TV Just Got a Glow-Up: Meet the New Beam TV+
We Have Exciting News
At Novus, we’ve been working on a lot of feel-good things lately—from community activations to fresh rebrands—but one of the most exciting (and quietly powerful) updates has been happening behind the scenes with how we watch TV. Or rather, how we want to watch it. Say hello to the refreshed and reimagined Beam TV+.
TV That Moves With You
We get it—TV isn’t what it used to be. You’re not always planted on the couch at the same time every day. Sometimes you’re halfway through dinner when you realize your show started 15 minutes ago. Other times you’re out and about, or simply hiding from housemates in the quietest room you can find. That’s why Beam TV+ has evolved to keep up with real life!
With Catch-Up TV, you can scroll back up to 72 hours in the guide and watch select shows you missed. And if you catch a program partway through, Restart TV lets you jump back to the beginning, no rewinding required. Just hit restart and enjoy!
Even better, Beam TV+ now lets you stream on the go with the Beam TV+ app. You can register up to 10 devices and stream on 5 at the same time, so everyone can enjoy their own shows on their own screens—whether you’re at home, on the go, or avoiding another cousin’s slideshow at a family gathering.
Smarter, Simpler, and More You
We’ve added a few smart features to make things even easier—like Voice Control, so you can skip the scrolling and just say what you’re looking for. Whether it’s “play that cooking show I always say I’ll try recipes from” or “tune to the channel with all the reality drama,” Beam’s got you covered.
Not into extra hardware? No problem! You can bring your own device—Beam TV+ works on supported Apple, Android, and Amazon gadgets. But if you prefer a more traditional setup, you can still opt for a set-top box. The choice is yours!
And when it comes to recording, Cloud PVR gives you 50 hours of storage right out of the gate, with easy 50-hour add-ons if you need more. Recordings stick around for up to six months, so you’ve got plenty of time to catch up on that series everyone keeps telling you to watch.
Made to Fit Real Life
Beam TV+ isn’t here to change the way you live—it’s here to fit into it. It’s flexible, intuitive, and a little bit smarter, making it easier to enjoy your favourite shows wherever and whenever you want. We’ve been quietly working on these updates for a while, and we’re so excited for you to try them out.
If you haven’t checked out Beam TV+, consider this your gentle nudge. It’s one of those feel-good upgrades that might not shout for attention, but once you use it, you’ll wonder how you ever watched TV any other way.
Published: 3:22 pm on June 12th, 2025
Behind the Network: Let’s Talk About Identity
A Conversation about Cultural Identity
This Asian Heritage Month, we’re shining a light on the diverse voices that shape our team. In the wake of the Lapu Lapu Festival tragedy in Vancouver, the importance of community and cultural recognition feels especially meaningful. While grief has rippled through many, moments like these call us to pause — to reflect, listen, and honour the strength found in shared stories.
We sat down with three Novus team members — Ivory (She/Her, Taiwanese), Marvin (He/Him, Malaysian), and Roddy (He/Him, Filipino) — to talk about what cultural identity means to them, how it influences the way they work, and what solidarity looks like in moments of hardship.
How has your cultural identity shaped the way you see yourself?
For all three, identity is more than a background — it’s a compass for growth, self-understanding, and connection.
Ivory describes her journey as a child of immigrants:
“Being a child of immigrants has profoundly shaped how I see myself—it continues to do so today. Having immigrated to Canada at a young age, I’ve lived through many evolutions of myself, each shaped by ever-changing social environments that continuously shift my sense of belonging. From childhood, I worked hard to adapt to local language, customs, and cultural references in hopes of avoiding the alienation I so often experienced when we first arrived. But over time, I realized the more I distanced myself from my roots, the more disconnected I felt—especially as my community grew more diverse, inviting me to sit more comfortably in my own heritage.
Today, I see my cultural identity not as a conflict, but a rich and layered story—one that offers me grounding and perspective. It’s a formative part of my foundation, allowing me to approach life with curiosity, empathy, and humility. It also deepens my appreciation for the importance of DEI—not just as a workplace initiative, but as universal daily practices that help people feel seen, safe, and empowered to show up as their unique selves.”
For Marvin, awareness of his cultural roots brought self-compassion:
“Being aware of my cultural identity has helped me become more attuned to the nuances and complexities that exist within and between different cultures. It has taught me that every individual’s path is shaped by a unique set of traditions, values, and lived experiences. Realizing this has made me more understanding toward not only others, but myself. I am trying hard to learn to embrace my own journey without judgment. Instead of dwelling on my perceived shortcomings, I’ve learned to appreciate and value my individuality”.
