Tech

OnePlus 8 and 8 Pro: random thoughts – GSMArena.com news – GSMArena.com

Published

4 years ago

April 18, 2020

OnePlus introduced the new 8 and 8 Pro this week and now that the dust has settled here are a few thoughts on the new additions. These are mostly about where they fit in the global scheme of things and what they represent for their maker – if you want to learn more about the phones themselves we have hands-on articles for both OnePlus 8 and the 8 Pro.

The flagship killer is no more

Let’s kick-off with the elephant in the room and the thing that definitely has the greatest number of fans riled-up. Starting at USD 699/EUR 699 and USD 899/EUR 899, respectively the vanilla OnePlus 8 and the OnePlus 8 Pro are significantly more expensive than their predecessors, despite the latter coming wiht half the base storage.

At this point the transformation of a company that was initially trying to position itself as the underdog “flagship-killer” is complete. Looking back at the 7T, ant the 7T Pro, those launched at €600 and €760, respectively. And just over 12 months ago the OnePlus 7 and 7 Pro commanded €559 and €700 starting prices.

Now OnePlus finally feels confident it can compete without having to undercut its rivals. The fact that the 8 Pro costs more than a Galaxy S20+ is a strong statement and if OnePlus retains its competitiveness at these newfound heights it might become BBK’s new golden goose. We are yet to see how that big if pans out however.

The new goalposts

With the move to higher tiers the concept of value for money changes. While being able to perform the largest variety of tasks is king in the mid-range, in the premium segments its also about being the best at at least some of them. You don’t spend this kind of cash without getting at least some bragging rights.

On paper the OnePlus 8 Pro doesn’t have the best camera setup nor the largest battery and while the 30W of wired and wireless charging are decent they are hardly chart-topping.

It seems then that OxygenOS will be crucial to the success of the 8 Pro. If it gets the resource management right and delievers great battery life and if the camera processing makes the most out of the available sensors the new flagship might go places.

The OnePlus 8 in no man’s land

The vanilla OnePlus 8 seemingly finds itslelf in a tough place. Not only does its new price tag bring fiercer competition from outside, but it also has the OnePlus 7T to consider. Last year’s non-Pro phone delivered most of the features of its Pro sibling, while maintaining a more reasonable price. In contrast the OnePlus 8 sits further below the 8 Pro – settling for a 90Hz display, instead of the new 120Hz model, having inferior main and ultrawide cameras and lacking the wireless charging and IP rating.

The OnePlus 8 also entirely misses on the standard telephoto camera and swaps it for a macro unit. The latter substitution stings that little bit more when we consider the OnePlus 7T had a 2x telephoto snapper. How that will compare to a crop from the main 48MP camera on the OnePlus 8 is a valid question and one that we’ll be able to answer once the review is complete.

What could have been

Thanks to being part of BBK Electronics, OnePlus has access to R&D and manufacturing resources far beyond what its revenue streams would otherwise enable. The downside is it has to play the team game and not get too close to its siblings. So while we would have loved to get the camera setup from the Oppo Find X2 Pro on the OnePlus 8 Pro we get how that would have put the two even closer in price and created unwanted in-house competition.

But if the 13MP periscope telephoto unit is too much, why couldn’t we at least get the brighter f/1.7 aperture for the main camera, also found on the regular Find X2?

It somewhat similar with charging – sure 30W sounds great, even better when it is wireless, but the Oppo Ace2 already does 65W SuperVOOC and 40W wireless top-ups.

OxygenOS is the name of the game

We definitely don’t want this to be a rant. The OnePlus new flagship has a lot to offer and we already hinted what their main weapon will be – the refined OxygenOS software.

Standing out as one of the better custom Android launchers out there it has a loyal following that few of the makers partnering with Google can enjoy.

Again, we are yet to examine it in detail, but early signs are that the 2020 OxygenOS experience is going to be snappy and fluid with stock looks and thoughtful and well implemented tweaks and feature additions. And if camera processing takes another step over what the OnePlus 7T Pro had thing might start to look up.

A couple of questions remain

The official premiere and the first hands-ons gave a lot of answers, but many questions remain. The much requested official IP68 rating is here on the Pro, as well as vanilla OnePlus 8 carrier units, sold by Verizon and T-Mobile. What gives? Well, frankly, it’s a mess that is yet to be unraveled, as people start actually taking apart unlocked and carrier units to see what, if anything, is different in their internal design.

And what about 8K video capture. You get none if that out of the box and while we doubt there are many 8K screens out it appears the outrage is significant. So can OnePlus enable it with a firmware upgrade or was it left out due to hardware limitations?

These are just some initial thoughts and potential talking points. We are already hard at work on in-depth reviews for both the OnePlus 8 and the OnePlus 8 Pro, so we should be able to tell you more about those next week.

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Tech

How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

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.

Tech

Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

Published

2 days ago

September 10, 2024

Harry Miller

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.

Tech

Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

Published

1 month ago

August 13, 2024

Harry Miller

Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.