Nine OECD countries – up from six a year ago – now have high-speed fibre making up 50% or more of their fixed Internet connections, according to an update to the OECD’s broadband portal.
Across the 37 countries studied, the share of fibre in total broadband has only risen slightly, to 27% as of June 30 2019 from 24% a year earlier, reflecting the still-wide gap between countries in rolling out fibre, which enables much faster fixed and mobile Internet. You can see how Ireland fits in HERE
The data shows Lithuania, Latvia, Spain and New Zealand starting to catch up with long-time fibre leaders Korea, Japan and the Nordic countries thanks to a mixture of increased competition, good regulation and policy and new infrastructure investment. Korea and Japan have a fibre share of over 75% in total broadband, while Lithuania, Sweden, Latvia,
Spain, Iceland, Finland and Norway are all above 50% fibre. New Zealand and Portugal are just below 50% and close to joining the leaders.
In the year to June 30 2019, the number of fibre subscriptions increased by 13.8% across the 37 countries measured (the 36 OECD countries plus Colombia, whose accession is imminent.)
Percentage of fibre connections in total fixed broadband, June 2019
Cable remains stable with a slight increase of 4.3% in the year to June 30 2019 and accounts for a significant 33.6% of all fixed broadband connections. DSL is increasingly being replaced by fibre and its share has fallen from 41.6% to 35.1% in two years.
Overall country rankings for fixed broadband subscriptions remain very similar to those of the previous years, with Switzerland in the lead having a penetration rate of 46.1 subscriptions per 100 people, followed by France (43.7%), Denmark (43.4%), the Netherlands (43.1%) and Korea (41.9%).
Mobile broadband subscriptions continue to grow strongly at a stable rate of around 7% a year. The countries with the highest penetration rates are Japan, Finland, Estonia, the United States and Australia, with subscriptions per 100 inhabitants at 177%, 155%, 153%, 150% and 144% respectively.
Machine-to-machine (M2M) SIM cards, are experiencing the highest growth of all our indicators with a 30% increase in one year. The leading countries are Sweden with 140.6 M2M SIM cards per 100 inhabitants, followed by Austria, Italy, the United States and the Netherlands. The high number of M2M SIM cards provided by Sweden is due in part to the use of these SIM cards in other countries by a Swedish operator.
The OECD’s broadband statistics cover 37 countries. You can download the underlying data, charts and broadband penetration maps for different countries at http://oe.cd/broadband.
Working with over 100 countries, the OECD is a global policy forum that promotes policies to improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world.
The Plantronics Calisto is a nice compact portable speakerphone that can be used in more than one capacity, Mainly aimed at the the office type situation this can also be used in a personal capacity at home too or even on travel as it is small,durable and portable. With the option to connect with USB A cable or 3.5 mm you are not limited but there is no bluetooth option here which would have been nice but it is not a huge caveat given most people today prefer the bluetooth connection method but think of the battery life your saving.
This cicrular speaker is not the loudest one in the world I have tried but offers easy to use functions and give off a spatial surround sound so this is ideal for a smaller office environment rather than a large on or a desk with a few people sat around it for call and so on and if connected to your PC it will offer a better listening experience for everyone in the vicinity of it.
Call quality is good and you have the option to mute this and swap between profiles which are music and calls. You can charge the device via Micro USB or via your laptop or PC via the USB A cable. You can also connect this to your smartphone by the way which is a great idea and not tying you to one device.
Overall the quality is not bad at all and it does have some cool lights on one side similar to what we have seen like the Jabra 710 speak we checked out some time ago. When it comes to buttons there is not much to take in here with the volume control a call key and mute key it is simple to use. Check out the video review below for more..
The need to communicate does not lessen with age. If anything, older people need more communication with family, friends, support services and others. As modern technology continues to evolve, many retirees find themselves in danger of being left behind or even isolated by difficult technology.
emporia is delighted to today announce four new state-of-the-art 4G devices to the UK market that respond to this demographic’s needs, by offering connectivity in the form of simple and easy-to-use phones.
The new quad announcement sees one new smartphone, two feature phones, and a touch screen hybrid feature phone join the company’s portfolio of easy-to-use devices for the growing number of retirees. “We put ease of use first, because that’s what senior citizens want. There are still millions of people who type and don’t want to swipe, so we’re staying true to our philosophy and continuing to offer the popular feature phones in addition to the smartphones,” says Eveline Pupeter, owner and CEO of emporia telecom.
