Month: July 2020

Poly Leads Industry with the Most Microsoft Teams Certified Headsets Available. #Poly #MicrosoftTeams

Plantronics, Inc. (“Poly” – formerly Plantronics and Polycom), a global communications company that powers meaningful human connection and collaboration, today announced that Poly now has the largest portfolio of Microsoft Teams certified headsets available, offering greater flexibility and choice with more than 20 headsets and personal speakerphones certified for Teams. This solidifies Poly as having the most comprehensive end-to-end suite of Teams certified headsets, video devices, phones and speakerphones available.

Poly has sold nearly 17 million Microsoft compatible devices over the last three years. Our latest portfolio of certified devices with the dedicated purple Teams button includes the Voyager 4200 Office Series and Voyager 5200 Office Series headsets, Calisto 3200 and 5300 speakerphones,  Blackwire 3300 Series, and the recently announced Blackwire 8225 headsets. The dedicated Teams button allows you to instantly invoke your Teams meeting as well as receive alerts and notifications so you never miss a beat.

“Customers and users need options when they’re determining which premium headset or USB audio device they need to get their work done – especially as we navigate new working environments like our kitchen tables,” said Christine Roberts, senior vice president and general manager of enterprise headsets, Poly. “When it comes to high-quality options that seamlessly integrate with Microsoft Teams, no one else can give you as much choice and flexibility as Poly.”

With the significant increase in home working here to stay, our need to collaborate at a distance will remain essential. As such, Microsoft Teams usage continues to skyrocket, having gone from 32 million users in early March 2020[1] to 75 million users by April 2020[2], creating an even greater need for Teams integrated devices.

“As distance and remote working continues for many organisations, the need for a wide variety of UCC integrated devices, including Microsoft Teams, will remain a top priority,” said Alaa Sayed, industry director, Frost and Sullivan. “No other vendor comes close to Poly’s deep portfolio of Teams certified devices for home, office, and everywhere in between. Poly’s ability to offer simple, flexible and reliable communications endpoints is just one of the reasons Poly continues to be a leading provider of global enterprise headsets.”

Poly’s portfolio offers Teams certified devices ranging from wireless DECT™ headset systems like Savi 8200 Office and UC Series, to premium Bluetooth® headsets that connect to PCs and mobiles like the Voyager family, to portable USB speakerphones like Calisto 5300. All certified products have been rigorously tested and Microsoft certified to ensure the best audio and user experience and have been thoughtfully designed to work flexibly and seamlessly with Microsoft Teams – creating a one-stop shop for your organisation’s collaboration device needs whether you’re a Microsoft Teams aficionado or just starting your journey to leverage Microsoft Teams.

For a full list of Poly Microsoft Teams certified devices now available for order and shipping, please visit here for more information.

Wireless charging Jabra Elite 75t range now available. #JabraElite75t #JabraEliteActive75t

The Jabra Elite Active 75t and Elite 75t in-ear true wireless earbuds are now available with wireless charging. This will allow users to charge their earbuds by simply placing the case on the charger*. Jabra has developed the wireless charging variant of the Elite 75t range so that users are no longer restricted by low battery levels. The wireless charging capabilities are not only convenient but also practical, as users have the choice to charge their earbuds as they wish.

Many users are always on the go, which creates a need for the availability of fast and extended charging solutions. The new wireless charging variants are the same in looks and features as their non-wireless charging counterparts and can be charged both via a charging pad, or via the USB-C cable – offering double the options to charge up your earbuds. Both the Elite Active 75t and the Elite 75t come with up to 7.5 hours battery life, extending to 28 hours with the charging case, allowing users to totally immerse in calls or music for hours on end.

The new wireless charging variants of the Elite 75t range are a testament to Jabra’s commitment to expanding its true wireless offerings. With multiple colours, wireless charging, as well as Active and non-Active versions to choose from, the Elite 75t earbud range is set to provide a choice for any user.

All variants of the Elite Active 75t and Elite 75t now include MySound, a feature that enables automated hearing tests for users to calibrate their earbuds to their own unique hearing profile. MyControls is now also available, which gives users the option to personalise the button use of the earbuds. This means the ‘Next Track’ and ‘Previous Track’, or Mute on/off functions can be moved from the left to right earbud, or fitted to personal taste.

 

 

Calum MacDougall, SVP at Jabra, said: “The award-winning Elite range is a testament to Jabra’s engineering expertise, proving our commitment to creating the best user experience in the market. We are so excited to take this further by incorporating wireless charging. 

