sony Archives | KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com/tag/sony/ Daily Tech News for the Non-Techie Mon, 26 Dec 2022 09:24:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://knowtechie.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/cropped-LOGO-ICON-KNOW-TECHIE-FINAL01-01-COLOR-32x32.png sony Archives | KnowTechie https://knowtechie.com/tag/sony/ 32 32 Sony reportedly working on modular PlayStation 5 https://knowtechie.com/sony-reportedly-working-on-modular-playstation-5/ Fri, 16 Dec 2022 18:16:45 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=263314 Reportedly, Sony wants to phase out the two different versions of the PS5.

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Sony is getting closer to releasing a modular PlayStation 5 console.

We first heard rumors about the modular PlayStation 5 refresh in September. That report stated Sony would replace the current PS5 models with one PS5 console and a detachable disc drive accessory.

Now, one industry insider reports that Sony has sent out test kits of the modular PS5. They also state it “works flawlessly,” and an official announcement is not far off.

The new console reportedly has a new USB-C port on the back of the chassis. It looks identical to the digital-only version apart from that new port.

The port connects to an external Blu-Ray drive, meaning users no longer have to choose between a disc or disc-less console. They’ll be able to add the external disc reader at any time.

playstation 5 ps5 consoles
Image: Sony

As of June 2022, Sony has shipped 21.7 million PlayStation 5 consoles. Insider Gaming‘s sources say Sony has set a target to ship out an additional 30 million consoles in their 2023 Fiscal Year.

According to the same sources, the modular PlayStation 5 console will start production early next year. The current plan is to release it to the market in September 2023, in time for the holiday period.

The existing chassis options for regular PS5 and Digital Edition PS5 will reportedly stop production by the end of 2023.

The reason for the change is likely to simplify manufacturing. With supply chain issues everywhere, Sony will be trying to avoid more delays.

As for the next generation of PlayStation, the PS6 is expected to release in 2028. Before that, a PS5 Pro seems to be targeted for 2023/4, according to a presentation by TV maker TCL.

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Is Apple working on a game console? https://knowtechie.com/is-apple-working-on-a-game-console/ Sun, 11 Dec 2022 05:57:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=192770 New rumors state Apple is once again trying to make a game console happen.

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Quick Answer: No, Apple is not currently working on a game console. While Apple TV supports third-party controllers and Apple Arcade is a thing that exists, it’s nowhere near a gaming console. It can’t even compete with the games on your iPhone.

It’s another weekday, which means another Apple rumor to chew up and spit out. This time, the rumors focus on a potential Apple gaming console.

Today’s Apple rumor comes to us from the generally reliable Apple rumor source Clien.net.

One user has reported that Apple is conducting feasibility studies on turning Apple TV into a gaming console.

apple vr headset render on a purple background
Image: KnowTechie (via The Information’s render leak)

It stands to reason that at some point, with Apple working hard on AR/VR devices, Apple might consider marrying those outputs with gaming.

It’s doubtful that Apple Arcade would support AR/VR products long-term. Apple would need something more substantial.

Rumors of an Apple video game console have been around for years

apple iphone gaming controller
Image: Apple

This isn’t the first rumor of this nature to fall from the Apple rumor tree in recent memory.

In 2021, the Apple gaming console rumors started swirling, giving optimistic tech writers reason to justify the rumors.

READ MORE: Is Apple working on its own gaming controller?

Then back in January of this year, it was rumored that Apple was poaching engineers from Xbox to work on its own console.

Naturally, that news was met with a hefty dose of skepticism. The existing Apple Arcade was reason enough to hire devs and engineers with gaming console experience.

With Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard and Sony’s purchase of Bungie, it makes it harder for Apple to enter the console arena with some sort of exclusive game appeal.

According to the rumor, Capcom and Ubisoft are active partners in creating exclusive titles for the imaginary Apple gaming console.

It’d be a strange world indeed if Street Fighter ends up locked to an Apple gaming console.

Does Apple have a gaming console?

apple pippin game console on purple background
Image: KnowTechie

Yes, Apple has tried its hand at game consoles before.

If the company works on an official Apple game console in 2022, it won’t be its first dip into the pool. We must never forget 1996’s Apple Bandai Pippin.

The Apple Pippin was forgotten and faded away into obscurity. It was flawed and unable to keep up with the technical specs of the time.

But from that came years of rumors, usually popping up shortly after the release of a new console from Microsoft, Nintendo, or Sony.

Gamers are a sticky bunch, generally affixed to their console of choice.

It stands to reason that if Apple were to enter the gaming console market, it would do so with a complimentary device rather than a device intended to convert gamers directly.

new leaving soon section of apple arcade
Image: KnowTechie

While Apple TV supports third-party controllers and Apple Arcade is a thing that exists, it’s nowhere near a gaming console. It can’t even compete with the games on your iPhone.

So, once again, we are left asking ourselves whether this rumor is real. Is Apple truly working on a gaming console, and could it compete with Microsoft, Sony, or Nintendo?

Will it be a handheld console similar to the Switch or something beefier? Could it be an amalgamation of a Mac computer and Apple Arcade?

Or should Apple stay in its lane and stick to slick laptops and iPhones?

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Where to find your PS4 download list https://knowtechie.com/heres-how-to-find-your-download-list-on-your-playstation-4/ Mon, 05 Dec 2022 07:45:10 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=126597 Don't know where your PS4 download list is? Here's how to find it.

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Quick Answer: To check downloads on a PS4, go to the main menu and select Notifications>Downloads. To view detailed information or pause, resume, or cancel a download, select it from the list and press the ‘Options’ button on your controller.

One of the most useful features of the PlayStation 4 is the ability to download updates in the background while in rest mode.

Have you ever tried to turn your console on and update your games while every other PlayStation 4 owner is doing the same thing?

Yeah, the network grinds to a halt, and it’s not particularly speedy, to begin with.

The only trouble with having games update while you’re asleep is that you don’t always see the notification that tells you it finished updating.

sony playstation 4 consoles disc repair play dvds
Image: Sony

Thankfully, the PlayStation 4 makes it easy to see what was downloaded on your console with its PS4 download menu.

This helps you know if your games, themes, or even the console itself have updated overnight.

So, where is my downloads list on my PlayStation 4?

Short answer: You can find it from your Notifications

It’s pretty easy to find your download list on your PS4. With only a few taps, you’ll know what your console downloaded overnight.

playstation 4 automatic downloads
Image: KnowTechie

Here’s how to check your downloads on a PS4

  1. Go to Notifications from the home screen on your PS4. The easiest way to do this is to hold the PS button on your controller to open the Quick Menu
  2. Press the Options button on your controller
  3. Scroll to Downloads on the menu that pops up

Now you’ll be able to see your entire PS4 download history, from games to themes to updates and more, including what date they were downloaded.

