Sunday
Nov172019

Disney+ to offer 'The Simpsons' in original uncropped format in early 2020

Image courtesy of Fox

After drawing flak for its release of older The Simpsons episodes in 16:9 HD format, Disney promises that the original 4:3 aspect ratio will be made available to Disney+ users in early 2020. The problem with the 16:9 format is it cuts out some key details and even jokes from some of the earlier seasons. Disney defends its initial position by saying they launched the show with a 16:9 aspect ratio to "guarantee visual quality and consistency across all 30 seasons." But the company promises to make the first 19 seasons and some of Season 20 available in the original 4:3 aspect ratio. Disney's streaming service is the only way fans of the show can watch The Simpsons, following Disney's acquisition of 21st Century Fox.

Source: Variety

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.