Month: September 2019

Minut Point smart home alarm review with NO CAMERA. #Security #MinutPoint #Smarthome #Tech

Most of us are familiar with home security systems but what about one with no camera? Well here it is and it does more than just monitor your property security wise again with NO CAMERA so privacy is another less concern as many folk are these days.

The MINUT POINT is a simple to install system and it is also small and non intrusive, You would in fact forget it is not there and better again it is wireless, You just remove the sticky tape from the metal support plate and stick it on the ceiling then attach your point and hey presto you are more or less done.

Next thing to do is activate and sync it with the app that is on both Android and Apple, We tested this on the Android platform. The app is great and simple to use and navigate,we go through this in the video below.. But here is some samples of the app below and how easy it is to follow

It will take a week for the mould result to come back to get an accurate reading and this is a good indicator to have in your home and something to watch it as mould is not a good thing by any means, I have just moved into a new house so all is good so far but now I can keep an eye on it.

Asides that there is temperature, humidity,noise level and path light too so who needs those weather apps???

How it works is simple, As opposed to the typical camera set up this does not have one which I love, I have enough cameras here as is but it is what it is but privacy is a huge concern for me and probably just about anyone else in this day and age. This little gadget is smarter than you think and can monitor more than just noise… I go into more detail in video review.

Need an IT job? Click the image below

During my review period Minut launched Minut Plus.. The information is below. Then skip to the video review and we take a look at the app. This is really a great product especially for those who are concerned about privacy and we will have more from Minut on that topic very soon so stay tune for that. Is this a product I would co-sign?? Yes easily… If you have any questions feel free to ask as we have spent enough time with the product to assist and as always we help out people with questions after our reviews on all our social channels which is becoming more prevalent with people especially having set up issues and so on,We are here to help with all tech reviewed here and more..

Installing mode

 

What is Minut Plus?

It’s a $7.99/€7.99/£6.99/79 SEK* month service that enables customers to add friends and family to help monitor their home, manage multiple properties and have access to unlimited sensor data history.

Customers will have the option to stay on a basic plan with no monthly cost, or to upgrade to Minut Plus and enjoy the benefit of creating smart neighborhood watch networks. Your chosen friends, family, or neighbors, will be notified in the event of motion detection, broken windows, or an alarm sound in your home when you’re away so you can help each other out when needed. Accessing all historical sensor data will provide valuable insight into the dynamics of the home environment over time.

Our goal when making the distinction between Minut Plus and the basic plan was to keep things simple and allow customers usage of the service to grow over time, and upgrading when they feel that it represents good value, rather than a requirement as part of the purchase.

Why a Monthly Plan?

Minut never stands still. We are continually improving our operations, services and products for our customers. Above all, we always want to be a straightforward and honest business that’s trusted by our customers, community and partners.

The decision to implement the Minut Plus plan came from our desire to sustainably fund development and maintenance without selling your right to privacy to the highest bidder. The only way we can see this working in the long term is to have a monthly plan for those who get the most value from the service. We hope you agree and feel that we’ve made the right choice.

What does this mean for you? 

We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the support of our early customers and we don’t want to change a service that so many of you have come to rely on. Because of that, we’re not going to make any changes to your current account setup. You will be able to keep your account the way it is today, i.e. you will be able to keep the number of users and homes. If you wish to add more users or homes to your account from now on, you will need to upgrade to Minut Plus.

If you are using Minut for multiple short stay properties and have questions, please contact shortstay@minut.com.

If you choose to upgrade to Minut Plus we will give you a one year free trial. The deadline to activate your one year free trial is 31st of December 2019. After this date, a 30 day free trial will apply. 
When your one year free trial ends, you will be charged monthly. You have the option to cancel your Minut Plus plan at any point.

Perfect for every home

 

Bedroom – If you live in shared house, you can now monitor your private space.

Apartment – Easy to install, affordable and movable. The perfect solution for renters and owners.

House – Easily install and connect multiple devices to ensure your home and family are safe.

Short term rentals – A discreet, light-weight device that makes remote monitoring easy and effective.

How to upgrade to Minut Plus: 

Android user: 
1. Open Point app
2. Visit Profile settings
3. Tap Upgrade plan
4. Proceed to checkout
5. Enter card details
6. Start plan
7. Subscribe to Minut Plus

iOS user:
1. Visit https://my.minut.com
2. Login with your Minut account
3. Tap get Plus
4. Proceed to checkout
5. Enter card details
6. Start plan
7. Subscribe to Minut Plus

BUY HERE

Review – The HIFIMAN TWS-600 True Wireless earbuds. #HIFIMAN #Tech #TrueWireless

I am on a big true wireless earbud run at the minute and have tested countless pairs and many more on the way, The latest to hit my ears is from HIFIMAN and out of the gate they stand out from the rest with some cool specs on offer and fully featured too.

