Are you looking for ways to make your everyday life easier and more efficient? With the help of technology, this is possible! There are countless apps available that can help streamline your daily activities. From communication tools to productivity hacks, here are 10 must-have apps for your everyday life.
These apps will give you a better handle on managing tasks, tracking important dates, staying connected with friends and family around the world, finding new recipes or DIY projects to try out at home, and much more. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and explore these amazing tools!
What are the 10 most commonly used apps?
A stunning 89% of employees confess to losing precious hours on the job daily. An extraordinary 31% squander a full hour per day while in their workplace, resulting in an average non-work activity expenditure of 2.9 hours for every eight-hour shift amongst U.S staff! In this swiftly shifting and digitally-interconnected world, the time has become the most precious commodity. As a result, nearly everyone is looking for better ways to maximize their productivity so they can work smarter with whatever time they have available. Thankfully, because of digital innovation, there’s now an abundance of smartphone apps that are meant to streamline our lives professionally and personally alike. If the technology exists precisely to make life easier – why not take advantage of it? Let us make use of tech to its maximum potential!
Whether you’re an app aficionado or just discovering the magic of must-have downloads, it’s time to get your phone ready for these top 10 cool apps free that have made their mark in our digital world. From trusted favourites like Twitter and Google Maps, here are some new additions to your technology toolkit that you won’t want to miss!
VeePN – this is a powerful VPN (Virtual Private Network) app that can help you access blocked content, hide your IP address, and encrypt all of your internet traffic. VeePN offers you top VPN services at an affordable price and with free trial options as well. You can also get a free trial to test out the features before deciding if it’s right for you. For example, if you want to keep your Netflix unblocked during your trip abroad, then you should give VeePN a try! VeePN is also available on iOS and Android devices.
Tor Browser – this is a popular browser that is designed to protect your anonymity and privacy while browsing the web. It encrypts all data sent over the internet, so you don’t have to worry about sensitive information being exposed or tracked.
LastPass Password Manager – LastPass Password Manager takes the hassle out of remembering all your passwords – no more jotting them down, or worrying about someone else gaining access! With this app, you can easily generate strong and secure codes for each of your accounts. With a simple one-click access to the Play Store, users can easily download and install the app on their devices. This convenience allows more people to take control of their online privacy without complicated setup processes.
DuckDuckGo –Keep your data secure while surfing the web with DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser – the ultimate safety net for you and all of your information. Block unwanted trackers and keep your information secure, all within a user-friendly browser that efficiently provides search results without collecting any of your data!
Clover – At first glance, it may appear to be just a typical note-taking task manager. However, upon closer inspection, you will discover that there is much more beneath its surface. With features like Daily Notes and powerful tracking capabilities, your tasks won’t slip through the cracks ever again!
Waze – With Waze, you’ll never be late again! Its innovative navigation app finds the quickest route to your destination while keeping an eye on traffic congestion and potential hazards – so you can get there safely and in record time.
Brave Browser – this is a fast and secure web browser that protects your data from being collected or sold for advertising purposes. It also blocks malicious websites and phishing attempts.
ProtonMail – ProtonMail is the ultimate email service for secure communication. Outfitted with enhanced end-to-end encryption technology, your emails will be safeguarded from any exterior access – permitting you to exchange confidential information without worry.
Notion – Notion is a cutting-edge app that will revolutionize the way you take notes and create to-do lists. Its intuitive design enables users to keep track of all their important information in one organised place, allowing for smoother productivity and improved efficiency. Plus, with encrypted backups for extra peace of mind, it’s never been easier or more secure to stay productive!
Miro – Connect with people from around the world and collaborate on creative projects using Miro, an innovative platform designed to increase collaboration between teams, businesses and individuals. Join millions of users in making their ideas a reality!
By downloading these apps and taking all necessary steps to protect your privacy, you can ensure that your data remains secure in this digital age. also, don`t forget about the best Netflix VPN for watching your favourite movies and shows! With VeePN you can be sure that you staying safe and secure so that you can get the most out of this digital revolution. We want you to check the numerous amount of reviews, there is a link where you can find this, and of course, don’t forget to protect your privacy and security in the digital age! To feel secure while taking full advantage of the internet’s convenience and capabilities, a few straightforward steps are all it takes!
