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Apple iPhone SE 2020 preview: First impressions of design, performance – Business Insider – Business Insider

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4 years ago

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  • Apple’s $400 iPhone SE is a new smartphone that has the same processor as the iPhone 11 and 11 Pro, but in a compact, 4.7-inch design like the iPhone 8. 
  • The launch comes just as rival smartphone makers like Samsung and Google have been introducing less expensive alternatives to their own flagship smartphones.
  • I’ve only spent a few hours with the iPhone SE so far, but its speedy performance and compact design should make it a compelling option for Apple fans on a budget. 
  • Visit Business Insider’s homepage for more stories.

It’s only April, but Apple has already unveiled a new iPhone. And no, it’s not the rumored 5G-enabled iPhone 12 you’ve probably been hearing so much about.

Rather, it’s the $400 iPhone SE, a revival of the special edition iPhone Apple introduced back in 2016.  Unsurprisingly, the 2020 model comes with a number of improvements over its 4-year-old predecessor, particularly when it comes to performance. The device officially launches on April 24 and is currently available for preorder. 

The new iPhone SE features a 4.7-inch screen with a Touch ID home button and a glass and aluminum design, making it very similar to 2017’s iPhone 8. But most importantly, it runs on Apple’s A11 processor — the same chip that powers the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro. That gives the iPhone SE an advantage over other similarly priced smartphones, like the $400 Google Pixel 3a, which runs on a less powerful chip designed for less expensive smartphones.

I’ve only been using the iPhone SE for roughly a couple of hours, but I can already tell it fills an important hole in Apple’s lineup. At a time when rivals like Google and Samsung are introducing more budget-friendly options, Apple had been lacking an inexpensive smartphone that still feels new until now. 

The iPhone SE may not have a borderless screen like the $400 Samsung Galaxy A51 or a camera that can see in the dark like Google’s $400 Pixel 3a. But it does pack as much power as Apple’s latest flagships — a sign that Apple intends to give Android device makers more competition when it comes to targeting shoppers on all budgets. 

Here’s a closer look at my brief first impressions of the new iPhone SE.

In terms of design, it looks and feels almost identical to the iPhone 8.

iPhone SE (left) and iPhone 8 (right)

Lisa Eadicicco/Business Insider


The iPhone SE should look very familiar to anyone who has used an iPhone 8. The phone’s screen size, physical dimensions, and weight all match those of the 4.7-inch iPhone Apple released in 2017.

The biggest physical differences between the iPhone SE and the iPhone 8 are in their colors. The iPhone SE comes in black, white, and red, while the iPhone 8 was available in silver, space gray, and gold. 

The Apple logo on the back of the phone is also located much lower near the center of the device compared to the iPhone 8. The “iPhone” branding is also gone from the back of the device, as shown in the photo above. 

Since the iPhone SE is hundreds of dollars less expensive than the iPhone 11 and even 2018’s $600 iPhone XR, it’s not necessarily surprising that it lacks the modern edge-to-edge screen found on other recent iPhones.

However, the design does feel a bit antiquated when you consider that companies like Google and Samsung have managed to design $400 smartphones with bezels that are significantly thinner than those found on the iPhone SE.  

The iPhone SE is also a welcome return for Touch ID.



Lisa Eadicicco/Business Insider


Apple hasn’t released a new smartphone with its Touch ID fingerprint sensor since the iPhone 8, and it’s making a welcome comeback on the new iPhone SE. 

That’s because Apple’s newer phones use facial recognition instead since they no longer include a home button. While Face ID is a promising and secure alternative to Touch ID,  I sometimes still prefer using a fingerprint scanner over Apple’s Face ID.

For example, Touch ID is more convenient at times when I want to unlock my phone without having to pick it up. Using a fingerprint scanner is also usually faster when unlocking my device while wearing sunglasses as well. 

It’s nice to see that that those who prefer Touch ID over Face ID no longer have to compromise by purchasing an older iPhone with a less powerful chip.  

Even though I’ve only spent a short amount of time with the iPhone SE so far, it does feel a bit faster than the iPhone 8.

The iPhone SE (front) and iPhone 8 (back)

Lisa Eadicicco/Business Insider


The iPhone SE should bring notable performance improvements over the iPhone 8, but without using the phone for a longer period of time it’s difficult to tell exactly where those enhancements will be noticeable.

Still, I immediately noticed that the iPhone SE felt a bit snappier when launching apps compared to the iPhone 8 I’ve had since 2018. When launching apps like the Messages app, Google Maps, and Seamless, the iPhone SE beat the iPhone 8 every time. I also felt like the iPhone SE was a bit quicker and more accurate at finding nearby surfaces when using Apple’s augmented reality measuring app compared to the iPhone 8. 

Overall, the iPhone SE doesn’t come with any exciting new changes — but that’s probably why its intended audience will like it.



Lisa Eadicicco/Business Insider


The iPhone SE is the opposite of what you’d expect from an Apple product launch. There aren’t any groundbreaking new features like a triple-lens camera or a brand-new chip. Even the design feels old and unchanged.

But that’s precisely why it will likely appeal to some people. The iPhone SE isn’t for early adopters or camera enthusiasts. It’s for iPhone users that want a new phone but are hesitant about spending $700 more on a new smartphone. Or Apple fans that are very much in need of an upgrade but aren’t interested in switching to a phone with a larger screen and no home button. Or parents looking for a relatively inexpensive first smartphone for their child. 

For legacy iPhone owners, there’s nothing new to learn with the SE — no new gestures to replace the home button, no facial recognition, no new key combinations for taking a screenshot. And that’s probably very important to some shoppers.

With so many high-quality, inexpensive Android phones in the market — like Samsung’s Galaxy A151 and Galaxy S10, Google’s Pixel 3a, and TCL’s upcoming 10 Pro, Apple couldn’t afford to not come out with a new budget option of its own. Even if the iPhone SE doesn’t have all the bells and whistles found on those rivals, Apple at least has a new affordable iPhone that’s fit to compete when it comes to performance. 

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United Airlines will offer free internet on flights using service from Elon Musk’s SpaceX

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18 hours ago

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September 13, 2024

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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.

The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

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How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

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4 days ago

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September 10, 2024

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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.

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Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

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4 days ago

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September 10, 2024

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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.

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