Apple’s biggest-ever mid-cycle update for the iPhone is about to land (here’s exactly when) and it will bring with it big upgrades for all iPhone users, everywhere, including a huge security upgrade to iMessage. But the biggest changes are for iPhone users in the EU, in response to the Digital Markets Act. Today, Apple explained to me what those changes mean, and how it could affect all users—especially if the U.S. or U.K. governments decide to follow suit with legislation of their own.
March 2 update below. This post was first published on March 1, 2024.
The changes for EU iPhone users are comprehensive. Apple is being required to open up its iOS system to allow sideloading of apps in alternative marketplaces, to permit web browsers not based on WebKit which underpins Safari, and to let other payment mechanisms beyond Apple Pay on to the phone.
Apple has now released a white paper which runs to 32 pages and explains that while it has taken every precaution it can to keep iPhone users’ privacy and security in place, it can’t guarantee that things will be as safe as they were.
Apple explained to me that it has introduced new features to protect users but that it won’t be able to protect users in the way it can in the current arrangement. The white paper says, “To comply with the DMA, we have created new options for developers and users—and built over 600 new APIs and developer tools to enable these changes. The new options include enabling sideloading so that EU users can download apps through app marketplaces other than the App Store, enabling alternative ways to process payments on the App Store, and many other changes. This required us to change the uniquely successful approach that we’ve employed to protect users’ security and privacy and keep them safe.”
Some organizations, like banks, for instance, have been in touch with Apple expressing concern, saying that they want to remain only in the App Store and could even consider not allowing their apps to be downloaded on to any device that has sideloaded apps on it. Right now, Apple doesn’t have a way to tell a bank, for instance, if an iPhone has downloaded an app from an external marketplace or not.
Apple is wary of how predatory payment techniques, mobile ransomware and consumer spyware could be focused on the iPhone if it’s deemed to be more vulnerable or less secure.
For me, the key phrase in the white paper is this: “In practice, users in the EU will lose the choice to solely remain on the App Store and keep all of Apple’s industry-leading protections, even if that is what they would prefer.”
Of course, users can simply decide to stick exclusively to the App Store, to web browsers like Safari based on WebKit and to payments through Apple Pay.
And some people will want to have apps not in the App Store on their phones. Apple is concerned about this, too, saying it will have no control of external content: “This means Apple won’t be able to prevent apps with content that Apple wouldn’t allow on the App Store—like apps that distribute pornography, apps that encourage consumption of tobacco or vape products, illegal drugs, or excessive amounts of alcohol, or apps that contain pirated content (or that otherwise steal ideas or intellectual property from other developers)—from becoming available on alternative app marketplaces.”
Spotify has already responded to the white paper, saying Apple is trying to “scare everybody about privacy and security.”
The changes coming to the iPhone are just days away, but it may take some weeks or longer to see what the effects are.
March 2 update. There’s already been a very strong response to Apple’s DMA changes and it’s fair to say they’re not exactly positive. (This is an example of the British art of understatement.) Avery Gardiner, Spotify’s global director of competition policy spoke to the Press Association news agency, as Martyn Landi reported in The Independent. Gardiner said Apple’s warnings about having to make the iPhone less secure in order to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) equated to saying “the only way to have privacy and security is to allow a monopolist to continue to abuse monopoly power.”
Gardiner, Spotify’s competition policy lead, went on to say the notion that security and privacy could only come from Apple’s own App Store was “just not true”.
“If Apple were the only way to keep things private and secure, why haven’t Android users left Android in droves for Apple over concerns about privacy and security? They haven’t,” she told the PA news agency.
I think that’s true, but it’s also likely the case that a fair chunk of iPhone users stay loyal to Apple precisely because they enjoy the irreproachably good security and privacy on board.
Gardiner didn’t pull any punches, saying, “This has been their tactic globally – scare everybody about privacy and security. Tell them that the only way to have privacy and security is to allow a monopolist to continue to abuse monopoly power. I understand why they’re doing it, but it’s not truthful.”
She went on, “Apple has announced a set of proposed rules that do not comply with the DMA. “At the most basic level, the idea that you have to opt in to an onerous new fee structure in order to avail yourselves of the rights granted to you by the European Parliament is bizarre. The DMA is really clear: App stores have to let developers communicate offers free of charge. Those are the words. It doesn’t say ‘as long as you opt into an onerous new fee structure that would impose a massive tax on you’.
Finally, she said, “It is on its face, not compliant with the DMA, and the commission is going to need to open an investigation unless Apple changes its tune.”
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.
