Month: December 2020

Twelve South accessories for this Christmas’s hottest gadgets. #TwelveSouth #Apple #Tech

Smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles… Gadgets are now among the most sought after gifts on Christmas wish lists for adults and children alike. Recent research found parents will apparently spend €1000 on tech gifts this year with the PS5 and Nintendo Switch being the most wanted gifts.

If you’re buying a gift for one of those lucky enough to receive a hot new gadget from Santa, or you’re on the ‘nice’ list yourself, Twelve South has a fantastic selection of products to accessorise, charge and protect this year’s most sought after gadget gifts.

AirFly Pro – best for Nintendo Switch and AirPods Max RRP: £49.99

Buy from Amazon  

Available in black and white. REVIEWED HERE

This nifty adaptor allows users to pair their Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite with their favourite pair of Bluetooth headphones for an improved audio experience that doesn’t disturb others. The AirFly Pro connects wireless headphones or earbuds that would otherwise be incompatible with the Switch, for an immersive gaming experience free from wires at home or on-the-go. AirFly Pro also lets users stream audio to two sets of headphones, which works well for local multiplayer games. The AirFly Pro is self-powered too, so it won’t drain the Switch’s battery.

AirFly Pro also allows users to wirelessly connect their brand new AirPods Max to devices typically only accessible via a headphone jack, such as gym equipment and in-flight entertainment. Now users can continue to enjoy the outstanding audio from their AirPods Max completely free from wires wherever they are.

AirSnap Pro – best for AirPods Pro

RRP: £34.99

Buy from Amazon UK

Available in slate blue, cognac, black

House that new precious pair of AirPods Pro in this stylish leather case to protect them from damage and dust. Uses simply place their Airpods Pro and charging case inside, to charge them wirelessly or via lightning cable. The handy S-clip, which can be attached to coats, bags, keys and more, is ideal for anyone who is known for ‘misplacing’ things… There is even a nylon wristlet included to offer another way of keeping Airpods Pro safe. Made from premium top-grain leather and available in three different colours slate blue, cognac and black, the AirSnap Pro is a fashionable way to keep AirPods Pro safe.

BookBook case – best for Kindle Paperwhite and iPad

RRP: £49.99 (Kindle), £89.99 (iPad)

Buy Kindle Paperwhite case from Amazon UK

Buy iPad case from Amazon UK

Kindle has transformed the way we read books, but avid readers can often be heard saying that it can’t be compared to reading a real book… The BookBook for Kindle Paperwhite, gives readers the feel of reading a print book on their digital device. Made with beautiful distressed vintage leather, the case mimics the feel of an ancient book and spine that one might discover in a traditional library while offering useful modern features. The integrated kick-stand gives users a hands-free reading option, ideal for reading over breakfast or lunch. The BookBook case is also available for iPhone, iPad and MacBook models, making a whole library of book themed gadgets possible!

BookBook for iPhone 12 and 12 Pro

RRP: $69.99

Compatible with iPhone 12/12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 mini

Buy from TwelveSouth.com

Give Apple’s latest flagship phones a vintage twist with the BookBook for iPhone 12. Hand crafted from distressed full-grain leather, the BookBook wallet case turns one of the world’s most modern smartphones into a gorgeous ancient book. Keep the new Apple Card as well as other credit and membership cards safe with the wallet section or separate the magnetic shell to keep the phone protected while using it in the gym or docked in a car holder. The case also folds to serve as a viewing stand so users can watch their favourite movies and TV shows while on the move.

BookBook for MacBook

RRP: £95.70

Compatible models: 12 inch Macbook, 13 Inch Pro USB-C / Air Retina, 13 Inch Pro USB-C / Air Retina, 16 Inch MacBook

Available from Amazon UK

BookBook is the iconic MacBook case that makes a statement wherever it goes, the hand-crafted full grain leather cases giving MacBooks the appearance of a vintage book. The vol 2 edition is refined and tailored exclusively for the USB-C MacBooks with a slim silhouette and a strong, crush-resistant spine, with the added bonus of a hidden portfolio pocket to carry printed reports, swatch samples, contracts and so on. Not only does this case protect MacBooks while not in use, it can also be used as an outer shell while in use too, ideal for protection while on transport and in cafes.