Final thoughts
Nowadays, we must protect our data. As such, if you download the apps discussed in this article, your records will remain safe from outside sources and free from snooping eyes. With their superior end-to-end encryption methods, your emails are guarded securely against any possible infringements — giving you peace of mind! Therefore be sure to maintain privacy on the web using these must-have applications for everyday life!
A little something different today and not only for the ladies but the guys too who are into a beauty regime. Being honest personally myself gone beyond the age of caring about such but with products out there that can enhance your looks and simple to use I was asked to check this little gizmo out and come up with my thoughts, in fact I have other more lady focussed products here which we will get to and share my thoughts as best I can and my daughter has volunteered to help me out but with this product at least it is something I can use and it is so simple and gave me something to digest in a world of looking the best you can although I have said all my life you do not need to impress anyone but be yourself and if they do not like it well tough shit and move along.
OK so we are in a society today where male grooming is a thing and is a big thing even down to guys getting their eyebrows done and there is nothing wrong with paying attention to to yourself but this seems to be amongst the older teens and upward again which is fine by me and each to their own there is nothing wrong with taking care of your appearance, we have done several videos or reviews on dental stuff but more companies now are getting in touch asking to do other products and mostly ladies products until now I had no volunteers and camera shy family members but now they have changed their mind however and those with teens know how they are today and my daughter who has been in several reviews in the past has now said she will volunteer and my partner.
So what we have here is a simple tool to keep your face clean and it has strong suction power and we all tried it out here at home, as mention the other products are more female focussed but this is something anyone can use and I will say it is effective and works given my uggh nods head to one side awkward look at first as it is not my scene but after using it and the rest of the family my mind has changed and we all came to the same conclusion and that is it is a simple effective product that works.
It comes in two parts and has two chambers in the tank which makes way for a good cleaning system and no dirt gets back onto your own mush it has a simple one button operation and just works really well on testing here and overall it does a good job and does in fact give results and easy to use so what more do you want to have a clean fresh looking face.
Female testing
Male testing
Features
Ionised Hydrogen Water Cleanses and hydrates your skin for a refreshed, revived complexion
Vacuum Technology Draws out blackheads and impurities from beneath the skin’s surface
Dual Tank Ensures the built-in irrigation system works seamlessly
Multiple Attachments Provide a customised cleanse for all areas of your face
Ergonomic Design Allows you to take control of your hydradermabrasion experience with ease
This week at the Amplify™ Partner Conference, HP Inc announced new products and solutions to usher in the next era of hybrid work for everyone with a comprehensive set of computing solutions for hybrid flexibility.
With only 22%of workers describing themselves as ‘thriving’ in hybrid work, it’s clear companies are still figuring out how to make hybrid work. “Many companies want to move past the ‘forced return’ to the office era of hybrid work but the challenge is, they are unsure how to get the right balance,” said Val Gabriel, Managing Director of HP Ireland. “We believe the future is hybrid flexibility, which delivers the best of the home and the office to workers everywhere.”
According to HP’s Future of Work study, 80%of workers want to be in the office some of the time, but many companies continue to struggle to get workers back in the office. HP research suggests that the most significant barrier to a return to office is a sub-optimal technology experience. In fact, 89% say technology is the most important factor driving return to office decisions. Similarly, of those who report thriving in hybrid work, 90%believe that access to the right technology and tools leads to a positive work experience.To accelerate employees’ return to work, the right technology is required for optimal work setups, enabling success for companies and their employees.
“Hybrid work does not equal remote work. True hybrid work creates a great culture that connects people, raises productivity, and builds engagement. Technology is the biggest factor in facilitating that. We’re going big with innovations to help keep people connected, productive, and secure,” said Val Gabriel.
