BlackBerry inks licensing deal with Timex

BlackBerry might no longer be in the hardware market but it has been busy signing licensing agreements with other companies. Its latest deal is with Timex, which gives the watchmaker access to over 40,000 patents. Android Authority speculates this could possibly lead to a BlackBerry-branded smartwatch. But this must be taken with more than just a grain of salt. BlackBerry has patents all over, including “wireless communications, networking infrastructure, acoustics, messaging, enterprise software, operating systems, virtualization, and cybersecurity.” The deal could lead to other products. BlackBerry is keeping mum about the possibility of a smartwatch in our future.

But we at least know it might focus on mobile communications. According to BlackBerry senior director of intellectual property licensing Jerald Gnuschke, “This license agreement with Timex demonstrates the strength of BlackBerry’s patent portfolio, and will enable us to focus on further patent licensing opportunities in the mobile communications market.”

Leaked Nokia 2 might be a budget phone with a big battery

HMD Global is steadily building up its Nokia brand and it looks like a budget option might be on its way. Evan Blass just leaked what’s said to be the Nokia 2. And looks-wise it does look like an entry-level option. Those who are averse to bezels will not like this option. But beggars can’t be choosers, right?

Android Authority is speculating October 5 to be the release date, because dates in renders usually match launch time. However, that could change so we’ll keep our eyes out for any announcements. As for specs, we don’t have those yet but if the Nokia 3, which is a budget-friendly option already, expect this to be smaller and with less powerful specs. One thing where the Nokia 2 might shine though is in terms of battery. An FCC certification for the phone claims the battery will be 4,000mAh battery, which would be amazing for a budget phone with a small display. We should find out more about this device soon.

Samsung Galaxy Note 8 ships today

Samsung's latest flagship is finally available today. The anticipated Samsung Galaxy Note 8 features a 6.3-inch Super AMOLED infinity display with a thin and tall form-factor. An all-glass case and an improved S Pen stylus and advanced dual-cameras with Optical Image Stabilization as well as 2X zoom functionality and  a new Live Focus feature.

In Canada, the Galaxy Note8 will be offered in Midnight Black and Deepsea Blue through Samsung Experience Stores, online on Samsung.ca and through the following carriers: Bell, Eastlink, Freedom, MTS, Rogers, Sasktel, Telus, Videotron. They will all carry the Galaxy Note8 in stores or available online beginning September 15, 2017. 

iPhone 8 and Apple Watch Series 3 now available for pre-order in Canada

Pre-orders for the new iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plis as well as the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Apple TV 4K start today in Canada for a September 22 delivery date. These devices will also be available in Apple Retail Stores or Town Squares on the 22nd.

iPhone 8 brings an all new glass design, improved cameras, Apple A11 Bionic processor and, for the first time on a phone, the True Tone display which ensures improved viewing on all lighting conditions. iPhone 8 adopters will also be able to try the Portrait Mode and Portrait Lighting feature which improve on the iPhone's already prodigious arsenal of photographic and post-processing tools.

iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus will be available in space grey, silver and an all-new gold finish in increased 64GB and 256GB capacity models starting at $929 (CAD) from Apple.com/ca and Apple Stores and is also available through Apple Authorized Resellers and select carriers (prices may vary)
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