The 12.4-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ ($599.99) is the larger of Samsung’s two Fan Edition tablets, with a bigger screen and a higher price than the 10.9-inch, $449.99 Galaxy Tab S9 FE. Both are relative bargains compared with the flagship Galaxy Tab S9 line, which starts at $799.99. Thanks in part to its premium materials and design, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ provides a high-end experience that belies its comparatively reasonable price. In addition to solid performance, it features Samsung’s powerful Android productivity tweaks and tight integration across the Samsung ecosystem, and it comes with an S Pen stylus. In this price range, we also like the $499 Google Pixel Tablet, which includes a stand that turns it into a smart display, but the Tab S9 FE+ is our Editors’ Choice pick for Android tablets thanks to its balance of features and price.
A Premium Feel Without a Premium Price
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ comes across as a near equal to the pricier, top-of-the-line Tab S9 series when it comes to the hardware, with high-quality materials and a similar feeling of elegance.
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It measures 11.24 by 7.30 by 0.26 inches (HWD) and weighs 1.38 pounds. The $999 Galaxy Tab S9+ has the same 12.4-inch screen size but measures a slightly smaller 11.23 by 7.30 by 0.22 inches and weighs 1.28 pounds. For further comparison, the Pixel Tablet measures 10.2 by 6.7 by 0.3 inches and weighs 1.09 pounds, and the $599 Apple iPad Air comes in at 9.74 by 7.02 by 0.24 inches and 1.02 pounds. Those latter two tablets have smaller 11-inch screens. If you like the idea of those smaller dimensions, take a look at the 10.9-inch Galaxy Tab S9 FE, which comes in at 10.01 by 6.53 by 0.26 inches and 1.15 pounds. Both the Tab S9 FE and FE+ are available in four colors: gray, lavender, mint, or silver. The Tab S9 FE is available with 5G ($549.99), but only in gray; the FE+ doesn’t have a 5G variant.
(Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
Like the regular Tab S9 series, the Tab S9 FE and FE+ have a rating of IP68, meaning they are dustproof and can handle being immersed in water for up to 30 minutes. The Pixel Tablet and the iPad Air don’t have IP ratings, so this is a point of distinction for the Tab S9 FE line and invites scenarios for use poolside or at the beach.
The 12.4-inch LCD of the Tab S9 FE+ has a resolution of 2,560 by 1,600 pixels with a refresh rate of 90Hz. This is one area where Samsung cut costs a bit; the pricier Tab S9 series all feature OLED displays and somewhat higher resolutions. Colors are still good on the Tab S9 FE+, but the LCD can’t produce the contrast of a pricier OLED panel. Animations appear smooth when the system is not under intense load, but the display’s brightness isn’t quite enough to handle intense sunlight. Indoors, the Tab S9 FE+ has no problem with ambient lighting. The bezels around the screen are a little thicker than those of the Tab S9, but it’s a minor drawback.
(Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
Going around the device, the wide-angle front-facing camera is centered within the bezel of the long top edge. The combined power button/fingerprint sensor and volume rocker are to the left and the microSD card slot is to the right. The fingerprint sensor worked well when I held the tablet in portrait mode, but I ran into some error messages when using the tablet in landscape orientation. Thankfully it took only a small adjustment of my finger (or the tablet) to unlock the device.
There are two AKG-tuned speakers. The grilles are found on each short side of the tablet. A USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port for power and data transfer is on one short edge as well. The other long edge features two indentations and three pogo connectors to attach optional accessories like a keyboard.
(Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
There’s a big sheet of metal spanning the rear with two cameras with a magnetic strip to hold the included S Pen, the Samsung logo, and antenna lines.
Powerful Samsung Software
The Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ runs on Android 13 and will get four Android OS updates and five years of security updates. Samsung’s One UI runs atop Android and allows for seamless activities like taking a call or responding to a text if the tablet is linked to a Samsung phone. (iPhones and iPads work together this way, too.) The S9 FE+ can also act as a secondary wireless display for Samsung Galaxy Book laptops.
Stock Android allows you to run two apps on the screen along with a floating video player. Samsung gives you the option to tile three apps on the display along with pop-up apps and a floating video window. You can save app pairs and app trios to the taskbar or the home screen so you can always have your favorite duo or trio launch together. The taskbar on the bottom of the screen makes it easy to bring your favorite or most recent apps to the foreground.
(Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
While some Android apps and features can seem out of place on larger devices like the 14.6-inch Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, they feel more at home on the 12.4-inch display of the Tab S9 FE+. More at home does not mean perfect—some Android apps still look like big phone apps with too much dead space. This is not something that iPad owners have to deal with as much since the platform has many more tablet-optimized apps available.
Sketching with the included S Pen is fun; the experience is responsive and feels natural with minimal lag. Pressing hard on the screen with the S Pen does lead to a rippling effect on the display, so be gentle. The Tab S9 FE+ provides more value than some other tablets by including the stylus. Apple charges $79 to $129 for its Pencil stylus, for instance.
Samsung’s Dex software is also onboard. It lets you use the tablet more like a traditional computer with an open desktop and taskbar, and applications that can be arranged in resizable windows. You can interact with Dex using touch, but it generally works better with an external mouse or trackpad and keyboard. Switching from Android to Dex can take a few seconds and, when open, will show you a desktop with all your open Android apps minimized in the taskbar.
Samsung’s Dex user interface (Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
For the most part, Dex can simulate a desktop operating system quite well, but when push comes to shove, it still can’t replace the robustness of a Windows tablet or even iPadOS 17 on the iPad. The Tab S9 FE+ is a good Android tablet that gives you lots of options, but Android still needs some work before it can truly replace a laptop.
