Saturday
Nov162019

Canadian Reviewer Weekly Roundup – 11/10 – 11/16

Saturday
Nov162019

Microsoft will shut down Cortana app in January

If you're using the Cortana app on your iOS or Android device, then you have until the end of January 2020 to have access to it. Microsoft will be ending support for the app on January 31. Instead, the personal digital assistant will be integrated into Microsoft 365 productivity apps, including Outlook. The Cortana content you made—which include lists and reminders—will no longer be accessible by that date on Cortana mobile and the Microsoft Launcher. Access to these pieces of information will be through Cortana on Windows. If you want access to them on mobile, you will need to download the free Microsoft To Do app.

What isn't clear at the moment is how Surface Headphones owners will be able to configure the settings and update the firmware now. Cortana is how you'll be able to do this. 

Saturday
Nov162019

Apple might bundle its TV, music, and news services under one subscription in 2020

The rumour that Apple intended to combine its different subscription services under one plan might be happening as soon as next year. Bloomberg reports that a recent deal with publishers includes a provision that allows the News+ subscription to be part of the bundle. Apple is also reportedly in talks with labels to make a similar deal. 

The move is a logical one. But what isn't know is how much the bundle will cost. Right now, Apple News+ costs $12.99, Apple TV+ is $5.99, Apple Music goes for $9.99, and Apple Arcade costs $4.99, which rounds that out at around $34. Apple could price it at $30 or lower. But we'll only know for sure if or when Apple decides to push through with this plan. It is unclear if its partners will agree with the arrangement as well.

Saturday
Nov162019

Get 12 months of free Amazon Prime with new Koodo activations

If you activate a new talk, text, or data plan with Koodo from now until November 24, you can get 12 months of Amazon Prime Canada for free. To avail of the promotion online, you need to add the code "AMAZONPRIME" at checkout. For current Prime members, the free months will be added to your existing membership. According to Telus, the deals exclude Wireless Home Phone, prepaid, talk and text, and data-only activations.

Those who use the promo code will get their membership code within 35 business days. And you must agree to Prime's terms and agreements. The member costs $79.99 per year with faster shipping options and access to Amazon Prime Video.