GSMA, Counterpoint, realme, and Qualcomm announce that they will hold a 5G Summit on 3rd June. The topic of the summit is “Making 5G Global: Accessibility for All.” Leaders from these companies or organisations will share their views on the global 5G development and opportunities from different perspectives.
Kalvin Bahia, Principal Economist, GSMA Intelligence
“5G represents an opportunity to accelerate economic growth in a post-pandemic world.”
Peter Richardson, VP & Co-founder, Counterpoint Research
“5G is a foundational technology that will fundamentally change how people live, learn and work.”
Madhav Sheth, VP of realme, CEO of realme India and Europe
“We believe 5G will be the biggest driver accelerating smart living for young people across the globe.”
Johnny Chen, Brand Director of realme
“Our phones will allow young people to express themselves in ways that go beyond physical spaces.”
Rajen Vagadia, VP and President, Qualcomm India & SAARC
“Qualcomm innovations are driven by enriched consumer experiences. The Snapdragon 778G 5G is a milestone platform that broadens smartphone possibilities.” Attendees will talk about “Making 5G Global: Accessibility for All” from different perspectives.
GSMA will share the opinions on comparing 5G growth expectations across emerging markets, barriers to 5G mobile internet adoption, and how it can boost growth in a post-pandemic world.
Counterpoint will focus on how 5G is changing the way people use technology, the trend of 5G spreading to lower price tiers, some numbers indicating key smartphone players in 5G, and the hot specs in the smartphone in 5G development.
realme will share some points on their role in the 5G era, why they believe 5G will become the most significant driver accelerating smart living for young people across the globe, surveys on young users’ increased demand with 5G, and some details around its upcoming product lines – broad range from lower tiers through to premium.
Qualcomm will talk about how it works together with smartphone makers to ensure the best performance, focusing on specific applications that are important in providing the whole 5G experience.
The summit livestream will start at 10:00AM GMT+1, 3rd June, you can watch the livestream on GSMA livestream channel or realme official social media channels.
Detection Technology, a global leader in X-ray detector solutions, today unveiled the Aurora XS to address the cost efficiency and reliability requirements of the urban security screening market. The Aurora XS adapts to versatile X-ray imaging systems, which secure safety on train and metro stations, and in public buildings and event venues, for example. The Aurora XS is available as a complete subsystem that includes detectors, a control unit, and software libraries for rapid time-to-market of cost-effective X-ray systems.
“Almost everything is extra small in the Aurora XS, the newcomer to our Aurora product family. The abbreviation XS in the name stands for small bill of materials, small mechanics, small weight, small pixel size, small carbon footprint, and last but not least a smaller price, which is the most important enabler for succeeding in this price-driven segment. With the Aurora XS, small efforts and less risk-taking are required to introduce X-ray systems to entry-level non-aviation security systems that are known for their small form factors,” summarizes Jyrki Still, CTO at Detection Technology.
“What is not small in the Aurora XS is innovativeness and reliability. The Aurora XS is built on a novel detector platform that is boosted by unique algorithms and an application-optimized, single-chip ASIC. These smart features make reliable dual-energy imaging with a single-layer sensor possible. In our view, we are the first in the industry to introduce such a simplified detector structure to the security market. This is a good example of our aim to simplify hardware by rethinking detector designs.”
Aurora XS
The Aurora XS has a durable structure with reliable mechanical and electrical interfaces, and a robust sensor for stringent radiation hardness requirements, and harsh imaging conditions such as humidity, mechanical stress, and temperature changes. With its robustness and simplified structure, the Aurora XS also enhances more environmental sound screening than conventional detector solutions in the segment. Furthermore, it supports safe and easy installation and maintenance.
The Aurora XS provides imaging performance that meets industry regulations and responds to urban security requirements, even at low X-ray flux. The low-noise Aurora XS features a fully digitalized data path. It is equipped with an application-optimized, single-chip ASIC, which effectively mitigates the impact of external electromagnetic interferences. The Aurora XS has a wide sensitivity range from 0.25 pF to 31.75 pF with 127 controllable gain-setting steps, which ensure adaptability for the entire range of the urban X-ray screening applications.
“The Aurora XS completes our offering to the security segment, as now our Aurora solutions cover all imaging needs from entry- to high-tier applications. The original Aurora detector series was introduced for mid-tier, and the Aurora CT for high-tier imaging, and now we have a perfect match for the entry level as well.”
