Any new product intro raises the usual questions about what kind of specs you’ll see and how much you can expect to pay. But when it’s an entirely new product like the Mac Studio that Apple took the wraps off this week, another question comes into play — just who is the target audience for this latest desktop?
The answer to that question is more complicated than it might seem at first, since the Mac Studio doesn’t really replace any existing product so much as it carves out a new space between desktop options Apple continues to offer. The way Apple sees it, the Mac Studio is the machine you turn to when the Mac mini and iMac don’t offer the kind of power you need for your daily tasks.
“With the transition to M1, we’ve provided these users with two great desktops — iMac and Mac mini, which have remarkable performance and entirely new capabilities,” said John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president for hardware engineering during this week’s Peek Performance event. “Yet there are some users who want even more so they can push the limits of their creativity.”
Avi Greengart, lead analyst at Techsponential puts it another way. “The Mac Studio is aimed at professionals – people who compile large codebases, edit videos all day, or do other demanding computing tasks that require copious amounts of computing, graphics processing, or video rendering,” he said.
This isn’t a replacement for the Mac Pro. “Apple is still planning an even more powerful Mac Pro in the future; that will be aimed at this market, too, plus for use in things like CGI render farms,” Greengart added.
Users in a position to benefit from the Mac Studio’s M1 Max and M1 Ultra chips would know best if Apple’s pitch of more power in a more compact design appeals to their needs. But it also helps to know just what the Mac Studio delivers and how this new desktop compares to Apple’s existing models.
Mac Studio: What it offers
The Mac Studio looks a little bit like an elongated Mac mini. The new machine has the same 7.3 x 7.3-inch base, but the Studio’s height stretches to 3.7 inches, compared to the mini’s 1.4-inch height. The base of the Mac Studio pulls air into the desktop thermal system, to keep the internal components humming along.
(Image credit: Apple)
It’s those components that should help the Mac Studio establish itself as a powerful desktop option. You can equip the machine with either an M1 Max or M1 Ultra chipset. The former starts out with a 10-core CPU, 24-core GPU and 16-core Neural Engine. Max out the M1 Max, and you get a 20-core CPU, 64-core GPU, and 32-core Neural Engine.
As for the newly introduced M1 Ultra silicon, the base model for the Mac Studio features a 20-core CPU, 48-core GPU and 32-core Neural Engine. The Mac Studio can be packed with up to 128GB of memory (if you opt for the M1 Ultra) and storage tops out at 8TB.
“The M1 Ultra architecture puts an enormous amount of RAM directly available to the CPU and GPU. That, along with even more AI processing and dedicated encode/decode media resources make the Mac Studio exceptionally capable for modeling, rendering, transcoding, and more.”
— Avi Greengart, Techsponential
“The M1 Ultra architecture puts an enormous amount of RAM directly available to the CPU and GPU,” Greengart said. “That, along with even more AI processing and dedicated encode/decode media resources make the Mac Studio exceptionally capable for modeling, rendering, transcoding, and more.”
The blend of performance and design in the Mac Studio is what impresses Mikako Kitagawa, a director analyst at Gartner who focuses on PCs and tablets. “If Mac Studio performs as it was presented in the event, then it is very impressive to have low noise and temperature on the device,” she said. “Plus I am impressed by the small form factor with such a powerful configuration.”
Mac Studio vs. iMac
The Mac Studio arrives in Apple’s Mac lineup at the same time Apple dropped the 27-inch iMac from its offerings. (You can still get a 24-inch version of Apple’s all-in-one powered by an M1 chipset.) That may have created the impression that the Mac Studio is a direct replacement for the iMac, but it really isn’t, analysts caution.
“While there are undoubtedly some Mac fans who simply buy the best Mac available whether they need it or not, the iMac is an all-in-one computer aimed at regular consumer workloads — email, web browsing, and consumer video editing tasks,” Greengart said. “While I can easily see an argument for consumers investing in the Apple Studio Display, for most people the Mac Studio is overkill.”
(Image credit: Apple)
Apple made performance gains by the Mac Studio over the iMac a centerpiece of its launch event. The M1 Max inside the Mac Studio has a 2.5x faster CPU than the 27-inch iMac, while graphics are 3.4x faster. The M1 Ultra provides even beefier performance relative to that iMac — its CPU is 3.8x faster than the iMac, Apple says, while graphics are 4.5x faster.
The numbers paint a very convincing picture: The iMac will continue to be the all-in-one machine for consumers who want a desktop that comes with a monitor and has just enough processing oomph to handle basic tasks. The Mac Studio, in contrast, is a machine for people who see the Mac at the center of their professional lives.
One of the big tip-offs is the Mac Studio’s support for multiple monitors like the newly announced Apple Studio Display. Apple says its new desktop can drive up to four displays plus a 4K TV. That’s the sort of thing you tout when you’re hoping to reach people who prize productivity.
Mac Studio vs. Mac mini vs. Mac Pro
So if the Mac Studio attracts a different audience than the iMac, how does it measure up to Apple’s other desktops? In the case of the Mac mini, Apple can clearly present the Mac Studio as a big step up. Currently, you can get a Mac mini with an M1 chip with an 8-core CPU and 8-core CPU — there’s an Intel-based option as well — which the Mac Studio should be able to easily outperform. The Mac Studio offers more ports as well, chiefly in terms of Thunderbolt 4 ports.
The more interesting comparison is with the Mac Pro, the only remaining Mac in Apple’s lineup without an Apple silicon option. At a starting price of $5,999 — $4,000 more than the base model Mac Studio — the Mac Pro is also the most expensive Mac you can buy. And yet, Apple says that its new M1 chips can outperform its high-end desktop.
“I believe this release is targeting the Mac Pro users’ replacement of their existing Intel based Mac Pro to M1 based Mac Studio.”
— Mikako Kitagawa, Gartner
“I believe this release is targeting the Mac Pro users’ replacement of their existing Intel based Mac Pro to M1 based Mac Studio,” Gartner’s Kitagawa said.
To that end, Apple says the Mac Studio powered by the M1 Max is 50% faster than a Mac Pro with a 16-core Xeon chip. Upgrade to the M1 Ultra and the Mac Studio becomes 90% faster than that same Mac Pro.
That’s a pretty astounding claim, given how much less expensive the Mac Studio is to its Pro counterpart. That performance gap won’t always be the case — Apple is reportedly working on an Apple silicon-based version of the Mac Pro, which could appear as soon as this June’s Worldwide Developer Conference. But it seems like the Mac Studio is shaping up to be a desktop that can hold its own with the Mac Pro while appealing to professionals put off by the Pro’s lofty starting price.
Mac Studio outlook
We’ll find out just how well the Mac Studio performs once we have a chance to test and review the new machine. With Mac Studio, Apple’s Ternus says the company is aiming to create “something totally new that gives our users what they need to build the studio of their dreams.” Only thorough testing will determine whether the Mac Studio meets that goal, but on paper at least, the new desktop is off to a promising start.
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.
