A robot dog is freaking everybody out, Netflix is making some major producer hires, and Alexa gets an upgrade in Canada.
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Trending on Youtube, is a new Boston Dynamics video featuring a modified version of its SpotMini Robot. What you’re hearing is one SpotMini robot getting stymied by a closed door. Until his buddy with an articulated crane comes along and opens it right up for him. With a recent episode of Black Mirror featuring an army of robot dogs that seem to have a mission to eradicate humanity, a lot of people are understandably terrified by this. But if it makes you feel any better, these dogs can only operate for 45 minutes at a time on a full battery charge. You can watch the video on ITWorldCanada.com.
On LinkedIn, Netflix has hired Ryan Murphy to a five-year deal worth up to $300 million. The producer is well-known for his past work with Glee and American Horror Story and is currently wrapping up a contract with 21st Century Fox. This news comes shortly following Netflix hiring Shonda Rhimes to a multi-year deal. She’s best known for being the executive producer of Grey’s Anatomy. The deals show that Netflix is doubling down on its bet that premium original content is the way to win and keep subscribers around. With more TV streaming services launching lately, it might be looking to lock-up top talent before anyone else comes knocking.
From Google Trends, Amazon’s Alexa now recognizes multiple users in Canada. The American version of Alexa has been able to recognize users by voice since last October, but the feature wasn’t available at the December launch in Canada. To enrol, just ask your Alexa to “learn my voice.” Or you can create a voice profile using the Alexa app. Once you do this, all your Alexa devices should recognize your voice.
That’s what’s trending today. Hashtag Trending is produced by IT World Canada. Today’s episode is brought to you by SAS, the world leader in advanced analytics and Official Analytics Partner of the Canadian Olympic Team.
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