How to see your downloads on the PS4 app

To see downloads on the PS4 app, follow these steps:

  1. Open the PS4 app on your mobile device.
  2. Sign in to your PSN account.
  3. Tap the “More” tab in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
  4. Tap the “Downloads” option.
  5. You will see a list of your current and past downloads.
  6. To view more detailed information about a download, tap on it.
  7. To pause, resume, or cancel a download, tap on it and select the desired option from the menu that appears.

You can also clear the list, so it is easier to read in the future. But overall, that’s how to view downloads on PS4.

What do you think? Plan on using this feature to see what you’ve downloaded recently on your PlayStation 4? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Sony says its EV will be built around the PlayStation 5 https://knowtechie.com/sony-says-its-ev-will-be-built-around-the-playstation-5/ Mon, 21 Nov 2022 16:04:12 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=257476 It's being developed in partnership with Honda.

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Sony and Honda are partnering to create an electric vehicle built around Sony’s entertainment offerings, including the PlayStation 5.

The two industry giants have created a new company to develop electric vehicles, Sony Honda Mobility. When first announced in March of this year, the company didn’t even have a name, just an agreement to work together.

Now the developing company has a name to operate under. However, it doesn’t have a brand name to put on the electric vehicles.

The duo plans to build the EVs around Sony’s entertainment options, including movies, music, and the PlayStation 5. That’s right; an upcoming electric vehicle could include Sony’s latest console.

Sony PlayStation electric vehicle in development?

sony and honda electric vehicles
Sony’s previous concept EV (Image: Sony)

While speaking to Financial Times, president Izumi Kawanishi notes,

“Sony has content, services and entertainment technologies that move people. We are adapting these assets to mobility, and this is our strength against Tesla.”

The joint venture is taking a software-first view of developing the new vehicles. That includes treating the vehicle as “hardware that will cater to the entertainment and network we would like to offer.”

That includes the PlayStation 5, which is “technologically possible” for integration into the EV. Self-driving will also be a focus, so the driver can “enjoy the space in [their] car.”

It’s just one software-first electric vehicle currently in development. Apple’s Car will also focus on full self-driving while showing exactly how powerful the future versions of CarPlay will be.

With Sony-Honda and Apple’s electric vehicles scheduled for a 2025 release, the EV market is about to get hotter.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Can the PS4 play DVDs? https://knowtechie.com/can-ps4-play-dvds/ Mon, 21 Nov 2022 02:27:45 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=103985 Is Sony's console just for games, or can you watch movies, as well?

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Quick Answer: Yes, the PlayStation 4 can play DVDs. The PS4 has a slot-loading disc drive to play CDs and DVDs, including Blu-ray discs. However, you’ll need to do one thing the first time you play a DVD.

The PlayStation 4 is obviously a great way to play some awesome games, but what else can the console do?

What if you want to use your console for other media discs? Will the PS4 play DVDs?

Of course, DVDs are pretty outdated in terms of media technology these days. But many of us still have big DVD collections that we like to watch.

While many of us spend more time streaming shows and movies than watching things from a disc, it does beg the question:

Can the PlayStation 4 play DVDs?

Short answer: Yes, but you’ll need to do one thing the first time you play a DVD.

Fortunately, you can use your PlayStation 4 to play DVDs.

Although most of us stream our TV shows and movies more often than physical discs, it’s nice to know that you can still use your PS4 to play your old DVD collection.

You don’t need any extra app on the PlayStation 4 to play DVDs as you do on the Xbox One.

However, there is one relatively simple requirement that you’ll have to meet to watch DVDs on your PlayStation 4.

How to watch DVDs on PlayStation 4

playstation 4 on table playstation 1 games
Image: Unsplash

Setting up your PlayStation 4 consoles to watch DVDs is relatively easy, as long as you have access to the internet.

Before you can watch a DVD on your PS4, you have to enable the capabilities with a day 1 patch from the internet.

Typically, the patch will auto-install the first time you connect your console to the internet.

In rare cases, however, it might install the first time you try to watch a DVD.

ps4 blue screen for updates
Image: Sony

Either way, try to be connected to the internet the first time you insert a DVD to ensure that the patch downloads automatically.

READ MORE: Can the PlayStation 4 play Blu-ray movies?

If you don’t know whether or not you have the DVD playback patch, you can always try a DVD out on your console.

It certainly won’t hurt anything, and the only thing that could happen is your console telling you it doesn’t support the disc. And if the DVD is playable, you know you’re good to go.

Possible reasons PS4 won’t play DVDs

sony playstation 4 controller
Image: Unsplash

A majority of the DVDs that you’ll find should work with no problem. However, there are a couple of reasons why a particular DVD won’t work.

If you’re having problems getting a DVD to play on your PlayStation 4, check to see if any of the problems below apply:

  • Never been online – As we mentioned above, you need a day 1 patch to be able to play DVDs on your PS4. If your console has never been online, that could explain why your DVDs won’t play.
  • Burned DVDs – On a support page on PlayStation’s website, the company confirmed that burned or copied DVDs won’t work on the PS4.
  • Region-locked DVDs – Depending on where you bought your PS4, it will be locked to a certain region. If you buy DVDs from a different region, they likely won’t work on your PS4.
  • Cracked or scratched discs – If your DVD is scratched or damaged, it likely won’t work on your PS4. And depending on how bad the damage is, it could even harm your PS4’s disc drive.
  • Poorly produced DVDs – Some are poorly produced, and the PS4 disc drive simply won’t read them. You’ll rarely find this problem, but it’s certainly possible.

If you’ve checked for all these issues and still can’t play your DVDs, the disc drive on your PS4 might be damaged.

And that begs the question: Does playing DVDs on PS4 damage it?

Does playing DVDs on PS4 damage it?

Fortunately, this is not something you should have to worry about. If you’re not trying to play damaged DVDs, they won’t harm your PS4.

There are a few disc types that Sony warns against using because they will damage your PS4.

Don’t try to play 8 cm discs, discs that are different shapes, like squares, stars, or hearts, or discs with paper labels on them.

Those discs could potentially damage your PS4, making it so you won’t be able to play regular DVDs anymore.

Hold on to that DVD collection

sony playstation 4 on table with controller
Image: Unsplash

With streaming services like Netflix and Hulu taking up so much real estate in the entertainment market, it’s easy to forget that DVDs and Blu-ray movies are viable options for consuming media.