Roddy’s identity is rooted in the lessons passed down from his parents:
“As a Filipino growing up from immigrant parents, I saw how hard my parents worked to support us. They taught me to work hard and be proud of who I am and where we come from. Watching them overcome challenges with strength and unwavering determination shaped the values I carry with me today — resilience, gratitude, and the importance of staying rooted in my identity”.
How has your identity influenced how you carry yourself at work?
Each team member sees their cultural background as a strength that shapes how they lead, collaborate, and support others.
Ivory reflects on how her lived experience shapes customer and team interactions:
“With all customers, I prioritize creating journeys that are comfortable and productive while being mindful of potential cultural differences that may shape how they seek solutions. And while I’m unable to offer Mandarin-speaking service due to my limited speaking skills, I feel attuned to certain cultural service nuances when assisting customers from backgrounds similar to me. With my team, I look for ways to foster inclusivity and build strong working relationships where collaboration, kindness, and fun times can all co-exist. I believe we do our best work when we consistently feel valued and safe.”
Marvin connects his heritage to a strong sense of excellence:
“My identity has instilled in me the belief that excellence is not limited to any one background, place, or circumstance — it can be cultivated anywhere. This perspective has shaped my approach to work: I show up with determination and the confidence that high standards and meaningful contributions are possible here at work. It drives me to pursue continuous improvement, and when possible, to uplift those around me”.
Roddy sees his leadership role as an opportunity to open doors for others:
“Representation matters. Diversity matters. I am proud that I get the opportunity to be a decision maker here at Novus because I think it’s important that all voices and opinions from all backgrounds should be seen and heard. When different perspectives are welcomed at the table, it leads to stronger ideas, better collaboration, and a more inclusive workplace for everyone”.
What does solidarity and support look like to you — especially in moments of grief or injustice?
The events of the past few weeks reminded us just how vital it is to show up for one another — making this question all the more resonant.
For Ivory, support begins with space and understanding:
“To me, solidarity and support during difficult times can look like holding space for complexity and contradiction and offering presence without asking for performance. As someone who knows what it feels like to have your experience minimized or misunderstood, I know how powerful it is when people are given the dignity to speak their truth and be met with compassion. One of my all-time favourite words is Sonder “the profound feeling of realizing that everyone, including strangers passing in the street, has a life as complex as one’s own, which they are constantly living despite one’s personal lack of awareness of it”. This mindset helps me hold space for others and stay grounded when facing difficult or confusing moments”.
Marvin spoke to the power of empathy in practice:
“Personally, true solidarity begins with respecting the emotional space of others while making it clear that support is available. Grief and injustice affect people in deeply personal and varied ways — I truly believe that there is no one-size-fits-all response.
The most meaningful support often comes from simply being present and attentive. It’s about listening without judgment, observing what someone needs in the moment, and responding with empathy. Sometimes that means stepping back; other times, it means standing beside someone in silence or speaking up when they can’t. Ultimately, solidarity is rooted in compassionate awareness and thoughtful action”.
Roddy reflected on the heartbreak and hope that followed:
“Sadly, the tragic events that unfolded at the Lapu Lapu Festival was a reminder of how fragile and short life is. But it was also a reminder of how coming together as a community in times of grief and uncertainty is so important. The support the Filipino Community has seen has strengthened not only its community but also the city as a whole”.
Carrying Culture Forward
Asian Heritage Month is a time to celebrate stories — not just of cultural pride, but of resilience, reflection, and solidarity. At Novus, we’re grateful to Ivory, Marvin, and Roddy for sharing their perspectives. Their words remind us that identity is not something we leave at the door when we come to work — it’s something we bring with us, something that enriches our teams, our culture, and the communities we serve. This month — and always — we honour the voices behind the network.
Published: 4:16 pm on May 14th, 2025
Spring Clean Your Digital Life: Declutter, Organize, Refresh
Spring Clean Your Digital Life: Declutter, Organize, Refresh
Ah, spring. The season of renewal, fresh air, and finally realizing that maybe—just maybe—you don’t need to keep 12 versions of the same blurry vacation photo. While you’re busy clearing out closets and wiping down shelves, let’s not forget about one of the most chaotic spaces in your life: your digital world. A cluttered inbox, messy desktop, and outdated files aren’t just annoying—they’re holding you back. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you tidy up your tech life with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Step One: Break Up with Your Overstuffed Inbox
Your inbox right now? Probably a disaster. Between the “limited-time offers” from that store you bought one thing from two years ago and the spam that somehow sneaks past the filter, it’s a wonder you can find anything at all. Time to take control. Start by unsubscribing from emails that don’t serve you (we’re looking at you, “Congrats, you’ve won a free cruise” scam). Then, create folders and filters so important messages don’t get lost in the digital void. Finally, hit that archive button like you mean it—because let’s be real, you don’t need to keep every order confirmation you’ve ever received.
