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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip compared with the new Motorola Razr: No contest – Business Insider – Business Insider

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  • Motorola’s new Razr foldable smartphone received positive attention, even with its high $1,500 price tag.
  • But Samsung dented Motorola’s buzz when it announced the $1,380 Galaxy Z Flip foldable smartphone.
  • Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip offers significantly better specs and features than the Motorola Razr for less money.
  • Still, I can’t recommend either foldable device due to their incredibly fragile screens.
  • Visit Business Insider’s homepage for more stories.

Motorola’s $1,500 Razr was arguably dead in the water the moment that Samsung announced its $1,380 Galaxy Z Flip.

That’s partly because of the price difference. The Galaxy Z Flip is a little over $100 cheaper than the Motorola Razr.

But the kicker was how much better the Galaxy Z Flip promises to be compared to the Motorola Razr.

Check out eight ways Samsung bested Motorola’s Razr:


The Galaxy Z Flip comes with far better specs than the new Motorola Razr.

Foto: sourceLisa Eadicicco/Business Insider

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip runs on a better and more recent chip called the Snapdragon 855 Plus compared to the upper-mid-range Snapdragon 710 in the Motorola Razr.

The Galaxy Z Flip also comes standard with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage compared to the Motorola Razr’s 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage.

It’s true that even a solid performer like the Snapdragon 710 with 6 GB of RAM would work just fine for most people to run the Android operating system and your favorite apps, but when the Galaxy Z Flip runs on better specs overall for a lower price, it’s hard to make excuses for the new Razr.


The Galaxy Z Flip has a larger and sharper screen than the Motorola Razr.

Foto: The Galaxy Z Flip’s screen is almost as big as the massive 6.9-inch screen on the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra.sourceLisa Eadicicco/Business Insider

The Galaxy Z Flip’s 6.7-inch screen makes the new Razr’s 6.2-inch screen less impressive, especially when you consider that the Galaxy Z Flip is a smaller phone overall, both when it’s folded and unfolded.

To top it off, the Galaxy Z Flip’s screen has a higher resolution that should make for sharper visuals than the Razr’s screen.


Out of the box, the Motorola Razr runs on an two-year-old version of Android while Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip runs on the current version of Android.

Foto: sourceMotorola

It’s truly perplexing that Motorola is shipping the new Razr with Android 9 (Pie), which was released in 2018, rather than the current version of Android 10.

In many respects, it doesn’t really matter. Android 9 should work just fine, as long as Google and Motorola support the Razr with security updates during the device’s lifetime. Still, Android 10 brought some significant privacy and security control settings, new gesture controls, and the highly requested system-wide dark-mode.

Again, it’s not the worst thing in the world, but it’s something that raises eyebrows.


The Galaxy Z Flip’s screen can stay in place at different angles, whereas the Motorola Razr only has two positions: open and closed.

Foto: sourceLisa Eadicicco/Business Insider

You can prop the Galaxy Z Flip’s screen at different angles, which gives you more options on how to use phone. One good example is resting the Galaxy Z Flip on a table and propping up the screen to take a video call without holding it. Or you can prop the Galaxy Z Flip to take time-lapse photos or regular photos without any risk of shaking from your hands.

It’s not a massive game-changer, but it’s a nice feature that the new Razr doesn’t have.


Both phones have dual-lens cameras, but the Galaxy Z Flip lets you do more than the Razr’s camera.

Foto: sourceLisa Eadicicco/Business Insider

The Galaxy Z Flip has a regular 12-megapixel camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide, whereas the new Razr has a 16-megapixel regular camera. The other lens on the new Razr is simply a depth sensor that doesn’t take photos, but is designed to deliver better portrait mode shots.

At the end of the day, whether someone prefers ultra-wide photos or better portrait mode photos is up to the user. Subjectively, I’d prefer to have the option to take ultra-wide photos over better portrait mode photos. Portrait mode is something that can be decently faked with software, whereas ultra-wide photos can’t be faked with software.


The Galaxy Z Flip has a significantly better selfie camera than the Motorola Razr.

Foto: sourceLisa Eadicicco/Business Insider

It was somewhat shocking to see that the new Motorola Razr has a mere 5-megapixel selfie camera, especially compared to the Galaxy Z Flip’s 8-megapixel selfie camera.

In today’s smartphone environment, 5 megapixels is pretty darn low, and not something anyone would expect on a $1,500 smartphone. I’d also expect more than 8 megapixels for the Galaxy Z Flip’s $1,380 price tag, but at least it’s better than what you get on the Motorola Razr.


The Motorola Razr has a worryingly small battery compared to the Galaxy Z Flip’s battery.

Foto: sourceMotorola

At only 2,510mAh, the Motorola Razr’s battery is small by modern Android smartphone standards. The Galaxy Z Flip has a much larger 3,300mAh battery that’s more in-line with battery expectations for a smartphone released in 2020.


And combine everything above with the Galaxy Z Flip’s cheaper price tag, and it’s tough to even consider the Motorola Razr.

Foto: sourceLisa Eadicicco/Business Insider

The only major thing going for the Motorola Razr is its classic nostalgic design. Apart from that, there’s little reason for anyone to look at the Razr when the Galaxy Z Flip offers so much more for over $100 less.


With all that being said, neither the Galaxy Z Flip or the Motorola Razr come highly recommended, as smartphone makers haven’t figured out how to make folding screens that are as durable as regular smartphones.

Foto: sourceYouTube/Motorola

Both the Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola Razr are mired in controversy over the fragility of their screens.

Samsung touted that the Galaxy Z Flip has an „ultra-thin glass“ screen that initially suggested better durability against scratches. Yet, a recent test by gadget-destroyer Zack Nelson of the JerryRigEverything YouTube channel showed that the Galaxy Z Flip’s screen is no more durable than the fragile plastic screen on the Samsung Galaxy Fold. In a sentence, the Galaxy Z Flip’s screen scratches very easily:

Also recently, the protective plastic coating on one reviewer’s Motorola Razr started to peel off the screen at the fold in the middle. It’s only one indication that the Motorola Razr’s foldable screen might be prone to issues, but foldable smartphone screens have a very poor record so far.

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United Airlines will offer free internet on flights using service from Elon Musk’s SpaceX

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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.

The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

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How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

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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.

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Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

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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.

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