Especially in areas where stable internet is hard, or impossible, to come by.

Fortunately, you can use your PlayStation 4 to play those DVDs, as long as you can access the internet at least once.

And after that first-time access, you’ll never have to be online again.

So don’t throw away that DVD collection quite yet. Turn your PS4 into your full media device for gaming and movies all in one box.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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How and where to preorder Sony’s PS VR2 headset https://knowtechie.com/how-and-where-to-preorder-sonys-ps-vr2-headset/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 15:54:00 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=253741 Sony's preorder routine is slightly different this time around.

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Sony has now opened up the pre-order raffle for people interested in the PS VR2.

To preorder the PS VR2, you’ll have to head to Sony’s website and register for a chance to be invited. That means you’ll need an active PlayStation Network account before signing up.

Prices start at $549.99 in the US, and you can bundle it with a digital copy of Horizon Call of the Mountain for $599.99.

Sony PlayStation VR 2 preorders

PlayStation Direct

PlayStation VR 2

Sony’s PlayStation Direct store is currently the only place to get a PS VR2 preorder. You’ll need to sign into your account and register your interest first, as Sony set up an email-based queue.

Sony has implemented the same process that worked for PS5 orders. To get a preorder for a PS VR2, you must first register your interest to buy on Sony’s PlayStation Direct online store.

Successful applicants will get an email with a link to preorder the headset.

Sony says this is because of limited quantities and high demand, and they’re also limiting orders to one PS VR2 per PSN ID per household.

Sony uses PlayStation Direct for customers in the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Other regions and retailers will have preorder availability, so we’ll update this post once we hear the details.

The thing is, being selected to preorder the PS VR2 is only half of the equation. The second-gen VR headset from Sony only works with a PS5 console.

Black Friday is nearly upon us, which might mean some bottomless deals on PS5 consoles and accessories. Here are some of the best current sales, and we’ll update these periodically.

Best PS5 deals

ImageㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤProductPrice
Sony PlayStation 59.8

Sony PlayStation 5Premium Pick

  • Disc or Digital versions
  • Ultra-high speed SSD
  • DualSense controller
  • From $449.99
Learn MoreRead the Reviews
Sony X95J 65 Inch TV9.0

Sony X95J 65 Inch TVBest TV for PS5

  • BRAVIA XR Full Array LED 4K TV
  • Google TV
  • Dolby Vision HDR
  • $1,824
Learn MoreRead the Reviews
God of War Ragnarok n/a

God of War Ragnarok Upcoming Game Release

  • Launch Edition includes ingame content
  • Next installment of Kratos’ story
  • $69.99
Learn More
Logitech G29 wheel9.5

Logitech G29 wheelDriving Wheel for race sims

  • Force feedback
  • Includes pedals
  • Quality construction
  • $199.99
Learn MoreRead the Reviews
PS Store Gift Card9.4

PS Store Gift CardAll-purpose Choice

  • Use on anything in the PlayStation Store
  • Various values
  • Use for PlayStation Plus
Learn MoreRead the Reviews

The PS VR2 might be difficult to buy at launch

With Sony already implementing a queue for the chance to preorder the PS VR2, it looks like stock will be limited for launch. We recommend registering on Sony’s website if you want to be in with a chance.

Sony has said that select retailers will also have preorders in some countries. We have yet to see any details, but this post will get updated as soon as we do.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Sony has opened up preorders for the PS VR2 https://knowtechie.com/sony-has-opened-up-preorders-for-the-ps-vr2/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 15:53:27 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=256285 Head to Sony's website to sign up for a chance to preorder.

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Sony has opened up PS VR2 preorders for gamers who want to get their hands on the VR headset as soon as possible.

The PS VR2 is a follow-up to Sony’s original PS VR that came out in 2016. This time, the headset has improved with better resolution and brand-new controllers.

Preorders are now available for the PS VR2 for customers in the US, UK, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Sony’s new virtual reality headset is officially launching in February.

playstation vr2 headset and controllers
Image: Sony

Prices start at $549.99 in the United States, and you can bundle it with a digital copy of Horizon Call of the Mountain for $599.99.

To preorder the PS VR2, you’ll have to head to Sony’s website and register for a chance to be invited. That means you’ll need an active PlayStation Network account before signing up.

Additionally, the PS VR2 requires a PlayStation 5 for it to work. If you haven’t had a chance to snag a new console, you’ll want to get that covered before buying the headset.

Sony is launching the PS VR2 on February 22, 2023, further establishing its hold in the console VR gaming market.

sony ps vr2 horizon call of the mountain bundle box
Image: KnowTechie

While PC has several options for VR gaming, PlayStation is the only console with a dedicated VR headset, and it’s now launching its second iteration.

Xbox hasn’t revealed any plans for a VR headset, so PlayStation can take advantage of the leg up it has over the competition.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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Sony announces PS VR2 February release date at $549.99 https://knowtechie.com/sony-ps-vr2-launch-feb-22-announcement/ Wed, 02 Nov 2022 14:26:23 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=253519 Preorders go live on November 15.

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Sony officially announced the PS VR2 virtual reality headset will launch on February 22, 2023.

The PS VR2 will cost $549.99 in the U.S., €599.99 in the European Union, and £529.99 in the U.K. Pre-orders will go live on November 15, from either the PlayStation store or selected retail outlets.

The launch bundle will contain the PS VR2 headset, two PS VR2 Sense controllers, and stereo headphones.

READ MORE: Sony has opened up preorders for the PS VR2

Sony will also launch a PlayStation VR2 Sense charging stand for $49.99 in the U.S., €49.99 in Europe, and £39.99 in the U.K.

The PS VR2 will have one game bundle option at launch

sony ps vr2 horizon call of the mountain bundle box
Image: KnowTechie

One of the launch titles Sony previously shared was Horizon Call of the Mountain. And guess what, the game is included in the bundle.

A launch bundle with the PS VR2, Sense controllers, stereo headphones, and the game will cost $599.99 in the U.S., €649.99 in the European Union, and £569.99 in the U.K.

The game will feature a new protagonist, fighting a new “hidden danger to the world of Horizon.” At some point, the player will cross paths with Aloy, the previous game’s protagonist.

PS VR2 Product Specs

Display method​OLED
Panel resolution​2000 x 2040 per eye
Panel refresh rate​90Hz, 120Hz
Lens separation​Adjustable
Field of View​Approx. 110 degrees
Sensors​Motion Sensor: Six-axis motion sensing system (three-axis gyroscope, three-axis accelerometer)
Attachment Sensor: IR Proximity sensor
Cameras​4 cameras for headset and controller tracking​
IR camera for eye tracking per eye
Feedback​Vibration on headset
Communication​ with PS5USB Type-C
AudioInput: Built-in microphone​
Output: Stereo headphone jack

Preorders open later this month

Sony says pre-orders will go live on November 15. And remember only Sony’s online PlayStation store.

