Instagram update allows for video importing

Instagram 4.1 gives the photo- and video-sharing app an advantage over its competition by allowing users to upload previously saved videos instead of just using clips recorded on the app. You can select the 15 seconds from any clip you want and crop the video to fit into Instagram’s square form. 

For iOS users, there is also a new auto straightening feature for uploaded photos or you can use the straightening tool to correct imported pictures. While for Android users, Video on Instagram is finally available for those running Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

Kickstarter crosses over to Canada

Have a million dollar idea that won’t take off? Now, you can ask others to help you raise funds for your dream as Kickstarter makes its way to Canada, making it the second non-U.S. country to host Kickstarter projects after the United Kingdom. You can start creating your campaigns but the first Canadian projects won’t be up on the site until September 9. A major difference for the Canadian Kickstarter would be the payment processing fees, which you can read more about here.

Kickstarter is holding several workshops across Canada to give entrepreneurs tips and tricks on how to run successful campaigns. The first set to be held in Toronto and Montreal on Aug. 8, 9, 12, and 13 are already sold out but you can still sign up on their site to be put on the wait list.

Skype updates Windows Phone 8 app with new look and list filters

The new 2.9 version of Skype for Windows Phone 8 revamps its look and splits Windows Phone contacts and Skype contacts. The new Home Screen lets you easily pivot through the app’s functions and features smaller Favorite Contact tiles to make scrolling through your list easier. Meanwhile, the People List Filter allows you to either view all your contacts, your Skype contacts, or only those who are online.

You can download the updated version from the Windows Phone Store. 

Twitter introduces login verification and photo galleries

iOS and Android Twitter users are getting an update with new features including a new kind of two-factor authentication, gallery view for photos, improved list section, and other bug fixes and improvements. The new optional login verification allows you to approve login requests directly from the mobile app without relying on text messages.

You can find out how to activate login verification and more information about the new features here.