HP Presence Enriches Collaboration Experiences in the Era of Hybrid Flexibility
Since 2021, HP Presence has enriched video conferencing experiences on the PC with intuitive collaboration innovations for people to truly feel connected while working together at home or in the office. HP Presence will be available across all HP commercial notebooks – from ProBook and Dragonfly series to Z by HP mobile workstations. This provides companies the critical solutions for revitalising collaboration, culture, innovation, and productivity to make working in or out of the office a seamless experience. Innovations include multi-camera experiences enabling users to be shown while whiteboarding at the same time and Auto Camera Select for face tracking makes meetings more engaging and natural. Work Seamlessly at Home, Office, Meeting Spaces, and On-the-Go.
The next generation of HP EliteBook and ProBook devicesare equipped for premium collaboration with HP Presence and next-level productivity. As users move throughout the day from home to office to meeting rooms, these devices are designed for hybrid flexibility:
HP EliteBook 800 and 805 G10 Series PCs: Featuring the world’s most advanced business convertible for collaboration,[vii] the lineup makes virtual meetings authentic and interactive with HP Presence technology.
HP EliteBook 600 and 605 G10 Series PCs: Equipping workforces with the latest technology at a cost-effective price point, the premium design, collaboration experiences, manageability, and security will empower users to be heard and seen whether in the office or remotely.
HP ProBook 400 and 405 G10 Series PCs: Enabling SMB leaders and employees to thrive in hybrid while getting the most out of their IT investment by offering built-in collaboration tools for productivity, multi-layered security, and a durable, serviceable chassis.
As the world’s most advanced business convertible for collaboration,5 the HP Elite x360 830 G10 empowers hybrid workers to unlock creation and collaboration from anywhere.
The HP EliteBook 645 G10 provides hybrid workers with the connectivity options and configurable ports they need to stay productive in the office, at home, and on the go.
Optimized for hybrid work, the HP ProBook 450 G10 features commercial-grade performance, built-in collaboration tools for productivity, and multi-layered security.
High-Performance Designed for Hybrid Flexibility
HP reinvigorates innovation with a focus on technology and solutions that not only deliver high-performance but address new challenges with hybrid work when collaborating on large projects with complex workflows. Since 2019, 71% of companies have increased workstation deployments to future-proof workforces with reliability, expandability, and remote access.[viii] Z by HP with HP Presence provides the collaboration tools and high-performance compute solutions needed to power today’s workflows.
The latest ZBook G10 mobile workstations — ZBook Firefly, ZBook Power, ZBook Studio, ZBook Fury — give power, performance, and battery life from anywhere.
ZBook Firefly G10 and ZBook Power G10: Both new workstations combine pro-level performance with mobility. Users can stay productive with pro-grade components, enhanced collaboration features, and color-accurate displays — everything needed to take on projects from anywhere.. The ZBook Firefly and ZBook Power will be the first in the ZBook portfolio to now offer AMD Ryzen™ and Ryzen™ PRO processors for mobile.
ZBook Studio G10: From 3D design to data science and AI computing, this PC delivers. Packed with pro performance in a sleek PC that fits in your bag, the ZBook Studio is engineered for building complex models, rendering in real-time or visualizing data, on the go.
ZBook Fury G10: Tackles intense workflows from anywhere by offering a desktop-class Intel Core HX processor for pro performance. The new ZBook Fury can simultaneously rendering 3D models, running simulations, analyzing large data sets, or training machine learning models from anywhere.
The recently announced Z by HP Performance Desktopsinclude the world’s most powerful single socket workstation with 4 GPUs,enablingcomplex, data-rich workflows for hybridworkplaces. These entry-level desktop workstations are for users who want to step into power and performance while remaining agile with remote access for high-end workflows.
The Z2 Mini G9, Z2 SFF G9, Z2 Tower G9, and Z1 Tower G9 are built for designers, engineers, and students working in multiple applications at once. The new HP Anyware Remote System Controller will now also be supported on the Z2 Mini G9, Z2 SFF G9, and Z2 Tower G9. As the world’s most advanced remote management peripheral, it is built for out-of-band management, allowing ITdepartments to monitor and manage a workstation fleet from anywhere. The Z by HP entry desktop workstation portfolio continues to bring performance and broad expandability to keep users in the creative zone.