“We wanted to provide our busy, on the go users with practical and convenient charging options. Instead of being bogged down by low battery levels, our users now have the choice to charge their earbuds as they please.”

 

Jabra Elite Active 75t key features and specifications: 

  • Compact earbuds, tested for a secure active fit with optimal noise isolation
  • Up to 7.5 hours battery life, and 28 hours with the charging case
  • 4-microphone technology for crystal-clear calls in every environment
  • Wireless charging enabled (wireless charger not included)
  • Customisable equaliser in the Jabra Sound+ App makes your music sound even betterIP57-rated durability and 2-year warranty against dust and sweat
  • One-touch access to Siri® and Google AssistantTM Jabra MyControls to define button settings and Jabra MySound for individualised sound

SEE OUR JABRA ELITE ACTIVE  75T REVIEW 

Jabra Elite Active 75t Pricing and availability
Jabra Elite Active 75t wireless charging are now available in selected retailers, MSRP £209.99. The wireless charging earbuds are available in two colours: Navy and Grey

SEE OUR JABRA ELITE 75T REVIEW 

Jabra Elite 75t key features and specifications: 

  • Compact new earbud shape tested for comfort and secure fit
  • 4-microphone call technology for superior calls wherever you are
  • Up to 7.5 hours battery, up to 28 hours with the charging case
  • Wireless charging enabled (wireless charger not included)
  • Customisable equaliser in the Jabra Sound+ App makes your music sound even better
  • IP55-rated durability and 2-year warranty against dust and water
  • One-touch access to Siri® and Google AssistantTM
  • Jabra MyControls to define button settings and Jabra MySound for individualised sound

Jabra Elite 75t Pricing and availability

Jabra Elite 75t wireless charging are now available in selected retailers, MSRP £189.99. The wireless charging earbuds are available in two colours: Black and Titanium Black

Find out more about Jabra at www.jabra.com/elite

PayPal Giving Fund launches in Ireland as online charity donations jump by almost 40% #PayPal

With PayPal’s support, PayPal Giving Fund Ireland is launching today to enable people to support their favourite charities online and help such organisations raise vital funds. In 2019 alone, PayPal processed a record $10.3 billion in charity donations across the globe, demonstrating the scale and appeal of online donations for both charities and consumers.

PayPal Giving Fund Ireland is a new registered charity which will meet the growing demand among people in Ireland to be able to support worthwhile causes through digital donations, following an almost 40% increase in online charity contributions in Ireland during the coronavirus crisis.

New research from PayPal conducted by Ipsos and involving 2,000 Irish consumers, reveals that online charity donations increased dramatically in Ireland during the pandemic with four in five contributions made online. Furthermore, over two thirds (68%) of people said they will continue making online donations after the crisis.

A quarter of Irish people also said that they are helping or engaging in charity activities with more frequency than before. In terms of the types of organisations chosen, people are more likely to select a local charity.

As well as enabling people to give money to charities more directly, PayPal Giving Fund provides a directory for PayPal users who want to make a charitable donation. It enables them to search for charities within a given space, such as cancer research or mental health charities.

Meanwhile, registered charities can enrol with PayPal Giving Fund, which then grants funds to them without charging the charities or individual donors for its services – the result being that 100% of the funds PayPal Giving Fund receives go to charities. PayPal Giving Fund allows Irish charities to connect with donors online and maximise their fundraising efforts during these challenging times.

PayPal Giving Fund will also be working with partners in Ireland, including The Wheel and Charities Institute of Ireland (Cii), to spread the word to charities that will be able to benefit from its programmes.

Maeve Dorman, Vice President of Global Merchant Services, PayPal

 

Maeve Dorman, a trustee of PayPal Giving Fund Ireland and Vice-President of Global Merchant Services, PayPal said: “We are very aware of the generosity of Irish people and how much they enjoy giving back to their communities – in fact, Ireland ranked fifth in last year′s CAF World Giving Index for giving. This is what makes the launch of the PayPal Giving Fund Ireland so exciting.

 

“We hope it will make a real impact to the fundraising community in Ireland with its ability to connect donors and charities in a quick, easy and impactful way. Of course, this is something which is important at any time, but especially now with many traditional fundraising channels no longer available for these organisations.

 

“PayPal Giving Fund Ireland harnesses the power of digital technology to meet the growing demand for online donations and enables people in Ireland to contribute in a relevant and engaging way to the causes they are passionate about as part of their everyday lives. In turn, this support enables charities to continue the valuable work in communities across Ireland and make a difference in our society.”

