As the saying goes, only three things are certain in life: death, taxes and Apple’s September event. Once again, the company is (probably) announcing a slew of new products next month, with the date officially set for 7 September. And if the onslaught of rumours is anything to by, there could be plenty to look forward to during Apple’s ‘Far Out’ event.
From the iPhone 14 to the Apple Watch Series 8, there are a few products that feel like shoo-ins this year. But the iPad and AirPods line ups could also be getting some love, and there may even be a surprise or two in store. Here’s a roundup of everything we’re expecting to see – and if you’re feeling impatient, be sure to check out the best Apple deals available right here and now.
iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro
(Image credit: PhoneArena)
This is the obvious one. Apple has released a new iPhone every September (except for 2020, when the pandemic pushed things back a month), and we’re not expecting things to be any different in 2022. And just like every year, the rumour mill has been working overtime to churn out countless rumours about Apple’s next smartphone.
From the removal of the notch to the addition of an always-on display, it sounds like we’re in for some exciting upgrades – for the Pro model, that is. Rumour has it Apple is planning to differentiate the standard and high-end iPhone more than normal this year – with the basic iPhone 14 not even set to receive a chip upgrade. And if you’re a fan of small phones, you might want to hang on to that iPhone 13 mini – persistent leaks all point to Apple doing away with the iPhone mini this year, replacing it instead with a larger, 6.7-inch ‘iPhone 14 Max’.
Apple Watch Series 8
A fan-made render of the Apple Watch Series 8 (Image credit: ConceptsiPhone)
The Apple Watch also tends to receive an upgrade at the same time as the iPhone 14 – although changes to Apple’s wearable are often a little more incremental. Last year’s Apple Watch Series 7 offered little improvement over the 6, save for a slightly larger screen (which allowed for the world’s smallest qwerty keyboard). But while the Apple Watch Series 8 (opens in new tab) is expected to borrow the same design (again!), rumours of a brand new Watch model are a little more intriguing.
The so-called Apple Watch Pro is said to be offering the first redesign since the Apple Watch Series 4 (when things got a tiny bit rounder and thinner). As well as features including a temperature sensor and a low-power mode (for enhanced battery life), the Apple Watch ‘Pro’ will apparently come exclusively in super-tough titanium. (If you don’t want to wait, as we write, Amazon currently has the cheapest Apple Watch Series 7 price we’ve seen yet).
iPad (10th generation)
Alleged leaked CAD renders of the new iPad (Image credit: Mysmartprice)
If there’s one Apple product that’s due some design love, it’s the entry-level iPad. The only model still rocking a home button (and lacking support for the Apple Pencil 2), the cheapest iPad is looking decidedly long in the tooth. But rumour has it that could change in 2022.
Leaked CAD files recently gave us our first alleged glimpse at the design for the 10th generation iPad, showing something much more akin to the iPad Air and iPad Pro, complete with flat edges, quad speakers and an LED flash. Strangely, these renders still retain the home button – and at the moment it isn’t clear whether it’ll feature a Lightning port, or make the jump to USB-C.
AirPods Pro
A fan-made render of the AirPods Pro 2 (sans stem) (Image credit: Konstantin Milenin)
Despite the name, the AirPods Pro are starting to look a little tired. First introduced in 2019, Apple’s high-end earbuds haven’t had an update in three years. But rumour has it some pretty nifty (and in some cases, creepy) new features could be on the way.
We’ve heard lots of rumours that the iconic ‘stem’ could soon disappear from the AirPods Pro. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claims the AirPods Pro will feature “an entirely new design that dispenses with the short stem that comes out of the bottom for a design similar to the Beats Fit Pro.”
But it’s some of the rumoured features that have really caught our attention. Apple is also said to be working on an impressive (and slightly terrifying) new security feature through which the AirPods would be able to identify the user by the shape of their ear or the gait of their walk. It all sounds a little dystopian to us, but hey – more security could be a good thing. There some truly weird rumours too, including a suggestion that Apple will add the ability to control your AirPods with your teeth (yes, you read that right).
Apple VR headset
Is this what Apple’s VR headset will look like? (Image credit: Ian Zelbo/Future owns)
Okay, this one is the most far out. But that’s the name of the event so… maybe? Rumours about Apple’s VR headset have been gathering pace over the last year, and with the Meta Quest 2 and PS VR 2 only growing in popularity, Apple might be planning to strike while the virtual reality iron is hot.
So what do we know about the headset? Bloomberg says (opens in new tab)the device will be similar in size to the Quest 2, and will be able to track hand movements for features such as a virtual keyboard. The headset is reported to feature a fabric exterior (perhaps similar to the AirPods Max?), and, rather unusually for Apple, a built-in fan.
But perhaps the most impressive details are regarding the internals. Apple is allegedly testing “some of its most advanced and powerful chips,” including some that eclipse even the incredible M1 chip. While we’re unsure exactly how Apple intends the device to be used, if it packs an even better chip than its high-end laptops, could the company be intending this new creation to become our primary device?
Time will tell what Apple is planning to announce next month, but if you don’t fancy hanging around to find out, there are plenty of awesome iPhone 13 deals and iPad deals to sink your teeth into in the meantime.
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.
