Tag: sony

  • PlayStation 5 Pro Hardware Boost Revealed in New Gameplay Videos

    PlayStation 5 Pro Hardware Boost Revealed in New Gameplay Videos

    Sony revealed the PS5 Pro in September, and fans can expect the new console to hit stores on November 7. Priced at $699.99, this mid-generation upgrade offers more powerful hardware compared to the standard PlayStation 5. In the launch event, Sony emphasized three major enhancements: AI-driven upscaling, improved ray tracing, and an expanded GPU.

    Improved Gaming Experience

    Thanks to these upgrades, the PlayStation 5 Pro is expected to deliver a significantly better gaming experience than its non-Pro counterpart (Slim model can be found on Amazon). Leading up to the launch, YouTuber Gabriel Master has shared footage showcasing several games on the new console. He claims that the enhanced hardware provides a clear performance boost.

    Performance Highlights

    For instance, a gameplay video of Dragon’s Dogma 2 reveals that it operates more smoothly on the PS5 Pro. The same can be said for Monster Hunter Wilds, which seems to run at a higher resolution and maintain steadier FPS when compared to the original model.

    Gabriel Master also posted gameplay of Spider-Man 2, and it looks like the game runs seamlessly at 60 FPS with the resolution cranked up to 4K and ray tracing enabled.

    Game Boost Feature

    The YouTuber also highlighted the Game Boost feature. In his footage of Red Dead Redemption 2, it’s visible that the texture quality has improved, and the game runs at a higher resolution than what the standard PlayStation 5 offers.

    Other gameplay clips shared by the YouTuber include Dragon Age: The Vanguard and The Last of Us Part II Remastered. Both titles are displayed running at 4K resolution and 60 FPS.

    Gabriel Master’s YouTube channel (videos embedded above) via: Wccftech.

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  • Sony Launches Scarlet Xperia 1 VI in Europe

    Sony Launches Scarlet Xperia 1 VI in Europe

    European buyers can now get their hands on the red Xperia 1 VI, which was only sold in Japan before. The "Scarlet" version showcases a striking red hue with a matte finish on the glass back and aluminum frame, giving it a chic and premium appearance.

    Pricing and Configurations

    This smartphone is available for €1,499/£1,399 and is offered in one setup with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. It adds to the existing color choices of Black, Platinum Silver, and Khaki Green, which offer lower RAM and storage options.

    Specifications of the Xperia 1 VI

    Released in May 2024, the Xperia 1 VI boasts a 6.5-inch FHD+ display safeguarded by Gorilla Glass Victus 2. It supports a refresh rate of 1-120Hz, has HDR certification, and covers the full DCI-P3 color gamut with X1 for mobile technology, ensuring a clear and sharp viewing experience.

    Beneath its exterior, the phone is equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, alongside LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. It operates on Android 14 and is powered by a 5000mAh battery for extended usage. The camera system features a triple-lens arrangement, including a 48MP 1/1.3.5″ Exymor T main sensor, two 12MP secondary lenses, and a 12MP front shooter, allowing for various photography and videography options.

    Availability and Future Plans

    The first shipments of the Scarlet Xperia 1 VI began today, October 17th, in Germany, following its launch in the UK yesterday, making it available to more consumers across Europe.

    In related news, Sony has delayed the release of its Xperia 5 VI smartphone, which was expected to launch this year, due to changing consumer preferences leaning towards larger models such as the Xperia 1 VI. Although case manufacturers have hinted at its development, Sony is opting to prolong the life of the Xperia 5 V, indicating a reassessment of its product range. The company is also developing three new smartphones, but specifics remain limited.

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  • Sony Xperia 1 VI Gets New Color and Double Storage Upgrade

    Sony Xperia 1 VI Gets New Color and Double Storage Upgrade

    Sony is currently offering the Xperia 1 VI, which it launched in June. Up until now, the device has been offered globally in three shades, which the company calls Black, Khaki Green, and Platinum Silver. Additionally, the Xperia 1 VI has been available only with 256 GB of storage.

    New Colour and Storage Options

    Now, Sony has rolled out a new fourth colour option along with a higher storage capacity of 512 GB. The company claims that the new Scarlet finish ‘adds a fresh and vibrant appearance’ to the Xperia 1 VI. Interestingly, the Scarlet option had been shown alongside the other three colours back in May. This new variant features a glass back with a matte finish that matches the mid-frame.