For more information on PayPal Giving Fund, visit the PayPal Giving Fund website

A world-first in Dublin as @UPS and @DubCityCouncil innovate to reinvent sustainable last mile deliveries. #Cycling #Walking #Logistics

An innovative walking and cycle based system designed to optimise deliveries in city centres has launched in Dublin. Operating out of mini urban distribution centres and combining powered e-Walkers and e-Quad cycles, this model allows for last mile deliveries that don’t add to local emissions or congestion, enabling a step change in the way goods are delivered in busy city locations.

Funded by Dublin City Council, Enterprise Ireland and Belfast City Council, the unique solution was developed as part of a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) challenge that sought new approaches to optimising deliveries. Participating in the challenge enabled Fernhay, an innovative design and manufacturing consultancy, to develop the new zero emissions delivery solutions for global logistics carrier, UPS, to trial.

The e-walker and e-Quad operate from “urban package eco hubs” that UPS has introduced around the city. The eco-hubs take in larger consignments of deliveries and redistribute them to walkers and cyclers using removable Cube containers. There are already two of these mini distribution centres up and running in Dublin which has facilitated the removal of five diesel vehicles from the road, reducing carbon emissions by up to 45%.

Speaking at the launch, Owen Keegan, Dublin City Council Chief Executive, said: “collaboration is key to tackling the challenges facing our city right now so we are very happy to see our Transportation Department and Smart City programme working with innovative partners such as Fernhay and UPS to address last mile deliveries. This solution helps the city adapt to the Covid-19 situation by enabling foot and bike deliveries and discouraging the return of congestion.”

“It is really exciting to be piloting this in Dublin –the first city to test the Fernhay eWalker. As cities reopen for business after the Covid-19 shutdowns, those looking for ways to keep goods moving while minimising the return of congestion and pollution, should take note.” – said Frances Fernandes, Director, Fernhay.

She explained: “Fernhay’s eWalker and eQuad are part of a wider system that enable key workers to deliver groceries, medicine and parcels without the use of vans. Cities are facing huge change to respond to ‘social distancing’ with pavements widened outside shops and roads narrowed to make more space for walking and cycling. Our system offers a clean and viable option and rethinks how cities can support last mile deliveries now and in the future.”

UPS International Sustainability Director, Peter Harris, said: “This is about reimagining last mile logistics. Cities need solutions that eliminate emissions and congestion and this system achieves that. But it goes further. The ability to load the box that the eWalker and the eQuad carry anywhere within our network will help UPS operate more efficiently. Taking this concept of removable containers, long since practiced in long haul freight, into the urban environment is a game changer and furthers UPS’s long-standing commitment to bring its customers sustainable solutions.”

Finally, Tom Kelly, Head of Innovation, Enterprise Ireland, said: “We are happy to support this challenge which delivers benefits both for Dublin citizens and the innovative technology companies that are helping the City Council address the issue and public impacts of last mile delivery. The SBIR programme is unique in providing public sector bodies and innovative companies the opportunity to work together to develop innovative solutions to big problems, such as optimising deliveries in cities”.

The UPS/ Fernhay partnership won SBIR support because it encourages safer, cleaner, more pedestrian friendly urban environments, and for its potential replicability in other contexts. As pressure mounts to ditch diesel and switch to sustainable, this dynamic consolidation and redistribution model is already contributing to emerging conversations on urban mobility and liveable cities. Other carriers have registered interest in operating similar systems in Dublin, and Belfast are assessing learnings from the initiative for potential applicability there. Last mile deliveries may never be the same again.

Expleo announces its role in testing COVID-19 contact tracing app. #Expleo #Covid19ireland

Expleo, the technology partner for innovative companies, today announces details of its role in the development and launch of the HSE’s COVID-19 contact tracing app. Through quality assurance and software testing, the company was responsible for ensuring that the app was user-friendly, fast and reliable, which involved testing it to be able to handle one million downloads in an hour.

The app, which at the time of issue has been downloaded more than one million times, and we take a look at here was developed by the HSE and Department of Health, with input from An Garda Síochána, Science Foundation Ireland and private partners from Ireland’s technology sector. It notifies users if they have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19, defining a close contact as someone who was within two metres of a confirmed case for 15 minutes or more. To find out more about the COVID Tracker app, or to download it, visit www.covidtracker.ie.

Expleo’s test team started work on the project on 17th March 2020 and since that date, carried out approximately 3,400 individual software tests before the app’s launch. The work totalled 4,727 man hours – the equivalent of almost 591 working days. A total of 26 Expleo employees were involved in the project, while a core team of 10 led and oversaw testing.

