Fitbit OS 3.0 update for Ionic and Versa smartwatches expands on-device options for health tracking

Fitbit announced its latest Fitbit OS 3.0 update for its Ionic and Versa smartwatches. A huge update for existing users, Fitbit OS 3.0 adds more features including an extended on-device dashboard, on-device quick logging for weight and water intake, and the addition of goal-based exercise modes, which debuted on Charge 3 this past October.

 Fitbit is also introducing 10 new partner apps coming soon to the Fitbit App Gallery including popular brands like Couch to 5K, Gold’s Gym, MINDBODY and TRX. Additionally, we are bringing more to our global developer community with a new exercise API and other developer tools. The update should be rolling out to the devices Soon. 

Apple beats Netflix to the punch and secures 'Peanuts' content for streaming service

Apple has pulled a coup and beaten Netflix in acquiring the rights to Charles M. Schultz 'Peanuts' content for its upcoming streaming service.

Working closely with its subsidiary Peanuts Worldwide, [Apple and DHX Media] will develop and produce original programs, including new series, specials and shorts based on the beloved characters created by Charles M. Schultz.

The heavily coveted property. which includes Charlie Brown and Snoopy, was being tracked by Netflix which needs recognizeable content and shows now that Disney and Marvel are pulling their popular movies and shows from the streaming service. For Apple, getting Peanuts is huge. Highly recognizeable characters, family-friendly topics and iconic films like 'A Charlie Brown Christmas," and "Bon Voyage, Charlie Brown," are outstanding and evergreen shows. You also can't easily find Peanuts shows on streaming services or even on Blu-Ray or DVD. 

This sets the stage for Apple's new service which is set to be announced in 2019.

Source: 9to5Mac

Chrome OS to enable drawing on PDF documents using Pixel Pen or mouse

Chrome OS is evolving to accept inking and pen input to PDFs using a Pixel pen or a mouse. This extends the functionality of Chrome OS specially for people who need to mark up text for annotating, sharing or editing PDFs. For devices without touchscreens, the mouse or trackpad will allow the input. 

Source: 9to5Google

Real stories show how the Apple Watch transcends fitness tracking and can save lives

Much has been made about the quantified life and how technology, sensors, and trackers can help people in their fitness and health goals by gathering real-time information. The Apple Watch has been more than this and aims to proactively keep users and their health providers and doctors aprised of any alarming changes in heart rate as well as has the ability to call emergency services or 911. The above video shows how Apple Watch has transcended its role as a tracker and timepiece and put life saving technology on people's wrists.