Month: April 2017

ResourceKraft to offer new #IoT energy monitoring solutions with VT & Sigfox

Through a partnership with VT, ResourceKraft is now offering Sigfox-enabled energy monitoring solutions and applications, which will give its Irish customers access to simple, low-cost options using this cutting-edge technology.

 

ResourceKraft is a global leader in easy-to-use and cost-effective energy management solutions for businesses, institutions and government agencies. VT operates Ireland’s nationwide Sigfox network, which is dedicated to connecting simple Internet of Things (IoT) solutions to the cloud. Together, VT and ResourceKraft will provide Sigfox technology to some of Ireland’s largest organisations.

 

ResourceKraft’s integration of Sigfox-enabled Adeunis sensors for temperature/humidity monitoring and pulse reading on electricity, water and gas meters will allow companies to monitor their energy usage without complicated installation or maintenance.  The sensors will use VT’s Sigfox network to send the data to the cloud. ResourceKraft’s Advisor 10 energy monitoring application will then process and analyse energy data from the Adeunis sensors and convert it into business information, enabling organizations to understand how and where energy is being consumed at any given time across all sites.

 

 

The Sigfox network is optimized for simple sensors and devices, providing low-cost, low-energy connectivity for IoT solutions. For example, Adeunis sensors operate on batteries, and can run autonomously for up to 10 years because it takes only a small amount of energy to send information with Sigfox. There are Sigfox networks in 31 countries, and devices can roam seamlessly between them.

 

“Sigfox connectivity has proven to be an excellent option in the field of energy monitoring,” said Mark Bannon, co-founder and CEO of VT. “It allows manufacturers to create affordable, autonomous monitoring solutions that can be easily retrofitted onto existing infrastructure, which lowers the barrier for companies to monitor and conserve their energy use. We’re happy to be working with ResourceKraft, which has a wide base of customers that could benefit from this new technology.”

 

“The exciting and unique properties that the Sigfox technology offers makes it a compelling proposition for our customers and we are delighted to partner with VT,” said Liam Relihan, founder and CEO/CTO at ResourceKraft.

 

ResourceKraft will be at the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) Energy Show on the 5th and 6th of April to showcase their cost-effective energy management solutions.  The show will be held at the RDS, Dublin 4.  Make sure to visit ResourceKraft at stands B1 & B2.  For more information about the show, visit http://www.seai.ie/EnergyShow/.

 

Goodbye Stars, Hello Thumbs, Netflix introduces new rating system. #Netflix

Today Netflix are changing the way you can tell us which stories you love, and which ones you’re just not that into.

Netflix are retiring their five-star rating system and replacing it with a simpler and more intuitive thumbs-up and thumbs-down. A thumbs-up tells Netflix that you like something and want to see similar suggestions. A thumbs-down lets them know you aren’t interested in watching that title and  should stop suggesting it to you. You can still search for it, but they heard what you were trying to tell them — you aren’t a fan — and it will no longer show up on your homepage.

Netflix says….

The star rating you see next to each title is being replaced with a personalized % Match score. This score is a prediction of what Netflix thinks you may enjoy watching, based on your own unique tastes. The % Match is based solely on our algorithms analyzing your individual viewing habits and behavior — it is not a measure of overall popularity across the service.

 

 

Netflix has had star ratings for much of our history, but we’ve learned through over a year of testing that while we’ve used stars to help you personalize your suggestions, many of our members are confused about what they do.

 

That’s because we’ve all gotten used to star ratings on e-commerce and review apps, where rating contributes to an overall average, and the star rating shown next to a restaurant or a pair of shoes is an average of all the reviewers. On those apps, being a reviewer can be fun and helpful to others, but the primary goal isn’t always to help you get better suggestions.

In contrast, when people see thumbs, they know that they are used to teach the system about their tastes with the goal of finding more great content. That’s why when we tested replacing stars with thumbs we saw an astounding 200% increase in ratings activity.

For members who have provided star ratings in the past, we will continue to use that information to suggest great content.

VR Drop and Share virtual reality is now made accessible for all. #VirtualReality

VR DROP AND SHARE launches today. This is the first free mobile platform that allows anyone to create and share their own social virtual reality experiences. Through VR DROP AND SHARE virtual reality is now made accessible, shareable and simple for everyone.