Engineering samples of the Aurora XS are available immediately. Shipments in volumes will be available starting the second half of 2021.
Nokia today announced the launch of new additions to its industry-leading AirScale small cells portfolio for premium indoor and outdoor 5G coverage. Nokia’s new products include enhanced hardware and support the majority of frequency bands, including requirements for C-Band spectrum in the U.S.
Nokia’s new AirScale micro Remote Radio Heads (mRRH) deliver premium outdoor 5G coverage, enhancing both capacity and coverage in dense urban environments. Nokia’s mRRHs allow operators to cost-effectively densify their networks, especially where the deployment of a macro cell would not be appropriate. Micro RRH have small footprints and offer increased deployment options, as well as lower power consumption and so lower operational cost. In addition to the new U.S. C-Band (n77) product, Nokia’s enhanced mRRH portfolio also offers even broader mid-band capabilities with a new n79 product.
Nokia also introduces its new range of AirScale indoor Radio (ASiR) solutions, including a new ASiR-pRRH (pico Remote Radio Head) supporting U.S. C-Band spectrum requirements and a new triple-band pRRH – the first integrated 4G/5G pRRH. Nokia has also released a new Smart HUB, which supports even greater throughput capacity for 5G and an associated Hybrid Fiber Converter that enables the use of hybrid fibers for interconnection to existing ASiR-pRRH.
Nokia has also announced the availability of its latest millimeter wave (mmWave) radio product line-up, ideal for extreme capacity 5G connectivity for stadiums, airports or pedestrianised areas. These compact products support a wide range of deployment options to ease installation considerations in busy locations. Nokia’s mmWave portfolio supports all spectrum bands including 24/26 GHz, 28 GHz and 39 GHz.
Nokia recently launched the Nokia Smart Node, a compact femtocell solution delivering high-quality 4G and 5G indoor mobile coverage for residential and small-medium enterprise use. The unique, ‘plug and play’ modular design can be readily deployed in any environment to support evolving consumer applications. It is future-proof, supporting 4G now and 5G as and when required.
Rémy Pascal, Principal Analyst, Omdia commented: “Nokia has maintained its position as one of the top small cell manufacturers for five consecutive years according to our research. This new portfolio of AirScale indoor and outdoor solutions should enhance their standing as an industry-leader particularly given their support for all key frequency band requirements including the C-Band.”
Mark Atkinson, SVP, Radio Access Networks PLM at Nokia: “We are delighted to announce the launch of our new range of small cells products, which further strengthens our award-winning and industry-leading portfolio. The portfolio is bolstered by the inclusion of the latest ReefShark chipsets and support for all frequency ranges including the C-Band. I look forward to supporting our customers’ requirements for premium coverage and capacity both indoors and outdoors.”
With us all looking ahead for 2021 travel inspiration once lockdown measures have lifted; the top lesser-known locations across Ireland show we have unparalleled levels of beauty on our shores, Snapped on the Xperia 5 II; the handset comes with a professional-quality triple lens camera; complete with the Photography Pro feature which brings Alpha technology to the palm of your hand for fast and accurate AF/AE – allowing us all the opportunity to take incredible imagery from our everyday devices
From luscious green hills to quaint towns with colourful vibrance, Ireland is rich in stunning destinations. It’s no surprise then that with the restrictions on international travel, there was a significant rise in people staycationing; as well as an increase in search requests for places that were off the beaten track throughout 2020.
Sony Mobile and Lonely Planet have paired up to publish a photo series revealing the top less-frequented destinations in Ireland for 2021 so travellers can escape the mundane of lockdown once measures have been lifted and reignite the sense of wonder and discovery – including the pristine sandy shores of Lackan Sands and the sub-tropical Garnish Island, home to exotic plants and foliage from around the world.
Too often, these lesser-known tourist spots are overlooked with staycationers opting for the bigger cities to satisfy their wanderlust; they try to find places that are off the beaten track rather than opting for the bigger tourist spots, such as Dublin. With 2021 now underway, this photo series gives inspiration for the future to encourage us to explore our own shores; along with photography you can easily recreate yourselves.
