use it as a tablet. Additionally, the Chromebook features a USB-A port, two USB-C ports, a micro SD port and a headphone jack. There’s also a stylus hidden inside that I’ve barely used because I’m not an artist.
The keyboard has decent key travel and I enjoyed typing with it, which says a lot considering I spend several hours a day writing.
Thankfully, the actual experience using the laptop was better than its older appearance.
Acer’s Spin 13 ran smoothly as it featured an i5-8250U processor with 8GB of RAM. I didn’t experience any lag whatsoever, and everything I did with the laptop seemed to run well except for Slack’s mobile app. Although, speaking to a colleague who was also using an Acer Chromebook, he didn’t experience this problem with the web-based Slack app.
The Chrome experience
For anyone who never used Chrome OS, it’s important to point out that I was able to get most of my work done without any issues. However, Chrome OS does have several shortcomings.
For example, you’re limited to the Google Play Store, Google Chrome extensions and progressive web apps. Progressive web apps are websites that work similarly to their app version. With a progressive web app, you can create a shortcut on Chrome OS and even though it’s a webpage, it’ll work similarly to any other app on your device — like ‘Messages for web.’ You don’t have access to more expansive app ecosystems available in the iOS App Store or even the Microsoft store.
I found this particularly bothersome because I use Adobe’s suite of apps at work every day. I edit pictures, cut/size them and more. This is tedious with Chrome OS, and while there are ways to navigate around the issue, I prefer to use a Windows and macOS device. There are a few Lightroom apps, but these apps can’t crop photos to the exact measurements I need and I’m locked to specific aspect ratios. There is a custom crop option, but it’s very buggy and doesn’t work well. Unfortunately, this is one of the best ways to crop images on Chrome OS using an Adobe app.
Other popular apps that you can find on Chrome OS include Spotify, Slack, YouTube, and Instagram. Additionally, apps like Messages work like a charm, allowing users to connect to their Android handset easily in the same method they would with Messages for web. The difference is that the phone connects automatically without needing to navigate to the Messages site.
It’s also useful that Chrome OS can run Android apps. Some apps like Instagram are clearly just the Android variant, which becomes obvious when you expand the app to take up the entire display. That said, because it’s the Android version of the app, you can actually post pictures and check your messages, unlike the web version of Instagram where you’re limited to only looking at photos.
I think people who are accustomed to macOS will have no problem switching to Chrome OS. The operating systems work similarly enough that users shouldn’t find the transition confusing. That said, Windows users might find it more challenging to get used to Google’s desktop operating system. My mother, who has primarily used Windows PCs since Windows 95, experienced several issues when trying to use Chrome OS. It’s not like she couldn’t figure it out with time, but people who’ve grown up with Windows might need some additional time to get accustomed to the operating system.
How much should a Chromebook cost
After this experience, I can confidently say that most people would have no issue using a Chromebook once they get used to how it works. Like Windows and macOS devices, Chromebooks come in different sizes and shapes, and I think they’re great for general users that like to browse the web, watch movies and YouTube videos or write in Google docs.
However, if you often have to edit photos or video, or are into gaming, you might want to reconsider getting a Chrome OS device.
And while I enjoyed using the Acer Spin 13, I don’t think it’s worth $999 CAD. In fact, I’m not sure any Chromebook is worth that price. While Chrome OS works well — great even — it still can’t do everything a Windows or macOS device is capable of.
Anyone looking to spend that much money on a laptop would probably be better off buying a Windows or macOS computer that is able to do much more.
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.