SuitCase – best for MacBook

RRP: £79.99

Available from Amazon UK Compatible models: MacBook Pro, MacBook Air

A thoughtful gift for Apple lovers who have a MacBook Air or Macbook Pro. Available in two sizes (13in and 16in), SuitCase boasts many features that are designed to protect precious Macbooks from scratches, bumps, water damage and more. The quilted signature diamond pattern exterior and thermoform shell securely hold and protect the MacBook inside. Inside, there is a small pocket ideal for carrying a small notebook or cable. With a slim design and a recessing leather handle, the SuitCase will fit comfortably into a work bag or backpack.

Users can also work on their MacBook without removing it from the SuitCase, again helping to keep it in pristine condition. Twelve South’s innovative suspension system holds the SuitCase securely against the MacBook without interfering with its display.

It’s ideal for professionals and creatives who enjoy taking their Macbooks for trips to coffee shops and the office or far-flung business trips and holidays.

How to sell old mobile phones online for top cash

If you have an old mobile phone, you might wonder how to sell it if you haven’t done it before. It could also happen a new model has caught your fancy, and you are planning to sell your old handset at the earliest. It makes sense to sell old mobile phones online and get some cash in return, which you can use to fund the new purchase. 

It is true that you cannot expect a lot in return, but you can always expect a decent sum if you have kept your device in good condition. Let’s explore how you can get the maximum cash by selling your old mobile phone.

How does selling of mobile phones work

Selling an old mobile is straightforward. Here are some steps involved in the process.

Researching the best price

When you think of selling old mobile phones, you will have to find a buyer who can offer maximum value. There are several specialist mobile buying companies online form where you can receive a free quote by specifying the condition of your handset. If you are happy with the offer, you can submit your details and address. The buyer would then send you the packaging material in which you will have to ship the handset.

Sending the package

You will receive some important forms that you will have to fill and add to the package. It will contain the details about yourself and the handset. You will then have to ship the package via the post office.

Awaiting the payment

The buying company will inspect the handset after receiving the package. They will tally the condition of the device with what you had advertised. The company will offer you a lower amount in case there are any discrepancies in the condition of the handset. You can reject the offer if you are unhappy with the offer price. The company would then ship the device to you free of cost. It will be business as usual if you are happy with the offer. You can expect the payment within a few days. 

Important considerations before selling the phone

Selling mobile phones is straightforward. Yet, here are a couple of significant things to remember when you get started.

Getting the best price

If you think you have received the best offer, don’t simply stop your pursuit and search for some different sites too. You can get even better rates. The rates offered by various buyers can differ altogether. Significant specs like the inbuilt memory size can affect the sum you get. If you have a 64GB variation of any cell phone, you ought to request more than the one that has 32GB limit. You can likewise search for specialist companies that recycle cell phones and sites that have frequent promotional deals.

Checking the handset

When you sell your mobile phone, it is fundamental to review it thoroughly. It will give you a reasonable thought of how much amount you should request. If your device has damages, you should be clear about it forthright. Concealing anything won’t help as the buyer will, in any case, drop the deal if they come to realize that you had lied about the actual condition of your cell phone.

Resetting the mobile phone

It is crucial to reset the device to prevent your personal information falling into the hands of a stranger. Resetting the information is a basic process whether you are an Android or Apple user. Most companies don’t acknowledge handsets that have data on them. You should back up the information to a safe location before resetting the device. You would then be able to restore the information later in your new handset.

Where to sell old mobile phones online

There are plenty of specialist mobile phone buyers online, like Rapid Phone Buyers. We help you make the selling of mobile phones a seamless process. All you need to get started is to receive a free quote from us by adding all your details accurately. We are swift in our processes and ensure that you get the cash at the earliest. We deal with various brands and models of mobile phones. Please browse through our website to know the different models we deal with. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today to receive a free quote, and we will be more than happy to assist you.