Pre-orders are open for players in the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

Other markets will have pre-orders at the same time from participating retailers. Orders will “ship throughout the week of launch.”

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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Sony releases $1,000 hearing aids that anyone can buy https://knowtechie.com/sony-releases-1000-hearing-aids-that-anyone-can-buy/ Fri, 14 Oct 2022 13:35:59 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=248417 Hearing aids are easier than ever to get.

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Sony has launched two new over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids designed for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.

The $1,000 CRE-C10 and $1,300 CRE-E10 were designed in partnership with WS Audiology and will be released before the end of the year.

This release follows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decision earlier this summer to finally allow OTC hearing aids to be sold.

That decision significantly reduced the process, which previously required multiple visits to specialist doctors and thousands of dollars.

Sony is one of the biggest names in audio, so it’s no surprise to see their name on new OTC hearing aids. Let’s go over the two new models.

Sony has two new OTC hearing aid models

sony cre-e10 hearing aid
Image: KnowTechie

Sony’s CRE-E10 (above) looks like slimmed-down earbuds and has a 26-hour battery life between charges. They can also stream audio or music from an iOS device.

The CRE-C10 (below and featured imaged) is one of the smallest OTC hearing aids on the market, “virtually invisible” when inserted. They feature 70 hours of continuous use from traditional Size 10 hearing aid batteries.

sony hearing aids in case
Image: KnowTechie

Both models use Sony’s Hearing control app to personalize their sound, enabling the user to “self-fit” to the hearing aids.

This process uses pre-defined hearing profiles created from “thousands of actual, real-life audiogram results,” according to Sony.

The app also allows for tweaks to volume level and other settings to further personalize the sound. Both OTC hearing aids self-adjust to your surroundings and have noise-reduction features.

Sony’s $999.99 CRE-C10 OTC hearing aid is available to pre-order from Sony.com and will be available later this month from other outlets, including Amazon, Best Buy, and select hearing-aid professionals.

Sony’s $1,299.99 CRE-E10 OTC hearing aids will be available later this winter from Sony.com.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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PlayStation 5 with detachable disc drive reportedly coming in 2023 https://knowtechie.com/playstation-5-with-detachable-hard-drive-reportedly-coming-in-2023/ Tue, 20 Sep 2022 10:48:29 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=240373 This is kinda crazy.

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Sony looks like it’s going to revamp the PlayStation 5 next year. The biggest change? A detachable disc drive.

That’s according to Insider Gaming, which cites sources familiar with Sony’s plans. The new iteration of the PlayStation 5 will likely replace the A, B, and C chassis that have been on the market since Sony launched the console.

The D chassis PlayStation 5 is targeted for a September 2023 release. It will almost be identical to the existing three chassis, except for an additional USB-C port on the back of the console.

READ MORE: Sony reportedly working on modular PlayStation 5

Sony will use the new USB-C port for the detachable DVD drive. We have so many questions that only Sony can answer.

Will this detachable DVD drive be back-compatible with existing PlayStation 5 consoles?

The plans Insider Gaming details in its report mention Sony plans to sell the D chassis console with and without the external DVD drive.

PlayStation 5 Standard vs. Digital Edition
Image: KnowTechie

That could mean the digital-only PlayStation 5 is also retiring, as all they need to sell is the console without a bundled DVD drive. If true, Sony will save crazy amounts of cash by consolidating manufacturing.

The company will also save in other areas. A drive-less PlayStation 5 will be slimmer and lighter, reducing transport and packaging costs.

The report also mentions that Sony is ramping up production. That could be because components are easier to source or due to the changes in design.

The company expects to manufacture 18.5 million of the new detachable-drive consoles; and 12 million of the existing chassis designs in 2023.

That’s in the context of 21.7 million PlayStation 5 consoles sold as of June 2022. Sony is obviously expecting sales to continue, even with a recession looming.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

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How to connect a Sony smart TV to WiFi https://knowtechie.com/how-to-connect-sony-tv-to-wifi/ Fri, 26 Aug 2022 14:19:17 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=225787 This guide covers all of Sony's different smart TVs.

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Sony TVs are some of the most popular TVs on the market, and for good reason.

They offer great picture quality, solid performance, and a wide range of features when connected to WiFi.

However, most of the features on Sony’s TVs are only accessible if they have internet connectivity.

For instance, you need to be connected to the internet to access content on popular streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu.

You also need a connection to utilize the built-in web browser and other features like voice search and hands-free control (via the companion app).

Thankfully, this guide will show you how to connect your Sony smart TV to your home network using WiFi.

On top of that, we will share tips on what to do if your Sony smart TV won’t connect to WiFi.

How to connect a Sony TV to WiFi

sony series a95k oled 4k hdr tv
Image: Sony

Though the process of connecting Sony TV to WiFi is pretty straightforward, it’s worth noting that the steps might differ slightly depending on the operating system. 

For example, older LCD/LED models run Sony’s in-house operating system. Later in 2015 and onwards,  Sony started using the Android TV platform.

READ MORE: How to fix your Sony TV from turning on/off by itself

On the other hand, we’ve seen a shift towards the Google OS platform for its smart TVs. We have therefore included separate sections for each operating system below. 

How to connect a Sony smart Google TV To WiFi

Time needed: 2 minutes.

If you have a Sony smart TV with Google TV, here’s what you need to know about connecting to WiFi:

  1. Press the home button on your remote control to open up the main menu.Sony tv and remote control home button on the background

  2. Next, press the navigate right button on the remote to open the notification panel and select ‘Settingsnavigate right button on the sony tv remote

  3. Now, select ‘Network & Internet’select network & internet settings on sony tv

  4. Next, select ‘WiFi‘ and turn the WiFi toggle on if it’s not already. Your Sony Google TV will start scanning the available networksTurn on the wifi on your sony tv screens

  5. Select your home network from the list of available networks and enter the password when prompted. Your Sony smart TV will now be connected to your home WiFi networkSelect the home network on sony tv

  6. Once successfully paired, you will see a ‘Connected‘ status under your network nameHome network connected status screen

That should cover connecting to WiFi for Sony TVs using Google OS. Keep reading for more information about specific models.

Here are some Sony TV models that use the Google OS platform:

Next, we’ll take a look at Sony’s Android smart TVs.

