In recent years, it has been impossible for Google to keep the details of its Pixel flagships under wraps until the official announcement. This year it’s been different in the sense that Google decided to reveal the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro’s designs back in May during Google I/O. Rather than try to keep secrets, Google instead opted to reveal some of the features itself.
This week, Google will be holding its annual hardware event where it will be unveiling confirming two new Pixel phones, a new Pixel Watch that integrates Wear OS deeper into Google-owned FitBit, and Google has confirmed that it will be announcing “additions to the Nest smart home portfolio”.
Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro
Google’s first teaser of the Pixel 7 duo was during I/O back in May and it featured images of the new Pixels. In terms of design, they are similar to the Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro, but feature slightly different camera bar, which will now be formed out of metal rather than the Pixel 6’s glass visor approach.
Fast forward to last week, Google released new teasers that highlighted the designs of each of the Pixels 7 and 7 Pro. It features close up shots of the hardware that showed the texture of the different materials. Based on these teasers, we know that the Pixel 7 will have an aluminum build with an anodized finish, and the Pixel 7 Pro’s finish will be shiny and glossy, but it’s not confirmed whether it will be made from stainless steel or aluminum.
For the Pixel 7 Pro, we’re expecting a less dramatic curve of the display’s edges. The Pixel 6 Pro’s curved edges were pronounced enough to make holding and using the phone a bit unconformable for prolonged periods.
Google Pixel 7 in white, mint green and black
Pixel 7 Pro in Obsidian, Hazel and Snow
As per recent leaks, the Pixel 7 will have an almost identical identical spec sheet to the Pixel 6: a flat 6.3-inch OLED screen with FHD+ resolution and up to 90Hz refresh rate, and even the cameras will be unchanged – 50MP (GN1) main and 12MP (IMX381) ultrawide units. The front facing camera may see the update to the 11MP sensor we know from the Pixel 6 Pro.
The Pixel 7 is also expected to have a 4,700 mAh battery (marginally up from the 6’s 4,614 mAh) with support for 30W charging.
We’ll get to the new Tensor chip in a sec, but let’s glance through the Pixel 7 Pro’s rumored specs first.
The Pixel 7 Pro’s rumored spec sheet also includes most of the same stuff as the 6 Pro: a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED screen with QHD+ resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. It is also expected the 7 Pro will get a slightly updated selfie camera – the Samsung 3J1 sensor – one that would feature autofocus, though it would remain at 11MP resolution.
In the camera department, the Pixel 7 Pro will use the same 50MP JN1 main and 12MP ultrawide sensors, but the telephoto camera may be replaced to a Samsung GM1 module compared to the Sony IMX586 on the Pixel 6 Pro. A 5,000 mAh battery is expected to remain on the 7 Pro, now with support for 30W charging.
Tensor G2
The most major change on the new Pixels is going to be the Tensor G2 chip. The Pixels 6 and 6 Pro were plagued poor connectivity and battery life was not up to par with comparable flagships.
Given there’s not too much different with the Pixels 7 and 7 Pro, the key upgrade here will be the Tensor G2 chipset. Rumors of the Tensor G2 say it could be built on the 4nm process (last year’s Tensor was 5nm), which enabled higher clock speeds as hinted by early benchmarks of the chipset.
The same leak from last month revealed that the Tensor G2 could feature the same CPU configuration (2+2+4) as the Google Tensor though the two Cortex-X1 cores may see slight bumps in clock speed to 2.85GHz. Meanwhile, the Cortex-A76 cores could see clock speeds bump up to 2.35GHz. This reportedly translates to about a 10% bump in multi-core performance.
There’s evidence that we may see a notable improvement in graphics performance and efficiency thanks to a new Mali-G710 that would replace the Mali-G78 MP20 of the original Tensor chip.
The new chipset may come with a new Samsung modem – the S5300 5G. This new modem may bring better battery life, performance, stability, and efficiency compared to the previous release.
Pixel Watch
Google’s acquisition of FitBit a few years ago is finally going to be deeply integrated into Wear OS in the form of the Google Pixel Watch. Rumored for years, Google surprised us back in May during I/O when it confirmed that the Google’s first-party Wear OS offering was finally coming.
Google most recently teased the design of its Pixel Watch in a short trailer, more closely showing the round watch design and the curved display cover glass. The Pixel Watch will have a rotating crown and a multi-function button above it. It will also use a proprietary quick-release fastener to switch out the Watch’s bands.
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More recent renders of the Pixel Watch revealed bezels that may be thicker than initially teased back in May – a result of showing early renders when the hardware hasn’t been finalized.
Early rumors of the Pixel Watch suggested it may be powered by an Exynos 9110 with a co-processor for efficient standby power draw. It was rumored to have 1.5 GB of RAM and 32GB of on-board storage. This is for the LTE-variant, by the way. Rumors have pointed to a 300 mAh battery – though it isn’t certain whether that applies to a Wi-Fi + Bluetooth variant or an LTE variant, though 300 mAh for the latter does not seem like it would be enough.
Whatever the case may be, it is expected Google may advertise the Pixel Watch to last “up to a day”.
With Wear OS 3 smartwatches, the need for the Wear OS app will phase away. It will be up to each OEM to have its own companion app for new Wear OS smart watches and the Pixel Watch is expected to do the same. An unlock prompt back in June revealed that there will be a “Google Pixel Watch app”.
A more recent Pixel Watch leak showed many elements of the wearable’s UI. In addition to native support for Google Maps and Wallet, every Pixel Watch is said to come with a free 6-month Fitbit Premium membership, and renders of the Pixel Watch show deep integration with Fitbit.
Pixel Watch will integrate with Google Photos to use as backgrounds for watch faces, it will have smart home controls, and an emergency SOS calling screen.
Google Pixel Watch
Google Pixel Watch UI
One early hardware leak of the Pixel Watch measured a 40mm body that was 14mm thick with a visible display that’s 30mm in diameter (about 1.18 inches). It is still not known whether we’ll see the Pixel Watch be available in more than one size.
A Google Pixel Watch was forgotten at a restaurant (photos by u/tagtech414)
Nest Home
Google has confirmed that it will be announcing additions to Nest Home at this event. We initially thought a 1080p version of the Chromecast with Google TV was going to be announced at the event, but the very same Google Chromecast HD with Google TV had a quiet launch last month.
The last time Google released a new smart speaker was during its 2020 event when it launched the Google Nest Audio. Perhaps we can expect to see a refreshed Nest Home mini (currently on 2nd generation) as the last one launched in late 2019. Otherwise, the Nest Hub smart display was just refreshed last year, but the Nest Hub Max hasn’t seen a new version since 2019.
Are the most recent announcements what Google was referring to, or is there something else that Google is holding out to announce on Thursday? We’ll find out soon enough.
Pricing and availability
Rumors suggested that the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro may carry the same starting prices as their predecessors in the US. The Pixel 7 could start at $599 while the Pixel 7 Pro may start at $899. European customers may see a €649 starting price for the Pixel 7.
The Google Pixel 7 and 7 Pro will go on pre-sale on the same day as the launch event this week (October 6), though the time isn’t specified.
As for the Pixel Watch, the most recent rumor sees European pricing for the Wi-Fi + Bluetooth model to be set to £339 in the UK and €379 in the EU. There’s word of an LTE-enabled model as well, said to cost €419.
Although there’s no word on US pricing just yet, previous leaks and recent leaks of the EU’s pricing lets us speculate we may see a $299 starting price on the Pixel Watch. This is also considering the leak about a $399 LTE-enabled Pixel Watch.
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.
