BlackBerry devices will stop working on Jan. 4

Photo by Randy Lu on Unsplash

For the very, very small subset of users that possibly still have BlackBerry devices, we're here to remind you that your devices will stop working on January 4. We reported about this earlier, but here's just a final reminder. Classic devices running BlackBerry OS 7.1 or earlier and OS 10 will lose critical services, including calls, texts, data, and even emergency access. The PlayBook tablet will also lose access to essential services. There won't be access to Wi-Fi and apps like BlackBerry World and Desktop manager either. 

It has been widely known that BlackBerry wasn't able to respond to the threat of the iPhone early on, and its attempts at adopting Android didn't work out. What remains is its QNX operating system that powers infotainment systems from carmakers like Toyota, Honda, and Audi.

Source: Engadget

Canadian Reviewer Weekly Roundup – 12/26 – 1/1

This LG appliance will let you grow plants in your home

TikTok content moderator sues platform over trauma caused by graphic videos 

This LG wireless TV comes with wheels 

Apple reportedly hires Meta's AR public relations head 

LG Display shows off transparent OLED Shelf to display/augment artworks 

'Final Fantasy XVI' reveal gets pushed back to spring of 2022 

New 'The Batman' trailer drops with the focus on Bruce Wayne, Selina Kyle, and The Riddler 

LastPass says some unauthorized login alerts were sent in error, no passwords were compromised 

AMD, MSI won't make an in-person CES 2022 appearance 

Samsung resumes Android 12 rollout 

JLab partners with ORLY to release earbuds that complement your skin tone 

OnePlus also pulls out of CES 2022 in-person appearance 

Zoom purchases broadcast tools to improve virtual, hybrid event coverage 

Samsung starts rolling out Android 12 update to the Galaxy Tab S7, S7+ 

Takashi Murakami is working on a 'Tamagotchi'-like handheld pet game 

CES 2022 to end a day early amid COVID-19 surge 

CES 2022 to end a day early amid COVID-19 surge

Embed from Getty Images

We have been reporting about different companies opting out of making an in-person appearance at CES this week. And a few days before the event kicks off, the organizer Consumer Technology Association announced that CES 2022 will now close a day early, meaning it'll run from January 5 to 7. The move is "an additional safety measure to the current health protocols that have been put in place." As usual, January 3 and 4 are the media-only days for the event, when press conferences and keynotes will happen.

Some of the protocols for the event include masks and proof of vaccination. The CTA also recently announced it would provide Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 tests at badge pickup. Attendees are asked to complete a rapid test 24 hours before entering a CES venue. Those who experience symptoms while at the venues are advised to report to a first aid station for testing. Attendees must also provide PCR tests by their destination before departure from Las Vegas.

Click to read more ...

Takashi Murakami is working on a 'Tamagotchi'-like handheld pet game

Source: Takashi Murakami

Japanese artist Takashi Murakami latest project is a venture into gaming. Murakami teased on Instagram a small handheld game for children that he's been developing for around a year. The game is inspired by the classic Tamagotchi game but in the signature pixelated flower with petals of pink and white as a tribute to his work. 

"This is the first time in my life that I have been involved in developing a game. It will presumably be ready to launch in the summer of next year," Murakami shared in his caption. 

Source: HYPEBAE