Be Seen, Be Heard, and Be Productive in Any Workspace
Hybrid work is not just working remotely – it’s about delivering an experience that works seamlessly for those in the room and for those joining remotely. HP and Poly are now delivering the world’s most comprehensive set of commercial video conferencing devices for hybrid work.
The latest Poly software update, Poly Video OS 4.0, delivers powerful experiences like AI-driven multi-camera mode that can keep multiple speakers in the frame for the most engaging remote collaboration experience. The Poly Video OS 4.0 is now available across the Poly Studio X Series of video bars and the Poly G7500 modular video conferencing system. The Poly Studio X70 is the first and only video bar for large rooms certified for Microsoft Teams, along with the Poly G7500. Additionally, the Poly Studio X Android-based video bars are available and certified for Google Meet.
Whether you’re taking a personal call, a conference call, or listening to your favorite playlist, the recently announcedPoly Voyager Free 60 Series of wireless earbuds provide an elevated pro-grade experience. HP is introducing an entry-level model – the Poly Voyager Free 60 – designed for use with mobile devices and comes with a standard charge case. The series includes three versions: the Poly Voyager Free 60, Poly Voyager Free 60 UC, and Poly Voyager 60+ UC. The Poly Voyager Free 60 UC and 60+ UC versions are now certified for Microsoft Teams and Zoom. All models are compatible with leading audio and video conferencing applications.
With nearly 70% of mouse users experiencing pain around the wrist, the HP 920/925 Ergonomic Vertical Mouse helps keep your hand in a more relaxed, natural upright position. The world’s most versatile ergonomic vertical wireless mouse, the HP 920/925 features a detachable wrist rest to make it just as useable on the go. Users can feel good about its recycled materials and plastic-free packaging.
When you want to be as connected to your peripherals on the road as you are at home, stay powered and productive with the HP 4K USB-C Multiport Hub. With an ultra-compact design, the multiport hub features four versatile USB-C® ports[xv] with multi-OS support – a 65W port to power laptops, two ports to connect and charge accessories, and another port to charge or connect to a 4K display with full functionality.
With DECT™ [xvi]considered one of the most reliable forms of mobile communications for retail and verticals[xvii], the Poly Rove 20 wireless DECT™ IP phone delivers the freedom to move and the flexibility to scale as companies grow. Built for on-site employees, the Poly Rove 20 is an entry-level single-cell DECT handset with robust and secure communications and connectivity with an extensive range. Equipped with up to 35 hours of battery life, it pairs easily with the Poly B1 Base Station to support concurrent calls and expand voice range. The Rove 20 handset is compatible with all Rove IP Phones, utilizing the latest standards in DECT™ wireless security so you can speak freely.
Part of the recently announced Poly Voyager Free 60 Series line-up of pro-grade wireless earbuds, HP is introducing an entry-level model designed for mobile devices with a standard charge case – the Poly Voyager Free 60.
Designed to reduce muscle activity by 12%, the HP 920/925 Ergonomic Vertical Mouse with detachable wrist rest is certified by the HP Human Factors team and US Ergonomics
Wherever you find yourself in the world, get a powerful connection anywhere with the HP 4K USB-C Multiport Hub.
Expanding the Boundaries for Remote PC Management
Hybrid work has made remote PC management at scale more complex, yet more essential. To address this challenge, HP is announcing HP Wolf Connect an IT management connectivity solution that provides a highly resilient and secure connection[ to remote PCs, enabling IT to manage devices even when powered down or offline. Using a cellular-based network, HP Wolf Connect’s robust connectivity helps ensure IT teams can readily manage a dispersed hybrid workforce. It can reduce the time and effort needed to resolve support tickets, secure data from loss or theft to mitigate a potential breach and optimize asset management.
HP Wolf Connect with HP Wolf’s Protect and Trace is the world’s first software service capable of locating, locking, and erasing a PC remotely, even when it’s turned off or disconnected from the Internet. This capability protects sensitive data on the move and helps lower IT costs by reducing the need for PC remediation or replacement.
