For many people, Samsung’s phones are the gold standard for Android flagships, period. It’s the phone most other Android handsets are measured against, and inevitably gets compared to Apple’s current iPhone. The latest—the Samsung Galaxy S21 family—is now available for purchase. Whether that’s from carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint or retailers like Best Buy, you can throw down $800 to get in on the ground floor with the baseline Galaxy S21.
You can step up to the Galaxy S21+ and Galaxy S21 Ultra for $1,000 and $1,200 respectively, the differences of which we’ll divulge below. You might also consider picking up the new Galaxy Buds Pro to go alongside it for $200.
With the iPhone 12 making a major splash across multiple price brackets late last year, you might be wondering whether Samsung was able to match wits with an engineering job that accelerated its launch timeline a full month earlier than usual. Here’s everything we know about the Samsung Galaxy S21.
How many models of the Galaxy S21 are there?
Three seems to be the magic number when it comes to familial smartphone launches these days, and the Samsung Galaxy S21 clan is following suit. The Samsung Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21 Plus and Galaxy S21 Ultra are all ushering in the next era of Samsung’s longstanding reign as the smartphone maker to beat.
Computationally speaking, the devices all offer comparable top-shelf performance, but naturally, the bigger the screen and price tag, the more you get. The Galaxy S21 and S21 Plus mostly differ in display size and overall battery life, but otherwise sport the same memory configurations, camera systems and features. The S21 Ultra, meanwhile, stretches the boundaries (and budget) for pro users who practically run their entire lives from their smartphone. It has more base memory, more powerful cameras and cannibalizes its cousin—the Galaxy Note—with S Pen support.
Samsung Galaxy S21 specs and features
Galaxy Unpacked January 2021
Getty Images for Samsung
Unlike the flexible Galaxy Z Fold many still water at the mouth for, there aren’t many radical design changes in the Galaxy S21. Samsung deliberately erred on the side of familiarity for those who aren’t ready for the quirks and costs of bleeding edge tech. The rear camera plate’s design underwent enough change to make it stand out in a crowd, though. The off-color module stretches its shroud across the corner of the device to pull off one of the most elegant multi-sensor designs going.
No matter which version you buy, the Galaxy S21 in the United States will be powered by Qualcomm’s brand-new Snapdragon 888 processor, a significant step up from the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865. Other markets will see the latest Exynos chipset instead. You’ll get 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage as standard for the S21 and S21+ (256GB also available), while the S21 Ultra starts you off with 12GB of RAM and 128GB of storage and topping off at 16GB/512GB. Each model in the S21 lineup also has 5G, but keep in mind that there are different flavors. Thankfully, all S21 smartphones support both the fastest “millimeter wave” version of 5G and the stopgap Sub-6 version.
Whether it’s the 6.2-inch Galaxy S21, the 6.7-inch S21 Plus or the 6.8-inch S21 Ultra, each display features Dynamic AMOLED technology with 1,500 nits of peak brightness and variable refresh rates up to 120Hz, which should deliver not just better speed and vibrancy, but also does invaluable work to minimize the display’s impact on battery life. The S21 and S21 Plus are limited to Full HD+ resolution for the privilege. If that’s not sharp enough, you’ll need to step up to the S21 Ultra with Quad HD+. In any case, the display is hiding a fingerprint sensor that’s 1.7 times larger than the previous generation, so you won’t have to peck around as much to unlock your phone.
Galaxy Unpacked January 2021
Getty Images for Samsung
One other big distinction for the S21 Ultra is that it’s the only one in the lineup with S Pen functionality, something it borrows from the Galaxy Note. For the unaware, it’s a pressure-sensitive Wacom-enabled stylus that allows you to draw, write notes and multitask on your device with stunning paper-like accuracy and few hiccups. Sadly, it doesn’t sound like Samsung will be shipping one in the box, but you can buy one separately, and it includes a case that allows you to stow the S Pen. Select third-party Wacom pens will also work on the S21 Ultra.
Other notable exclusives for the extravagant model include Wi-Fi 6E support and a much beefier camera system, which we’ll touch on below.
Samsung Galaxy S21 camera and video
The baseline Samsung Galaxy S21 devices will feature the same triple lens arrangement at the top left of the phone’s back that we have now with the Galaxy S20. On paper, the base S21 and S21 Plus are equipped with the same sensors from yesteryear—a triple threat on the back features dual 12MP sensors for wide angle shots and a 64MP telephoto to take photos at up to 30X zoom, while a 10MP front sensor pierces the top middle of the AMOLED display.
Samsung Mobile
The Galaxy S21 Ultra steps up to a quad-lens design with not one, but two different telephoto lenses—a 10 megapixel lens with a 3X optical zoom and another 10 megapixel lens with a 10x optical zoom, both with dual pixel autofocus. The former should perform better for low-light photography with a wider f/2.4 aperture opposed to f/4.9 on the latter.
That’s in addition to the massive 108-megapixel main sensor and 12-megapixel wide angle, enabling up to 100X zoom. Samsung is also touting the biggest generational leap in low-light quality thanks to its Bright Night sensor improvements, which uses pixel-merging “nona binning” tech that produces a larger pixel size to offer reduced noise and faster performance for night and indoor shots.
Video buffs will enjoy new shooting modes and capabilities too. You can now snag high resolution stills directly from your 8K video shots, and every sensor can now record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. With live thumbnails, you can get a running preview of what each sensor sees and switch between them during recording, while a new vlogger view gives you simultaneous front and rear sensor recording. You’ll also get much better audio recording when paired with the newly announced Galaxy Buds Pro, as it records audio from each individual microphone in both devices to capture both your voice and your surroundings in greater detail.
Samsung Galaxy S21 price and release date
You can scoop up any of the Samsung Galaxy S21 devices right now, and here’s a handy list of everywhere you can find one. As mentioned, the Galaxy S21 (available in Phantom Gray, White, Violet and Pink) and S21+ (Phantom Violet, Black, Silver, Gold and Red) cost $800 and $1,000 for the 128GB models respectively, and expect to add another $50 to each if you need double the storage. The Galaxy S21 Ultra—which adds Phantom Titanium, Navy and Brown in addition to the same Black and Silver scheme found on the S21+—is an eye-watering $1,200 for 128GB, which leaps as high as $1,380 for the 512GB kit.
Those payments become a little easier with financing options available through Samsung and their partner wireless providers, including trade-in offers that get you up to $700 for turning in your old device and instant day one savings of up to $150.
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.