Mizen Head Cliffs, Co. Cork, Ireland
Mizen Head Cliffs, Co. Cork, Ireland
Top lesser-known post-lockdown destinations from around Ireland
Mizen Head Cliffs, Co. Cork, Ireland (above)
Lackan Strand, Co Mayo, Ireland
Sky Garden, Russagh, Co. Cork, Ireland
Birr Castle, Co Offaly, Ireland
Garnish Island, Bantry Bay, Ireland
Slieve Bloom Mountains, Co Laois, Ireland
Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) Cliffs, Co Donegal
Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland
Tom Hall from Lonely Planet, said: “The pandemic caused us all to pause and re-evaluate how we travel, and now is the perfect time to update that bucket list with some of these under-the-radar places you might have overlooked in the past.”
Offered in Black, Xperia 5 II is available from retailers across Ireland.
Twelve South, a leading designer of Apple accessories, today introduces the HoverBar Duo, an adjustable iPad stand that frees a user’s hands so they can do more and create more. Height adjustable with the ability to hold an iPad in multiple positions and angles, the HoverBar Duo includes a weighted desktop stand as well as a desk/shelf clamp to suit every iPad setup. The HoverBar is available now for £79.99 from Amazon.co.uk and Apple.
The HoverBar Duo is a useful stand that’s ideal for both personal and business use. Lifting the iPad camera up to eye level, users can have more natural conversations, showing their best side, whether they’re on a video call with work colleagues or face timing family and friends. The HoverBar Duo’s included iPad clip rotates 360-degrees enabling users to set their iPad or iPhone horizontally or vertically to ensure it captures their best possible angle.
Perfect for use at a desk, in the kitchen or workshop, the HoverBar Duo is incredibly versatile. Creatives can make use of its flexible arm stand to securely hold an iPad low to the desk, enabling them to capture hands drawing or crafting. Musicians could set the stand on a table for a virtual guitar lesson or on the floor to record the latest TikTok dance moves. The HoverBar Duo could even be clamped on a workbench to make ‘how to’ videos or positioned under a cabinet, allowing users to follow recipes while cooking rather than propping their iPad up against the olive oil. Portable, sturdy and stable, there are a long list of clever ways to use the HoverBar Duo.
hoverbar duo in use
overbar duo kitchen
The sleek HoverBar Duo puts an iPad into a comfortable viewing position, ideal for those who want to watch the latest Netflix series in bed or while waiting for dinner to cook. The adjustability of the HoverBar Duo also means that users could position their iPad right next to their iMac, external monitor or MacBook to serve as a second, or even third display. Even better, add a wireless keyboard and mouse to create a super comfortable mini desktop setup. When it’s time to recharge, users can do it without removing it from the HoverBar Duo.
The HoverBar Duo is available now for £79.99 from Amazon.co.uk and Apple.
Reinforcing its mission to optimize human performance through improved sleep, acclaimed Finnish tech innovator QuietOn™ today announced the launch of QuietOn 3, the world’s smallest active noise cancelling earbud that significantly reduces low-frequency noise to deliver Nordic calm and quietude regardless of one’s sleeping environment.
The new QuietOn 3 earbuds are the first earbuds small enough to fit entirely inside the ear, making them the only active noise cancelling (ANC) sleep solution that is comfortable enough for everyone, including side sleepers. The superior comfort and pure Nordic quietude lets users enjoy a good night’s sleep for better overall health and a readiness to tackle each day with a clear, rested mind.
According to QuietOn CEO Jussi Lemiläinen, QuietOn 3 debuts at an ideal time – as consumer interest in the benefits of sleep health is at an all-time high, thanks to better sleep education and new tracking devices.
“Everything that we want in life – professional success, personal well-being, physiological health – begins with a good night’s sleep. And a good night’s sleep begins with quietude,” Lemiläinen said. “QuietOn 3 leverages breakthrough ANC technology to create a better environment for sleep, effectively eliminating the low-frequency noises that so often disrupt our sleep.”
Some of the most common noises that interrupt sleep are low-frequency sounds from heating systems, appliances, traffic, airplanes, snoring and noisy neighbors. QuietOn 3’s ANC technology eliminates ambient sound by automatically generating opposite waveforms to nullify the low frequencies, resulting in a much quieter and more peaceful environment for sleep.