The new 4G VoLTE-compatible devices are available now through emporia’s UK distributor; Eurostar Global. The partnership started earlier this year when emporia launched in the UK market, and is strengthened with the addition of the four new devices in the distributor’s growing profile.
Millington says: “There are huge opportunities within the UK retiree category to provide handsets that mirror the needs of the users, at an accessible price point. Not one user in this demographic is the same when they reach retirement at 66. Quite simply, this means those in this demographic need mobile phones that give them each the ability to communicate easily with family and friends. I’m delighted to introduce these four new devices to retail and wholesale customers across the UK through our partnership with Eurostar Global, as I’m confident they fully understand our users and mission.”
Steve Hankey, Head of Commercial and Vendor Management at Eurostar Global adds: “An ageing global population has lead to a clearly growing market, where seniors are often left isolated and overwhelmed by technology. Eurostar Global is looking forward to being part of the solution by working closely with emporia to bring its excellent portfolio of products to UK consumers. This portfolio expansion will enable us to offer even more suitable devices to retirees around the UK.”
All four new handsets feature 4G and are VoLTE compatible, providing better connectivity and coverage, but also a crucial additional benefit for many of the retiree users; better sound quality on voice calls.
UK and Ireland MD Chris Millington comments: “4G and VoLTE are essential for us to offer this demographic the best in sound in their handsets as the technology allows us to push much wider spectrums of the call to the user and coupled with extra loud sound, this is the perfect combination for addressing age-related hearing loss (presbycusis). Ultimately, it also strengthens the senior proposition for mobile networks as our phones with VoLTE fulfil the technological requirements of the operators so that they can leverage their network connectivity.”
emporiaSMART.3mini is an easy-to-use smartphone with a stylish compact size, that fulfils all the main requirements of a smartphone but with a tailored, easy-to-use interface. Key features include: 8mp and 5mp cameras, long battery life, WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS. The 4.95-inch touchscreen has a large, clear screen for users to navigate easily and read from. This new smartphone is built with the end user in mind with; an intuitive interface, dust and splash-proofing exterior (IP54), hearing aid-compatibility, acoustic amplification, and an emergency call button.
The emporiaSMART.3mini comes with a unique training book designed to help users get the most from their smartphone, and at their own pace. It offers a point of reference so that they can independently learn more about their device without relying on family, friends or mobile stores.
SRP: £150
emporiaTOUCHsmart is a clever combination (or hybrid) of the best elements of a smartphone and feature phone. As one of the smartest clamshell phones on the market, it is operated by touchscreen but also has a well-spaced keypad for the best of both worlds. The device has a dedicated WhatsApp button for direct access to the popular messaging app. Like all emporia phones, it also has an emergency assistance call function, camera, radio and torch, and is dust and splash-proof thanks to its nano-coating (IP54).
SRP: £150
emporiaACTIVE is emporia’s latest bar phone. It has extra-large, illuminated keys, a large display with easy to read text and the optional high contrast. It is hearing aid compatible and has an emergency call function, a camera, and an alarm clock. This feature phone is ideal for users who have no need for smart features like the internet or WhatsApp, but do require a device with practical applications, geared towards their hearing and dexterity abilities.
SRP: £90
emporiaACTIVEglam is a clamshell, or flip, device, for users who are looking for a stylish yet simple to use feature phone. Like the emporiaACTIVE, the ACTIVEglam also runs on the AndroidGo operating system and offers the same essential features like illuminated keys, emergency call function, hearing aid compatibility and a camera; in a compact and secure design.
SRP: £100
Studies* commissioned by emporia have shown that older people want to retain independence in their lives – and this includes using the latest means of communication. “Retirees don’t want to have to ask someone how to send a photo via WhatsApp, email or SMS; they simply want to do it.”
“In our research, we found that more than 90% of those surveyed say that they value contact with relatives and friends. With the embedded WhatsApp button on our smart devices, they can be more involved in their families and friends’ lives – a simple picture share, or video call can strengthen that communication,” says Pupeter.