READ MORE: Sony TV remote not working? Here’s how to fix it

How to connect a Sony smart Android TV To WiFi

Sony’s Android and Google TV models have an almost similar user interface, given you have the latest firmware update.

So, the steps to connect your Sony Android TV to WiFi are almost the same.

  1. Press the ‘gear icon‘ on your Android TV remote if it has one. Alternatively, you can press the ‘home button‘ on the remote and navigate to the ‘gear icon‘ on the screen, usually found at the top right
Press gear icon on sony android tv remote to access settings
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Navigate to ‘Network & Internet‘->Toggle WiFi on
Sony tv network and internet settings screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Now Choose your home network from the list of available networks ->Enter your password using the on-screen keyboard
Sony android tv network screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Once you enter the password and connect to your WiFi network, you will see a ‘Connected Successfully’ status on your screen
  2. You will also see the ‘connected’ status under your network name in the WiFi settings menu
Sony tv network connected status screen
Image: KnowTechie

That covers connecting your Android-based Sony TV to WiFi. Now, let’s cover some of the models.

Here are some Sony models that use the Android OS platform:

Finally, Sony’s older smart TVs have their own operating system.

How to connect an older Sony smart TV To WiFi

If you have an older Sony smart TV, it probably runs on Sony’s operating system. The process of connecting to WiFi is quite different on these models.

To connect your Sony smart TV to WiFi, you need to first find the ‘Network Setup‘ settings. Depending on your model, there are two ways you can do this.

Press the ‘Home‘ button on your remote control and navigate to:

  1. ‘Settings’->’Network Setup’ or
  2. ‘Settings’->Preferences’->’Setup’->’Network’->’Network Setup’
Sony tv network settings instructions
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Once in Network Setup, select ‘Set up Network Connection
Network setup on sony tv screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Select the ‘Easy Mode’
Sony tv easy mode screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Select ‘Wireless Setup
Select wireless setup screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Look for the list of available WiFi networks
list of available Wi-Fi networks screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Select your home network from the list and enter a password when prompted
Select home network and enter password screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. You will see a prompt on your screen confirming that your Sony smart TV is successfully connected to your WiFi network
Sony tv confirmation screen of connecting to wifi
Image: KnowTechie

That covers connecting your older Sony smart TV to WiFi. Now, let’s go over some of the models included with this method.

Here are some models that use Sony’s in-house OS:

Keep reading if you still have trouble connecting your Sony TV to WiFi.

What to do if your Sony TV won’t connect to WiFi?

sony smart tv on wall
Image: Unsplash

There are a few possible reasons if your Sony TV doesn’t connect to WiFi. The good news is that these problems can be easily resolved in most cases.

  • Try power cycling both your Sony TV and your router. This will help clear any residual data causing the connection issue. Just turn off both devices, wait a few seconds (90-120 secs), and then turn them back on.
  • Check to see if your router is experiencing any problems by connecting other devices. And if you can connect without issue, the problem is likely with your Sony TV.
  • Try updating the date and time on your Sony TV. This is important because many routers use this information to verify connections.
  • Update the firmware on your Sony TV. Firmware updates often include fixes for connectivity issues.
  • If you’ve tried all of these things and you’re still having trouble connecting, you may need to factory reset your Sony TV.

If none of these options work, it might be time to get a professional involved.

Wrapping up

In closing, we hope this guide has helped you connect your Sony smart TV to WiFi. Once you have figured out which operating system your Sony TV uses, the process is pretty straightforward.

Just in case you experience any issues, we have also included a troubleshooting section that you can find above.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Sony raises PS5 prices in most markets over inflation fears https://knowtechie.com/sony-raises-ps5-prices-in-most-markets-over-inflation-fears/ Thu, 25 Aug 2022 12:07:34 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=232514 The PS5 is a highly sought-after commodity. It's also rare.

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Today, Sony hiked the cost of the PS5 in most non-US markets. In a blog post published earlier this morning, Sony blamed the rise on soaring inflation across Europe, Japan, China, Latin America, and Canada.

In the Eurozone, the digital-only PS5 now costs €450 – an increase of roughly 10 percent. The Blu-Ray version saw a similar price hike. It now retails at €550.

Sony’s price hikes were comparatively more modest in the UK, jumping roughly six percent. The digital and Blu-Ray versions now cost £390 and £480, respectively.

The tech giant listed other markets where it raised prices, including China, Mexico, Australia, and Canada.

This, it seems, won’t be an exhaustive list, with Sony warning of price hikes in other selected APAC, EMEA, and LATAM regions. It did not disclose which regions, or how much prices will rise.

Although customers in these regions will grumble, Sony was in an unenviable position. And this move is arguably better for consumers – although it doesn’t look like it right now.

Rising inflation is to blame for PS5 price increases

playstation 5 console and controller
Image: Sony

Inflation is a juggernaut that is ripping through most economies, exacerbated by lingering supply chain difficulties and labor shortages, and the energy crisis sparked by the war in Ukraine.

Some economies – particularly those in Europe – are especially vulnerable. Let’s go back to energy. Most European countries rely on natural gas for their electricity generation.

In the UK, it accounts for around 40 percent of production. Across the European Union, it’s around 25 percent, with some countries more reliant than others.

France, for example, largely uses nuclear power for its electricity production, with fossil fuels playing a marginal role.

The cost of natural gas virtually quadrupled over the past two years, jumping from $2.62 per unit in August 2021 to $9.75 today.

And that’s bad because energy costs directly impact the cost of consumer goods. It makes manufacturing more expensive. Running a shop, factory, or warehouse becomes a costlier proposition.

Compounding matters further, the value of many foreign currencies has reached an all-time low. The Euro is near-parity with the dollar. The British Pound is worth $1.18 USD, down from $1.42 this time last year.

When a currency loses value, it costs more to import things. That raises prices for consumers further. The UK is a case study for this phenomenon.

After the Brexit vote, the pound lost much of its value. Many international tech brands – like Apple – raised their prices as a result.

Silver linings for consumers

playstation 5 controller on table dualsense
Image: Unsplash

Games consoles are a loss leader. Manufacturers like Microsoft and Sony are content to sell their hardware below the cost of manufacturing because they’ll recoup their costs later down the line through in-app payments, game sales, licensing fees, subscription services, and so on.

But figuring out where to draw the line is a tricky prospect. Games consoles can’t be too cheap. Otherwise, it takes longer and becomes harder for vendors to make a profit.

And if Sony didn’t raise prices, it would create a weird phenomenon where the PS5 would be cheaper in some markets than others.