“While white noise machines and other noise-masking devices help with lulling one to sleep, the addition of a new noise to overpower background noises can actually prevent or disrupt deep sleep,” continued Lemiläinen. “QuietOn 3 and its breakthrough ANC technology works to eliminate noise to create a sense of calm and quietude that increases both quantity and quality of one’s sleep.”
Additionally, by significantly reducing the earbud’s dimensions, QuietOn succeeded in making the impossible possible – creating the first ANC earbud that fits entirely in the ear, with zero protrusion. Engineering QuietOn 3 to be even smaller than previous versions was a challenge, but the company exceeded expectations by reducing the physical size while increasing battery life.
The size reduction can be traced to QuietOn 3’s sleep-focused design, which eliminates the need for transmitters, receivers and other components typically found in music earbuds. The lack of these audio-specific components also enables operation with zero electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation.
To ensure maximum comfort, each pair of QuietOn 3 comes with four sizes of eartips. With no wireless setup or connectivity required, and automatic charging in the included case, QuietOn 3 earbuds are always ready to pop in and provide more restful sleep.
The QuietOn 3 earbuds charge in the included carrying case, which contains its own battery to guarantee a full-charge at all times. A single charge provides 28 hours of use, so the earbuds have the power to last all day, or for several nights.
QuiteON 3 techbuzzireland
“The introduction of new technologies like circadian-based lighting and sleep trackers underscore that high-quality sleep is now a central focus of people’s efforts to improve their general health and well being,” Lemiläinen added. “With QuietOn 3, we look forward to joining this movement by demonstrating the critical importance of quietude to sleep performance and, ultimately, overall wellbeing and human performance.”
From the rapid growth in connected devices to the shift to ecommerce, organisations are struggling to manage the explosion in the growth of data. Edge computing is the answer to managing this data deluge and gaining business benefits from it. Many technology leaders in Ireland know it is no longer a nice to have, it is essential for businesses looking to innovate with real-time insights in a digital-first era. What’s more, as 5G connectivity comes on stream, those who embrace data at the Edge will reap the rewards on the road to recovery.
There is no doubt that the powerful convergence of cloud, AI and edge technologies will help organisations across Ireland to transform at speed. Paving the way for intelligent cities, homes and real-time services, turbocharged data management and processing power at the edge will drive businesses’ ability to consume more data. There is much to be gained for society as a whole, as well as the businesses that serve them when it comes to ramping up infrastructure at the edge – to seize today’s opportunities and prepare for tomorrow’s world.
As our lives become increasingly connected there is more data to be processed than ever. We’re no longer talking about gigabytes or even terabytes–the new unit of scale is the Zettabyte, equivalent to a billion terabytes. Our growing reliance on this data makes the evolution of core cloud technologies so important. Keeping up and staying ahead of the curve as these demands increase is already business critical – and requires an infrastructural step-up.
Jason Ward, Vice-President and Managing Director, Dell Technologies Ireland
The “5G Future SME Report”, by Amárach Research, highlights that the failure to invest in Ireland’s 5G network over the rest of the decade could see a significant loss of €12.6 billion in GDP by 2030. With 64% of Irish SMEs also believing effective 5G investment will be critical to Ireland’s economic recovery, it is clear that setting the groundwork now will serve businesses well as they look to grow over the coming months.
To feel the benefits of connected devices that provide real-time AI-powered insights, whether it’s in our factories, cars or shops, we need to embrace high performance computing. Then we can truly benefit from 5G speeds. This means firing-up the edge – and putting automation in the hotseat. The recent launch of our PowerEdge Server provides a window into the future, revealing how the Zettabyte era will be managed – with automation, security and sustainability at its core. Only with turbocharged compute can the edge meet today and tomorrow’s challenges.
Overcoming data challenges with Automated Edge computing
In 2019, 53% of global data and analytics technology decision makers say they have implemented some form of AI or are in the process of doing so. By harnessing data for key insights, it enables them to respond rapidly to business opportunities, while maximising productivity. As these workloads grow there will be more demand on compute, speed and agility.
Today’s increasingly complex data landscape means many Irish organisations struggle to manage these workloads, applications, and data securely from edge to hybrid cloud. According to Gartner, 75 % of enterprise data will be processed outside a traditional centralised data center or cloud by 2025. So it’s imperative that these issues are addressed swiftly with modernised platforms that support their data-driven goals.