To ensure that a user’s surroundings, or large crowds, did not negatively impact the performance of the app – and to ensure the safety of the testers – testing was carried out in multiple simulated environments with multiple devices. Testing was later carried out on public transport to ensure that users only received notifications when appropriate.

Phil Codd, Managing Director, Expleo Ireland

Additional testing included:

  • Performance testing – Expleo’s quality assurance and quality engineering teams carried out load testing on the app to ensure that large volumes of people could download it at the same time without causing it to crash.
  • Exposure Notification Distance Testing – As devices have varying Bluetooth strengths, Expleo tested varying attenuation values that manage Bluetooth strength to maximise compliance with requirements.
  • Graphical user interface (GUI) testing – Expleo tested the look and feel of the app, ensuring user-friendly navigation; the correct and reliable function of all buttons; and that all content and text matched requirements.
  • Database Validation – Testers ensured that users’ anonymised data, gathered from downloads and registrations, was populated in the database without interfering with the anonymised data of other users.

Fran Thompson, CIO, HSE, said: “The COVID Tracker app is an essential addition to the HSE’s existing contact tracing work. For it to be effective, it needed to be easy to download and use, with highly responsive software that can cope with a very large user base. We chose Expleo due to their extensive experience in software testing and quality assurance. Their knowledge and commitment was invaluable in ensuring that the contact tracing app met all of the stringent targets and requirements we had set.”

 

Phil Codd, Managing Director for Ireland, Expleo, said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has had – and continues to have – a devastating impact on people and communities across Ireland. We therefore felt honoured that in recognition of our experience and expertise, we were invited by the HSE to join the fight against COVID-19 by carrying out software testing on one of the world’s first contact tracing apps.

 

“Our team went through a rigorous, lengthy process to ensure that the app is fast, reliable and easy to use. We are delighted to see such high volumes of people downloading it and hope that this will continue so that we can all work together to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection for everyone.”

The Nokia 5.3 to go on sale with Harvey Norman,Power City and Tesco Mobile. #Nokia

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, today announces the availability of the all new Nokia 5.3 in Ireland. Featuring a number of Nokia smartphone firsts for phenomenal value, the Nokia 5.3 features a quad camera, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 Mobile Platform and the signature two-day battery life,the device it to hit shelves next week in Ireland

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The AI-powered quad-camera helps capture the perfect shot no matter where you are, even in dim light, thanks to Night mode. Wide-angle and macro lenses help you capture close-ups, or wide, scenic shots. And with its large 6.55” screen, the Nokia 5.3 helps make the most out of streaming your favourite shows and playing games all day long. The Nokia 5.3 has a durable yet stunning, Nordic-inspired design, comes with Android 10 and gives fans faster access to Google Assistant via the dedicated button.

 

Juho Sarvikas, Chief Product Officer, HMD Global: 

“The Nokia 5.3 is unique for us because it features a lot of firsts for a Nokia smartphone at this price-point. Our goal with the Nokia 5.3 was to give fans a robust device, that allows them to both create and enjoy content in a different way. The Nokia 5.3 is an exciting opportunity for us to bring an entertainment and creative powerhouse to more people across the world.” 

 

Quad camera with innovative AI imaging to capture it all 

Discover new ways to capture moments. The Nokia 5.3 is the first Nokia 5 series smartphone to feature an innovative quad camera setup, delivering stunning photography. The main 13MP camera allows you to get great shots in any situation while the macro and ultra-wide lenses let you get up close or snap the whole scene. The Nokia 5.3 also brings AI imaging and smart tools for great shots every time. Night mode lets you capture the winning picture in low light. Portrait mode combined with enhanced bokeh effects and a depth sensor, helps your subject truly pop out in portraits.

 

Built for speed, refined for play

Bringing a big screen that transports you to a different world, the Nokia 5.3 lets you enjoy your movies and apps on a larger scale. The huge 6.55” screen fits comfortably in your hand, while letting you immerse yourself in your favourite videos or games. Enjoy silky smooth graphics and easily switch between apps with the help of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 Mobile Platform – a first for a Nokia smartphone. 

 

Plus, fans will be able to do more and charge less by taking advantage of the Nokia 5.3’s signature two-day battery life. The 4000mAh battery and AI-assisted Adaptive Battery feature, help you stream shows and play games without worrying about charging.