48 + FoodCloud launch #DoGoodWithData – a social movement to turn data into donations to help fight food waste this Christmas

48, Ireland’s first truly digital-only youth mobile network, is partnering with social enterprise FoodCloud this Christmas for the #DoGoodWithData initiative to help raise vital funds and fight food waste over the festive period. Inspired by the incredible force that is Christmas spirit, 48 is calling on members of the public to join the movement by going offline for a day to help raise much needed funds to aid FoodCloud in their quest to reduce food waste this Christmas, New Year and beyond.

So, what’s all this #DoGoodWithData about? 48 has recruited some of its favourite social content creators to make the ultimate (social) sacrifice. Each of them will be shutting down their own social media channels for 24 hours to help drive participation and encourage everyone to #DoGoodWithData this Christmas. The data that is saved by staying offline is turned into a cash donation to FoodCloud. 48 members can make donations not just at Christmas time but right throughout the year, you can donate your unused data at the end of each month. That won’t be hard, considering 48 provides 100GB per month.

Joining the movement couldn’t be easier, and all it takes is just one day. Here’s what you do…

Step 1 – Pledge to go offline for 24 hours, just tag @48Ireland in a post or story on Instagram to let us know that you’re taking part.

Step 2 – Just by taking part, we will donate the equivalent data you don’t use to FoodCloud.

Step 3 –  This is a movement and we need your help, so why not tag some mates and get them involved too! The more taking part, the more money we raise. You can even add the specially designed giphy stickers 48 has created to your post by searching #DoGoodWithData on Instagram.

Shockingly, billions of tonnes of food is wasted globally each year with over 1 million tonnes of food thrown out in Ireland annually with each household wasting on average €700 each every year, peaking at Christmas time. During the holiday season a large portion of wasted food occurs where the equivalent of thousands of festive dinners are thrown away.

FoodCloud works with food businesses nationwide who have volumes of surplus food, such as farms, manufacturers, distributors and retailers to manage these surpluses as efficiently as possible. They then supply the surplus food to their network of over 650 charity partners to ensure minimal food waste and donating it to those in need.

Speaking about the initiative, Eilis Fitzgerald, Head of Marketing Communications at 48 commented; “Our unique plans were created to allow our members the flexibility to use their data how they want to use it. Since we launched our new plans earlier this year, our customers have chosen to donate over €10,000 to FoodCloud, which is incredibly heart-warming to see especially throughout such a tough year. We believe the Christmas spirit is strong within our membership base and are confident that they will be fully behind this initiative to support FoodCloud.”

With membership plans starting from just *€7.99 per month, customers have the choice to do more with data by choosing from a selection of flexi-data features including sharing, swapping, saving and donating data. Our plans, their rules.

*This exclusive offer runs until 1st February 2021

Terms and conditions for #DoGoodWithData: Give up your Instagram feed for 24hrs and tag @48Ireland on your story/post from 15th – 22nd December 2020 or until 20,000 tags reached, whichever occurs first and we’ll donate 50cent per person to FoodCloud. The quantity of donations will be capped at 20,000 the equivalent of €10,000.

Tech Review – The Eufy indoor pan and tilt 2k security camera. #Tech #Security #Eufy

Recently here on techbuzz we have reviewed the Eufy doorbell and their outdoor cameras and now it is time to check out their indoor solution to protect your home, Speaking of indoor security cameras an Irish “security expert” claimed on national there is no need for such cameras in the house which is codswallop if you want to protect your home properly and also they can be used to monitor pets and our older generation as many do today and not only that should intruders get in to your house you can capture images and footage.

The Eufy indoor pan and tilt camera is feature rich and most importantly your data is kept safe which is a priority of the company and after my testing it is an excellent indoor camera to have which sports AI detection pet detection and two way communication all in 2K, this is a wired camera and will need a wall socket for power and it is not a huge obstructive camera to have in the home, check out the full video walkthrough below for all the details and of course the footage… Also a side note this only works on  2.5ghz Wi-Fi

Features

    • Relevant Recordings

: The on-device AI determines whether a human or pet is present and only records when an event of interest occurs.

    • The Key is in the Detail

: View every event in up to 2K clarity (1080P while using HomeKit) so you see exactly what is happening inside your home.