HP Home Delivery Streamlines Hybrid Worker Setup
As IT teams now manage hybrid workers both at home and in the office, setting up employees with the right devices wherever they are in the world can be an unreliable, complicated, and inconvenient process.
As part of HP Logistics Services, the HP Home Delivery solution securely delivers HP commercial PCs, displays, and peripherals directly to employee residential addresses across the globe so hybrid workers can get their devices conveniently up and running right out of the box. Updates to HP Home Delivery enable more efficient ordering, tracking, and proof of delivery.
Pricing and Availability
The Poly Voyager Free 60 Series is available for pre-order on Poly.com, and expected to ship in late April. The Voyager Free 60 UC is available for €261, and the Poly Voyager Free 60+ UC is available for €307.
The HP Elite x360 830 G10 is available at hp.com for €1,320.
The HP EliteBook 830 G10, HP EliteBook 840 G10, and HP EliteBook 860 G10 are available at hp.com starting at €1,210.
The HP EliteBook 835 G10, HP EliteBook 845 G10, and HP EliteBook 865 G10 are expected to be available in May. Pricing will be made available closer to product availability.
The HP EliteBook 630 G10, HP EliteBook 640 G10, and HP EliteBook 650 G10 are available at hp.com starting at €990.
The HP ProBook 440 G10 and HP ProBook 450 G10 are available at hp.com starting at €935.
The HP ProBook 445 G10 and HP ProBook 455 G10 are available at hp.com starting at €825.
The ZBook Firefly G10 is available starting at €1,150 at hp.com.
The HP 920/925 Ergonomic Vertical Mouse is expected to be available in May for €139.99.
The HP 4K USB-C Multiport Hub is expected to be available in May for €79.99.
Britons have more than a thousand photos stored on their smartphone – all of which are at risk of being lost forever because of laziness and digital confusion.
Research found that millions of Britons don’t backup their pictures and of those who have no digital backup plan, a third say it’s because they simply “can’t be bothered” or they don’t know how to.
The news comes as Britons claim they know protecting digital images is important and more than a third admit they have irreplaceable pictures of passed loved ones stored on their device, making the issue of data loss even more poignant.
The new research has been released by F-Secure, a global leader in cyber security experiences to mark World Backup Day this Friday (31 March). The findings also revealed that losing photos would have the biggest impact on Britons’ lives, more than losing passwords, contacts and login details.
Timo Laaksonen, F-Secure CEO, says: “In today’s digital age, people carry their memories, contacts, and important documents in their pockets. This collection of digital moments is crucial to our lives, yet we are leaving ourselves vulnerable to data loss, which makes no sense.
“World Backup Day is a reminder to take that extra step and protect our digital assets. While 59% of respondents in our survey said they think protecting their digital images is important, they’re not doing it.“
When asked what moments they capture digitally, Britons said holidays and travel were the most common, followed by personal pictures and shots of family and friends. The full list is:
Holidays and travel
Personal pictures
Family and friends
Children
Passed loved ones
Work material
Health and fitness selfies
Timo Laaksonen, F-Secure CEO, concludes: “World Backup Day helps us raise awareness of the importance of data backup and protection and encourage people to take a pledge to back up their digital life, whether it’s personal or professional. It is an opportunity to assess the value of the data that we carry around with us every day and to ensure that the data is protected.”
To help Britons backup, F-Secure offers these five tips:
Follow the 3-2-1 rule to backup – make at least three copies on two different devices, and one kept offline in a different location.
If you backup your data to an external hard drive, disconnect it from your computer when a backup isn’t being done. This will prevent your backup data being stolen or damaged along with your computer.
If you’re using an online cloud storage service, make sure you use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication (an identity and access management security method that requires two forms of identification to access resources and data to add an extra level of security to your data).
Enable automatic backups or schedule regular backups so you don’t have to remember to do it.
