Updated September 13 with new details on iPhone 13 storage options; Article originally posted September 10.
Taking a look back at another week of news and headlines from Cupertino, this week’s Apple Loop includes September launch event, Apple confirming iPhone line-up, new iPhone 13 features leak, MacBook Pro release dates, scary lightning cable hack, AirPods 3 details, impact of App Store changes, and how the Nintendo Switch might look a bit like an iPhone.
With less than a week to go, the final details of the iPhone 13 family are clicking into place, including the SKU details of the four handset flavors thanks to a leak from an online retailer. Curiously though, the longed for 1TB iPhone 13 Pro Max is not present; the assumption being that the worldwide chip shortage may have made this too much of a stretch on Apple’s inventory.
“According to the listings on a Ukrainian website, the iPhone 13 mini will come in six colour options – Black, Blue, Purple, Pink, White, and PRODUCT (Red). The mini will be available in 64GB and 128GB storage versions.
“The iPhone 13 will come in the same six colour options like the mini, while storage options are 128GB and 256GB. The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will be available in Black, Silver, Gold, and Bronze colour options, according to the website. While the Pro model will be offered in 128GB and 256GB storage versions, the Pro Max will come in 256GB and 512GB storage variants.”
Noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, writing in the day before the iPhone 13 family is launched, has confirmed that the 64 GB storage options that were available with the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Mini will be depreciated; all of the iPhone 13 models will now start at 128 GB of storage. Not only is the lower tier going to start further up the storage charts, but Kuo believes that we will see the 1 TB option for those looking at the top-of-the-line iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max. Joe Rossignol reports:
“In a research note with investment firm TF International Securities, obtained by MacRumors, Kuo said the iPhone 13 lineup will start with 128GB of storage, with no 64GB option for any models. Kuo added that the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will be available with up to 1TB of storage, which would be the largest capacity ever offered for an iPhone.”
What we could be looking at here is Apple’s decision on how to allocate supplies during the global chip shortage. Offering an iPhone 1TB of storage makes a strong statement around the platform, but there’s no requirement to offer the same SKUs around the world. Ukrainian iPhones may well be limited to 512 GB, while US consumers may have the 1TB option.
The ‘Surprise’ September Event Is Announced
Apple has announced the expected event for mid-September. Titled ‘ California Streaming’, it is set to take place on Tuesday 14th September. The usual Kremlinology is taking place on the short promotional clip, with the font on the date,, the floating Apple icon, the push through to a presumably virtual world, and the simple fact that it is a regular Apple event all getting discussed:
“Some people love to carefully examine Apple event invites as though each one serves as a crystal ball that can show the future. The one that went out Tuesday might have been crafted to suggest that the iPhone 13 will be better at taking pictures of stars. Or maybe it hints that Apple’s virtual-reality headset will be unveiled. On the other hand, it could be nothing more than a pretty picture.”
Pretty much everyone is ready for Apple to announce four iPhones; in fact a bigger surprise would be if Tim Cook left the stage without revealing the new iOS smartphones. In any case, the latest confirmation comes in the regulatory filings for the MagSafe charger with the FCC:
“Apple gave the game away in a new FCC filing for its MagSafe charger. The filing lists four new iPhone models and even goes so far as to describe all iPhone 12 models as “legacy” devices… These are the iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Mini (despite relatively low sales of its predecessor) and they are expected to carry the model numbers A2628, A2634, A2640 and A2645 respectively. “
The other major launch many are waiting for is the MacBookPro. This is expected to be a separate event, leaving the iPhone room to shine, with late October/early November looking likely for the retail release according to the latest details from the supply chain, specifically around the deliveries of the new miniLED screen:
“…citing “industry sources,” that the suppliers of mini-LED chips and other related parts have expressed confidence their shipments are on track with the MacBook Pro production and launch later this year. Tech fans might have to wait for a few more weeks for the 2021 MacBook Pro announcement. DigiTimes’ sources claimed the new laptops would be announced in October or November.”
A new warning this week to be very careful of any lightning cables you are loaned. From the research by ‘MG’ comes an updated lightning to USB-C cable that will act as a keylogger, sending your Mac’s keypresses over Wifi to a nearby hacker:
“The OMG Cables, as they’re called, work by creating a Wi-Fi hotspot itself that a hacker can connect to from their own device. From here, an interface in an ordinary web browser lets the hacker start recording keystrokes. The malicious implant itself takes up around half the length of the plastic shell, MG said… He said that the Type C cables allow the same sort of attacks to be carried out against smartphones and tablets.”
Noted Apple tipster Max Weinbach has brough us details of the AirPods 3 – which should be launched next week alongside the iPhone 13 family. We can expect to see a number of changes to the case, including wireless charging as standard, and a larger battery for extended listening.
“How much extra battery life that actually translates to isn’t clear, but any improvements in this area would be very welcome. Saying that, we’ll be disappointed if the earbuds themselves aren’t given a longer battery life. Right now, you’ll get five hours of playtime on a single charge, which is pretty low compared to rivals like the Sony WF-1000XM4 and the Cambridge Audio Melomania 1 Plus.”
Apple has been making a number of changes to its App Store policies, with the most recent addressing concerns raised in an anti-trust case in Japan. Morgan Stanley has been looking at the impact of the changes and they are not expected to have any serious impact.
“Assuming a worst case scenario in which Apple stopped collecting economics from all of the top 20 reader apps translates to downside risk of 4% of Services revenue, 1% of total company revenue, and about 2% of FY22 EPS forecast (3). In other words, we believe the recent App Store headlines are more attention grabbing than the ultimate financial impact to Apple’s revenue or profitability.”
Eagle eyed Ninetndo watchers have been looking at the new UI for Nintendo’s Switch gaming console, and wondering how it could be improved… there are a lot of opinions but one that is picking up acclaim in the community is Porcorousseauu’s UI concept, which looks rather familiar:
“…appears to draw at least some inspiration from the UI on Apple’s mobile and tablet operating system, iOS. As you can see there are transparent menus, curved edges, colourful backgrounds and folders, too. There’s even a makeover of the Switch eShop. While this obviously isn’t the first time we’ve seen Switch redesign, it’s certainly a unique take compared to a lot of previous mock-ups.”
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.
