Facebook simplifies Messenger, removes Discover tab

Facebook is taking cues from its app WhatsApp by simplifying the Messenger app. It now prioritizes messages and stories. The Discovery tab, which was full of chatbots, has been taken out. These chatbots were used by companies to message users, make them play games, or even encourage them to buy products. But now, Facebook is shifting its focus to speed, simplicity, and performance of the messaging service.

Messenger now has two tabs: Messages and People. The second shows users' stories in tiles. Chatbots can still be used by companies when you need to get in touch with them, but they're just not prominently seen now. The redesign will be rolling out globally, and it should be hitting your device soon.

Source: TechCrunch

Canadian Reviewer Weekly Roundup – 2/23 – 2/29

Huawei improves the screen and processor on the foldable Mate XS

Google warns Huawei users about sideloading apps like Gmail and YouTube

Porsche's most powerful EV charging park is in Europe

Samsung temporarily shuts down Galaxy Z Flip factory due to coronavirus

Amazon plans to take out products in its store that claim to kill the coronavirus

Sony debuts its first 5G flagship, the Xperia 1 II

Microsoft promises 'four generations of gaming' with the Xbox Series X

Huawei to launch P40 series on March 26 in Paris

Bob Iger steps down from role as Disney CEO

Netflix's 'Carmen Sandiego' to get an interactive special

Starbucks brings Beyond Meat to Canadian branches

Fujifilm X-T4 comes with in-body image stablization

Fujifilm Instax 11 is a smarter instant camera with a selfie mode

Facebook cancels F8 conference citing coronavirus concerns

OnePlus teases 'special project' with cryptic photo and video

Google Duo might get caption support for incoming video, audio

Google Translate supports five new languages

'Crossy Road Castle' is now on Apple Arcade

'Crossy Road Castle' is now on Apple Arcade

You can now play endless runner and platformer Crossy Road Castle on Apple Arcade. The game, which was announced back in October, features a similar art style to endless runner Crossy Road. But you will need to guide the different animals and characters through a castle that has many obstacles to overcome and enemies to defeat while trying to climb as high as you can in the castle.

You can play the game alone or try playing it in the cooperative mode, which lets you brave the castle with several controllers or multiple iOS devices. Gameplay will let you unlock new characters to play. And according to Hipster Whale, there will be new towers and characters introduced regularly. You can play Crossy Road Castle on the iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and Mac. Apple Arcade is priced at $5.99 per month, giving you access to over 100 games without any additional fees. 

Source: MacRumors

Google Translate supports five new languages

For the first time in four years, Google Translate adds support for five new languages. The app now supports Kinyarwanda, Odia, Tatar, Turkmen, and Uyghur. The translation app also adds virtual keyboard input for Kinyarwanda, Tatar, and Uyghur. Google Translate now supports 108 languages.