 

 

The VR DROP AND SHARE team believes that virtual reality should be simple for everyone. Harnessing the benefits of social VR on Android smartphones (iOS out soon) VR DROP AND SHARE allows anyone to be in the same virtual space as their audience, pupils, customers, family or friends. VR DROP AND SHARE uses 360 degree photos to create these shared virtual spaces, called “VR Drops”. With the addition of voice over IP users can bring their experience to life, relive memories or explain content to anyone, anywhere in the world. VR DROP AND SHARE requires nothing more powerful than a smartphone to create, share and view this content, the same smartphone already owned by most people.

 

 

VR DROP AND SHARE is the ideal tool for use in multiple markets. Estate agents can show prospective buyers a property without anyone having to leave their home or office. It is brilliant for someone to conduct remote viewings of possible university’s, wedding venues, and sports arenas or even to research their next potential holiday destination. Advertising and marketing campaigns can integrate VR to engage and evoke powerful emotions from consumers. Journalists can bring stories to life, and teachers can captivate students within the classroom. Geographically remote friends and family can relive special moments such as birthdays and celebrations.

 

 

 

 

Available for free on Android (iOS out soon), users can easily and quickly create and view their own VR experience using VR DROP AND SHARE. Just drop multiple 360° pictures into a project to create an immersive VR photo album. From there the creator can invite friends, family, students or customers to view the “VR Drop” or can view the “VR Drop” in solo mode. Sharing with others is simple by posting a link on social media, email, website or SMS. At the click of a button your VR content has the ability to be viral, without the need for other users to log in or sign up, they just enjoy your experience.

 

The presenter controls the experience for everyone, when they move to the next 360 photo everyone moves too. Using head tracking sensors, those in the experience are able to see where each viewer is looking, increasing the levels of engagement within the group. There is not even any need for a VR headset, for those that don’t like headsets or don’t own one, they can use their phone as a window into the newly created world.

 

 

“Feedback from VR DROP AND SHARE testing groups and partners has been very positive. Taking this information on board V2 is in the works bringing audio and text descriptions to enable more immersive experience.” said Jack Maddalena, Sales & Community Manager. “We also have been extremely careful to ensure users enjoy the immersive experience without feeling disorientated or suffering motion sickness that can occur when using other applications.”

 

Google play store, download link: https://goo.gl/5qG45w

iOS waiting list: http://eepurl.com/cJPvMf

 

VR DROP AND SHARE is developed by VRCRAFTWORKS. VRCraftworks has been building mobile VR apps for business since 2013 and was behind Orbulus “top 10 VR apps out there for the mobile market”. We have delivered apps on both the Google and Apple platforms for companies in the UK, USA, South Korea and Taiwan. Contact Jack Maddalena

(44) +7904031405 jack.m@vrcraftworks.c

Jabra introduces a new easy-to-use Bluetooth headset to the UK market, the #Jabra Talk 2

Jabra introduces a new easy-to-use Bluetooth headset to the UK market, the Jabra Talk 2. With this new product, Jabra aims to meet the needs of those who make and take calls-on-the-go. Stay tuned for our review in the coming days..

 

Jabra, the leading manufacturer of innovative sound solutions, introduces a new easy-to-use Bluetooth® headset to the UK market, Jabra Talk 2. This marks the next generation of Jabra Talk – one of the  leading and best-selling headsets from Jabra. With this, Jabra aims to meet the needs of those who make and take calls-on-the-go. For business workers, research* shows 65% require mobile connectivity to do their jobs.

 

The state-of-the-art mono headset, builds on the success of Jabra Talk and has been developed using Jabra’s unique heritage and unrivalled R&D expertise within optimal solutions for mobile calls. It ensures users never miss another conversation again and offers a solution for those who require clear and reliable hands-free calling, on-the-go.

 

 

HD voice for clearer conversation

Every call made or received via Jabra Talk 2, comes through in excellent HD quality. A crisp, clear sound, with no disruptions – which delivers a better call experience for users – anywhere, anytime.

 

The headset also benefits from a useful noise filtering mic, which cancels out annoying background sounds. This improves call clarity and ensures the other party hears only your voice, which makes it suited for conference calls and conversations. What’s more, it is compatible with any Bluetooth enabled device.

 

Flexible eargels for maximum comfort

No matter how often you make or receive calls, Jabra Talk 2 – because of its soft and flexible eargels – provides a secure, comfortable fit for everyday use. And with two differently sized eargels available, you can find a soft and flexible fit that is tailored to you. In addition to comfort, the secure wearing style allows for improved sound-quality and a greater call experience.

