Walmart’s Vudu shows off original content and shoppable ads, hints at interactive showsc
Walmart -owned streaming service Vudu announced today that it will be launching new interactive shows later this year, created through the company’s joint venture with interactive content startup Eko.
This confirms a Bloomberg report that Walmart plans to debut several interactive new shows produced with Eko, along with shoppable ads.
TECHCRUNCH
Instagram making ‘like’ counts private for some Canadian users
Instagram is launching a test in Canada this week that will make the “like” counts on posts private for some users in a purported effort to rein in competition for online clout, but experts caution the social media giant may have ulterior motives.
A spokesman for Facebook, which owns Instagram, says a select group of Canadian users will see the number of likes and video views removed from their Instagram feeds, permalink pages and profiles.
CTV
Amazon Channels Coming to Canada, Broadcasters Tell Government It’s a ‘Threat’: Report
Amazon Channels is an online interface available on all devices, geared towards ‘cord cutters’ and is currently available in the U.S., which offers Prime subscribers the ability to access a variety of streaming services within Prime Video.
Currently, over 150 channels are available to U.S. subscribers include the likes of HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, Starz, PBS Kids and more. Currently in Canada, Bell Media holds exclusive rights to HBO, Showtime and Starz, so these won’t be on Amazon unless the latter is able to wrestle and win rights when the current agreement expires.
iPHONE IN CANADA
Google News Initiative grants Canadian Journalism Foundation $1 million to tackle fake news
The Google News Initiative has granted The Canadian Journalism Foundation $1 million to expand the NewsWise program to help all Canadians understand how to identify authentic news from misinformation. Aimed at educating audiences on how to understand and navigate an increasingly complex information environment, this grant will provide Canadian publishers with tools – such as interactive PSAs and other digital content – developed by experts and educators.
CISION
