The most anticipated phones for 2021 should include more variety than we’ve ever seen before in terms of design. Not only do we expect handsets with front cameras that disappear underneath the display, we should see the first rollable phones and perhaps a truly portless iPhone.
In terms of big names, the Samsung Galaxy S21 and iPhone 13 should dominate the conversation this year. Samsung is up first with its lineup, which is rumored to debut January 14 with a trio of powerful handsets, including one that should sport dual telephoto lenses and S Pen support.
Later on in the year, we hope to see an iPhone SE 3 for value-focused shoppers and perhaps an ambitious LG Rollable. Here are the most anticipated phones of 2021.
Samsung Galaxy S21
(Image credit: Evan Blass (Modified))
The most anticipated Android phone of 2021 is happily also the one we should see first. Rather than the usual February/March unveiling, Samsung has decided to bring forward the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S21 family, and it’s due January 14.
As you’d expect from a Samsung flagship, the S21 family is set to contain top-notch specs, with the all-new Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (or Exynos 2100 outside of the US) powering things. But it’s the top-of-the-range S21 Ultra that should be really interesting: not only is it set to come with a 10x optical zoom, but it’s also due to support the S Pen, which was previously limited to the Galaxy Note series.
iPhone 13
(Image credit: Ben Geskin)
If all goes according to plan, we’re expecting the iPhone 13 family to launch in September 2021. And Apple reportedly has several upgrades in mind for this year’s lineup.
Other iPhone 13 leaks point to a smaller notch, which would be a welcome change, more efficient 5G for saving on battery life, support for the new faster Wi-Fi 6E standard and the possible return of Touch ID.
LG Rollable
(Image credit: LetsGoDigital)
It’s refreshing to include an LG handset in our list of anticipated phones. While the Korean company dominates our list of the best TVs, its phones have disappointingly become also-rans in recent years.
The LG Rollable may well end up being written up as a curiosity rather than one of the best smartphones, but it’s certainly something to look forward to. If the patents are as good as they sound, it’s a phone that will look like a normal handset at a glance, but with a screen that can be expanded by rolling out the sides, giving you a phone and small tablet in one. This could be revolutionary… or it could just be expensive and weird. Time will tell.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3
(Image credit: Future)
One bit of technology that once seemed like a bit of a gamble is the foldable phone, but with the Galaxy Z Fold 2, Samsung fixed all the quirks that made the troubled original Z Fold feel like a beta test.
The Galaxy Z Fold 3 promises an even more polished product. Obviously the main selling point – that it folds out from a regular phone into a tablet – will remain, but we’ve heard that Samsung is planning other improvements, such as a clever combined camera setup, RGB light strip on the hinge and support for the S Pen.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3
(Image credit: Tom’s Guide)
The Z Fold isn’t the only foldable Samsung offers, and for those that prefer a more compact experience, the Galaxy Z Flip phones have been a real triumph.
The Galaxy Z Flip 3 is rumored to be coming next year — reportedly there will be no Z Flip 2, with Samsung seeking numerical parity with the Z Fold 3. And this time there’s rumored to be a Lite version for small budgets, too. We can also expect better cameras this time around along with a more powerful Snapdragon 888 processor.
OnePlus 9
(Image credit: Lets Go Digital/Concept Creator)
Due out in the spring, the OnePlus 9 and 9 Pro are due to continue the company’s tradition of blending top-notch specs with affordable prices. The phone is definitely coming, with a prototype most recently leaked on eBay.
This year’s models are set to come with the brand new Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor and 120Hz screens for smooth visuals and the possibility of 120fps performance in compatible apps. OnePlus may also partner with Leica on a new breed of Ultrashot camera for the OnePlus 9 lineup.
iPhone SE 3
(Image credit: Apple)
This one is slightly more wishful thinking than the rest of the entrants on the list. Given the four-year gap between the original iPhone SE and last year’s follow up, there’s no guarantee we’ll be seeing a refreshed model in 2021.
All the same, it’s definitely something we want to see, given the incredible value that the iPhone SE offers. If one does arrive, we expect to see the Apple A14 chip of the iPhone 12 getting an outing in a handset with a more pocketable frame. If Apple can stay in the $399 ballpark of the previous model, it will certainly be on to a winner.
Samsung Galaxy Note 21
(Image credit: Amazon)
It seems that rumors of the Galaxy Note’s death were exaggerated. Samsung sources have apparently confirmed that a Galaxy Note 21 is on the way this year, even if it winds up being the last handset in the line.
As you might expect for a phone that was rumored not to exist until a few weeks ago, there’s precious little to say about it for now, but if past years are anything to go by, you can expect a slightly improved version of the Galaxy S21 with a Snapdragon 888 chip and a slot for the bundled S Pen.
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.