Install cybersecurity to avoid malware (a term for any type of malicious software designed to harm or exploit any programmable device, service or network) from erasing your data/photos.
EA released a brand new gameplay video for the upcoming EA SPORTS PGA TOUR, launching Friday, April 7 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5 and PC.
Featuring sports gaming content creator TheApexHound, the video showcases many of the incredible gameplay features that players will get their hands on when EA SPORTS PGA TOUR launches globally next week. Players will get a sneak peek at the famous Pebble Beach and Bay Hill courses, while witnessing an online multiplayer match also featuring producer Ben Ramsour. The playthrough showcases the upcoming game’s stunning, realistic visuals and state-of-the-art course mapping technology.
And, in case you missed it, Augusta National Golf Club announced last week that it will host the Road to the Masters Invitational, an invite-only live streamed event on Sunday, April 2 at 3:00pm PT / 6:00pm ET. Tune in to check out the first ever gameplay of the prestigious Augusta National and watch as celebrity participants compete in EA SPORTS PGA TOUR. You can find out more at the link here.
EA SPORTS has just released a new set of Retro Kits, purchasable with FC coins, so fans can further celebrate the rich history of their favourite clubs in FIFA 23.
From the 1969-1970 Manchester City kits, worn by the first club to ever win both a UEFA and domestic cup in the same season, to the 1975-1976 kit worn by Borussia Dortmund during their first promotion to the Bundesliga, these kits are iconic and allow fans to relive global football history. Kits are available in-game starting today, March 30.
Below, you can find a list of all the Retro Kits that will be added to FIFA 23:
1906-1907 FC Porto
This kit represents a special moment for FC Porto after being revived in 1906, playing the season in this timeless kit.
1948-1949 Club Atlético Independiente
Club Atlético Independiente celebrated their Primera Division victory in their iconic 1948/49 kit making it live long in the memory for fans.
1960-1961 Tottenham Hotspur
The 1960/61 Tottenham Hotspur Home kit was worn by the team that won a 1961 FA Cup and First Division double.
1967-1968 Celtic FC
The classic 1967/68 Celtic kit was worn by the club during their legendary Quintuple run, winning the Scottish Premiership, the Scottish Cup, the Scottish League Cup, the Glasgow Cup and the European Cup.
1969-1970 Manchester City
Manchester City’s legendary 1969/70 kit was worn by the first club to win a UEFA and domestic cup in the same season.
1974-1975 Atlético Madrid
Atlético Madrid were crowned Intercontinental Cup winners during the 1974/75 season wearing their famous red and white striped kit
1975-1976 Borussia Dortmund
This iconic kit was worn for a historic season when the club finally earned promotion to the Bundesliga.
1981-1982 Chelsea FC
The pin striped kit was synonymous with many famous players including club legends Colin Lee, Peter Osgood, and Ray Wilkins
1984-1985 Liverpool FC
This memorable kit was worn by the 1984/85 Liverpool squad who went on to win the English Division 1 title and the UEFA Cup.
1992-1993 Leeds United
This kit was worn when the team celebrated the club’s First Division title win.
1995-1996 Rangers FC
An incredible moment for Rangers fans and this famous kit as they went on to win their eighth consecutive Scottish league title.
1996-1997 Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
PSG won both the Trophee des Champions and the UEFA Cup wearing the 1996/97 kit.
2001-2002 Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon)
This kit was worn by the Lyon team during the historic 2001/02 season which began a string of seven consecutive league titles.
2006-2007 Real Madrid
This kit was incredibly iconic at the time, and remains to live on as it has inspired present-day kits for the club.
2017-2018 Juventus FC
The recent yet illustrious 2017/18 Juventus kit was worn by global stars during a season where Juventus won both the Serie A and Copa Italia.
I am a huge fan of Instax cameras and some might see it as a niche thing which is fine and due to how powerful our smartphones are today the sales of cameras have dropped over the years but there is still a market out there for all things camera and including retro cameras like Instax from FUJIFILM.