Scalpers could, for example, fly to Europe and buy as many consoles as possible and return them to their home countries to sell for a profit.

This isn’t without precedent. During the early 2010s, Canadians took advantage of the relative weakness of the US Dollar and crossed the border to buy high-value items.

Similarly, the decline in the price of the Euro during the 2010s incentivized Swiss residents to cross the border to shop.

Admittedly, this phenomenon isn’t new or isolated. Switzerland is an expensive country. My former home, Geneva, is the third most expensive city in the world.

Most Swiss residents live near the borders of France, Germany, Italy, and Austria. Cross-border shopping is a normal part of life. But the Euro’s decline merely accelerated these trends.

The PS5 is a highly sought-after commodity. It’s also rare. It’s not a gallon of milk or a pair of jeans. It’s available in limited quantities. Competition for the console is fierce. Consumers already have to contend with scalpers.

If Sony failed to act, that competition would become even more intense. And while nobody likes a price hike, the alternative is arguably worse for consumers.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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How to factory reset a Sony TV? https://knowtechie.com/how-to-factory-reset-sony-tv/ Fri, 12 Aug 2022 13:45:58 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=228502 A step-by-step guide to factory reset your Sony TV.

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Like any other technology, Sony smart TVs can have issues over time. And if your Sony TV is starting to act up, one of the best things you can do is a factory reset.

A factory reset can fix a bunch of common problems, including connectivity problems, picture and sound issues, and problems with apps or the interface.

Other times, the TV itself may just be working perfectly fine, but you intend to sell it. A hard reset removes all personal information and preferences and protects your privacy.

No matter what your reason is for factory resetting a Sony TV, here is a step-by-step guide to help you perform a reset successfully.

How to reset Sony Android Smart TV?

sony smart tv on wall
Image: Unsplash

There are two ways to reset your Sony Android TV. One is via the Settings menu, and the other is by using the physical button on the back of your television.

With remote:

Android OS is featured on almost all Sony Smart TVs since 2015.

The reset process varies depending on the Series or the firmware version. For our ease, we will address only those Sony TVs that are running the latest Android OS.

For X74H / X75H, X7, and W8 series Sony Smart Android TV:

Turn on your Sony TV, press the Home Button, Action, or Quick Setting on the remote, and navigate to Gear Icon.

Sony android tv quick settings screen
Image: KnowTechie

The next steps will vary depending on your TV model. Navigate to:

  1. Device Preferences->Reset
  2. Device Preferences->About->Factory Reset, Factory Data Reset or Reset
  3. Storage & Reset -> Factory Data Reset or Reset
sony tv factory reset screen
Image: KnowTechie

Next, a warning message might appear on your screen. Select Erase Everything->Yes.

If you are asked to enter a PIN, enter the one you use for the parental lock.

Factory reset instructions screen
Image: KnowTechie

For other Sony models running Android OS:

  1. Turn on your Sony TV
  2. Press the Help Button on the remote
  3. Navigate to How to use your TV-> Manual or Help Guide->Settings->Configuring the TV, Watching TV or TV->Blue Arrow pointing right
  4. Now, you will see one of the following two options, proceed accordingly: Option 1: Storage & Reset ->Factory Data Reset; Option 2: Device Preferences->Reset->Factory Data Reset
  5. Next, select Erase Everything->Yes
  6. Your Sony TV will now restart, and it will take approximately 10-30 seconds to completely reset

Keep in mind that a factory reset to default settings will erase all data on your TV. This includes apps, channels, customized settings, and any saved networks or Wi-Fi passwords.

So if you plan to go this route, be sure to have them synced to your Google account.

Without a remote:

If your Sony TV is unresponsive to the remote for any reason, or there is no display on the screen, you can reset it by using the physical buttons on the back of your television. Here’s how:

  1. Unplug the Sony TV from the wall outlet
Unplug the tv from the wall outlet image
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Find the button(s) on the back or the underside of your Sony TV. The number of buttons will vary depending on the model of the TV. For most models, there are three buttons
sony tv reset button image
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Press and hold all the buttons and plug the TV back into the outlet
  2. Keep holding the buttons for about 10 seconds or until you see the erasing screen
sony smart tv on purple background
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Release the buttons as your TV will now erase the data and reset to factory settings
  2. As soon as the factory reset is complete, a setup screen will appear. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the setup process
sony tv welcome screen image
Image: KnowTechie

That does it for resetting your smart TV. Now, let’s check out some of the models that this applies to.

Models with Android TV:

And now, we’ll look at how to reset your Sony TV if it has Google’s operating system.

How to reset Sony Google Smart TV?

The factory reset process for most Sony Google Smart TVs is the same as the Android TVs. So you can safely follow the steps mentioned above.

However, for some models, the process is a little different. Let’s run through that process just in case.

  1. Press the Quick Settings (Gear Icon) button on the remote and then select Settings
sony tv with remote image on background
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Navigate to System→About→Reset→Factory data reset
Sony google smart tv reset instructions
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Now, Erase/Delete everything→Yes
sony google tv reset image
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Your Sony TV will restart, and an erasing screen will appear
Sony google tv restarting screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. It will take approximately 10-30 seconds to completely reset
  2. After the reset, your TV will restart again, and you will see the Welcome screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Sony TV

Now that we’ve gone over the steps, let’s go over some of the TV models this includes.

Models with Google OS TV:

And if you have a Sony TV that doesn’t use a Google operating system, follow the next section.

How to reset Sony Smart TV (non-Android)

Non-Android Sony Smart TVs follow a different process for factory reset. Here are the steps:

  1. Press the HOME Button on the remote
sony smart tv remote image
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Navigate to Settings
sony smart tv screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. Select Customer Support and then Factory Settings
sony smart tv customer suppport screen
Image: KnowTechie
  1. A message will pop up on your screen asking you to confirm the reset. Select ‘Yes’
sony smart tv reset confirmation message screen
Image: KnowTechie

Your Sony TV will now restart and take a few minutes to reset. Once finished, your TV will be finished with its factory reset.

Models with smart TV:

And that covers the process for factory resetting a Sony smart TV, no matter which operating system it uses.

Wrapping Up

The main thing you need to figure out when factor resetting your Sony TV is which operating system it uses. And you have three types of operating systems available- Android, Google, and Sony’s OS.

Once you know which OS your TV is using, follow the respective steps to reset it to factory settings.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Sony is adding 1440p gaming support on the PS5 https://knowtechie.com/sony-is-adding-1440p-gaming-support-on-the-ps5/ Fri, 29 Jul 2022 14:59:38 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=223880 But it's currently only available for approved beta testers.

