Apple News’ local coverage feature this week expanded its reach to Canada. Users in Montreal and Toronto can now enjoy local news from a number of different sources, including CTV News and Toronto Star.
Local coverage was first added to Apple News in July 2020, but growth has been slow since then. Although it has made its way to additional U.S. cities since it debuted, this is the first time the feature has landed in another country.
Apple News brings local coverage to Canada
“At Apple News, we know that access to trusted local news is critical for communities, and an important resource for a national audience as well,” said Apple News editor Lauren Kern when the feature expanded in October.
“We are committed to working with local publishers across the country to support their journalism and offer our users local coverage.” It seems Apple has also been working with publishers in other countries.
Apple watcher Rene Ritchie on Thursday reported that Apple News local coverage is now available in Montreal and Toronto, Canada. CTV News, Toronto Star, La Presse, Narcity, and other publishers are on board.
This comes after Apple News earlier this month added publications like San Francisco Chronicle, SF Gate, Eater San Francisco, and more for San Francisco’s Bay Area.
Sports coverage incoming?
In addition to local news, Apple News may be planning greater sports coverage in the future. Code discovered in the ongoing iOS 15.4 beta suggests Apple is working to give users the ability to select their favorite sports and teams.
This would allow News readers to set up a more personalized sports experience so that they see more relevant coverage, depending on what they like. However, it’s not yet clear whether Apple will actually move forward with this.