OK OK I say it every time an Instax camera comes in for a review “do you remember when we used to take photos with disposable cameras and so on or even your DSLRs etc and go get them sent off and you could not wait to get the envelope stuff with photos back?” Well do you? Have you changed or picked up a camera from Instax and actually tried to bring back how things used to be like all the retro tech we now are seeing more of?
The latest offering from the company the Mini 12 instant camera is not what I expected at first glance when it comes to the tech side of things using their app and probably because they launched a new app called the Instax Up app the same day which we will review another day but unlike previous cameras this does not require an app to use it to edit photos etc it is just a simple point and shoot camera, with the Instax app you can scan INSTAX prints and store them digitally in one place, Organize photos by category/list views for easy locating, Easily share stored photos and collections via social media or text, Import photos from other INSTAX apps (INSTAX mini LINK, INSTAX Link WIDE etc.) into the INSTAX Up. There is no app for this camera however we are testing today which I thought initially there was and this might make the case for making things easier if you look at it another way.
On testing this camera I found it is ideal for the selfie fan which myself is not someone who posts the likes on a daily basis and it does well mostly so on outdoors and takes decent images as you will see in the video review below, it is on the bulky side however these cameras always have been and certainly will be a talking point when you take it out to get some photos you can hold in your hand.
Specs
Viewfinder
Real image finder, 0.37x, with target spot
Parallax correction function for close-up mode
Lens
2 components, 2 elements
Focal length – f = 60 mm, 1:12.7
Shooting range – 0.3 m and beyond (use close-up mode for 0.3 m to 0.5 m)
Exposure
Programmed electronic shutter – 1/2 to 1/250 sec. Slow synchro for low light.
Sensitivity – Lv 5.0 to 14.5 (ISO 800)
Exposure control – Automatic
Flash
Constant firing flash (automatic light adjustment), recycle time: 7 seconds or less (when using new batteries)
Effective flash range: 0.3 to 2.2 m
Film
Film – Fujifilm Instant Colour Film “instax mini” (separately available)
Film Size – 86mm x 54mm Picture Size 62mm x 46mm
Film Developing Time – Approximately 90 seconds (Varies depending on the ambient temperature)
Battery Specs
Two AA-size alkaline batteries (LR6), capacity: approx. 10 instax mini film packs of 10 exposures each
AlphaTheta Corporation announces the release of rekordbox for iOS ver. 4.0. A DJ application trusted by countless professional DJs around the world, rekordbox’s mobile app has been updated to enable anyone to start DJing with just an iPhone or iPad.
Download rekordbox for iOS ver. 4.0 and you can start mixing music from various sources, including streaming services such as SoundCloud and TIDAL (subscriptions available separately).
Get started on the rekordbox mobile app for free, even if you haven’t DJed before. Then, when you want to take things further and play more professionally, you can connect gear such as the DDJ-FLX4 – the definitive DJ controller for beginners – to get the most from the rekordbox mobile app.
However you choose to use the rekordbox mobile app – with your iPhone, iPad, or connected DJ hardware – you can be sure the features and effects in the app will create high-quality sounds in your sets. And once you’ve mastered the basics of mixing, you might choose to take out an in-app subscription which enables a host of more advanced performance features and effects.
You can find out more about rekordbox for iOS ver. 4.0 here or download it from the App Store. The app is free to use, with an option to take out an in-app subscription that enables more features. In-app subscriptions are required for additional features, even if you subscribe to a plan from rekordbox.com
rekordbox for Android (ver. 4.0) was also due for release in spring 2023. However, this has been postponed until further notice to ensure the Android app runs as smoothly as the iOS version. As soon as a new release date has been scheduled, an announcement will be made on the homepage of the Pioneer DJ website. For more information, go to pioneerdj.com.
The latest EY CFO Survey reveals that Irish CFOs are increasingly grappling with more risk factors amid increasing cyber threat levels, supply chain pressures triggered by geo-political events, and rapid digital disruption. The survey, launched to coincide with EY’s annual CFO Summit, also highlights the priorities identified by finance leaders from a variety of sectors, needed to drive efficiencies and support data-led transformation amid mounting challenges on the back of the ongoing energy crisis and recessionary pressures.