Ultimately, businesses must grow and evolve IT infrastructure to meet these challenges while keeping the lights on. In Ireland, our teams are at the forefront of these challenges. Thanks to their expertise and the work being undertaken in the 5G Edge Labs of Cork and Limerick, we are using the power of 5G and Edge Computing to bring next generation products and services to life .
However, the pandemic threw additional challenges into the mix, fast-tracking our hybrid working futures. It accelerated our reliance on hybrid cloud technologies, while spotlighting the need for greater efficiencies and security.
Cyber risks are obviously something front of mind for everyone right now and over the past year we’ve been reminding customers to increase their cyber security as workforces operated in a remote environment. Our latest Global Data Protection Index has shown that 82% of organisations globally have suffered from a disruptive event. Building proactive resilience and embedding trust into their digital transformation plans with security by design is key. This will help secure interactions, providing the ability to anticipate potential threats.
These challenges can be met with edge solutions that combine the compute power, to combat intense workloads at speed, with inbuilt automation to enhance productivity and seamless management. Apart from keeping businesses in Ireland competitive, getting to grips with the Edge will crucially enhance the sustainability of their data management too.
Edge tech
Sustainability is key to a future-proof edge
When we process data at the Edge, we are actually reducing a lot of power consumption, which is ultimately kinder to the environment – it also requires a smaller cooling footprint. The more we evolve edge computing to meet the needs of businesses and generate better outcomes, the more we accelerate inevitable adoption. The quicker businesses embrace the Edge, the quicker we can minimise resource heavy data transfers between devices and data centers. Dell is committed to, reducing the energy intensity of its entire product portfolio by 80% come 2030 – and by 2020 had already achieved a 69.9% reduction. Edge solutions are core part of this commitment.
What’s more, as Edge Computing lays the groundwork for 5G connectivity, it forms the backbone of a core technology set to help bridge digital divides – connecting those in more remote areas. Paving the way for 5G means preparing for a world in which everyone has access to remote learning, ehealthcare and digital public services. Understanding the bigger picture and human impact from today’s infrastructural decisions should empower businesses as they embark on their digital transformation journey.
Seizing future opportunities from the edge
As we look to the future, Edge technology can help to shape our digital future, driving innovation for business and helping to address societal challenges we face. It is imperative that amid today’s many challenges and opportunities, businesses and organisations in Ireland build their foundations with a long-term view, taking advantage of the immense compute power. There really is no other way to stay on top of the complexities of data-driven future
Managing a non-profit organisation is one of the most rewarding things that anyone can think of. It comes as no surprise that those who are part of non-profit organisations, regardless of the field or sector, are truly working towards making this world a better place. As a non-profit manager, you should often step back and take pride in what you do; you know that you are making a difference even if you are still at the beginning stages. All the activities that go on inside the organisation are intended to improve it, making the organisation even more influential. In a non-profit organisation, you have the chance to treat people and be treated as a person and not just a figure or a number as opposed to the corporate world. The rewards of managing a non-profit are endless. However, it is a challenging job that never gets easier. We know that you may wonder if the tiny milestones are worth all the challenges that come your way at times, and this is why we are here to tell you how managing a non-profit can be as easy as it is rewarding.
Review Your Policies
Any non-profit organisation’s board must cover all the fundamental policies in the aspect of good management and governance. New policies should also be established regularly whenever new issues or topics of interest arise. The key to effective management is to ensure that the policies cover all issues, are reviewed frequently, and are updated whenever necessary. Having a “Code of Conduct and Professional Ethics” policy is a must; it is one of the basic management policies that organisations should have. This policy serves as a guide for the organisation’s ethical and moral principles, behaviours, and management decisions. A “Conflict of Interest” policy is also one of the most basic and important non-profit policies. This policy prohibits that any party can benefit personally from the organisation. Parties must announce the conflict and abstain from voting on anything that has to do with it. A “Whistleblower” policy that allows employees to point out inefficient accounting or financial practices without being at risk of retaliation is another fundamental policy. A policy that outlines document destruction and retention practices is also needed. You should refer to IRS Form 990 to find out the standards of this policy. Your policy should generally state when and how documents should be destroyed, which documents should be kept, and how long they should be kept.
