WWDC 2022 officially kicks off on Monday with Apple’s opening keynote at 10 a.m. PT. During this keynote, Apple will officially unveil updates including iOS 16, iPadOS 16, watchOS 9, and macOS 13. Ahead of WWDC kicking off, we’re seeing some last minute rumors about what to expect, including the possibility of a new MacBook Air, big updates to iPadOS 16 multitasking features, and more.
Head below as we round up some of the last-minute rumors about what’s coming at WWDC 2022…
WWDC 2022 Details
As a quick refresher, WWDC is a week-long event that consists of Apple’s opening keynote, the State of the Union with more technical details, the Apple Design Awards, and hundreds of developer sessions, labs, one-on-one meetings, and more.
WWDC Keynote: June 6, 10 a.m. PDT
Platforms State of the Union: June 6, 2 p.m. PDT
Apple Design Awards: June 6, 5 p.m. PDT
This year, WWDC 2022 also includes a small in-person component in addition to the online options. A small group of developers and press has been invited to Apple Park for the keynote as well associated labs, interviews, and much. We will, of course, have full coverage of everything that happens throughout the entire week right here on 9to5Mac.
AR/VR Headset not expected
While the announcement or tease of Apple’s long-rumored AR/VR headset once seemed like a guarantee for WWDC 2022, that no longer seems to be the case. Due to ongoing development issues, supply chain problems, and tricky integration between hardware and software, the Apple Headset is now likely set for a debut in 2023.
Bloombergreported back in January that the Apple Headset has faced multiple development issues, including problems with overheating. Apple has also reportedly struggled with proper integration between hardware and software, as well as issues with the camera hardware.
Last month, The Information corroborated many of these details and added some additional context. According to that report, Jony Ive’s decision that the Apple Headset should be a fully standalone device has proven to be an issue.
Apple’s early plans were for the first version of the headset to work with a base station, allowing the headset itself to be smaller and rely on that base station for things like performance and battery. Jony Ive, however, didn’t think such a product would be a compelling option for consumers.
That decision by Ive has reportedly led to a slew of development issues, including the ones reported by Bloomberg. The team working on Apple Headset has struggled to balance ““battery life and performance while minimizing the heat generated so people don’t get singed while wearing the device.”
With all of that having been said, it’s clear that Apple is not quite ready to announce its AR/VR headset at WWDC this year. While it’s possible we get some sort of teaser, the more likely scenario is that any sort of Apple Headset isn’t announced or released until 2023.
MacBook Air possible, but not as colorful as rumored
In terms of new hardware at WWDC, rumors are a bit mixed. The most likely candidate, however, appears to be a new MacBook Air. A redesigned MacBook Air has been rumored for almost a year, but Apple has been battling ongoing supply chain issues across the board.
Rumors indicate that the new MacBook Air will feature a new flat-edged design that takes cues from the 24-inch iMac. While earlier reports suggested the new MacBook Air would be available in similar, if not the same, colors as the iMac, that may not turn out to be the case.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman took to Twitter on Friday evening to share some last-minute tidbits about this MacBook Air. According to Gurman, reports of the MacBook Air coming in “several colors” are “probably exaggerated.”
According to Gurman, we should expect the new MacBook Air to come in the same colors as the current model. This would include space gray, silver, and gold. Gurman does note that the gold will be “more champagne like” than the current color. Gurman also says the new MacBook Air could be available in a blue color similar to the 24-inch iMac.
As for a release date, Gurman says the new MacBook Air “has been planned to launch at WWDC.” The only thing that would prevent this is if the supply chain issues in China “created such a supply and release gap that it wouldn’t make sense to announce it on Monday.”
iPadOS 16 multitasking upgrades
Finally, a Bloomberg report this week indicated that iPadOS 16 is expected to be one of the biggest announcements at WWDC on Monday. According to the report, iPadOS will bring a “redesigned multitasking interface that makes it easier to see what apps are open and switch between tasks.”
The update will also bring new ways to resize app windows alongside “new ways to handle multiple apps at once.” Apple’s goal is to turn iPadOS into a more of “laptop experience” in terms of multitasking and windowing support.
What exactly this means remains to be seen, but there does indeed seem to be mounting evidence that this could be the year Apple finally brings a major overhaul to iPadOS multitasking.
More to come
WWDC 2022 kicks off on Monday, and it’s highly likely that we will see some more last-minute leaks about what’s coming for iOS 16, iPadOS 16, new hardware, and more.
What are you most excited to see at WWDC 2022 this year? Let us know down in the comments!
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.