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4K gaming has been one of the major selling points for the latest generation of gaming consoles. But it seems like the console industry essentially skipped 1440p gaming.

That is until the latest beta update brings 1440p gaming to the PS5.

Sony has seemingly been listening to gamer feedback looking for 1440p console gaming. The company’s latest beta software update adds 1440p gaming support for those games that don’t look quite right in 4K.

In games that have 1440p support, you can have native 1440p output to your supported monitor or TV. And for games that support higher resolutions, like 4K, you can improve anti-aliasing by supersampling down to 1440p.

ps5-1440p-gaming
Image: PlayStation

This PS5 update includes some additional features

The software beta also includes a couple of other extra features. A new gameslists feature in your games library lets you organize your games in up to 15 categories, with up to 100 games per list.

The update also includes a new feature that lets you test 3D versus stereo audio in your headset. And there’s a new resume feature that lets you pick up where you left off in games.

Finally, there are new social features, such as requesting a screen-share from friends so you can see their gameplay. There are also new joinable game notifications and new ways to message your friends on the console.

ps5 join game notification
Image: PlayStation

This update is currently only available to PS5 software beta testers on an invite-only basis.

Of course, the company’s plan is to release these new features to the public soon. But there’s no guarantee that any or all of these features will make their way to an official PS5 software build in the future.

As long as the features work as intended, however, there’s a good chance that these new features, including 1440p gaming, will be coming to all PS5 gamers in the future.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Sony’s PS VR2 cameras can map your room to help prevent injuries https://knowtechie.com/sonys-ps-vr2-cameras-scan-room/ Wed, 27 Jul 2022 14:06:35 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=222626 And you can adjust your play area to perfection using the see-through display mode.

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With Sony preparing to launch its new PlayStation VR2 early next year, the company has decided to share a first look at the device’s experience. Notably, the PS VR2 will include embedded front cameras that can be used to see your playing environment.

The company shared a blog post on its website earlier this week showcasing some of the PS VR2’s capabilities. Notably, one feature that caught our eye is the ability to scan your playing space to help avoid players bumping into things.

Here’s how it works: gamers will be able to press a button on their PS VR2 headset to quickly switch to a see-through view. That lets gamers glance at their available playing area without taking off their headset.

And you’ll also be able to use that embedded front camera to automatically map out the playing area in your room. Here’s what it looks like below:

The PS VR2 cameras will scan your room for its safe playing area. And you can then adjust it using the machine’s controllers. Once you’re finished scanning, the system will automatically remember your playing area.

READ MORE: Sony has opened up preorders for the PS VR2

Sony says the system will issue a warning if you approach the boundary of your playing area. Meaning, that the days of stubbing your toes into furniture are long gone, hopefully.

image of the new pS vr2 room scanning feature
Image: Sony

Sony also shared some other features that will come with the device

The PS VR2 will have a broadcast feature that lets you record your gaming movements by setting up a PS5 HD camera. That could be a great option for those interested in streaming their VR gameplay.

Lastly, the company shared a bit about cinematic mode on PS VR2. In VR gaming mode, the headset will display 360-degree content at a resolution of 4000 x 2040 (2000 x 2040 for each eye).

You’ll also be able to use the headset in cinematic mode to watch TV and movies. And movie content will display at 1920×1080 resolution on what looks like a virtual cinema screen.

Sony has been teasing us with details of the PS VR2 for months now. And we’ll likely continue to hear more snippets leading up to the device’s release. So be sure to keep your ears out for PS VR2 news.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Sony announces new, free PlayStation Stars loyalty program https://knowtechie.com/sony-announces-new-free-playstation-stars-loyalty-program/ Thu, 14 Jul 2022 19:52:59 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=217297 Gamers will be able to earn rewards for playing games on their PlayStation.

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Sony has revealed its new PlayStation Stars loyalty program that awards PlayStation gamers for completing specific tasks on their PlayStation consoles. The company plans to launch the new loyalty program sometime later this year.

We learned about this new program from a blog post on the PlayStation website. The news comes just a month after the company finished rolling out its revamped PlayStation Plus subscription service.

PlayStation Stars will be a completely free-to-join loyalty program that any PlayStation gamer will be able to sign up for. It will have a series of “campaigns” that it rolls out constantly to offer various rewards for completing certain tasks.

playstation stars logo
Image: Sony

One campaign, called “Monthly Check-In” will reward gamers for simply playing a game on their PlayStation console every month. Rewards will include things like PSN wallet funds and certain PlayStation Store products.

Other campaigns will include more difficult challenges, like winning tournaments, earning specific trophies, or being one of the first to earn platinum rewards in some AAA games. PlayStation Plus subscribers will get extra rewards, like earning loyalty points for PlayStation Store purchases.

With the introduction of PlayStation Stars, Sony also plans on introducing new “digital collectible” rewards.

These rewards will include digital representations of things that relate to PlayStation gamers, such as character figurines, old-school hardware, and more. Also, don’t worry, these aren’t NFTs.

Sony says it plans on launching these new features sometime before the end of this year. However, we didn’t get any more details about a potential window for the PlayStation Stars launch.

Additionally, the company confirmed that this was just the introduction of the new loyalty program. PlayStation Stars will continue to evolve over time, offering up different kinds of rewards as it continues to develop.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Sony launches new hardware brand with gaming monitors & headsets https://knowtechie.com/new-sony-hardware-brand-includes-gaming-monitors-and-headsets/ Wed, 29 Jun 2022 14:37:04 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=212166 It's called InZone and the first devices are a 4K monitor and a headset.

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Sony Electronics has launched a new gaming brand called InZone. The first devices include a pair of HDMI 2.1-equipped gaming monitors and three headsets. All take design cues from the PlayStation 5, so they should look great next to each other.

The gaming monitors are the $899 M9 and $529 M3. The M9 is a 27-inch, 144Hz 4K panel, with HDR600, 93% of the DCI-3 color space, and Full Array Local Dimming (FALD). The M3 is a 27-inch, 240Hz 1080p panel, with HDR400 and 99% coverage in the sRGB spectrum.

Both have two HDMI 2.1 ports to best use the PlayStation 5’s output. They also have USB-C ports, DisplayPort 1.4, and variable refresh rate support.

READ MORE: This new monitor stacks two 24-inch screens on top of each other

They both also have an inbuilt KVM, so you can control two PCs from one set of keyboard, mouse, and headset plugged into the monitor.

The monitors also have some PS5-specific tricks, like Auto HDR tone mapping, auto genre picture mode that switches between Cinema mode when watching movies, and Game 1 Mode when gaming.