Millington adds: “For many in retirement, and facing retirement at the new state pension age of 66, they are taking daily decisions on spending and on the value they get from purchases. Their mobile phone is something they need to get maximum value from, not just in the cost of purchase, but in they way they can use it to do what they want. For many, who may have been given a device by someone else, the technology is not right for them and they will benefit from buying something which is designed specifically with them in mind.”
emporia is the European leader in easy-to-use devices for the growing number of retirees. Having recently appointed Chris Millington as UK and Ireland MD and officially launched in this market, these new feature and smartphones add to the portfolio of devices aimed at improving communication for this demographic in the form of a ‘simple to understand’ phone.
AVer Europe, the award-winning provider of video collaboration solutions, has today announced the launch of its professional conferencing system the VC520 Pro in the UK.
The VC520 Pro has been developed by AVer Europe as a solution for various meeting room sizes, alleviating the challenges that teams face on conference calls. The VC520 Pro has an audio pickup range of 15 feet and the ability to daisy-chain two additional speakerphones to reach up to 45 feet, offering ultra-clear unparalleled audio even throughout large meeting rooms.
With Sony True WDR capability, AVer Europe’s VC520 Pro offers clear and high-quality imaging even in high contrast backlit environments. With up to 1080p and 60fps even in poor lighting, the conferencing system’s 12X optical zoom with precise detail enables teams to showcase items such as products or documents live in the room on camera.
The VC520 Pro’s SmartFrame technology uses face recognition to automatically adjust the camera to include all members in the room in the frame. This includes anyone new that enters the meeting room, saving any delays if any colleagues are running late.
AVer Europe’s VC520 Pro features advanced centralised management through an internet browser to enable users to remotely control the camera and stream on platforms such as Facebook or YouTube.
“We’ve all been on video conference calls with poor sound or visual quality and it’s hugely frustrating, not to mention a drain on business time, resource and money,” explains Rene Buhay, AVer Europe Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “The VC520 Pro’s feature combination of 12X optical zoom, Sony True WDR, full HD and the opportunity to expand with extra speakers and microphones means that communication is transformed into a lifelike audiovisual experience.”
The VC520 Pro from AVer Europe has a 3-year warranty with a free 2-year warranty extension available at MSRP £1049.
Innovative and quirky mobile phone accessories manufacturer, juice®, has recently taken huge steps forward in its efforts to become a more sustainable brand by launching a selection of 100% compostable phone cases.
Shocked by the rate at which the average consumer changes their phone case, juice® wanted to help to reduce the amount of non-bio-degradable cases being thrown in to landfill.
As one of the few UK brands to be offering a range of 100% compostable phone cases, this collection is accessible to customers who want to do their bit for the environment and juice® has ensured absolutely no compromise on quality or increased costs for customers.
The plant-based phone cases and their packaging have been manufactured from natural materials including wheat, corn and starch and have been designed to break down in the same time as a tea bag (12 months).
CEO of juice®, Jolyon Bennett, explained: “The ethos behind these compostable cases is that they are not only good for your phone, but they are good for the planet. They are sustainable yet stylish, making it easier for the consumer to switch to greener alternatives. Our products are gentle on the earth, yet tough enough to protect your phone, each phone case boasting the standard one-metre drop protection requirement.
The public are now, more than ever, aware of the growing concerns regarding the environment. This is impacting buyer behaviour, with consumers opting to shop from greener businesses. Because of this, it is essential that businesses are able to adapt their product offerings to ensure they are minimising any negative impact on the planet.”
The cases are available in grey, blue, pink, white and black and the dyes used to achieve these five colourways are produced from natural and abundant sources such as bamboo, mai and tea.
With an RRP of £19.99, the compostable cases are available in iPhone 6, 7, 8, 11 and 11 Pro and can be purchased from: www.juice.co.uk & www.urbanoutfitters.com
This is more common sense than myth, but it’s worth noting modern smartphones are designed to optimise foreground “tasks” while others harmlessly float in the background. From 5G conspiracy theories to radiation poisoning, OnBuy’s mobile phone departmentconducted a survey to find out the mobile phone myths Brits believe the most and asked us to share it.
When it comes to mobile phone batteries, OnBuy found the number one thing Brits believe is: apps running in the background use up battery. In fact, 87% of those surveyed believe this is true.
While this is more common sense than myth, it’s worth remembering modern smartphones are designed to optimise foreground “tasks” while others harmlessly float in the background.
Another common belief is overcharging a phone damages the battery (39%) or charging your phone overnight is bad for it (34%).
