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Xbox Series X And Series S Pre-Order Guide: Where To Get Microsoft’s Next-Gen Consoles

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We’ve had two pretty messed up video game pre-order snafus in the last week or so, with both the PlayStation 5 and RTX 3080 selling out in minutes, leaving many gamers upset and empty-handed—while resellers chortled about how many units they were able to scoop up.

Hopefully tomorrow’s Xbox Series X|S pre-orders will go better. In an effort to help you, dear readers, get your hands on a new next-gen system tomorrow morning when pre-orders go live tomorrow, I’ve written out this buying guide.

It includes links to various retailers’ pages for the Xbox Series X and Series S, though some retailers don’t have links available yet, and others appear to be placeholders. Some have pages for the Series X but not the Series S.

I’ll update the links section of this post as more become available, so stay tuned.

Below the list of retailers I’ve also written out some helpful tips for anyone looking to pre-order. Since you’ll be competing against bots—and potentially overwhelmed servers—being prepared is essential. That means getting up early if you’re out on the West Coast.

Here’s where to find an Xbox Series X|S tomorrow morning when pre-orders go live:

Here are the retailers in various regions offering the All Access program (see below for details):

  • United States (8AM PT): Best Buy, GameStop, Microsoft Store, and Walmart
  • Australia (8AM AEST): Telstra
  • New Zealand (8AM NZST): Spark
  • UK (8AM BST): GAME and Smyths Toys
  • Denmark (9AM CEST): Elgiganten
  • Finland (9AM CEST): Gigantti
  • Norway (9AM CEST): Elkjøp
  • Sweden (9AM CEST): Elgiganten

Pre-Order Tips

There is no guarantee these days that you’ll be able to get your hands on any shiny new piece of tech when it comes out, let alone snap up a pre-order. This was proved in no uncertain terms by the disastrous pre-order opening salvos for both the RTX 3080 graphics card from Nvidia and Sony’s PlayStation 5. But there are a few ways you can better prepare yourself so that you’re ready to go, especially since we know that pre-orders will go live at 8 am PDT / 11 am EDT on September 22nd.

There is, of course, the chance that a retailer will break embargo (though Microsoft has warned of retribution if they do) so if you want to be extra sure to get an Xbox Series X|S console, make sure to login earlier and start scouring the internet. One Twitter account you should follow for gaming deals is Wario64. If and when pre-orders go live any earlier than advertised, this account will almost certainly let you know. Tuning back into this post can also be helpful, as I’ll be updating it Tuesday morning with any new information, links and so forth.

If you have an account with any of these retailers, make sure you’re already logged into it before pre-orders go live. Have your payment info saved and/or make sure you’re logged into PayPal if that’s your preferred method of payment. Some people say that you should use store pickup if it’s available at brick-and-mortar stores also, as this is potentially more reliable. The only downside to that option is having to go to an actual store, something many people are trying to avoid these days thanks to COVID-19.

Make sure you’re on the fastest machine you own also. I generally think online shops are more reliable on computers than on phones (and it’s often easier and faster to type with a keyboard than a touch-screen) but if your phone is your most reliable device, use that. Sites will almost certainly be crashing or slowed down and you want every advantage you can get (including a fast internet connection).

After that, it’s all luck. The PS5 was selling out within minutes (or faster) at some retailers. This is largely thanks to resellers who use bots to snag up as many consoles as possible and then sell them at outrageous prices on eBay and elsewhere. Purchasing via Microsoft’s All Access program could be one work-around here. It’s also an excellent deal. Through All Access you can get the Series X for $34.99/month and the Series S for $24.99/month with 0% APR financing. This price includes an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription (bundling Game Pass and Xbox Live With Gold) for two years, and is normally $14.99/month.

Still, there are no guarantees you’ll be able to pre-order an Xbox Series S or Xbox Series X Tuesday or prior to their November 10th launch. If that’s the case, you’ll simply need to buy later—and frankly, the best advice I can give to most gamers who don’t absolutely need the shiniest, newest gear is to wait. Certainly don’t buy from price-gougers. There simply won’t be that many launch titles that justify a next-gen console in 2020. Waiting until 2021 (or later) is a totally reasonable option.

See my case for buying the Xbox Series S instead of an Xbox Series X right here.

Source: – Forbes

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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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