Sony is set to reveal the future of its PlayStation brand this Thursday, after having previously delayed the event for reasons unknown to the public. While the folks at Sony had a high-level tech and specs reveal in March, the event did little to quench the thirst of gamers everywhere.
While the new controller and its technology were released earlier in 2020, details of the PS5 are still scarce and rumors are running rampant. Could the console cost nearly $600? Is there going to be backwards compatibility What will it look like?
Lots of those rumors regarding price, backwards compatibility and the design will hopefully be put to rest come Thursday.
Until then, here’s everything we know about the Playstation 5:
When is the PlayStation 5 release date?
Sony is set to reveal the PlayStation 5 during an unveiling event on Thursday, June 11 at 4 p.m. ET (1 p.m. PT), when it is expected the company will also announce the 2020 release date to consumers.
PlayStation 5 price
Verified details of the console’s price are expected to be revealed on Thursday, but current rumors and reports point to the system going for $499 and up. A report from Bloomberg in February said the consoles are relatively expensive to produce, with numbers around $450 per console.
Unless Sony is going to run at a deficit as it did with the cost of production of the PS3, then expect PS5 to retail north of $500.
PlayStation 5 backwards compatability
While rumors swirled of the PS5 originally having full backwards compatibility to early PlayStation games, Sony’s specs reveal in March revealed that full backwards compatibility is probably not the case.
A graphic detailing the capabilities of backwards compatibility from the March showcase painted the picture that older PlayStation iterations won’t be able to be played on the PS5, but PS4 will be able to be played.
Lead PS5 architect Mark Cerny said during the specs broadcast that placing a previous console’s chip design to allow for backwards compatibility is “extremely expensive,” whereas the PS4’s technology allowed for future game uses on future consoles at a lesser cost. This means don’t expect any big updates to the PS5’s infrastructure to allow for PS1, 2 or 3 backwards compatibility on the PS5.
PlayStation 5 design
While no official console design has been revealed yet, leaked dev kits photos may provide an early look at a blueprint for Sony’s design.
PS5 Patent ‘Leak’ Teases Glimpse of Sony’s Plans for Mysterious Showcase: Crypto New Media Press
A newly-published patent details the cooling solution underpinning the PS5 devkit. It features six fans, a hefty heat-sink, and a vapor chamber design. Re … https://t.co/VuqSn8IePipic.twitter.com/dAEI0SxG1r
— World Cryptonomic Foundation (@wcryptofound) June 4, 2020
And more leaked images and renders could paint the PS5 to look something like this:
The PS4 allowed for multiple venting options, masterfully crafted for proper airflow so the insides never got too hot. Expect something similar for the upcoming console.
PlayStation 5 controller
The PS5 controller was revealed in April, giving Sony fans a tease of what’s to come. The DualSense name is a departure from the DualShock moniker of years past, while the design is similar when it comes to button and stick layouts.
However, the tech of the controller itself is likely very different, with haptic feedback playing a big role into the triggers and other areas of the remote.
The controller features new feedback in the triggers, making for a more immersive experience when traveling or performing actions in-game. For more details on the PS5 controller, click here.
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.