READ MORE: Corsair now has a ridiculous, bendable OLED gaming monitor

You also get height and tilt adjustments, built-in stereo speakers, and flicker-free backlighting.

Sony is also launching three new InZone headsets. Those are the $299 H9, $229 H7, and $100 H3:

  • H9: Wireless via 2.4GHz dongle and/or Bluetooth, flip-to-mute mic, comfy earpads, 32hr battery, digital noise cancellation, spatial sound personalization
  • H7: Same design and dual-wireless connectivity as the H9, no noise cancellation, 40hr battery
  • H3: Wired, decent sound, less stylish than the more wireless versions

Sony’s InZone M3 and M9 gaming monitors will be available later this summer. All three InZone headsets are available to preorder now from Sony, with a July 7 release date.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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The new PlayStation Plus service is finally available in North America https://knowtechie.com/the-new-playstation-plus-service-is-finally-available-in-north-america/ Tue, 14 Jun 2022 13:39:36 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=207332 The three different tiers offer tons of different perks and freebies.

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After months of hype and buildup, Sony has finally launched its new, upgraded PlayStation Plus subscription service in North America. The new service has been exclusively available in Asian markets for the last few weeks as part of Sony’s planned launch window.

Now, it’s finally available to North American customers. The new PlayStation Plus has been completely overhauled, adding two additional tiers for a little extra money that unlocks several new perks for PlayStation gamers.

PlayStation Plus Essential is the same as the old PlayStation Plus service. It gives you a few free games every month, multiplayer access, exclusive shop discounts, and cloud storage. This tier will feel very familiar to those who have subscribed to PlayStation Plus in the past.

READ MORE: Sony announces new, free PlayStation Stars loyalty program

The Extra tier is where things start to get a little spicy. The Extra tier offers the same perks as the essential tier plus access to a massive library with hundreds of PS4 and PS5 games that you can play. Games like Red Dead Redemption 2, Marvel’s Spider-Man, Final Fantasy XV, and many more are included in the list.

And the Premium tier is the highest tier of the new PlayStation Plus service. Subscribers of this tier get all the perks of PlayStation Plus Extra, plus a few other benefits. This tier unlocks a massive list of classic PlayStation, PS2, and PSP games as well as cloud streaming for tons of PS3 games.

Additionally, one of the coolest features of the Premium tier is free game demos. Premium members can try out select titles in a timed demo before deciding to purchase.

All of these tiers are now available to PlayStation gamers in North America. The service starts at $9.99 per month for the Essential tier, $14.99 per month for Extra, and $17.99 per month for Premium. Check out the PlayStation website to sign up.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Resident Evil 4 is being remastered for the PlayStation 5 https://knowtechie.com/resident-evil-4-is-being-remastered-for-the-playstation-5/ Fri, 03 Jun 2022 18:10:22 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=205344 The remake is coming to PS5 in March of 2023.

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Sony and Capcom kicked off yesterday’s State of Play event with a reveal trailer for a PS5 remake of the classic PlayStation title, Resident Evil 4.

The 2005 action-shooter was a huge success and the remake will take advantage of the huge leap in gaming technology.

Resident Evil 4 was already a major shift in the franchise when it originally came out back in 2005. It was the first installment in the series that featured an over-the-shoulder following camera. For the first time, the camera tracked the player with more action-focused mechanics.

All of the game’s predecessors have gotten their own remakes. Resident Evil 3 was the latest remake released back in 2020.

READ MORE: Resident Evil Village’s Winters Expansion gets a release date

While this remake will follow the same general storyline of the original game, PlayStation is switching some things up to keep the remake feeling fresh.

The company plans to achieve that goal by “reimagining the storyline of the game while keeping the essence of its direction, modernizing the graphics, and updating the controls to a modern standard.”

That last part is a big one for me. I have never been a huge fan of Resident Evil games. And I attribute that mostly to the fact that the controls and mechanics always felt clunky and unpolished in the older games.

But games have advanced a lot since I was trying out Resident Evil titles on my PlayStation 2. And I’m honestly not too up-to-date on the more recent titles.

But, hopefully, the Resident Evil 4 remake will do the classic game justice. Sony plans on releasing the remake on March 24, 2023. And it looks like it’ll also have support for Sony’s new PS VR2.

Sony also shared a lot more news at this week’s State of Play. We got a first look at Street Fighter 6, a second look at Final Fantasy XVI, and more. You can check out the entire presentation for yourself here.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Here are your free PlayStation Plus games for June 2022 https://knowtechie.com/here-are-your-free-playstation-plus-games-for-june-2022/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 19:35:30 +0000 https://knowtechie.com/?p=204780 PlayStation Plus subscribers get three free games in June.

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With the newly-upgraded PlayStation Plus service rolling out, it’s time for another batch of free games for PlayStation Plus subscribers. These free games are available for every tier of PlayStation Plus, so all of the service’s members can reap these rewards.

As always, you have to have an active PlayStation Plus subscription to take advantage of these free deals. And you’ll only be able to redeem during a certain window, so make sure you keep up with the dates.

This month’s games will become available starting on June 7 and include some major titles from some pretty well-known franchises.

So let’s see what Sony has in store for us with this month’s free PlayStation Plus games.

Free PlayStation Plus games for June

To kick off the freebies with PlayStation Plus is a game that has almost become synonymous with PlayStation consoles. The first freebie this month is 2018’s God of War.

God of War takes the player-controlled god, Kratos, to new lands to take on new enemies. And this time, Kratos has a second chance at being a father to young Atreus, a warrior in his own right equipped with a powerful bow.

READ MORE: Here are your free PlayStation Plus games for September 2022

Next up is the exciting co-op fighting game Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker. This is a new, open take to traditional fighting games where you compete in 4v4 battles across an open landscape.

Grab your team of four and queue up for some epic PvP multiplayer in Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker.

naruto game on playstation
Image: Bandai Namco

Closing out this month’s free PlayStation Plus games is Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl. This Smash Bros.-inspired battle game features everyone’s favorite pineapple-dwelling sponge.

Spongebob is joined by tons of different Nickelodeon characters. Master your favorite character’s move set in this all-out brawl of a game.

And that closes out this month’s free PlayStation Plus games. All of the games can be downloaded and played on both PS4 and PS5, though only Nickelodeon All-Start Brawl has its own dedicated PS5 version. The other two are available via backward compatibility.

As a reminder, you need an active PlayStation Plus subscription to redeem these free games. These games will be available for download starting on June 7 and you’ll have until July 4 to redeem them.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Here are your free PlayStation Plus games for June 2022 appeared first on KnowTechie.

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