 

Nordic inspired design – powered by Android 

Durability never looked so good. The Nokia 5.3 comes with a sleek glass front with a durable composite back that’s designed to honour its Nordic design heritage and inspired by the land of a thousand lakes, is available in three beautiful finishes – Cyan and Charcoal.

 

The Nokia 5.3 just keeps getting better with two years of Android upgrades and three years of monthly security updates. It will also come ready for Android 11 and beyond. Pure Android delivers a software experience with a streamlined interface and no bloatware. Plus, the Google Assistant button gives you a little help wherever you go. Keep up with your fast-paced life with Google Assistant – ask questions, see your schedule and even dim the lights.

 

Pricing and availability 

The Nokia 5.3 will be available nationwide in Harvey Norman, Powercity and Tesco Mobile and comes in Cyan and Charcoal with the 4GB/64GB RAM/ROM configuration priced at an average retail price of 199 Euros. The device is already listed in Littlewoods and Argos too sim free.

Review – Google Nest hub. Goes on sale in Ireland today for €89.99 #GoogleNestHub #Tech

The Google Nest hub has been around some time but now it goes on sale in Ireland today which is welcome news this comes a day after the Google Pixel Buds went on sale which I am enjoying and you can see the full hands on review HERE.

The Nest hub is basically a mash of a google home and a tablet but it just works, You get visuals rather than voice which is more realistic because sometime I feel like an idiot talking to a speaker and the same applies to all including my Alexa gadgets in the house but hey it makes like easier and so does the Google Nest hub and the integration into the home is just great if you own multiple products like lights,security cameras,tv and more and you can control them here too as you could do on your previous gadgets but its the screen that makes it more real for me.

This is a well built kit and comes wit a decent speaker that sounds good too and can be paired up with existing google products which is a seamless process I might add. There is a volume key on the rear and a switch to turn of/on the mic and that is it,the rest can be done on screen by voice or by using the simple UI and you can customise it too by using images from your smartphone or pre installed ones and use the nest hub as a image carousel which is nice in the home setting,this can be ideal for the kitchen,sitting room or perhaps beside your bedside locker the choice is yours its not too big or intrusive and blends in anywhere plus you have an ambient display which adjusts the screens brightness to fit the current setting and works well. I have been using this all over the house to see how it worked and it works perfectly fine no matter where I place it or what the light situation is.

The Nest hub does allow calls but you cant be seen which might be a downside for some and there is no keyboard like there is on the echo show and no built in browser so to speak but you do ask google and it does the rest it is a bit more refined and feature rich than the echo show which I still use, the echo show offers these two omissions but it is no huge deal as google’s voice detection is class and gets it right most times,they are two great products being honest and do their jobs well and priced fairly, One thing I do not own any nest product and would like to have a complete singular ecosystem in the house from one manufacturer so it can all work seamlessly and not all home security systems work with it just yet.

Overall it is a great product to have in the house to make life much more simple you can even plan your commute,get tips listen to music and much more and all done by voice and you get all your information at a glance. For 89.99 this is a bargain for someone who is yet to delve into home IoT or perhaps someone looking to add to their setup.

BUY 

10 Things to Know About Google Nest Hub Smart display  

 

 

1. Introducing Google Nest Hub 

Google Nest Hub brings you everything you love about Google Home–now with a 7” display to give you help at a glance in any room at home. With the Google Assistant built-in, you’ll always see your best and latest shots from Google Photos. Plus, view and control your compatible connected devices from a single dashboard. Simply use your voice to watch YouTube and play songs from YouTube Music on a crystal clear speaker*now. And with Voice Match, get your personalised calendar, answers from Google, and more. Hub helps with the little moments so you can enjoy the big moments.

2. Thoughtfully designed for any room  

Google Nest Hub’s design is compact, so it fits in any room–like your kitchen counter or nightstand. And, with its Ambient EQ Light Sensor, Hub adjusts to match the colours and lighting in its environment, so photos on Hub seamlessly blend in with your home decor. The display is big enough to get visual, immersive answers from Google, and watch helpful videos from YouTube, all with a full-range speaker that delivers crystal clear sound. Available in two colors from the Google Store—Chalk and Charcoal.

3. Get help at a glance 

With the Google Assistant built-in, Hub brings the best of Google right to your display–see your family activities with Google Calendar, watch how-to videos from YouTube. Plus, ask questions and find visual, immersive answers from Google on recipes, local business info, sports, weather and more. Getting ready for a party? Just say “Hey Google, show me how to tie a bowtie” to learn something new. 

