Harman Kardon Invoke won't be a Cortana speaker anymore

Microsoft wanted Cortana to be its answer to the likes of Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. But now, the first and last speaker to have Cortana onboard will be letting it go. The Harman Kardon Invoke will receive an update this Wednesday that will disable Cortana. The company said Cortana will stop working in the coming months whether you receive the update or not.

Source: The Verge

Your children will get profiles on Google TV soon

Google TV is expanding parental controls on its streaming device with the addition of kids' profiles. Parents and guardians can create individual profiles for the kids in their care using either their name and age or existing Google accounts. Through these new profiles, account holders can add specific apps and customized backgrounds and upload movies purchased on other devices. In the coming weeks, additional avatar options will be available, too.

The guardians can secure regular Google TV accounts with a PIN, so the children can't access more mature content. It will also allow account holders to set daily screen time limits and even bedtimes. It's coming first to the US this month, with a broader international rollout "in the next few months."

Source: Gizmodo

Apple, Common Sense Media launches 'Kids & Family' experience for Podcasts app

Source: Apple

Apple has partnered with nonprofit organization Common Sense Media to launch a new Kids & Family experience for its Podcasts app. Initially available in the US, the feature will offer age-appropriate content recommendations for families. The goal is to make it easier for parents to find kid-friendly podcasts for all ages.

There will be thematic collections from creators like Tinkercast, American Public Media, Gen-Z Media, Pinna, Tumble, Highlights, WNYC Studios, Rebel Girls, and Nickelodeon.

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Apple, Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai partner for original content on Apple TV+

Source: Apple

In time for International Women's Day, Apple has announced that it struck a "multiyear" deal with Nobel laureate and female education rights advocate Malala Yousafzai to produce original content for Apple TV+. Her new production unit Extracurricular will produce dramas, documentaries, children's shows, and other materials to "support women, young people, writers, and artists." This partnership could draw in a new audience for Apple.

Yousafzai has previously partnered with Apple through the Malala Fund. As an initial Laureate partner, the company provided assistance for her education initiatives in eight countries. Now, its Developer Academies support the fund for technology education.

Source: Engadget