Step Two: Your Desktop Is Not a Junk Drawer
If your computer desktop is a chaotic mess of random files, screenshots, and untitled documents, you’re not alone. But let’s change that. First, delete the things you don’t need (yes, including that blurry screenshot of a meme you meant to send three months ago). Next, organize your remaining files into folders with clear labels—no more “FinalFINALversion_2” nonsense. And if you really want to level up? Use cloud storage or an external drive to keep things tidy without taking up space on your device.
Step Three: Declutter Your Phone, Because Storage Is Not Unlimited
Raise your hand if your phone is packed with apps you haven’t opened in months. It happens to the best of us. Do yourself a favor and delete what you don’t use. Not sure where to start? If you can’t remember the last time you tapped on an app, it’s probably safe to say goodbye. Your storage (and your battery life) will thank you.
Next up: photos and videos. If your camera roll is 50% accidental screenshots, 30% blurry pet pictures, and 20% food you meant to post but never did, it’s time for a little cleanup. Sort through your albums, delete duplicates, and move your keepers to cloud storage or an external drive. You don’t need 17 nearly identical shots of your brunch from last summer—pick one and let the rest go.
Step Four: Refresh Your Social Media Presence
Since we’re in cleanup mode, why not give your social media a little refresh? Start by going through your friends and followers list—if you don’t recognize someone or you haven’t interacted in years, it might be time to say goodbye. A quick privacy checkup is also a good idea. Are your settings up to date? Are you still comfortable with what you’re sharing? If your bio still says “Living my best life in 2019,” maybe it’s time for a glow-up.
A Fresh Start Feels Good, Doesn’t It?
Spring cleaning your digital life doesn’t have to be a massive chore. A little effort goes a long way, and by tackling things step by step, you’ll feel more organized, more in control, and maybe even a little lighter. Plus, the next time you go searching for an important file or email, you won’t have to dig through layers of digital clutter to find it. So go ahead—unsubscribe, delete, and refresh. Future you will be very grateful.
Published: 3:24 pm on April 10th, 2025
Imposter Alert: How to Tell If It’s Really Novus or a Scam
Imposter Alert: How to Tell If It’s Really Novus or a Scam
At Novus, we’re all about making you feel good—whether that’s through lightning-fast internet or awesome customer service. But let’s face it: there are some sneaky scammers out there trying to ruin the fun by pretending to be us. We’ve got your back, though! Here’s how to tell if you’re really talking to Novus or if a scammer is trying to pull the wool over your eyes.
Scammers: They’re Crafty, But Not Crafty Enough
Scammers can be real slick, but they’re not as clever as they think. One common scam is the “your account is at risk” trick, where you’ll get an email or text saying your Novus account is about to be suspended unless you verify your info. Spoiler alert: it’s not us. Another scam is the fake overdue payment notice—some shady person claims you owe money and needs you to pay immediately to avoid disconnection. If you weren’t expecting a bill, it’s probably a scam.
Then there’s the classic too-good-to-be-true offers—like, free service for a year or huge discounts in exchange for your personal details. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! And don’t forget the fake customer support calls where they ask for your password or payment info. We will NEVER ask for personal info over the phone or in a DM unless you reach out first. Not. Ever.
Oh, and beware of pop-up scams while browsing. These pesky things might look like they’re from Novus, asking for your address, credit card number, or login info. Quick tip: If it’s a pop-up, it’s a red flag. We don’t ask for personal information this way. Close it, block it, and move on with your day!
How to Spot a Fake Novus Message
So, how can you tell if a message is legit? First off, check the sender’s email address. If it’s not coming from @novusnow.ca, that’s a big ol’ “nope.” Also, take a look for any weird formatting or awkward grammar—we pride ourselves on our professional emails, so if something’s off, it’s probably a scam.
And here’s a golden rule: Novus will NEVER ask for personal information like your password, address, or credit card details through a text, or pop-up. If you get a link in an email, hover over it before clicking to see where it leads. If it doesn’t go to novusnow.ca, don’t click. We promise—no freebies, no shortcuts.
Oh, and one more thing—we love a good survey (seriously, we love hearing from you), but we will never send you a survey that promises extravagant prizes in exchange for your participation. As much as we’d love to hand out all-expenses-paid vacations just for filling out a form, that’s just not how we roll. If you see something like that, it’s definitely not from us.
