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Canadian Tech in 100 Words

Google Adds AI Music Creation to Gemini

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Google has introduced Lyria 3, a generative music model now available in beta inside the Gemini app, allowing users to create short songs from text prompts or images. The tool produces 30-second tracks complete with lyrics, style controls and custom cover art in seconds.

The model improves realism and creative control compared with earlier versions and automatically generates lyrics if none are provided. All audio includes SynthID watermarking to identify AI-generated content and support copyright safeguards. Google says the feature aims to enable everyday creative expression rather than replace professional music production.

Want to know more? Check out the source code here.

Expedia Launches Flight Deals Tool in Canada

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Expedia has introduced Flight Deals in Canada, an app-based feature that highlights airfares at least 20% below predicted prices. The tool analyzes millions of flights daily using historical data and machine learning, filtering out itineraries with multiple stops or long layovers.

An interactive iOS map allows travelers to compare destinations visually, while customizable alerts notify users of new bargains. Executives say the system evaluates overall trip quality rather than simple price tracking. Available free within the Expedia mobile app, the service lets customers search open-ended destinations and complete bookings directly on the platform.

Want to know more? Check out the source code here.

Shakudo Raises Funding, Heads to Silicon Valley

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Toronto startup Shakudo just raised US$7 million to help companies actually use AI, not just experiment with it. Backed by Wittington Ventures and existing investors, the company builds software that lets teams run large language models and AI agents inside their own systems instead of sending data to outside clouds.

That matters most in regulated sectors like finance and healthcare. Even Loblaw’s digital arm already uses the platform. Next up: a San Francisco office and broader global push. By leaning on open-source tools, Shakudo also promises lower AI costs for enterprises adopting the technology.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on The Logic.

Satellite Venture Sues University Over Spinout

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University of Toronto is facing a $150-million lawsuit from SFL Missions, a satellite venture originating from its Space Flight Laboratory. The company alleges the university blocked its planned spinout by restricting access to facilities and funding, causing irreparable business harm. The claims have not been tested in court.

University spokesperson Philippe Devos said the institution disputes the allegations and will defend the case, citing its academic mission and public responsibilities. Founded in 1998 for student spacecraft training, the lab evolved into a commercial operation before disagreements arose over separation terms.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on The Logic.

Alan Launches In-App Therapy Service in Ontario

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Alan has launched Alan Clinic in Ontario, offering licensed talk therapy directly through its insurance app. The service allows eligible members to book secure video sessions, manage payment, and access care without traditional reimbursement processes. General manager Mark Goad said the platform reduces administrative barriers while keeping insurance and clinical records separate.

Sessions are end-to-end encrypted, not recorded, and stored on Canadian servers accessible only to clinicians. The clinic does not diagnose or prescribe medication, referring patients to external services when necessary. The launch marks Alan’s first integrated care offering in Canada beyond coverage administration.

Want to know more? Check out the source code here.

BlackBerry Cofounders Back B.C. AI Firm

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Railtown AI has added Mike Lazaridis and Doug Fregin to its advisory board as part of a $3.4-million private placement they are leading. The BlackBerry cofounders are backing the Burnaby-based firm’s effort to build foundational artificial intelligence technology in Canada. Railtown develops tools including Railengine, Railtracks ADK and Conductr to help organizations deploy AI agents at scale.

CEO Cory Brandolini said the involvement reflects a culture of reinvestment common in Silicon Valley. Lazaridis said Canada must build platforms domestically so talent can innovate and compete globally without leaving the country.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Citadel, Ark Back Vancouver Blockchain Launch

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LayerZero Labs has secured backing from major financial players including Citadel, Ark Invest and Tether as it launches a new blockchain called Zero. Ark also took an equity stake in the Vancouver-founded firm. LayerZero said Zero will process transactions 500 times faster than Solana and 100,000 times faster than Ethereum.

The company previously raised US$120 million at a US$3-billion valuation in 2023. Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation, Google Cloud and Intercontinental Exchange are collaborating on the project.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on The Block.

Shopify Revenue Soars, Earnings Miss Expectations

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Shopify reported record fourth-quarter revenue of US$3.67 billion for 2025, surpassing analyst expectations, but missed earnings estimates, posting adjusted earnings of US$0.48 per share versus the US$0.51 consensus. Revenue rose 31 percent year over year, exceeding internal forecasts, while annual gross merchandise volume reached US$378 billion.

The Ottawa-based firm announced a US$2-billion share repurchase program and projected low-thirties revenue growth for Q1 2026. Despite strong holiday sales and accelerating AI initiatives, including agentic storefronts, shares fell more than 10 percent after the earnings call amid broader software-sector volatility and investor caution.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on BetaKit.

Canada’s Largest Bank Debuts Commission-Free App

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Royal Bank of Canada has launched GoSmart, a mobile investing platform aimed at new and aspiring self-directed investors. Developed by RBC Direct Investing, the app offers commission-free trading, automated portfolio options, and the ability to buy Canadian and U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs. Users receive 50 commission-free trades annually, alongside select ETFs that remain permanently free.

GoSmart supports Tax-Free Savings Accounts, Registered Retirement Savings Plans, and First Home Savings Accounts. CEO Dimitri Busevs said the product is designed to simplify investing while empowering a new generation of Canadians to build wealth independently through accessible digital tools.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Fintech.ca.

Flash Forest Bets on Calgary for Scale

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B.C.-based reforestation startup Flash Forest has relocated its primary manufacturing facilities and field-operations hub to Calgary, positioning the city as a base for scaling automated reforestation across Western North America.

Supported by Emissions Reduction Alberta, the move consolidates manufacturing, equipment staging, and deployment to accelerate commercial-scale restoration of fire-impacted and degraded landscapes. Flash Forest combines drone-based and land-based automated planting with expanded tree-species diversity and AI-powered forest intelligence. The company previously raised $11.4 million in Series A financing co-led by the TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Calgary.tech.