8. Get hands-free help in the kitchen [OPTION 1]

Discover recommended recipes brands like [insert local partners], follow step-by-step directions, set timers, conversions completely hands-free and at a glance. And for those moments when you’re not quite sure how to dice an onion, a simple “Hey Google, show me how to dice an onion” will stop the recipe and play a how-to video from YouTube to help you get it right. 

8. Find your own balance [OPTION 2]

Our Digital Wellbeing tools make it easier to focus on your friends and family. Downtime lets you block your device from responding between certain hours, like after bedtime and during dinner. Filters ensure everyone in your home is enjoying family-friendly content.

9. Your helpful home3

When you combine Google Nest Hub with Nest products, like the Nest Hello Doorbell, Learning Thermostats, and Nest indoor and outdoor cameras, you get the best of Nest and the power to control your home with your voice or from the home view screen. “Hey Google, show me who’s at the front door” immediately shows your front door on Google Nest Hub. You can lock the door from the Google Home app or with swipe on Hub. We’ve made having a thoughtful home easier than ever. 

 4. Relive your memories with Google Photos

Google Photos was created to help you store, organise, relive and share your memories. On Google Nest Hub, you can use your voice to show pictures you’ve taken in Google Photos and see your favourite albums even when the display is not in use. Thanks to machine learning, With no uploading hassles, Google Nest Hub is a great gift for grandparents and friends that enjoy sharing your memories.  

5. Control your connected home in one view1

The Google Assistant works with hundreds of devices and now Google Nest Hub makes it easy for all of those devices to work with each other. With Google Nest Hub’s home view, now you can see and control compatible devices in one place, by touch or by voice. Just swipe down to monitor cameras, dim the lights, control the TV, and more from a single dashboard–no more switching between apps. See who’s at the front door with the Nest Hello video doorbell and check in on the kids with Nest Cam Indoor security camera.2 Even when you’re away from home, thanks to the new Google Home app you can still manage your home.

6. Get hands-free help with YouTube 

Enjoy YouTube’s video catalogue directly on your Google Nest Hub. While you’re cooking in the kitchen or getting ready in the morning, you can watch sports highlights, YouTube creators, cooking clips, and how-to videos with just your voice. Plus, play your popular songs and music videos from YouTube Music in crystal-clear sound. You’ll see recommended YouTube videos on your home screen–personalised just for you.

7. Better together

Google Nest Hub is designed to work seamlessly with Made by Google devices. See who’s at the front door with Nest Hello video doorbell, view your best and latest photos as you capture them on your Pixel 3, and send your entertainment straight to the big screen with Chromecast devices.4 And with multi-room, play popular songs from YouTube Music, Spotify and local radio stations across Google Nest Hub and Google Home speakers.

10. Peace of mind while you’re away with the Google Home app

With just a tap, you’re always in control of your connected home. No matter where you are, you can use the Google Home app to monitor and manage devices easily—including compatible lights, cameras, TVs, speakers, and more.5 You can even customise Routines to do what you need at just the right moment. (Available on both Android and iOS.)

Check out more features and commands at g.co/hub/explore 

Google Nest Hub Requires WiFi and a compatible mobile device.

1 – Controlling certain devices and features in your home requires a compatible smart device, such as compatible smart cameras, lights and TVs. 

2 – Nest Hello Video doorbell and Nest Cam Indoor security camera sold separately.

3 – Chromecast sold separately.

5 Controlling certain devices and features in your home requires a compatible smart device, such as compatible smart cameras, lights and TVs.

Google provided us with the Nest hub and we did not get any compensation for our review they are also seeing this review for the first time and had no copy approval.

Review – The Creative SoundBlaster X3. #Creative #Gaming #Tech

The first Impressions of the SoundBlaster X3, looked spacious and appealing to the eye once taken out, the first feel was a plastic frame with 3 buttons that didn’t feel out of place with an LED in the middle. It consisted of a volume wheel which was made from metal giving it a better look and feel of weight. The wheel is also a button for different modes and to connect to Bluetooth which will get to later.  The quality of the feel of the X3 felt solid, with good  packaging, made out of solid  materials  as compared to the previously reviewed Creative Sound Blaster G3, which we listed as “plastic seems flimsy”   https://techbuzzireland.com/2020/05/08/review-the-creative-sound-blaster-g3-usb-c-dac-creative-gaming-tech/

The SoundBlaster X 3 includes a USB type C to type A converter which would suit modern-day technology, it comes with a lot of connection choices on the back of the blaster such as a front, side, rear and C/SUB line out so plenty of options but does not come with any of the other types of connections. The USB cable was extra-long which is great to allow connections a distance away.