    Hardware Remains the Same

    The Scarlet version keeps the same core hardware as its Black, Khaki Green, and Platinum Silver versions. It is equipped with a 6.5-inch LTPO OLED display that supports 120 Hz refresh rate and 1080p resolution, powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and a 5,000 mAh battery. The camera specifications have not changed either; further insights can be found in our review.

    As it is, the new Scarlet model is available exclusively with 512 GB of storage in Europe and the UK, priced at €1,499 and £1,399, respectively. This pricing reflects an increase of €100 and £100 compared to its 256 GB models. In contrast, the Scarlet option in the US comes with 256 GB of storage and is available through retailers like Amazon, with a price tag of $1,209.99 before taxes.

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  • Sony Xperia 1 VI Update Enhances Connectivity Features

    Sony Xperia 1 VI Update Enhances Connectivity Features

    Sony has shared news about two significant updates for the Xperia 1 VI this week. First, a new Scarlet color option has been launched, featuring 512 GB of storage globally. We have provided complete details on this release separately. Interestingly, although the US market has also seen the Scarlet edition, it is still limited to 256 GB of storage (curr. $1,209.99 on Amazon).

    Connectivity Upgrade

    In addition to the new color, Sony has made a major upgrade to the connectivity of all Xperia 1 VI models. They have introduced Wi-Fi 7 support, which is being rolled out through a fresh software update. Previously, the Xperia 1 VI was capped at Wi-Fi 6E, which reached data rates of 1,824 Mbit/s in tests conducted earlier this year.

    Enhanced Performance

    Wi-Fi 7 theoretically provides up to 46 Gbit/s bandwidth, a big jump from the 9.6 Gbit/s offered by Wi-Fi 6E. While it’s unlikely that devices will reach these peak speeds, Wi-Fi 7 is designed to enhance network efficiency and stability, while also lowering power consumption. Moreover, the introduction of Multi-Link Operation (MLO) means that the Xperia 1 VI can now send and receive data at the same time across 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz networks, effectively reducing latency.

    Requirements for Upgrade

    To utilize these network improvements, the Xperia 1 VI must be paired with a router that supports Wi-Fi 7. In addition, Sony is releasing the Wi-Fi 7 support as part of software version 69.0.A.2.44, which also includes the September 2024 security patch. XperiCheck indicates that most versions of the Xperia 1 VI, such as those available in Europe, the UK, Japan, and Southeast Asia, should have already received the 69.0.A.2.44 update.

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  • Sony Launches LinkBuds Speaker with 25-Hour Battery Life

    Sony Launches LinkBuds Speaker with 25-Hour Battery Life

    Sony has introduced its initial LinkBuds speaker, named the ‘LinkBuds Portable Wireless Speaker’. This announcement comes alongside the release of the LinkBuds Fit and LinkBuds Open; for more information on these earbuds, check out our related launch article.

    Battery Life and Charging Features

    According to Sony, the LinkBuds Portable Wireless Speaker can provide up to 25 hours of playtime on a single charge. Additionally, it includes a charging station that allows it to function as a wired speaker when needed. The speaker is also rated IPX4, meaning it is resistant to water splashes. However, it’s important to note that the ‘X’ indicates that it hasn’t been tested for particle protection.

    Design and Compatibility

    As illustrated in the video below, the LinkBuds Portable Wireless Speaker features a tweeter and an X-Balanced woofer, all housed in a compact design measuring 110 x 84 x 90 mm and weighing 520 g. The speaker can be used in stereo pairs, similar to Bose’s latest SoundLink speaker. Furthermore, this new LinkBuds speaker is compatible with Sony’s Sound Connect app.

    Availability and Pricing

    At present, the LinkBuds Portable Wireless Speaker can be purchased directly from Sony or Amazon for $179.99, available in both black and white color options. For further information, please visit Sony’s official website.

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  • Sony LinkBuds Open and Fit Launch: All You Need to Know

    Sony LinkBuds Open and Fit Launch: All You Need to Know

    The latest additions to Sony’s lineup are the LinkBuds Fit and LinkBuds Open. Sony claims these models provide "improved wearability," primarily due to their newly designed wings. Dubbed "Air Fitting Supporters," these wings help to minimize pressure points, enhancing the comfort of the wireless earbuds.