Performance, Connectivity, and Sound
We tested the base model of the tablet, which has 8GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. An upgraded model features 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage for $699.99. Both have a microSD card slot so you can add an additional 1TB or storage if you choose. All of the Tab S9 FE models are powered by the Samsung Exynos 1380 system on a chip (SoC).
Performance is one area where the Tab S9 FE+ feels less like a flagship model than the standard line. Sometimes apps are slow to load and animations can stutter if multiple apps are running at the same time. These issues happened occasionally in testing, but didn’t occur to the point where it was problematic. The Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, which uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy and has 12GB of RAM, loaded up Dex in about two seconds compared with anywhere from five to nine seconds on the Tab S9 FE+. It’s possible the 12GB model will offer smoother performance.
On Geekbench 6, a suite of benchmarks that quantifies raw computing power, the Tab S9 FE+ scored 1,011 on the single-core test and 2,897 on the multi-core test. For comparison, the Pixel Tablet, which runs on Google’s Tensor G2 chip, scored 1,415 and 3,658. The top-of-the-line Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra blows them both out of the water with scores of 2,069 and 5,408, while the iPad Air scored 1,712 and 6,743.
On the PCMark Work 3.0 test, which evaluates general mobile tasks, the Tab S9 FE+ reached a score of 12,223, which is a little better than the Pixel Tablet’s 10,386, but not as good as the Tab S9 Ultra’s 15,606
(Credit: Samsung)
Gaming performance was pretty good in testing. The resource-intensive Genshin Impact played well even when settings were set to high and 60fps, but there was the occasional slowdown. During gameplay, the tablet felt cool to the touch when tested for 20 minutes. Less-intensive games like Alto’s Odyssey and Mario Kart Tour played perfectly well.
In our battery test, in which we stream HD video over Wi-Fi with the display at full brightness, the tablet’s 10,090mAh battery lasted 7 hours and 23 minutes. In comparison, the Pixel Tablet’s 7,020mAh battery lasted 5 hours and 25 minutes, the Tab S9 Ultra’s 11,200mAh battery lasted 9 hours and 30 minutes, and the iPad Air only reached 5 hours and 11 minutes.
There is no charger provided in the box, but the Tab S9 FE+ can fast charge at up to 45W. We found that it took 1 hour and 40 minutes to charge from 0% to 100% at that charging speed. A 15-minute charge brought the battery up to 19% in testing.
The tablet features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, and as mentioned, 5G is available on the smaller Tab S9 FE.
When connected to a Wi-Fi 6 access point in testing, peak download speeds on the Tab S9 FE+ hit 463Mbps and uploads topped out at 17.1Mbps (that slow upload speed is more a function of the ISP than the tablet). For comparison, the Pixel Tablet reached 388Mbps down and 12.2Mbps up when tested in the same spot. Taking the Tab S9 FE+ as far away as possible from the access point in my apartment saw speeds drop to 163Mbps down and 13.2Mbps up, while the Pixel Tablet reached 156Mbps down and 13.7Mbps up. In other words, Wi-Fi performance is more or less comparable between the two Android slates, with Samsung doing slightly better at the network’s edge.
The speakers are quite loud and clear, but the bass is a bit on the weak side. Testing the speakers with The Knife’s “Silent Shout,” we found the bass to be OK, but a pair of Bluetooth headphones or a Bluetooth speaker will ultimately provide you with a better experience. The speakers reached a maximum volume of 95.3dB and didn’t distort even with the volume maxed out. The Google Pixel Tablet meanwhile, reached a peak loudness of 97.5dB.
One Good Camera, Two Competent Ones
The two 8MP rear cameras are average shooters that produce images that are a little oversaturated in color, which is standard across Samsung devices. Pictures are relatively clear, but zooming in you can see that fine details are lost. When using the 8MP ultra-wide camera, images appear distorted in the viewfinder, but the resulting pictures have lens correction applied to remove that fish-eye look so that straight lines appear straight and not warped. However, there is still warping evident when the subject is a person at the edge of the frame.
Main camera (Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
Ultra-wide camera (Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
The 12MP front-facing camera can produce better images than the two rear cameras. This isn’t a surprise, as you are more likely to use the tablet for video calls than taking snapshots.
Left to right: Front-facing camera on ultra-wide setting, standard setting (Credit: Iyaz Akhtar)
For video conferencing, the front-facing camera does a good job. It provides a sharp image with plenty of detail and the microphones capture clear audio. Unlike the iPad Air, Samsung places the front-facing camera on the long edge of the bezel, which makes it much more natural to use when the tablet is in landscape mode. Currently, the only iPad with a front-facing camera in the same orientation is the $449 Apple iPad.
A High-Value Android Tablet
If you’re a fan of Samsung’s Android customizations and you have other Samsung devices you can connect it with, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is the Android tablet to get, offering similar functionality to the flagship Tab S9 for a lot less money. It isn’t quite as powerful as the standard Tab S9, but the Tab S9+ FE has an appealing, high-quality build and more than enough performance for sending emails, playing games, and watching videos. Like most Android tablets, the Tab S9 FE+ is still not a laptop replacement, but considering its price, that’s easy to forgive. Furthermore, Samsung’s Dex mode and additional multitasking software make it a better productivity pick than the Pixel Tablet, and that earns it our Editors’ Choice award for Android tablets. If you find the Tab S9+ FE too big or expensive, however, we recommend the slightly smaller and cheaper Tab S9 FE in equal measure.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
4.0
Editors’ Choice
See It
$599.99 at Amazon
Starts at $599.99
Pros
Good performance
Long battery life
High-quality, waterproof build
Includes S Pen stylus
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Cons
Occasional performance stutters
Finicky fingerprint sensor
The Bottom Line
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is a high-value tablet thanks to its classy design, excellent build quality, and powerful software, making it the Android slate to beat.
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.
