There’s a reason why Xiaomi took advantage of Huawei’s problems with the US government to capture a large chunk of the market. The Chinese smartphone maker faced plenty of criticism over the years for copying Apple. But Xiaomi has also taken risks of its own, debuting technology that rivals can’t match. The company also had highly competitive prices and connected devices to make its mobile ecosystem even more appealing. The Mix 4 smartphone which Xiaomi unveiled this week is the latest proof of that. The new device is unlike anything else on the market, featuring technological advancements that can’t be found on other Android flagships.
On paper, the Mix 4 specs look familiar. But the Mix 4 isn’t anything like other high-end Androids. It’s the first phone in the world to feature the new Snapdragon 888+ processor, which is faster than the standard Snapdragon 888 that we will see on many Android devices in 2021.
The handset features 8GB or 12GB of LDDR5 RAM, up to 512GB of UFS 3.1 storage, and 5G support. The Mix 4 also introduces Xiaomi’s “unique UWB technology,” which will improve the way the phone interacts with other internet-connected devices. The Mix 4 features 19 antennas and supports 42 bands to deliver this supposedly superior UWB experience.
Xiaomi Mix 4: The new CUP selfie camera. Image source: Xiaomi
The under-screen camera magic
We’ve been waiting for Xiaomi to launch its first phone with an under-screen camera for a few years now. The Mix 4’s 120Hz 6.67-inch screen has something called a CUP, which stands for Camera Under Panel. Xiaomi employed micro-diamond pixels, a redesigned circuitry array, and transparent sub-pixel circuitry to deliver the CUP camera. The Mix 4 is supposed to offer a seamless screen, thanks to all that. You won’t see where the camera is located. And Xiaomi says that software ensures that photos and videos captured with the CUP selfie cam “retain true colors and details.”
The main camera is also a sight to behold. The phone features a 108-megapixel primary camera with 4-in-1 1.6μm Super Pixels. A 13-megapixel ultra-wide angle camera packs a free-form optical lens that lowers wide-angle distortion. Topping things off is an 8-megapixel periscope camera that supports 5x optical zoom and 50x digital zoom.
Xiaomi Mix 4: The main camera. Image source: Xiaomi
The graphene
The 4,500 mAh battery supports 120W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. The Mix 4 will reach a full charge in 15 minutes or 28 minutes, respectively. The battery features graphene anodes, which are 1,000 times more conductive than carbon black anodes. Xiaomi also says the Mix 4 comes with an intelligent, fast charging that “helps regulate charging temperature and speed for different scenarios, as well as increasing battery charge cycles by up to 25%.”
The Mix 4 uses graphene elsewhere for heat management purposes. The material is part of the heat dissipation structure that has a combined area of 11,588 square mm.
Xiaomi’s Mix 4 will support system-level AI Translation that will work on text, photos, and audio. The service will also translate and transcribe audio, the company says. The SIM lock feature might make it impossible for someone to repurpose a stolen Mix 4. The user will need to enter the correct password when changing the SIM card.
Mix 4 price and release date
The Xiaomi Mix 4 comes in three colors: Ceramic Black, Ceramic White, and Ceramic Gray. They’re all ceramic bodies baked at 1,400ºC. Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protects the screen, meanwhile.
Xiaomi Mix 4: Front and rear design. Image source: Xiaomi
When it comes to configurations, Xiaomi will sell various Mix 4 models come August 16th, as follows:
8GB/128GB: 4,999 yuan ($771)
8GB/256GB: 5,299 yuan ($817)
12GB/256GB: 5,799 yuan ($894)
12GB/512GB: 6,299 yuan ($971)
The Mix 4’s price structure is also out of this world. However, there’s no telling if or when the Mix 4 will be available in international markets. Xiaomi only listed the phone’s release date for China in its announcement.
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.