    • Smart Integration

: Connect your Indoor Cam to Apple HomeKit, the Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa for complete control over your surveillance.(HomeKit available via update. When opening HomeKit, users must add the device in the eufy Security app and then complete the activation process.)

    • Follows the Action

: When motion is detected the camera automatically tracks and follows the moving object. Pan the lens 360° horizontally or tilt it 96° vertically to get a clear view of the whole room.

    • Communicate From Your Camera

: Speak in real-time to anyone who passes via the camera’s built-in two-way audio.

BUY HERE 

Christmas Gaming with Sony Xperia : Call of Duty Points and Dual Shock Controller with Xperia 5 II. #Gaming #Tech #Sony

Sony has the perfect deal for all gaming fans interested in gifting themselves or a friend this Christmas. The offer, currently available from Vodafone and O2’s online channels as well as Sony’s eStore, gifts customers over 18,000 Call of Duty mobile CP points, along with a Sony PlayStation DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller and mobile mount redeemable with every purchase of the Xperia 5 II.

Right up until Christmas Day* (while stocks last), anyone buying the Sony Xperia 5 II will bag this free game pack, helping them to make their mark on the Call of Duty mobile league tables.

The Sony Xperia 5 II, which retails at £799 and comes in a compact design, has a whole host of amazing features including real time AF for humans and animals, 6.1” 21:9 CinemaWide display and controls inspired by Alpha cameras. The smartphone’s gaming capabilities set it apart with smooth, blur free gameplay, with the display updating the image 240 times per second to ensure an exhilarating experience for all mobile gamers.

To claim the offer all you need to do is: Enter your IMEI number and upload your proof of purchase then Go to www.xperiarewards.co.uk/codmobileoffer

The promotion runs from 00:00:01 03/12/2020 until 23:59:59 on 23/12/20 at Vodafone UK, 24/12/20 at Vodafone Ireland and 25/12/20 at O2 or while stocks last and must be redeemed by 23:59:59 31/01/21. Terms and conditions apply.

New FUZE Player – 20+ Games Available for Switch with More on the Way. #Gaming

FUZE4 Nintendo Switch have announced that their FUZE Player will be launching in the Nintendo eShop on 28th December 2020. Over the last year, hundreds of games have been written using FUZE4 Nintendo Switch. The FUZE Showcase Gallery was created to highlight the best submissions.  However as many of these are so good, FUZE decided it was best to make them available beyond the FUZE community for other Switch users to enjoy.

With FUZE Player for Nintendo Switch you can:

: Play the built-in games

: Download lots more for free

: View the code to see how they were made

: Join the FUZE Arena community where you can submit you own games and apps made with FUZE4 Nintendo Switch

The initial release includes more than 20 games developed by FUZE and the FUZE Arena Community using the coding app FUZE4 Nintendo Switch. Included games:

  • Super Mega Arena Blaster● Fast Food Dizzy for FUZE ● Crazy 3D Shooter ● Vecroids ● Ninja Scroll ● Know Your Plaice!
    ●     FUZE Bounce ● Asteroid Navigator ● Genial Chess ● Patience Solitaire ● Super Laser Blast ● Motorway Memory ● Missiles
  • No Escape from Red Hell● Vi-Race ● AnimeUltraHyperJump ● Da Bean ● Shapes Mini Game ● Cube Puzzle Toy ● Skatey Cat
  • Parasail Pat● FUZE Fit Adventure 2

Check out the FUZE Player trailer here

Available for just £0.89 / $0.99 / €0.99, the FUZE Player will be available from 28th December 2020.

Irish Agency Creates AI Christmas Cards Painted by Van Gogh & Written by William Butler Yeats. #AI #Christmas2020

Irish creative agency, Connector by Granite, has used AI to bring back Van Gogh and William Butler Yeats to create their Christmas cards this year. The company trained neural networks to recognise patterns in the source data from Van Gogh’s starry night and transpose it to iconic Dublin Christmas scenes. The project also tasked the AI with learning all poems by Irish poet, William Butler Yeats, to produce a special new poem to lift spirits in celebration of Christmas.

Goodbye 2020,

Long live the Future.

The air grew still, and then

A murmurous laugh arose;

A starlight glimmered through,

A misty and hazy fire.

