This week was Apple’s WWDC developer conference, and we got a packed event. Per tradition, Apple showed new versions of its smartphone, tablet, computer and smartwatch platforms.
It all started with iOS. We didn’t get an always-on display announcement, meaning Apple is keeping it as an iPhone 14 Pro exclusive for this Fall. We did get a big lockscreen overhaul with the option to change the visuals of the date and time, as well as moving the notifications to the bottom, making things easier to access, and cleaner. Notifications themselves got smarter.
Apple also unveiled the M2, its second-generation ARM-based chipset. This is the baseline model that will power Apple’s entry-level machines, like the new MacBook Air and the 13-inch MacBook Pro, which got the processor as an upgrade.
The M2 is 18% faster in processing, and 35% in graphics, all at the same 5nm process, and low power consumption. The M2 has an 8-core CPU, and an up to 10-core GPU.
The new MacBook Air brings an updated design that finally retires the wedge shape introduced by the original Air in 2008 and replaces it with a new flatter look. The new Air weighs 1.22kg has a 13.6-inch 16:10 500-nit display, an M2 processor, and starts with 8GB of Unified memory and 256GB of storage for $1,199/€1.499.
The Pixel 6a broke cover once again, this time through a listing on Facebook Marketplace. The listing comes complete with images of the phone.
We now have a full review of the ZTE Axon 40 Ultra, the phone with a truly invisible under-display camera, a unique 35mm main camera, good battery life and a standout design.
That’ll do it for week 23. See you next one!
Notifications, Messages, Wallet, Maps, News, and CarPlay got updates.
The new MacBook Air supports MagSafe Charging and up to 24GB of unified memory.
Three 64MP cameras on the back and a massive 6.8” AMOLED hold a lot of promise.
The device is expected to go on open sale from July 28.
Could this be the long-rumored flagship HTC phone?
It’s built on a more advanced 5nm process, and comes with two extra GPU cores.
The JR510 SoC inside the C40 is said to offer Snapdragon 450/Helio G35 performance.
The company is still playing coy with the details, but expect more details on its first smartphone soon.
iPadOS 16 also drops some old devices – very old, e.g. the iPad Air 2 from 2014. watchOS 9 requires iOS 16, so that may cause some issues if you have an old phone.
It’s rumored to be a rebadged Redmi Note 11T Pro announced last month in China.
Neo 3T brings a Snapdragon 870 at the helm alongside 80W fast charging and a 5,000 mAh battery.
The Watch 5 is expected in three sizes.
There are also improvements to the Mail app built-in, as well as passkeys to replace passwords in Safari.
A phone fit for a Shinobi warrior.
The device’s TUV certification reveals the phone’s charge adapter.
It’s rumored to be a version of the Redmi K40S.
The device will sport Leica’s iconic red logo.
The smartphone debuts in India for INR17,499 or about $210/€225.
It will be a part of the company’s Note 12 lineup.
A pretty competitive midrange offering.
It has a better camera than the Redmi, but the rest should be the same.
A provisional agreement was reached by European Parliament and Council negotiators.
The SM8550 chip will allegedly feature a mix of new cores (Cortex-X3 and A720) and old cores (A710 and A510).
Both phones will be available soon in Brazil.
The MacBook Air stole the show, iPadOS gets MacOS feature, and the and iOS 16 sees minor updates
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.
