Media Beat: November 07, 2018

By David Farrell

Bell Media sues Videotron for $100M

An unresolved dispute to resolve contract terms for authorized access to Bell Media content by Videotron subscribers has led to this claim for damages. Videotron apparently terminated the original contract in 2016, and both sides have been negotiating ever since. – Sameer Chhabra, Mobile Syrup

Postmedia invests in a platform for pot enthusiasts

The media firm has invested in a company that runs a lifestyle website for "modern cannabis enthusiasts" to help Postmedia assets be at the forefront of cannabis content and solutions in Canada, the media conglomerate said Tuesday. – Canadian Press

Postmedia cuts four provincial dailies to a shorter week

Postmedia Network Inc. says four Ontario newspapers will publish printed or digital editions one less day of the week with no reduction in the subscription price. Affected cities are Kingston, Brockville, Belleville and Chatham. – Canadian Press

Broadcast and Telco legislative review deadline extended

In response to comments from several parties, the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Legislative Review Panel has decided to extend the deadline for submissions to its Call for Comments until January 11, 2019. Details about the panel’s composition and the review mandate here.

Smart speaker ownership on the rise in Canada

The Consumer Technology Association conducted a survey of Canadians’ technology ownership. While products such as televisions, smartphones, and laptops demonstrated near-ubiquity, smart speakers did show promising signs in the market.

The survey found that 93% of Canadian households own a television, while 86% own a smartphone, and 75% own a notebook, laptop, or netbook. Smart speakers were the fastest-growing segment for Canada, with ownership rising 12 percentage points from 2017. The results showed that 15% of Canadian households now own the devices. – Anna Washenko, RAIN News