    Design Features

    Among the two models, the LinkBuds Open share a design reminiscent of the first wireless earbuds released in this series. They feature an "open ring design" that allows ambient sound to enter, promoting better awareness of the surroundings. Although these newer earbuds are notably smaller, they are equipped with a new 11 mm driver.

    Sony highlights that this driver enhances bass performance and delivers louder sound compared to the previous version. Additionally, the LinkBuds Open introduce voice controls that do not rely on any smart assistant. The processing occurs directly on the device, allowing users to execute voice commands for actions like skipping tracks and adjusting volume.

    Upgrades in Fit Model

    On the other hand, the LinkBuds Fit serve as an upgraded iteration of the LinkBuds S that Sony launched in 2022. These earbuds are lighter and more compact, but their reduced size does come at the cost of battery life. The LinkBuds Fit offer a runtime of up to 5.5 hours, whereas their predecessors provided 6 hours.

    However, there is a positive aspect to the LinkBuds Fit, as they can achieve up to 21 hours of battery life when used with the charging case, marking an improvement over earlier models. Another significant feature is the inclusion of the same V2 processor found in the flagship Sony WF-1000XM5.

    Additionally, they incorporate the Dynamic Driver X technology from the premium models, ensuring high-quality audio performance. The LinkBuds Fit also come with built-in voice controls.

    Pricing and Availability

    In terms of pricing, both the LinkBuds Fit and the LinkBuds Open are priced at $199.99. The Open variant is available in black and white, while the Fit comes in black, white, and purple. Both models are currently open for pre-order.

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  • PlayStation Boosts AI Use to Speed Up Game Development and Cut Costs

    PlayStation Boosts AI Use to Speed Up Game Development and Cut Costs

    In the latest Corporate Report 2024, released on September 13, 2024, Sony outlines its vision for an entertainment company that aligns with societal changes and advancements in technology. The report highlights the significant roles that artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) will play, particularly in the gaming industry.

    Advancements in Game Development

    Sony aims to incorporate technologies like real-time 3D processing and sensor technology into its game development processes. The objective is to accelerate production times and lower expenses while maintaining high standards of quality. An example mentioned in the report is the making of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, where speech recognition software was utilized to automatically sync subtitles with character dialogues. This innovation considerably shortens the time required for development.

    Innovative Capture Techniques

    Additionally, Sony is investing in the Volumetric Capture Studio, which is designed to collect 3D data of people and settings to create images and 3D assets. This captured data will be utilized throughout the company and may also be offered for sale externally. In partnership with Epic Games, Sony is exploring the Unreal Engine to repurpose 3D elements from music video production for use in video games.

    Ethical Considerations in AI Use

    The application of AI in game development presents significant possibilities but also raises important ethical discussions. A major concern includes the potential displacement of jobs, along with worries that AI might hinder the creative process for developers. Proponents argue that AI can help eliminate monotonous tasks, giving developers more time to concentrate on creative projects. A conversation about Sony’s increased reliance on AI has already begun on Reddit.

    Image source: PlayStation, Frank_Reppold / Pixabay

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  • Sony PlayStation EV Afeela to Feature Tesla NACS Charging Port

    Sony PlayStation EV Afeela to Feature Tesla NACS Charging Port

    Sony has teamed up with Honda to introduce its first electric vehicle (EV), the Afeela sedan, which is set to hit the market in the US and other areas by 2025.

    Partnership Details

    The Sony Honda Mobility (SHM) collaboration has revealed that the Afeela brand’s inaugural EV will come equipped with Tesla’s NACS connector straight from the factory. This feature will allow the vehicle to utilize Supercharger networks available in the US and Japan, which are the initial markets for the car.

    Max de Zegher, Tesla’s Director of Charging, expressed his enthusiasm for this development, noting that in Japan, 90% of chargers with 150 kW capacity and above are Superchargers. Therefore, it makes sense for SHM to be the first car manufacturer to adopt NACS ports in the country.

    Market Transition

    In the US, several Japanese automakers have also announced plans to transition to NACS, with the latest being Honda as it embarks on its journey as an independent EV manufacturer. Other brands making the switch include Toyota, Nissan, and Lexus.

