Stories by John Quintet

Starting with iOS 18.1, developers will be able to integrate NFC contactless transactions directly into their apps on iPhones, independent of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, announced Apple on Wednesday. This new functionality, enabled by the Secure Element (SE) APIs, allows for in-app contactless transactions across various uses, such as in-store payments, car keys, transit...

Google has introduced the Pixel Buds Pro 2, featuring a custom-designed Tensor A1 chip that improves audio quality, noise cancellation, and battery life. This marks the first time a Tensor chip has landed in its Pixel Buds. The new earbuds are 24% lighter and 27% smaller than their predecessor, offering a more comfortable and secure...

Rogers and SenseNet have announced plans to introduce wildfire detection technology to 10 communities across Canada, starting in Alberta and British Columbia. Vancouver-based SenseNet specializes in early wildfire detection and will use its AI tech on the Rogers 5G network. The system integrates gas sensors, smoke detection cameras, and AI algorithms to provide real-time alerts...

Quebecor's Videotron is making some big changes this fall, as it is combining its two video-on-demand services, Club illico and Vrai, into a single platform called illico+ this fall. The new platform will simplify the user experience for subscribers on Helix and illico, merging content from both services. Videotron says illico+ will offer a mix...

Telus-owned Koodo continues to offer some special plans to existing customers, in what looks to be an effort to keep users with the company. Periodically, Koodo customers signing into their online accounts and heading over to the plan change option, will see new “exclusive” offers listed. We told you about some special plans last month...

TikTok has launched a new Group Chat feature, letting users watch videos with friends and also make comments. The group chat feature supports up to 32 participants, offering real-time interactions such as watching, commenting, and reacting to videos at the same time. The Group Chat feature includes safety measures for younger users says TikTok, as...

Last year, an ongoing proposed class action lawsuit against Bell and Ontario, sought $150 million in damages for the telecom’s collect call system within Ontario jails, which alleged high calling rates compared to other provinces. Both Bell and province refused to reveal profits they made from inmates. But now, new disclosures revealed by Bell forced...

Rogers-owned Fido has tweaked its 60GB plan, adding unlimited long distance to seven countries (that's after removing it and bringing it back yet again). The $49/60GB plan after automatic payments discount was updated late last week to now include unlimited calls and texts to the US, Bangladesh, China, Hong Kong, India, Mexico, and UK. Last...

Conflict of Interest Commissioner Konrad von Finckenstein confirmed that his office is not investigating the ArriveCan app scandal, as it's out of his jurisdiction. Speaking to MPs at the public accounts committee last Thursday, von Finckenstein stated, "No person subject to the act or the code were involved in this matter, and we have no...

If you're shopping for back to school deals, our 'Big 3' telecoms have some 'deals' available on their websites. We previously shared deals from Rogers and Fido and also Telus and Koodo. Here are the latest student promotions from Bell and its flanker brand Virgin Plus, below. Phone Deals Bell: iPhone 15 Pro Max for...

SpaceX has launched a new Starlink promotion in Canada, which offers its hardware dish for $99, saving you 80% off, or $400 compared to the regular price of $499 (via Tesla North). This promo is only available in select provinces and didn’t apply in our area, but the $299 refurbished dish price remains. Starlink monthly...

Tesla has introduced the CaraokeMic in Canada, priced at $315. Today’s launch also includes the USA, as this accessory was previously first launched exclusively in China back in 2022, reports Tesla North. This new accessory allows drivers and passengers to elevate their karaoke experience by using their favourite media apps on both the front and...