Yesterday at Galaxy Unpacked, broadcast live from Seoul, South Korea, Samsung unveiled the latest iteration of its folding phones, plus new tablets and watches, all of which will hit the market over the next few weeks.
The phones
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 and Galaxy Z Flip5. Image: Samsung
Galaxy Z Flip5
The pocket-sized Flip foldable’s fifth generation features an expanded 3.4 inch Super AMOLED cover screen (now called the Flex Window) and a new hinge that allows the phone to fold without the large gap prominent at the hinge of previous models, yet still is robust enough to allow it to be positioned at any angle. The bigger cover screen allows users to do much more without opening the phone, and the software has been enhanced to allow them to do so.
The cameras are pretty much the same physically – 10 MP front and 12 MP rear, with up to 10x digital zoom – but the software has received some love to improve shots and take advantage of the capabilities of the Flex Window.
Samsung has upgraded the phone’s processor as well, using the same one that’s in its flagship Galaxy S23. The phone is rated IPX8 water resistant.
The Flip5 comes in two configurations: 8 GB of memory and 256 GB storage for C$1299.99, or 8 GB memory and 512 GB storage for C$1459.99.
Galaxy Z Fold5
The Fold5 also received an upgrade to the same processor powering the GS23. And, yes, it also got an upgraded hinge to make it fold with less gap between the sides. It makes the overall device slimmer and more pocketable, at 13.4 mm thick when folded. The weight has also been pared down to 253g, from the Fold 4’s 263g, and peak brightness of the screens has been bumped up from 1500 nits to 1750 nits.
A new slimmer S Pen (that only works with the Fold5) has joined the party as well.
Despite using the same 4400mAh battery, Samsung has managed to increase its life by an hour per charge, offering up to 21 hours of video playback and up to 73 hours of audio playback.
The cameras are the same as those on the Fold4, although the bump has been flattened so the device isn’t as unstable when put on a surface.
Check out the full spec comparison of the Fold5 versus its predecessors on the Samsung Canada website.
The Fold5 is offered in three configurations, all with 12 GB of memory: 256 GB of storage for C$2399.99, 512 GB of storage for C$2559.99, and, exclusively available via the website, 1 TB for C$2879.99.
Both Flip5 and Fold5 will hit stores on Aug. 11, and are available for pre-order now.
The watches
Samsung Galaxy Watch6 and Galaxy Watch6 Classic. Image: Samsung
Galaxy Watch6/ Watch6 Classic
The Galaxy Watch6 comes with a bigger screen, a slimmer body, a new, easier way of switching bands, and a focus on sleep. Samsung says that its upgraded processor is 18 per cent faster than that of its predecessor. Like all Galaxy watches, it comes with plenty of apps to monitor health, but this time the sleep tracking app has received a lot of attention – you even get your very own sleep animal, and advice on how to improve your rest.
The Watch6 Classic is a little heftier, but brings back a feature that users have requested: the rotating bezel.
Samsung Wallet has been added to the Watch6 line, as well as a new Thermo Check app that allows users to measure the temperature of things in their surroundings, from food to the lake they’re planning to jump into, without physical contact.
Each watch comes in two sizes. The Watch6 duo comprises a 40mm model for C$409.99 and a 44mm model for C$449.99. The Watch6 Classic models, because of that bezel, are a bit bigger: 43mm at C$549.99, and 47mm at C$589.99.
You’ll find the comparison of the two models, and their predecessors, on the Samsung Canada website. Both are available for pre-order now.
Galaxy Tab S9 series
Galaxy Tab S9 series. Image: Samsung
Rounding out the announcements was a trio of new tablets: the Galaxy Tab S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra. All feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X screens, sized at 11 inches, 12.4 inches, and 14.6 inches respectively. Front cameras (wide and ultra wide angle) are 12MP (S9 and S9+ only have ultra wide cameras), rear cameras are an 8MP ultra wide angle and a 13MP wide angle (the S9 only has the 13 MP camera).
With their IP68 rating, these are the first water and dust-resistant Galaxy S tablets – and that rating extends to the S Pen that comes with them.
As with all of the new devices, Samsung has upgraded the processor to improve performance. It has also added a free one year subscription for GoodNotes, a visual note-taking app popular on Apple products.
Storage options include 128GB or 256GB on the S9, 256GB or 512GB on the S9+, and 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB on the S9 Ultra. The S9 offers 8 GB of memory, the others have 12GB.
Prices befit their status as premium tablets. The S9 starts at C$1099.99, the S9+ at $1349.99, and the S9 Ultra at C$1599.99.
All of these devices have pre-order or early purchase perks attached. For example, you can double the memory in the phones and tablets at no extra cost. Check with the retailer or each device’s web page for a list of applicable goodies.
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.
