Nintendo announced the Nintendo Switch OLED model today, noting several times in the press release that the new screen will feature “vivid colors and crisp contrast.”
Here’s everything you need to know about the new hybrid Nintendo console.
Meet The New Switch, Same as the Old Switch (Mostly)
First and foremost, this is not a Nintendo Switch Pro. It won’t play games with higher frame-rates or graphical fidelity. There is no 4K mode. All the stuff we were hoping to see in a Pro model? Sorry, none of that is happening beyond the nicer screen. That might be disappointing to some—I know I’m a bit disappointed—but the screen really does sound like a pretty major improvement.
Okay, tell me about the screen.
Sure. The new OLED screen is going to make games look better. For one thing, it’s 7 inches (instead of 6.2”) from corner-to-corner, adding valuable screen real estate in handheld mode. That’s where this slightly-larger Switch is really going to shine.
What makes OLED screens so great is the contrast. Every single pixel can turn off or on individually, which means blacks are much darker and images appear much more vivid as a result. I have an LG OLED TV and it’s gorgeous. Many people now have OLED screens on their mobile devices now as well. The OLED screen will bring the Nintendo Switch into the modern era…mostly. Just not if you want 4K or 60 frames-per-second.
Is the OLED screen the only difference?
Funny you should ask! The answer is “No!” but the other improvements are fairly minor and break down into three categories:
Sound
These sound symbols prove that the OLED Switch has better speakers.
Credit: NIntendo
The Nintendo Switch OLED features improved audio in handheld mode, so your games won’t just look better they’ll sound better also. Never discount the importance of audio improvements to video games, though you’re still probably better off with a headset.
Stand
The Nintendo Switch OLED vastly improves the design of the tabletop-mode stand which was pretty flimsy in the original model. Here’s a pic:
New Nintendo Switch OLED stand
Credit: Nintendo
That’s a major improvement and should make tabletop mode much more viable. Not sure how much people actually use that mode, but with a larger screen and a better stand it’s at least more viable.
LAN
Finally, for TV mode—with the Switch OLED docked and hooked up via HDMI to a TV—there’s now a LAN port so that you can hardwire your Switch to the internet instead of relying on WiFi only. That’s great for competitive online games and for anyone with shoddy WiFi.
Switch OLED LAN port
Credit: Nintendo
Oh, and here are the specs:
Nintendo Switch OLED vs Original Specs
Credit: Nintendo
As you can see, the screen is bigger and there’s a LAN input and it weights just a tiny bit more, but mostly it’s the same machine. Mostly.
Right, this all sounds cool but what about the price?
If you can even find one of these at launch—and I wouldn’t get your hopes up—the MSRP is $349.99. Of course we live in a very silly timeline and scalpers have super-powered AI bots to do their bidding, so I’m sure we’ll see these sell for way more than MSRP. Don’t buy into that crap.
My recommendation? Hold out and wait for the price to return to normal.
Do I have to?
No, of course not. A fool and his money are soon parted, as the saying goes, but if you want to drop $500 on one of these instead of waiting a few months go for it. I wouldn’t advise it but when have you ever listened to me in the first place?
What’s that now?
Exactly.
I have another question.
Yeah okay, that’s what I’m here for. Ask away.
It’s kind of a big one.
Yep, go for it.
Will the Nintendo Switch OLED model fix Joy-Con drift?
That’s a great question, you’re very smart to ask it.
Thank you.
And very attractive, I might add.
You’re too kind.
No seriously, it really is a very smart question. Unfortunately, I don’t have an answer for you. Joy-Con drift continues to plague Switch consoles everywhere and it’s super frustrating. Even the Nintendo Switch Lite, which doesn’t have detachable Joy-Con controllers, suffers from drift. My guess is that the OLED version doesn’t fix the problem, especially since it’s compatible with previous Joy-Cons. But I want to believe.
I also want to believe.
Well we can believe together and then later we can suffer together when our hopes are crushed and our dreams are dashed. Any other questions?
Will it come in new colors?
Yes! At launch, there will be a neon blue/red model and a black and white model. You can see that black and white model in action at the top of this post and it is—if I may be so bold—very sexy.
You may be so bold.
Thank you, that’s very kind of you.
I mean, I agree it’s very sexy. For a video game console.
Here’s another look:
Switch OLED
Credit: Nintendo
I have another question.
Shoot.
What about a Nintendo Switch Lite OLED model?
Nintendo hasn’t announced one but it’s basically a no-brainer at this point so I would count on it—probably in 2022 or maybe even by the holiday season. I imagine it would feature a slightly bigger screen than the current model with “vivid colors and crisp contrast.”
That’s also pretty sexy. When you talk about vivid colors and crisp contrast, I mean.
Ha, thanks. Anything else?
That about does it. I guess I just need to know the release date.
Sure, no problem. The Nintendo Switch OLED Model with its vivid colors and crisp contrast will release on October 8th alongside Metroid Dread, the first 2D Metroid game in nearly 20 years.
Okay, stop it, that just makes me feel old.
You and me both, pal. You and me both.
Remember how much fun the original NES was?
Okay we’re getting way off topic here, but sure that was a great video game console. My very first game console actually. If that’s all the questions—
—I was just seeing how old you really were—
—okay, har har har. You got me.
Now if that’s all the questions I think it’s time we ended this post. It’s gone on long enough and then some. If you do want to know more about the Switch OLED I made a video about it which you can watch below. Enjoy!
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.