Together with kindred spirits

Every soul should seek,

For music that can burn

And love is all around

But no, farewell;

A starlight glimmering through, a misty and hazy fire.

– William Butler Yeats

 

According to Ivan Adriel, Creative Strategy Director: “Connector has always been an agency with creativity in our DNA and this year we were acquired by Granite Digital – Ireland’s biggest digital agency.  We wanted to merge the power of technology and creativity to show that AI can open new realms of creative possibility, in contrast to dystopic headlines heralding technology as the death of creativity.”

In an effort to avoid waste, the company is not posting cards this year but is sending them to clients by email.

Ergotron supports video gamers with ergonomic products. #Ergotron #Gaming #Tech

Ergotron, a global company focused on improving how people work, learn, play and care for others, has today announced the release of a complete range of ergonomic supports for video-game enthusiasts to improve their comfort, concentration and immersion when gaming. As the choice and design of screens continues to grow, gamers now must look into optimising the ergonomics of their workstations if they want to stay focused for longer and improve their performance while avoiding injury and pain.

 

There are an estimated staggering 2.7 billion gamers across the globe. Although boys aged under 18 make up 17% of all gamers, the average age for gamers is 34 years old. Alongside this higher average age is a heightened risk of the development of diseases commonly found among sedentary computer users. As a result, it is vitally important to integrate ergonomic equipment to help combat physiological risks, like musculoskeletal disorders and obesity, linked to physical inactivity and poor playing posture, while also improving player comfort and efficiency.

 

“With the English market estimated at £3.86 billion in 2019, the gaming market has experienced sustained and continuous growth for many years. This is particularly due to technological developments and the continued activity of manufacturers and publishers to meet ever-growing demand,” says Richard Guy, Country Sales Manager UK & Ireland at Ergotron. “As a key player in workstation ergonomics, we feel a responsibility to promote awareness among the approximately 32.4 million British gamers of the potential incurred physiological risks, and offer them solutions to look after their health.”

 

Neo-Flex stand

 

The Neo-Flex stand is the perfect accessory for all gamers with a laptop. Its 15.6cm height adjustment allows the user to position the screen at the right height to keep the head upright and prevent neck pain during long gaming sessions. Furthermore, the Neo-Flex support is the most ergonomic solution on the market, offering a 25° inclination, as well as a 360° left-right orientation thanks to casters located under the base.

 

HX range

 

The HX arm range can support one to three screens for a unique experience. Recognised by the industry as the flagship of ergonomic supports, the HX single-screen arm can support the majority of new generation curved screens up in many cases up to 49ins wide (or 19.1kg), which are particularly popular in the gaming industry.

 

The single-screen HX solution offers a large number of settings to ensure maximum ergonomic support for the most demanding gamers. Equipped with a height adjustment of 29.2cm, an inclination of 75°, a left-right pan of 180° or the portrait/landscape function, the HX range is distinguished by its irreproachable manufacture quality and a 10-year warranty.

 

Equipped with the optional tri-screen bar, the HX arm can attach up to three 24-inch screens for an unforgettable gaming experience. Two joints allow you to perfectly adjust the viewing angle of each of the three screens for total immersion. Whether the user is passionate about adventure, simulation or first-person shooter games, the HX range will provide unmatched comfort for maximum enjoyment and performance.

 

A flexible experience

 

Ergotron also offers wall mounts for large screens that are uniquely robust and technical. Some offer a screen-height adjustment of more than 50cm effortlessly and without the need for extra tools. The most seasoned gamers will appreciate keeping the screen at the correct height at all times, whether they are playing seated or standing.
All technical product information is available on the website: www.ergotron.com. A configurator, accessible from the homepage, provides access to all compatible products from a screen reference.

Amazon and Sky team up to bring their best entertainment together in time for Christmas. #TV #Sky #Amazon

Sky and Amazon announced a new long-term partnership that will see Prime Video launch on Sky and NOW TV devices across Europe from today, while the NOW TV and Sky Ticket apps will also come to Fire TV devices. The partnership means customers in the UK, Ireland, Austria, Germany and Italy will be able to watch all the most talked-about and award-winning TV series, films and sport from Sky and Prime Video in one place in time for Christmas.