These findings are interesting considering the rapid evolution of the CFO’s role in recent years. According to the survey, 61% say their remit has changed to drive strategic automation within the finance function in the past two years.
Cybersecurity tops investment priority
Cybersecurity is moving up the business agenda of the 151 Irish CFOs surveyed by EY, with 60% of respondents having increased investment in cybersecurity tools and technology over the past two years. A similar proportion (59%) over the period have invested in training for employees to improve cybersecurity in their finance functions. The cost of a cyber breach is a constant concern and 30% of respondents have either stepped up their involvement in managing cybersecurity or have increased their organisation’s insurance.
The increased focus on resilience and cybersecurity awareness among finance leaders reflects the growing threat level, the increase in the volume and severity of cyberattacks, and the knock-on significant financial and operational risks this represents for businesses.
ESG agenda: Responsibility versus opportunity
The Irish corporate ESG agenda strikes more of a mixed picture. Despite over half (54%) of respondents claiming their finance role now includes a greater focus on ESG and non-financial reporting, only 15% of the CFOs surveyed claimed that building skills in non-financial/ESG reporting is a key priority for the next five years. 43% of the respondents cite sustainability regulatory compliance as a key area of focus for the next two years, while just 2% say non-financial and ESG reporting will be a key area of focus for the next 24 months.
ESG in the eyes of Irish finance leaders is viewed as a responsibility rather than a business opportunity and the survey findings suggest that ESG and non-financial reporting have fallen down the critical list. Only 6% of the respondents say increasing the sophistication of non-financial reporting is one of the top strategic areas of focus over the next five years, down from 15% in 2022. Just 10% see opportunities in sustainability and decarbonisation as a driver of growth in the year ahead. Spiralling energy costs, inflationary pressures, and wider economic uncertainty may explain the shift in focus.
There are more positive signs in relation to the general direction of travel on non-financial reporting, with 44% of respondents claiming they have increased the sophistication of non-financial reporting over the past year.
“The environmental, social and corporate governance agenda in Irish boardrooms paints a mixed picture this year. ESG cannot be divorced from the broader strategic direction of the business and ESG credentials and sustainability performance will become key competitive differentiators in the near term. This reflects the need for culture change in many organisations while finance teams are still working their way through what non-financial reporting means for their businesses. We anticipate much greater emphasis on building skills in this critical area in the coming years,” said Derarca Dennis, Assurance Partner at EY Ireland.
Automation and talent retention other areas of focus
There is an increasing belief on the part of CFOs that talent shortages can be alleviated, at least in part, through the automation of certain tasks and processes, with 37% saying automating manual tasks and processes will be a key strategic focus over the next five years. This emerged as the second highest priority on after cost reductions/increasing efficiencies for the period.
There is clearly some way to go, though, in terms of automation with 35% of the respondents claiming that it is not leveraged in their organisation at all. Among those who do, transaction processing; internal audit and risk; and consolidation and reporting are key areas where automation is prevalent.
Talent and retention continue to be a significant disruptor for Irish financial leaders, with 40% of the respondents identifying upskilling current staff as a priority for driving growth in the coming year, while a further 34% cited investing in new talent as the best way to drive growth.
Recruitment is clearly a critical success factor, with 44% of respondents citing talent shortages and talent retention as a key challenge to reaching the desired level of growth over the next five years.
On average expected growth for the year ahead is 12%, with 40% saying they are unsure yet of their expected growth.
“CFOs are increasingly playing a strategic role in their organisations beyond the narrow confines of the traditional finance function as their roles are becoming even more encompassing. The finance function had already evolved to become more involved in other areas of the business and that shift was accelerated by the pandemic. The heightened strategic importance of the role should help attract a new generation of finance professionals to support growing Irish businesses,” said George Deegan, Assurance Partner at EY Ireland.
Reflecting on the challenges and opportunities, 64% of Irish CFOs claim to be optimistic about the economic outlook and business prospects for the next 12 to 24 months. Just 23% say they are a little or very pessimistic.
