Samsung’s much-anticipated Galaxy S24 series launch is just days away. However, last-minute leaks are still rolling in, and a new report reveals powerful behind-the-scenes Galaxy S24 Ultra upgrades that help explain Samsung’s expected camera hardware changes.
January 14 update below: article originally posted January 13.
According to an unverified but authentic-looking retail training document shared by X user Harshit Joshi, the forthcoming Samsung flagship camera will eclipse the current Galaxy S23 Ultra when taking zoom photos, despite an expected “downgrade” to the zoom lens specs.
In this year’s Galaxy S24 Ultra, Samsung is reportedly replacing the S23 Ultra’s 10x telephoto camera with a higher-resolution but lower-magnification 5x version. This has led to concerns over the newer model’s ability to capture long-range zoom shots without reducing quality.
However, in a section titled “Space Zoom,” the document promises “excellent zoom quality at all ranges” and “optical quality” zoom at 2x,3x,5x and, more importantly, 10x magnification. Samsung’s trademark long-range Space Zoom digital zoom feature also transfers to the Galaxy S24 Ultra at magnifications up to 100x.
This suggests the Galaxy S24 Ultra won’t suffer any image quality loss in the switch from 10x to 5x optical zoom. According to the report, this is achieved by using a much higher resolution sensor in the new 5x camera bolstered by improved image processing techniques.
Samsung teases new AI-powered zoom features for Galaxy S24-series cameras.
SAMSUNG
Furthermore, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is expected to activate multi-frame processing at all zoom levels, not just at 20x and higher, as is the case with the S23 Ultra. This should result in reduced noise and improved detail across the entire zoom range, further boosted by new AI-powered “super-resolution” algorithms.
Despite these advances, Samsung will still have its work cut out in convincing potential buyers that this perceived downgrade from 10x telephoto to 5x will result in better photos. All will be revealed at the official Galaxy Unpacked event on Jan 17.
Update: January 14
Yet more details have emerged revealing Samsung’s highly-anticipated “Galaxy AI” features destined for the Galaxy S24 series.
Leaked promo images obtained by Android Headlines show a photo editing interface where a complex object is selected, resized, and repositioned within the image in just a few taps.
In this example, it’s a person riding a bike to the top of a ramp, backed by a blue sky with clouds. The user is able to move and rotate the biker, placing them higher in the sky, giving the appearance of a much higher jump off the end of the ramp. The rider is also enlarged to create the impression of being closer to the camera. The unnamed software automatically fills in any gaps left in the picture using generative AI to make a seamless background.
The user interface revealed in the leaked image appears to show the real-world implementation of the rather fanciful-looking Generative Edit functions shown in Samsung’s official teaser video released a few days ago.
It remains to be seen how well Samsung’s “Generative Edit” tools will perform against Google’s recently launched Magic Editor, but one crucial difference could come in pricing. According to the report, Samsung promises that Galaxy AI features will be “free of charge until at least 2025 on supported Galaxy devices,” suggesting that usage beyond that date may become subject to a paid subscription. Google doesn’t charge for Magic Editor, but locks some Google Photos features behind its Google One subscription.
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.