    Preorders for the Afeela sedan are expected to begin in the first half of the year, with sales launching later in 2025. Initial deliveries in the US are projected to occur in early 2026.

    Unique Features

    During the CES 2024 expo in January, SHM’s COO showcased the vehicle using a PS5 DualSense controller, hinting at an extensive integration with the PlayStation 5 ecosystem for buyers of this performance-oriented electric sedan.

    Izumi Kawanishi from Sony stated, “Sony has content, services, and entertainment technologies that move people. We are adapting these assets to mobility, and this is our strength against Tesla since Tesla is not providing any content services.”

    In addition to its PlayStation integration, Sony has partnered with Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, to utilize Unreal Engine for mixed-reality rendering while the vehicle is in AI-assisted autonomous driving mode. The Afeela EV will feature an impressive array of 45 cameras and sensors, including interior sensors, Time-of-Flight (ToF) depth sensing units, and a LiDAR system.

    Innovative Communication

    Alongside its entertainment features, Sony’s vehicle will include a Media Bar located at the edge of the hood, which will allow the car to communicate with people nearby through light, enhancing interactive communication between the vehicle and its surroundings.

    Final specifications and pricing for the Afeela sedan, developed in collaboration with Honda, have yet to be disclosed by Sony.

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  • Sony announces launch event for new LinkBuds and speaker

    Sony announces launch event for new LinkBuds and speaker

    Sony has announced a launch event, referred to as a ‘new products announcement’. According to teasers released by the company, the event is set to begin at 16:00 UTC on October 1. As is typical for Sony, they have provided a few clues about what to expect, including the slogan ‘Sound Your Way’, which may hint at the potential arrival of a new Xperia smartphone.

    Updates on Xperia Devices

    Recently, Sony confirmed to Japanese media that there will be no new Xperia 5 model introduced this year. Furthermore, there are no signs that the company plans to launch successors to the WH-1000XM5 or WF-1000XM5 models this year, either. Just recently, Sony updated these models with new color options.

    Rumors of New Earbuds

    However, there are speculations about the development of next-generation LinkBuds earbuds, which seem to be supported by Sony’s teaser. The silhouettes featured in the teaser suggest that the company may be working on at least new versions of the LinkBuds and LinkBuds S, which currently retail for $198 on Amazon. Additionally, a third device is visible in the teaser, which The Walkman Blog suggests could be a type of speaker. The blog claims to have received the following details regarding the unnamed speaker:

    The earbuds can be stored within this speaker, which is capable of playing music. When the earbuds are removed from the speaker, the music seamlessly transfers to them. This could potentially involve auracast technology at work.

    Sony via The Walkman Blog

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  • PS5 Pro 120 FPS at 1440p: Tips for Optimizations and PSSR

    PS5 Pro 120 FPS at 1440p: Tips for Optimizations and PSSR

    Sony’s new PS5 Pro console has had a rather controversial launch. Priced at a staggering $699, the PS5 Pro features the same Zen 2-based CPU as the original PS5 but boasts a GPU that claims to enhance performance by 45%. Unfortunately, Sony’s official demonstrations showed only slight improvements in graphics and performance.

    Significant Enhancements Noted

    A recent report from Digital Foundry indicated that the PS5 Pro does provide notable advancements over the original PS5. Gameplay from Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth showcased what Digital Foundry describes as "night and day improvements." The PS5 Pro achieved a steady 60 fps in performance mode, along with impressive enhancements in visual fidelity.

    Promising Gameplay Capabilities

    Industry insider Moore’s Law is Dead reported that gameplay footage from an unnamed developer suggested the PS5 Pro could run their game at dynamic resolutions between 1600p and 1300p at approximately 50 fps. When the framerate was unlocked, it easily surpassed 100 fps without any optimizations required. The developer expressed confidence that with further tweaks specific to the PS5 Pro, the console could maintain 1440p to 1600p at 120 fps or even reach 4K 60 fps at ultra settings.

    The Price Dilemma

    Despite these impressive features, the PS5 Pro’s high price cannot be ignored. Additionally, considering the original PS5 (currently priced at $449 on Amazon) was released nearly four years ago, significant improvements were to be expected. Nevertheless, for gamers seeking top-tier console performance, the PS5 Pro is indeed an attractive option—if they can handle the hefty price tag.

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