These come well presented and all the bits and pieces you expect to get with such a package and best of all is the case they come in which is different and really nice with their branding on top and it looks really well,premium and it is robust with USB-C charging and this is all a good start.

I am always up for something that looks different an these do just that and when you open the box they stand out and light up and do not look like earbuds at all and many folk who have seen them said “what the fcuk are they?” which I found funny only to tell them they are true wireless earbuds. People then say NO.. I say here put them on and then they hear the sound quality and feel and impressed.

Now the strange thing with these is they took time to break in which is a first for me but did not bother me as I test erabuds out for around 40 HRS before I share my thoughts and these took 20 hours to break in and yes they got better with that break in period..

They sit comfortably in the ears too and are well built and the earbuds look premium too and wont move once the correct tips for you are used. My only gripe which I will mention now is that there is no app to accompany them for an EQ which can be forgiven if you want crystal clear audio and sound. The sound is well balanced sharp and crisp is best describing them and overall a good listening experience. Phone calls are also great and the volume is plenty aloud which is just how I like my earbuds and the do isolate some of the external noise once fitted correctly.

Controls are easy to use with the usual one,two or three taps scenario which I go through in the review video below. These offer sweat and dust resistant so will be fine for most and have a bluetooth range of up to 490ft of connectivity, I did not get a measure tape out and get a number but they are not far off from my test results, Battery life is also good offering up to 38.5 hours which is on par with their claims and overall I was happy with them and these are now one of my grab and go pairs out of my collection when I am on the move or just lying in bed listening to music and watching YouTube as I do every evening.

BUY HERE 

VIDEO REVIEW

First look, UI and set up of the Amazon Echo Show 5. #Amazon #EchoShow5 #Tech

The Amazon Echo Show 5 has dropped in for review and something I have been looking forward to for some time. Compact it is which is ideal for your bedside locker which is where it will be going replacing my Echo dot. What I like about this off the bat is it has a screen which is much better than an audio response only from your dot an admittedly i often feel like an idiot talking to these things as I have several including Google home in my house at least with this I see something this time around.

We will be testing this for a while so if you have questions feel free to ask as usual on our social channels. Read more on the Echo Show HERE 

 

Echo Show 5 is available in Charcoal and Sandstone for €89.99. You can also choose to purchase a magnetic stand that lets you tilt the device to adjust the viewing and camera angles for only €19.99.  www.amazon.co.uk/echoshow5 

Dell Technologies Forum reveals how emerging technologies will shape the future economy. #DELL #IoT #AI #IT

At the Dell Technologies Forum taking place in Dublin today, leading technologist and Global CTO Patricia Florissi outlined how AI can utilise unimaginable amounts of data to develop critical business insights which will drive business growth.

Over 400 business leaders and IT experts gathered to listen to the global CTO for sales of Dell Technologies as she explained how businesses need to embrace this innovative new technology to remain competitive in the world of 2030.

The event also included specific workshops and breakout sessions led by experts from the Dell Technologies family on the move to the cloud, improving cyber security, AI and Machine Learning as well as 5G technology. These workshops enabled Irish business leaders to see how they could use these innovative technologies to drive growth and improve competitiveness at their business.

Patricia Florissi, Vice-President and Global CTO for Sales, Dell Technologies said: “It’s great to be here in Dublin meeting with so many business leaders from across Ireland. Technology is having a profound effect on how we live and work, so it is imperative that businesses embrace the possibilities that digital transformation offers. Artificial intelligence is turning valuable data into even more lucrative insights which will allow businesses to maintain their position at the forefront of their industry. At Dell Technologies we are committed to working with our customers to ensure that technological innovation helps them achieve their business goals”.

Sustainability was an important theme at this year’s Dell Technologies Forum as it is a key concern for businesses and organisations across Ireland. Everyone at Dell Technologies is committed to using technology to create a sustainable economy and society.

Mark Hopkins, General Manager, Dell Technologies Ireland added: “Dell Technologies Forum is always an important event for us as it allows us to showcase the opportunities that emerging technologies can offer our customers. It has been interesting listening to Patricia Florissi’s valuable insights on future technology trends, and to see how we can use technological advances to drive sustainability and create a thriving planet.

“The potential improvements that technologies such as AI and IoT can offer businesses are truly transformational and at Dell Technologies Ireland we want to ensure that Irish companies take the necessary steps to make that transformation a reality.”