Once turned on the SoundBlaster x 3 was appealing as the LED lights turned on behind the wheel which gave it a look of intensity, portrayed as a powerful Sound blaster.

 

Package contents,

  •         Sound Blaster X3.
  •         A USB type C to type A converter.
  •         Quick and easy set up guide.
  •         Leaflets & Instructions of more in detailed instructions
  •         Warranty Guide

Warranty – 2  Years

 

Compatibility:

 

The compatibility of this particular SoundBlaster X3 it is more aimed in the direction of PC players rather than consoles like the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo switch. This was used with a PlayStation 4 on our tests.

Apps,

SoundBlaster command,

And for the X3 in particular SXFI app,

Setup.

In the case of the PS4, the set up was pretty basic as all that was needed was the USB type C to type A converter to connect the SoundBlaster X3 to the PS4 which can be done on the Nintendo switch the same. Then plug your headset/ (headphones and mic) to the aux for the headphone and if the mic is separate there is a mic aux connection too.

 

 

To set up on the PC all of the connections from your normal speakers can all go into the back connections on the SoundBlaster X3 and will come through the headset with the aux connection on the front of the sound blaster a mic can also be connected separately to the headset/headphones.

The setup is similar for all the consoles, which can be set up for your gaming, movie and music experience by the different colour LED lights.  We observed to get the full benefit of the SoundBlaster X3 you should then download the 2 App to your smartphone above or to your PC.

In this case, the consoles and app were used on the PlayStation 4 slim & the Samsung s10.  Connection to the phone and Soundblaster via Bluetooth required the download of the sound blaster command app and set you, blaster, in Bluetooth mode.  The connection was via the Search for the X3 in the app and put the X3 in pairing mode by holding down the volume wheel until it flashes its white LED.

SXFI app

The Install of the App was easy, scan the QR from the box follow the link and download the app. Once connected the SXFI app goes through a tutorial to select your headphone and will ask to take a picture of your ears and head to customise your headset for your gaming experience, ( This part of the installation is unusual without leaving a logic for its purpose on the install ). Once finished go to the SB command app and the data will link and the command app will give the option for music and different types of games which is a great feature and once the SXFI is activated on the app your experience gets a whole lot better.

SXFI technology has done a great job at creating a 3D surround sound out of your headset which is enjoyable for players and all music and gaming experiences.

                         

Overall:

There are a few hiccups with the app as if you click of the app the SoundBlaster will have to reconnect when the app is turned back off but once the setting is done it won’t change until the phone tries to reconnect but only a small error wouldn’t be too much bother. Other than the plastic case and buttons the SoundBlaster X3 overall is a great audio experience when connected with the apps. The mic sometimes echoes but is not a huge problem for the user and can be solved but it is full of options and great settings for all sorts of games.

The pre-set options for numerous games, default earphones and the options to change the audio experience is a delight for gaming, a setup in the right direction to enhance the audio gaming experience.  BUY HERE Price £109.99

Review – Google PixelBuds. Earbuds done right. Now on sale in Ireland #PixelBuds #Pixelbuds2 #Google

Google Pixel buds go on sale today in Ireland for  €199 and I have been testing these out for a week, given I own a pretty large collection of TWS earbuds in all shapes and sizes and including strange cases which is fine it is nice to have a variety and to see what is on offer but the latest offering from Google the new pixel buds 2 is something different, That begins with the matte white finish case,I can’t let go of it,it is shaped like an egg and is robust with 2 LED lights and comes with wireless charging and then the buds which look like mints in your ears but so what, they deliver in all respects..

Pairing to your smartphone is simple and there is an app and the app is also a great feature underpinning their functionality giving you choice on how to use them,it is an excellent app with great visuals for those who are not tech savvy on how to control the buds and this I really like and something we should see more of in the future.In fact it was the most enjoyable set up app I have used in a long time. The only thing missing from the app is an EQ setting but to be honest you do not really need it here.

The buds themselves are small and light and fit really well in the ears you will forget they are there after a few minutes but they fit tightly and snug and there is extra tips to suit all ears so it is a matter of finding the right size for you, they do offer some noise isolating too from the get go but you also get adaptive sound and in ear detection too.