If you’re feeling unsure, it’s always best to double-check with us. Call or message us through official channels—there’s no harm in being extra cautious.
What to Do If You Spot a Scam
If something smells fishy, trust your instincts and do the following:
🚨 Don’t click anything—seriously, don’t.
🚨 Report it to us—forward the email or send a screenshot so we can investigate.
🚨 Block and delete the sender—goodbye, scammer!
🚨 Check with us—just to be sure. Better safe than sorry!
At Novus, we’re committed to keeping you safe and sound while you enjoy the perks of super-fast internet. If you ever have any doubts about a message, don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly. We’ll always have your back!
Published: 12:21 pm on March 7th, 2025
The New Cupid: How Technology is Redefining Love
The New Cupid: How Technology is Redefining Love
Gone are the days of love letters sealed with wax and long, winding phone calls stretching into the early hours of the morning. In 2024, love is a perfectly timed meme, a surprise UberEats delivery, and a synchronized Netflix binge. Technology hasn’t just changed how we communicate—it has completely redefined how we express affection. Whether you’re in a long-distance relationship, keeping up with friends, or just making sure your family group chat stays active, the digital world has become a powerful tool for connection.
Words of Affirmation: A Well-Timed Text
Nothing says “I love you” like a random “thinking of you” message in the middle of a busy day. With instant messaging, voice notes, and social media, expressing affection has never been easier—or more creative. A simple text can hold the same weight as a handwritten letter once did, and a perfectly chosen GIF or meme can convey emotions better than words ever could. For those who thrive on verbal reassurance, the ability to send heartfelt messages, leave encouraging comments on posts, or even share nostalgic throwback photos keeps relationships feeling warm and personal. And let’s not forget voice memos—because sometimes, hearing a loved one’s voice, even if it’s just them ranting about their day, can make all the difference.
Quality Time: Streaming, Gaming, and Staying Connected
For many, love isn’t just about saying the right words—it’s about spending time together, even when miles apart. Thanks to technology, couples and friends can still share experiences in real-time. Streaming services have transformed movie nights into digital dates, where Teleparty and shared screens allow people to laugh, cry, and debate over plot twists as if they were sitting side by side. Online gaming offers another layer of connection, where working as a team in a co-op mission or building a digital world together strengthens bonds in ways that traditional communication never could. Even something as simple as watching TikToks and sending funny videos back and forth creates a shared experience, proving that spending quality time together doesn’t always require physical presence.
Acts of Service: The Digital Era’s Thoughtfulness
In the digital age, grand gestures don’t always involve handwritten love notes or elaborate surprises. Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday acts of service that mean the most. Ordering your partner’s favorite coffee through a delivery app when they’re having a stressful day, fixing a tech issue remotely, or creating a playlist filled with songs that remind you of them are all modern-day expressions of love. Even something as simple as sending a calendar reminder for an important event or making sure their phone storage doesn’t run out of space shows thoughtfulness in unexpected ways.
Gift Giving: The Convenience of Instant Gratification
Physical gifts still have their place, but technology has made spontaneous surprises easier than ever. Instead of waiting days for a handwritten letter to arrive, a well-timed e-gift card, a book instantly downloaded to their Kindle, or a surprise subscription to their favorite streaming service can brighten someone’s day in an instant. Virtual gifts, like sending in-game currency to a gamer partner or buying a digital art commission of a shared memory, add a personal touch to an otherwise intangible space.
Physical Touch… Virtually?
While technology hasn’t quite found a way to replace the feeling of a hug or a hand to hold, it has found creative ways to bridge the gap. Video calls make it possible to see a loved one’s smile in real-time, no matter the distance. Tactile technology, like wearable devices that simulate touch, is evolving to bring a more intimate experience to long-distance couples. Even simple things, like watching someone fall asleep over FaceTime or sharing a virtual dance party, create a sense of presence that makes the physical distance feel smaller.
Technology: The Modern-Day Cupid
The digital age has transformed the way we express love, making it more instant, creative, and accessible. Whether it’s through daily messages, shared playlists, or a carefully chosen GIF, technology continues to find new ways to bring people closer together. While nothing will ever replace real-life connection, the way we use tech to maintain relationships proves that love can thrive in any era—as long as the WiFi is strong.
Would love still exist without technology? Of course. But let’s be honest—sending a meme that makes your best friend laugh, FaceTiming your partner after a long day, or receiving a surprise food delivery just when you need it most? That’s love in the digital age. 💕