Review – The Polaroid One Step+ i-Type camera. #Polaroid #Photography #Tech

This is my second real camera if you will to review and having used the Instax mini Li Play it is nice to actually hold a camera and capture an image with a proper camera and I say that as I always use my smartphone and never owned a real standalone camera however this is different to some degree. First check out the unboxing then we will take a look later at a video review.. If you want to check out a similar camera the Mini Li-Play is a good example

Simplicity is what it is all about here with nostalgia being the theme given its boxy look most people will not mind its cumbersome shape and size. The camera is nothing like modern cameras of today and ones you would need a degree in just to take an image as most people just want to point and shoot and job done,even now with smartphones we see post processing software to modify or edit images which for me is false,depending on the subject of course all of that is cut out here with a simple click and go with minor changes on offer via the app on this model.

I only had the Black and White film to test this camera on which is a pity but if you are into those type of images you will not be disappointed with the turnout of the images and you can see side by side the phones image vs the camera image which will be ejected from you camera just like the old days and this is whom this camera is for and even people today who remember the time these were a thing which I do or even the youth of today would like the idea and it is a nice camera to have even if you are collector of sorts which many will appreciate and they not expensive either,check out the video review and app walk through below for more.

  • Measures approx. 15 cm x 11 cm x 10 cm
  • Weighs approx. 493 grams (without film)
  • Material: ABS plastic and polycarbonate
  • Tripod mount
  • External viewfinder
  • Lens: fixed focus
  • Lens material: polycarbonate
  • Standard focal length: 103 mm
  • Portrait focal length: 89 mm
  • Battery: 1100mAh lithium-ion
  • Charges via USB (cable included)

BUY HERE

 

Jabra presents the 4th generation in true wireless earbuds with the Jabra Elite 75t #Jabra #Elite75t

Jabra, leader in personal sound as well as office solutions,  announces the next generation true wireless earbuds, the Jabra Elite 75t. Engineered to last longer and designed to fit better, the Elite 75t takes things up a notch, building on the same great calls and music that fans of the Elite 65t have come to love – with a notably longer battery life and a smaller, more secure, comfortable fit.  As a user and fan of the true wireless from Jabra I look forward to checking these out soon..

Fuelled by 150 years of audio engineering excellence, Jabra has a proven track record within true wireless. The Elite 75t leverages a lower power platform and connectivity technology from sister company GN Hearing as well as miniaturization know-how built up from four generations of true wireless Elite products.

The Elite 75t is specifically designed to provide enhanced comfort through its optimal earbud shape and size. The earbuds have been extensively tested for secure fit, so users can be confident that the earbuds will stay put, no matter what activity they may be engaged in. The sleek design makes the Elite 75t ideal even for smaller ears, while the ergonomic shape makes them so comfortable, users can enjoy their music and calls for extended periods of time.

 

Determining key user needs

Jabra developed a comfort and fit simulation model based on thousands of ear scans from global users to determine the most optimal 3D shape and size, that fits ears comfortably across a range of users. Taking it one step further, Jabra also collated valuable insights on user needs and preferences to determine the primary barriers to a true wireless experience.

There’s a constant consumer demand for more battery life, better fit and ease of connectivity to devices which Jabra is seeking to address with the newest addition to the Elite range. The Elite 75t offers up to 28 hours of battery life with the charging case and 7.5 hours without. Those in a rush will appreciate the fast USB-C charging that ensures that you never run out of battery when you need it the most – perfect for modern life on the go. A wireless charging variant will also be introduced to the market at a later date.

Clever engineering ensures that the new compact size continues to deliver the fundamentals consumers expect form Jabra, namely – robust connectivity, durability, ease of use and a superior calls and music experience. Making and taking calls is a great experience with the 4-microphone call technology, enhanced with Jabra’s latest noise and wind reducing algorithms. This feature gives you the confidence to take that call, even in busy environments like the street or subway. We enhanced the ease of use of the charging case by ensuring easy access and adding magnets.

René Svendsen-Tune, CEO at Jabra, said, “Our biggest news at IFA 2019 is also our smallest yet. It is a result of our dedication to listening to and providing for changing customer expectations for a truly wireless experience. Taking a great product and making it better is a complex undertaking and that is exactly what we have achieved today. We have elevated the earbud experience, ensuring the most comfortable and long-lasting solution for on-the-go lifestyles. We are excited to welcome the Elite 75t, our newest, most innovative addition to our award-winning Elite range,” he added.

Users can instantly connect to Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant, quickly accessing the information they may need – from setting appointments, to finding nearby events or having messages read out. Furthermore, Bluetooth 5.0 allows users to seamlessly connect the Elite 75t to their smartphones.

The Jabra Sound+ app allows users to choose their voice assistant, customize their music profile with the equalizer, modify how much nearby noise they want to hear (HearThrough), adjust their calls experience, keep track of battery charge, and much more.

The Elite 75t will be available in two colours – Titanium Black, and Gold Beige, offering varied options to users to suit their preferred style. There will also be a black version exclusive for Best Buy in the US.