 

 

Up to 9 hours battery lets you talk all day

Helping to improve productivity and call efficiency – Jabra Talk 2 permits all day use when in the car or on-the-go. Its dependable battery capabilities allows up to 9 hours of talk/music time on a single charge and up to 9 days standby time. Plus, its intelligent voice guidance functionality, lets you know when it’s time to recharge.

 

Intuitive design for the Bluetooth user

The well-engineered headset has been designed with first time Bluetooth® mono users in mind. It is simple but effective functionalities present an on/off slide control – to conserve battery life and power down, a dedicated battery symbol to inform you when you need to recharge, and a Bluetooth™ icon to confirm your connection. In addition, the handset automatically adjusts the volume to adapt to your environment and allows you to wirelessly stream multimedia.

 

 

Its Multiuse™ feature can easily connect to more than one device at the same time. When one of them rings, the Jabra Talk 2 will automatically stream the right call when you answer. If a new call comes through on the other phone, you’ll get an alert and the option to pick it up.

 

Jabra Assist

Get more from your Jabra Talk 2 by using the smartphone app, Jabra Assist. Available to download on iOS and Android, it comes loaded with extra features and boasts setup guidance which offers step-by-step instructions on the pairing process. It helps you keep track of the remaining talk time left on your device too, by providing a useful, visual indicator.

 

 

 

Using the app also means you’ll never lose your headset again. With Find My Jabra, every time your headset is used, its position is geo tagged. So, if you misplace it, you can use the handy map on your smartphone to locate it more quickly. You could even activate your headset to make a sound, making it easier to find.

 

Features and Specifications

  • Bluetooth® version 4.0
  • HD Voice for clearer conversations
  • Secure and comfortable fit with flexible eargels
  • Up to nine hours battery time and nine days standby time
  • Voice Guidance
  • Access to Siri® and Google Now™
  • Intuitive usability with on/off button and dedicated battery / Bluetooth® symbols
  • Wireless stereo sound (A2DP)
  • BT Class 2
  • Setup guidance and Find My Jabra features with Jabra Assist app

 

Pricing and availability:

Jabra Talk 2 will be available in selected retailers, at an RRP £29.99. learn more via www.jabra.com/talk2

The Worlds First Solar Power Wallet, from @lucca_bozzi #Solar #RFID #Kickstarter

Get an extra 10 hours of talk time or just recharge those wireless headphones with the built-in battery. RFID protected.

 

The Lucca Bozzi Solar Wallet is a modern interpretation of the classic bi-fold wallet, bettering your everyday by providing +10 extra hours of charge when you need it most.

 
Fused with cutting-edge technology, Solar Wallet integrates intelligent circuitry, charging cables and a renewable energy source, while maintaining the traditional beauty of an Italian wallet.
 
In a time where we rely on our tech more every day, Lucca Bozzi has created a wallet that gives you the power to charge your devices at your own free will.
 
Solar Wallet is a hybrid of intelligent technology and elegant design that easily becomes the centerpiece of your everyday carry.
 
Lucca Bozzi’s focus was to create a beautiful, timeless design while working with the top engineers to perfect a piece the majority of the world carries daily.
Does this look like something you could be interested in? Head over to http://www.luccabozzi.com/ for more and we will be talking more about it soon..
You can see the project now on Kickstarter…

#Blink – The UK’s most affordable smart home security and alert system. #home #Tech 

Blink video security system now available in the UK via amazon.co.uk and we will have our review in the coming days on it…

 

Blink, the affordable, wire-free, home security and HD video monitoring system, announces that it is now available in the UK.

Blink is a battery-powered home security and HD video monitoring system that’s simple to set up and use, giving peace of mind to people who worry about the security of their property while away. Blink provides a watchful eye and one-click connection to the home through the free Blink Home Monitor app for iOS and Android devices.

 

 

As opposed to traditional security systems which add video as an afterthought and may have ugly wires which require professional installation, Blink offers quick and simple do-it-yourself installation, as well as a stylish, totally wireless, and innovative design including HD video technology with motion and temperature sensors.  When Blink detects motion, it immediately sends a push notification alert and HD quality video to the user’s smartphone so that they may instantly see who is at the door or wandering around their home. The system is entirely accessible via the Blink App, giving users the flexibility to arm/disarm, live stream video, and check status remotely, anytime and from anywhere.

