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Nearly three out of four Canadians say virtual conferencing tools an 'excellent' alternative to interacting in person – Sarnia and Lambton County This Week

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4 years ago

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From the sound of it, in-person meetings and events may still be a long way off for many Canadians

A student takes online classes at home, with his companions, using the Zoom APP during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in El Masnou, north of Barcelona, Spain April 2, 2020.

Albert Gea / Reuters

OTTAWA – In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly three out of four Canadians say virtual conferencing tools are an “excellent” alternative to interacting with people in person.

From the sound of it, in-person meetings and events may still be a long way off for many Canadians.

According to a survey produced by Leger Opinion (LEO) for the Association for Canadian Studies (ASC), 72 per cent of Canadians agreed with the statement that videoconferencing is an excellent alternative to interacting with people.

Asked how they feel about the experience of videoconferencing, a staggering 84 per cent of Canadian — including 94 per cent of Quebecers — responded  “positive.”

Those numbers are surprising to ASC president Jack Jedwab in a time when the phenomenon of “Zoom fatigue” —  the impression of feeling overly drained after a period of meeting over a videoconferencing tool such as Zoom — is increasingly documented.

“I didn’t expect that at all actually. Because, anecdotally, you hear from a lot of people saying they miss interactions with people or miss seeing people to the extent they did before the pandemic. But I think we’ve become accustomed to this idea of communication through videoconferencing,” Jedwab said in an interview.

“I don’t feel like I’m seeing Zoom fatigue in this data,” he said. “I think we’re going to see this large group, that has become accustomed to using headsets along with videoconferencing, maintain the habit.”

We’re actually creating a generation who will grow up interacting on Zoom

The survey, which polled 1,517 adult Canadians randomly recruited from LEO’s online panel between July 24 and 26, aimed to see how much Canadians are using videoconferencing tools like Zoom or Skype during the pandemic, as well as their feelings about the experience.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic early this year, most governments around the world exhorted their citizens to self-isolate at home as much as possible and avoid any unnecessary contact with others.

Since then, the use of videoconferencing platforms has exploded. Zoom saw its daily number of meeting participants jump from 10 million in December 2019 to 300 million in April. A competing platform, Microsoft Teams, recorded a 70 per cent rise in daily active users between March and April.

Nearly half (49 per cent) of Canadians said they used videoconferencing tools more than they used to before the pandemic, whereas only 16 per cent said they used them just as often or less.

Another 34 per cent declared they don’t use videoconferencing platforms at all, but Jedwab says age is a significant factor in determining if one’s use of the tools increased or not during the pandemic.

For example, 70 per cent of Zoomers — a nickname given to people born in the late 1990s and that was until now unrelated to the platform Zoom — reported an increased use of tools like Teams since the beginning of the pandemic.

“The baby Zoomers are using these platforms to a much more greater extent than the baby boomers,” who were by far the most likely to never use videoconferencing tools, Jedwab explained. “We’re actually creating a generation who will grow up interacting on Zoom.”

Related

Age, but also concern about catching COVID-19, is also a significant factor when it comes to the reason for using a platform like Zoom, as well as the time spent videoconferencing in a day.

Whereas work was the most common use for Canadians aged between 35 and 44 years old, personal reasons such as staying in touch with friends or family was the main driver for a majority of Canadian users over the age of 55.

Younger Canadians are also more likely to spend more time on video calls. For example, 57 per cent of adults under 25 said they spend over one hour per day on videoconference platforms, compared to 26 per cent of respondents between 45 and 54 years old.

One in 20 (5 per cent) of young adults said they spend six hours or more on video calls, though Jedwab suspects online schooling may be the main reason.

Unsurprisingly, the survey data also shows a strong correlation between anxiety about catching COVID-19 and the use of videoconferencing tools.

“The people that really like videoconferencing are the ones who are more stressed about going outside their house. The ones who least like videoconference are the ones who are not that stressed about going outside their house. They don’t want to live on Zoom” regardless of the pandemic, Jedwab said.

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

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7 days 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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1 week 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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1 week 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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