Key features and specifications: 

  • New compact earbud shape tested for comfort and secure fit
  • More than 7.5 hours battery life, up to 28 hours with the charging case
  • 4-microphone technology for crystal clear calls even in noisy and windy environments
  • Fast charging with USB-C
  • Reliable true wireless connectivity with no audio dropouts
  • Music your way with the customizable equalizer, available in the Jabra Sound+ app
  • IP55-rated durability and 2-year warranty against dust and water*
  • One-touch access to Amazon Alexa**, Siri® and Google Assistant™
  • Compatible with all Bluetooth audio enabled phones and tablets
  • The Jabra Sound+ companion app is compatible with iOS and Android devices

Pre-order your iPhone 11,11 Pro or 11 Pro Max shell and get -20% off with @noreve #iPhone11 #noreve

Apple have donned us with new iPhones and you will want to case up as they are expensive. noreve is now taking pre-orders on new shells and this company makes hand made cases and we have something on the way from them which was custom made to our choice. It hard to get custom cases and noreve allow you customise and are made from the best quality materials there is.

For the release of the latest Apple smartphones, get -20% off your iPhone 11, 11 Pro or 11 Pro Max by pre-ordering the shell now. Visit  www.noreve.com

Check out the range of cases we have reviewed.

Use PRIVILEGE CODE : IPHONE11

Apple prices vs average salary: Can Irish people afford the latest iPhone? #Apple #iPhone11

Apple as you know have just launched the next generation products last night and they do give impressive shows I must add despite my gripes with them and their mantra.But as expected the upgrades are iterative and not much improvements on last years. Pricing is another matter on configuration and you if you go top tier you are talking €1700 which costs the same a macbook.

The prices in case you missed..

iPhone Pro Max €1279 – Pro €1179 iPhone 11 €829. These are base pricing…

Picodi.com have sent us a report about how many workdays an average Irish person would need to save up for iPhone 11 Pro. Lets take a look..

The official price of the iPhone 11 Pro (64GB) in Ireland is going to be €1179. Assuming that, according to Central Statistics Office, the average gross salary in this country is €769.98 (€605 net), a statistical Irish person would have to work for 9.7 days to afford this year’s iPhone (not counting living expenses). That is 0.3 of a day less than the previous year.

On the other hand, in Malta, where the iPhone 11 Pro price is going to be the same as in Ireland, citizens would have to work almost two times longer than Irish people. With the average annual salary amounting to €19390 (€15418.50 net), an average Maltese needs 19.2 workdays to afford the new Apple gadget. Still, it is 0.7 of a day less than in 2018.

In the lead of the rank are the Swiss, Americans and Luxembourgers, where the ratio of the iPhone’s price to the average salary is the most attractive. A statistical Swiss should be able to save up for iPhone 11 Pro in 4.8 days, an American – in 5.8 days, and a Luxembourg – in 6.7 days.

The reverse record belongs to Mexicans: a statistical resident of this country would have to lay aside 54.2 days worth of wages to buy the iPhone. In countries like Montenegro or Russia, the new gadget has got the value of 48.5 and 47 workdays, respectively.

SEE FULL REPORT

See https://www.apple.com/ie/ for prices

Give the gift of INSTAX this Christmas. #INSTAX #Photography #Tech #Camera

Christmas is the season of giving, and INSTAX is here to help. With tonnes of models to choose from, there is something to suit every family member and friend, even the ones that are notoriously difficult to buy for!

For hard to buy for teenagers, why not gift the Mini LiPlay? This is the first instant camera to fully embrace sound, making it Fujifilm’s most playful camera yet. The Mini Li-Play has the ability to record audio via a dedicated sound button located on the front of the camera. The audio clip is converted into a QR code, which is printed onto the INSTAX print. This cool feature is perfect for capturing all the magical sounds of Christmas, from carols to the laughter that fills family get-togethers. We have reviewed the LiPlay and love it and you should check it out. See the full review HERE

Fashion mavens and dapper dans will squeal with delight as they unwrap the INSTAX SQ6. Undoubtedly one of the sleekest instant cameras on the market, its classic retro design is the perfect accessory to party looks this festive season. Not only does the SQ6 have a selfie mirror, but it also captures every party moment in perfect symmetry in a 1:1 snap, with a neat white border.

And finally, for those who are seemingly impossible to buy for, look no further than the INSTAX Mini 9. This iconic instant camera is perfect for all ages. It is fun and stylish, and features an automatic brightness adjustment, as well as a specially designed selfie mirror, for the perfect Christmas pics. The INSTAX Mini 9 comes in an array of colours, even a merry poppy red colour for the day that’s in it.

INSTAX cameras are available in FUJIFILM stockists nationwide. Prices start from €84.99 and may vary by retailer.

www.INSTAX.ie