(Bloomberg) — Peloton Interactive Inc., known for its stationary bikes, launched its first strength training device to expand beyond cardio: a $495 TV set-top-box with a camera that guides users through exercises.
The Peloton Guide device allows users to access a video library of strength training classes from their TV and uses a two-dimensional, wide-angle camera and artificial intelligence technology to analyze and provide feedback on the workout. Users can exercise with their own equipment and weights.
Peloton is bringing out the product just days after lowering its fiscal 2022 revenue forecast by as much as $1 billion, hurt by people returning to offices and gyms following pandemic-induced lockdowns. That threw the company’s stock into a tizzy, leading to a decline of about 40% since it gave the forecast on Thursday. During its earnings call that day, Peloton hinted at new products that could help lift the company in future quarters.
The device offers three main features driven by the on-board camera: the movement tracker, self-mode, and body activity mode.
The movement tracker feature uses the camera to determine if the user is doing an exercise such as a dumbbell curl or plank correctly. Self-mode analyzes a user’s form during a workout and compares that to the on-screen instructor. The body activity mode will analyze which muscles a user worked out and recommend further exercises.
The Guide works with a new arm-worn heart rate monitor to measure intensity and how long a user remains in various heart rate zones. The new monitor differs from the company’s chest-worn strap and includes an improved sensor.
The Peloton Heart Rate band will also be sold as a standalone accessory next year for use with Peloton’s bikes, treadmills, and the digital app for the iPhone and Android devices. The company didn’t say how much the band, which Bloomberg News reported on previously, would cost on its own.
The Guide can be controlled both via voice and an included hardware remote. The voice assistant was developed through a combination of in-house technology, the acqui-hire of voice tech company Aiqudo, and some technology from a third-party vendor, Peloton co-founder Tom Cortese said in an interview. He hinted that the voice control feature would eventually expand to bikes and treadmills.
As some users question the privacy of in-home devices, Peloton said the Guide has physical switches to disable both the camera and microphones, as is now standard in many of the latest smart speakers from other technology companies.
Cortese said more people train for strength at home than for cardio. Strength training also is Peloton’s fastest growing content sector, which led to the development of a dedicated hardware product, Cortese said. The Guide “will be the start for us as we enter a very big opportunity,” he said.
Falling hardware sales — down 17% to $501 million last quarter — has been a drag on Peloton’s revenue growth, but it’s betting on the Guide to reverse the trend. Cortese said strength training and cardio make up the two halves of the company’s overall fitness opportunity and some consumers will want devices from both categories.
The Guide is Peloton’s most “accessible” product in terms of price, Cortese said. The device is a third of the cost of its cheapest bike and goes on sale in early 2022 in the U.S. and Canada. It will arrive later next year in the U.K., Australia, and Germany.
In addition to hardware sales, the product could boost subscription revenue. To access the device’s key features and content library users will need to pay a $12.99 monthly fee. That is waived for existing users who subscribe to Peloton workouts on its bikes and treadmills.
The Guide will rival the Tonal, a far pricier training device with a large display and built-in strength equipment. The Peloton device also joins a growing array of set-top boxes, but is one of the few focused entirely on strength training.
Amazon.com Inc. and Apple Inc. offer more traditional set-top-boxes, with the iPhone maker’s now including access to its own Fitness+ service. Meta Platforms Inc. offers a device for video conferencing. Peloton’s new product doesn’t have additional features beyond those for fitness.
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.