Controls are simple swipe gestures which you will need a few minutes to get use to due to the small footprint of the surface just like many other earbuds out there but once you get use to it you will be a pro in no time getting the commands right.. We take a look at this in the video and you have all the controls you need,volume,skip,reverse track,play and pause and manage calls and of course you have google assistant on tap here too. Lost your pixel buds ?? No problem

When it comes to sound these really shine,better than expected,the pixel buds have 12 mm dynamic speakers, I did not check the previous pair out so can’t say if they are better but if you just happen to pick these up you will not be dissapointed, I test many earbuds and these really did deliver  with all my usual testing tracks,You Tube and Netflix and also great on calls  with beamforming microphones that focus on your voice, plus a voice accelerometer to detect the vibrations of your jawbone . No lag latency noticed either… Well balanced is the best word to sum them up.

One thing I also love with these is the option to respond notifications without touching your phone, example I use WhatsApp and Messenger alot and if I get a message I am notified by voice on the earbuds and can listen to it and also respond via the earbuds by voice,this is truly a great feature and saves time.. Also you can get real-time translations right in your ear should you wish say on holidays for example. If you are on the go they come with an IPX4 rating so you are good to go for activities outdoors and so on again helpful and no need to get your phone out.

Should you buy these? Yes if you are in the market for a new pair of earbuds get them, There is too much banging on about Airpods that are overpriced and simply not worth the money and there is better out there for less.

TEN THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE PIXEL BUDS

1

Brilliant sound, all around

 With custom-designed 12 mm dynamic speaker drivers, Google Pixel Buds deliver rich, high-quality audio. A unique hybrid acoustic design combines the best of in-ear and earbud styles. The eartips gently seal the ears to isolate loud outside noises and deliver powerful sound. The spatial vents reduce that plugged-ear feeling, and let through just the right amount of environmental sound so that you can stay aware.
2

Iconic design

 Pixel Buds were designed to sit almost flush with the ears for a low-profile look, so they’re not easily knocked out when putting on a hat or removing a jacket, and you can wear earrings without worry. The charging case is small and pocketable. Soft and smooth, it even doubles up as the ultimate fidget toy. Pixel Buds come in Clearly White.
3

Comfortable and secure fit

 Because everyone’s ears are shaped differently, we scanned thousands of ears to create a design that’s comfortable for as many people as possible. Eartips in three sizes ensure that your earbuds can be customised to best fit your unique ear shape. Each earbud’s stabiliser arc gently tucks into the ear, and together with the soft-fit eartip, helps Pixel Buds to stay put securely and comfortably, even when you’re exercising. 
4

Clear calls, anywhere

 Each earbud has dual beamforming microphones that focus on your voice, and a voice accelerometer to detect the vibrations of your jawbone when you’re talking. These features help you to sound crystal clear on calls, even in noisy and windy conditions, such as when you’re running or cycling.1
5

Adaptive Sound

 Adaptive Sound dynamically and subtly adjusts the volume as you move between quiet and noisy environments, so you don’t have to constantly raise or lower the volume. This comes in handy if you’re moving from the quiet of your home or office to somewhere noisy, such as a city street, a busy café or public transport.2 Adaptive Sound adjusts for sustained noise, rather than one-off background noise, to ensure a non-disruptive listening experience. And if you manually adjust the volume, Adaptive Sound will be temporarily disabled to respect your settings.
6

“Hey Google”

 Talk to the Google Assistant hands-free to start your workout music, continue a podcast, or send a quick reply – just say “Hey Google” or touch and hold either earbud while you speak.3 
7

Real-time translation

  

Get real-time translation right in your ear while using a Pixel or Android 6.0+ phone.4  Say “Hey Google, help me speak Japanese” to start a conversation. Whether you’re finding your way around foreign countries or connecting with multilingual family and friends during the festive season, you can easily understand and be understood.
8

Touch controls

  

Important controls are a touch away, so you don’t have to pull out your phone. Tap your earbud once to play/pause, twice to skip, three times to rewind, or swipe to adjust the volume. Controls are identical on both earbuds, making gestures easy to remember.
 
9

Water- and sweat-resistant

 Google Pixel Buds are water and sweat-resistant, so rainy days and sweaty workouts are no problem.5
10

Battery life and
wireless charging

 Get five hours of listening time on a single charge, and 24 hours with the case. A 10-minute charge in the case gives you two hours of listening time, and an hour in the case will give you a full charge.6 Google Pixel Buds is Qi-certified, so you can easily charge them without reaching for a cable. Just place the case on a compatible wireless charging pad.7

 

Google provided us with the Pixel Buds and we did not get any compensation for our review they are also seeing this review for the first time and had no copy approval.

BUY HERE