However, contrary to popular belief, modern smartphones contain chips to prevent charge overload. If your phone uses a lithium-ion battery, the current stops once its fully charged.
Urban Myths
Worryingly, Brits admit they have heard the following urban myths – but are yet to put them to the test!
You can cook an egg by placing it between two mobile phones – 6%
Never use a mobile when there’s a lightning storm – 19%
You can charge an iPhone in 20 seconds using a microwave oven – 25%
Myths included in OnBuy.com’s survey can be seen below OR see the full blog post HERE
Apps running in the background use up battery 87%
A screen protector will stop your phone getting scratched 77%
Taking out your SIM card keeps you from being tracked 75%
More megapixels = better camera 66%
You can dry a wet phone in a bag of rice 66%
Phones interfere with hospitals and planes 43%
Overcharging a phone damages the battery 39%
Charging your phone overnight is bad for it 34%
You shouldn’t keep your phone in the same pocket as a credit card 31%
Having a phone near your private parts can reduce sperm count / fertility 31%
Incognito mode protects your privacy 30%
Smartphones give off dangerous radiation 29%
Mobile phone use near a petrol pump can cause an explosion 26%
You shouldn’t use your phone while it’s charging 24%
A bigger battery means longer battery life 21%
You should drain your battery completely before charging 18%
Free Wi-Fi is safe to use 5%
Methodology
To achieve the results OnBuy.com sent out a survey to 3,446 British people. 50% of respondents that took part are male, 45% are female and 5% identify as “other.”
Over the last decade, apps have become inevitable parts of businesses. More and more companies apply Mobile Device Management and Bring-Your-Own-Device policies, which lead to a productivity boost. No matter what type of enterprise you run, you may need an app for internal or external communication too.
The market is full of companies that can code apps for iOS and Android. However, they are all quite expensive. Freepps.top experts selected 5 most useful services that will help you create high-quality native and hybrid apps for your business in 2020 with minimal investments.
Zoho Creator
Zoho Creator is focused on producing apps for sales, order, and event management tasks. Besides, it offers robust solutions for logistics and various types of tracking. Although Zoho Creator was originally made for developing apps for internal corporate needs, you can adjust it for customer services too. A wide range of integrations includes Quickbooks for accounting, PayPal for secure transactions, customer services by Twilio, proprietary Zoho apps, and more. The standard plan lets you create and maintain 3 applications for $10 monthly fee. It includes 24/5 live support, 50 templates, AI modules, and layouts for mobile, desktop, and tablets.
Verivio Akula
Although Verivio Akula provides nearly the same set of features as Zoho Creator, it’s based on different production logic. The service is focused on fast app launching and provides full assistance at all development stages. The average project accomplishment period on the platform is 7 days. The process is split into sections, such as installation, testing, integration, custom configuration, and training on demand. Verivio Akula is a perfect solution for any business when time is pressing on.
AppSheet
AppSheet is a more niche solution focused on processing spreadsheets. It provides a bank of templates and an option to integrate Google Sheets, SalesForce, Microsoft Excel, Google Forms, WPS Office, etc. You can combine these modules with cloud storage, SQL Server or mySQL, GPS tracking, camera scanners, notifications, and a lot more. The entire development process in AppSheet is free. However, once you finish, every active user will cost your company $5 per month.
Appian
Appian offers a rich low-code development kit for internal corporate needs. It lets you combine complicated features in order to make them simple to use. Appian apps support multi-source data processing and AI assistance, which makes it a perfect platform for the automation of internal processes. When the app is ready, you can export it as a web app or a native app for iOS and Android.
Appy Pie
Appy Pie is a zero-coding app builder that allows you to select a design template and personalize it in several simple steps. The bank of modules includes chatbots, AI, AR, VR, and a wide range of integrative services. With a standard $18-plan, you can develop an app and publish it on Google Play. To cover iOS users and get premium features, you’ll need a $60 plan.
Simplify!
The main purpose of each platform on this list by Freepps.top is to simplify app development. Choose the one that meets your business requirements the most, and you will save hundreds of dollars on coders and beta testing. All apps on the market have common features that are available as templates in these services.
Author’s Bio
Daniel Wilson
Daniel is an economics graduate and a huge enthusiast of mobile app development. His passion for mobile technology and years of web design experience led him to create his own website. Now he’s a chief editor at Freepps.top, where his team publishes expert reviews of mobile apps.