Incorporate Technology
Technology and innovation have undoubtedly made various jobs much easier. As a non-profit manager who has plenty to take care of, you should make use of novel software, click here to find out how it can make your job easier and efficiently manage your resources. Using board management software, board directors and vital members of the organisation will be able to share files and communicate effortlessly, easily, and securely. This saves time, diminishes miscommunication, and decreases cyber-security threats. You will ensure that all your data is present on one platform and is available whenever you need it, wherever you are.
Be Transparent
Non-profit organisations are all about the public good and trust. Having people’s trust is one of the most important aspects of a successful non-profit organisation. This can be made possible by being totally transparent with the public and holding yourself accountable for your actions. You should always keep in mind that negative feedback spreads faster than positive. If one donor loses their trust or speaks up about a negative experience, your non-profit organisation will be quick to lose its reputation. As a result, your organisation’s finances will be severely hindered as well. Having clear policies and disclosing copies of the organisation’s tax-exempt status application, the most recent tax annual returns, and similar documents can help earn the trust of the public. You should also consider answering the optional questions at the end of IRS Form 990. These questions typically revolve around executive compensation, conflict of interest, document retention policies, and other topics of importance. Being transparent with your policies can show the public that your management practices are well.
Fundraising and Financing
Having a finance committee for your non-profit can help you manage your organisation better. This committee should be able to work on a budget and follow the financial policies. You should regularly follow up with and oversee the committee. It is great to have access to financial experts that the board can consult whenever needed.
Managing a non-profit organisation is one of the most rewarding jobs you can find. There is nothing that compares to knowing that you are making a difference as you set out for work each morning. Though, like everything else, being a non-profit manager has its challenges. Hopefully, these tips can help make your job easier.
More than 4 in every 10 Irish businesses are still struggling with elements of GDPR in their day-to-day operations three years after its introduction. This is one of the primary findings of the latest nationwide survey from the Association of Compliance Officers in Ireland (ACOI). The survey of over 300 organisations, answered by ACOI members with responsibility for compliance in financial organisations throughout the country, was released in tandem with the third anniversary of the introduction of the EU wide regulatory system for data control and privacy. The survey found that while two thirds of organisations are fully or almost fully compliant, another third of firms have yet to reach that level.
Speaking of the findings, Michael Kavanagh, CEO of ACOI, commented,
“It’s encouraging to find that everything is ‘running smoothly’ for 54% of businesses in their GDPR operations and control. This is certainly something to be lauded, as implementing the code has proved a complex and often time-consuming task for many. Which is why it’s concerning, but perhaps unsurprising, to find the remaining organisations that participated in our survey (46%) are still struggling, despite being three years into the regulations. This raises questions around whether or not businesses feel they have enough support in this area? And more importantly, is there more that can be done to help companies struggling in this regard?”
GDPR regulation requires businesses to protect the personal data and privacy of EU citizens for transactions occurring within EU member states.
Mr. Kavanagh commented,
“The survey reveals that a quarter of businesses are “fully compliant” with the regulations. This means they have successfully implemented all the measures required and that they have limited their exposure to regulatory penalties. A further 42%, the majority of respondents, were “almost fully compliant”, meaning they still have elements to work on in terms of their exposure to penalty. This could be in an area of accountability and governance they have overlooked, or it could be to do with privacy rights, or data security. 31% agreed that they were “somewhat compliant”, but that gaps remained.
To any companies that may overlook their compliance in this critical area of business, or indeed who may have let their systems lapse owing to pressures in other areas of operations, we would advise them to rectify the issues as soon as possible, because EU regulatory bodies have, and will inflict heavy penalties on companies that do not adhere to the required GPDR standards.”
COVID & GDPR
The ACOI survey also found that almost 4 in 10 businesses believe GPDR would make it very difficult for businesses to collect and collate employee health and vaccination data.
Mr. Kavanagh went on to say,
“Like most things, COVID will have implications for GPDR and vice versa in terms of collection of employee health and vaccination data. It is evident from our survey that if employers were to gather this data, many employers feel that GDPR could hamper their efforts – so consideration would have to be given to this area”.
Mr. Kavanagh concluded,
“We would encourage business owners to make full use of the various supports and resources available to businesses to help them in this area, which range from online GDPR checklists to compliance professionals which can audit your GDPR compliance, improve systems, and fill in any outstanding gaps.”