For the first time UK customers will be able to watch every live Premier League fixture on Sky Sports, Prime Video and BT Sport without switching devices. Plus, with new Amazon Original series like survival drama series The Wilds and The Grand Tour: A Massive Hunt launching in December, this deal opens up new depths of entertainment for Sky and NOW TV customers, all in one place. And in time for Christmas, movie fans will have access to a wide range of new releases and family favourites across Prime Video including Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, Uncle Frank and I’m Your Woman for the ultimate movie marathon.

“We’re pleased to be bringing our Prime Video app to Sky Q and NOW TV devices in time for the holidays,” said Jay Marine, Vice President, Prime Video Worldwide. “With winter settling in, and our new binge-watch obsession The Wilds about to launch, it’s a perfect time for Sky customers to catch up on our award-winning Prime Video TV shows, movies, and live sport, including Prime Video’s exclusive live broadcasts of over 20 English Premier League games this December. Plus, with NOW TV launching on Fire TV – customers in the UK have never had it better when it comes to choosing what to watch however they are watching.”

Stephen van Rooyen, EVP & CEO UK & Europe, Sky said: “Sky Q customers are receiving an early Christmas present on their boxes this year in the form of Amazon Prime Video. Anyone who needs to get stuck into something new after The Undoing on Sky Atlantic will now be able to flip right over to The Boys on Prime Video, without ever leaving Sky Q. Amazon Prime Video TV shows, movies and more will sit alongside Sky Originals and Netflix, as well as apps like Disney+, BBC iPlayer, Fiit and much more. This will make it even easier for you to access everything you love, in one place. I’m delighted that this deal will give even more people access to our brilliant NOW TV and Sky Ticket apps through Amazon Fire TV devices and Fire Edition TVs.”

In the UK, Italy and Ireland the Prime Video app will launch on NOW TV devices, as well as Sky Ticket devices in Germany, on 14th December. The NOW TV app will be rolling out to select Fire TV devices and Fire TV Edition smart TVs to customers in the UK also on 14th December and in, Italy, Ireland, Austria and Switzerland through early 2021 with Sky Ticket also rolling out on Fire TV devices and Fire TV Edition smart TVs in Germany through the first part of 2021.

It’s easy to watch Prime Video on Sky Q

Sky Q customers will be able to find Prime Video in the Apps section or by saying “Launch Prime Video” into their voice remote to pair their Sky Q box with their existing Prime membership. Must-watch Amazon Originals will be featured on the Q Home page alongside the best from Sky, Netflix and Disney+, making it easier than ever to choose what to watch. And customers can expect even more Prime Video integration, such as voice search for TV series, movies and more, in 2021. Sky customers who are not yet Prime Video customers can sign up via the Amazon Prime Video app, to enjoy a 30-day free trial.

NOW TV on Amazon Fire TV Devices in the UK

The NOW TV app will be available on Fire TV devices from December- with roll-out beginning on Fire TV Stick, Fire TV Stick Lite and Fire TV Stick 4K from 14th December. On Fire TV devices, finding the NOW TV app is easy, NOW TV customers will be able to download the app and log in to access Original shows on Sky Atlantic, the biggest fixtures on Sky Sports and family favourites on Sky Cinema. Fire TV customers who are not yet NOW TV customers can sign up to NOW TV passes, including Sky Cinema, Entertainment and Sky Sports by visiting nowtv.com/amazon.

Launch Summary

Service Launching on… Where? When?
Prime Video Sky Q UK, Ireland, Italy, Germany 14th December 2020
  Sky Ticket devices Germany 14th December 2020
  NOW TV devices UK, Ireland, Italy 14th December 2020
  Sky X Austria 14th December 2020
NOW TV Fire TV Stick Lite (1st Gen)

Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen)

Fire TV Stick (2nd Gen)

Fire TV Stick 4K

Fire TV Edition – JVC Smart HD/FHD

 UK 14th December 2020
Other Fire TV Devices UK, Ireland, Germany*, Italy Early 2021

*Sky Ticket app as opposed to NOW TV app