 

 

 

Peter Besen, CEO of Blink comments: “We’re absolutely thrilled to bring Blink to the UK. We already have UK users who have bought the product from the USA. The beauty of Blink is that it is totally wireless and the battery life is now over two years.”

 

 

Blink has unprecedented image quality, battery life (two years on 2 x AA lithium batteries), aggressive price point (systems start at £129.99, far less expensive than competitive systems) and simplicity (do-it-yourself set up in minutes). Its motion-activated video alerts and live view options deliver instant peace of mind from any location directly through the Blink Home Monitor app, making it the perfect solution for homeowners, renters, small business owners, second home owners and many more.

Pricing 

1 cam £129.99

2 cam £199.99

3 cam £269.99

5 cam £399.99

Add on cam £99.99

#EatMessage turns players faces into controllers as they catch and dodge emojis sent by their friends

Futurefly (www.futurefly.net), the Helsinki-based developers and creators of Rawr Messenger, has launched EatMessage (www.eatmessage.com), the first ever iMessage selfie-based game which allows users to challenge their friends to eat or dodge emojis –

 

EatMessage chomps at Snapchat’s heels: 

 

  • EatMessage uniquely turns players’ faces into controllers as they catch and dodge emojis sent by their friends

 

  • Accessible within the iMessage App Store menu, the free-to-use EatMessage lets users select a combination of food emojis (such as apples, doughnuts, and pizza) and inedible emojis (including spanners, light bulbs, and rainbows) to be ‘thrown’ in-app at their friend. The user sends an EatMessage challenge to their friend whose front facing camera transplants them into an augmented reality world in which they use their mouth to catch edible food emojis, and their face to dodge other, less desirable items.

 

 

  • Knowing what to eat and what to dodge is crucial, with players having to think on their feet and react quickly to a wide variety of emojis being virtually flung in their direction

 

  • After all of the items have been successfully (or unsuccessfully) been caught or avoided, a GIF of the player, as well as a selfie complete with an amusing filter and accompanying movie quote, are sent to the other friend, making EatMessage the easiest and cheekiest way to ask for a selfie

 

 

Check out the EatMessage on the App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/dk/app/eatmessage-selfie-game/id1184800021?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D2

Loot Crate is a fan-commerce product box.. #Tech #Gaming #Gadgets #LootCrate

Loot Crate is a fan-commerce product box and essentially a subscription based service which has just launched in Europe. Loot Crate is the first of its kind, offering a curated collection of items from the best pop culture franchises delivered to your door every month. Loot ranges from gaming, collectables, apparel, tech gadgets, art, and other epic gear. 

 

 

 

A typical crate includes 5-7 items, with fan products ranging from Marvel, Disney, Lucas Entertainment, DC Entertainment, WWE, Sanrio, the Halo franchise, and the Gears of War franchise. Crates vary from more general ‘core’ items to specific genres such as gaming and anime.

 

 

 

 

Loot Crate Key Facts:

  • Has shipped 10 million crates since 2012
  • Over 650K subscribers in 35 countries
  • Inc Magazine’s fastest growing private company in 2016
  • US based and expanding its operations with a new UK HQ servicing customers in UK + EU
  • Main demographic is 18-34 males
  • 20 percent of customers are international/ outside of the US
  • 30 percent of subscribers are female
  • Half a million fans watch the Loot Crate Facebook Live videos each month
  • Loot Crate has 2.5 million Facebook followers and 594,000 Twitter followers

 

 

To find out more, visit https://www.lootcrate.com or @LootCrate on twitter..

#Blackboard Ranked First in Framework to Provide Virtual Learning Environment Solutions in Scotland

Institutions able to partner with Blackboard without additional tender process.. 

Blackboard Inc. today announced that it was awarded the framework contract for the provision of Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) solutions and services to Scottish institutions by APUC (Advanced Procurement for Universities and Colleges) Limited, the procurement centre of expertise for all Scotland universities and colleges. Moreover, Blackboard has obtained a number one ranking, which enables all APUC member institutions to partner directly with Blackboard without an additional tender process.

The decision was taken after a thorough review of several criteria including Core VLE functionality and testing, support and maintenance, innovation and customer leverage. 

“We are honoured that Blackboard has been ranked first in the framework for provisioning VLE solutions in Scotland,” said Lee Blakemore, President of Blackboard International. “We are already working with many institutions in the region, and we are looking forward to helping even more students, teachers and staff achieve their learning goals.”