Month: June 2023

The Esports Revolution: How Competitive Gaming is Transforming Wagering Culture

The esports industry has been growing fast, changing how we think about competitive gaming and betting. Thanks to technology and the rise of online gaming, esports has become a worldwide hit, enjoyed by millions.

Esports has also changed how we see sports fans. These days, sports arenas are filled with esports fans cheering for their favorite gamers and teams. These teams compete for more than just fun and honor. For example, the prize for the League of Legends Championship, a well-known esports tournament, is a huge $2.23 million. This big prize money shows how being a professional esports player can be a real job, bringing in lots of money from winning games and getting sponsored. It’s a big shift in professional sports and betting, creating new opportunities for gamers.

Major companies like Coca-Cola, Intel, and Red Bull have recognized the potential and heavily invested in esports, solidifying its impact on the sports industry. The accessibility of online gaming has played a pivotal role in the growth of esports betting, attracting a broader audience and allowing bookmakers to offer odds on various tournaments and matches. The industry continues to evolve, and esports is a captivating and dynamic sector reshaping the competitive gaming landscape and wagering culture.

The Rise of Esports

Esports has exploded in popularity recently, fueled by advancements in technology and the rise of online gaming. The industry has grown to fill stadiums and arenas, with fans cheering on their favorite players and teams as they compete for cash prizes and bragging rights. Esports has become a viable career option for many players, with some earning millions of dollars in prize money and sponsorship deals. 

With millions of viewers tuning in to watch professional gamers compete in high-stakes tournaments. The global esports market size was valued at USD 1.45 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 1.72 billion in 2023 to USD 6.75 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 21.5% during the forecast period., with major companies like Coca-Cola Intel, and Red Bull investing heavily in esports.

Esports has also had an impact on sports betting. Many sportsbooks now offer Esports betting, which has become famous for people to bet on sports. This has led to more revenue for sportsbooks and has allowed them to expand their offerings.

The rise of Esports has had a significant impact on the sports industry, and its impact will only continue to grow. With the industry projected to grow to over $3 billion by 2025, it is clear that Esports is here to stay. However, traditional sports organizations have also recognized the importance of Esports, and many of them are now investing in the industry. This has led to more opportunities for fans to engage with their favorite teams and players in new and exciting ways.

One of the reasons for the growth of esports betting is the accessibility of online gaming. With the rise of online gaming, it has become easier than ever for people to participate in esports tournaments and for bookmakers to offer odds on the outcome of these tournaments. Players can now compete from the comfort of their own homes, and viewers can watch live streams of matches from anywhere in the world. This accessibility has made esports more inclusive and has attracted a broader audience to the sport.

Esports Betting

Esports betting has become a billion-dollar industry, with bookmakers offering odds on various tournaments and matches. Esports betting is similar to traditional sports betting, with bettors placing wagers on the outcome of games. However, there are some differences in the way esports betting works.

For example, in traditional sports betting, odds are set based on the performance of teams and players. In esports, odds are selected based on the performance of individual players. This is because esports tournaments are often played in a team format, with players competing against each other in individual matches. This means the odds can vary significantly between players, even on the same team.

Another difference between esports betting and traditional sports betting is the nature of the sport itself. Esports is a rapidly evolving industry, constantly introducing new games and tournaments. This means that bookmakers need to stay up-to-date with the latest developments to offer competitive odds. 

The fast-paced nature of esports also means that matches can be over quickly, with some lasting only a few minutes. This can make it difficult for bettors to keep up with the action and make informed decisions about their wagers.

Esports and Traditional Sports Betting

Esports is often compared to traditional sports, with some calling it the “sport of the future.” However, some critical differences between esports and conventional sports make it unique. For example, esports is not limited by physical boundaries, meaning that players worldwide can compete against each other. This has led to a truly global industry, with players and fans from all corners.

The difference between esports and traditional sports is the level of fan engagement. Esports fans are often more invested in the games and players than conventional sports fans. This is partly due to the accessibility of esports, as fans can watch matches online and interact with players through social media and streaming platforms. Esports communities are known for their passionate fan bases, with many organizing events and tournaments.

What Does the Future Hold for Esports?

The future of esports looks bright, with the industry continuing to grow and evolve. Many believe esports will become as popular as traditional sports, with major tournaments and events drawing large crowds and generating significant revenue. The rise of virtual reality and other technologies may also change how esports are played and viewed, further expanding the industry’s reach. Whatever the future may hold, one thing is clear: esports is an exciting and dynamic industry that is here to stay.

Summary

The rise of esports has transformed competitive gaming and wagering culture. With its global popularity, lucrative prizes, and investments from major companies, esports has become a viable career option and has expanded the offerings of sportsbooks. Accessibility and passionate fan engagement have solidified esports as an enduring and dynamic industry poised for continued growth and potential mainstream recognition.

Nexer UK announces expansion into Ireland

Digital transformation specialist, Nexer UK, is expanding into Ireland as a result of strong growth and a new partnership with Irish food company, Kepak and an existing partnership with Ireland’s largest sports retailer, Life Style Sports.

Based in Dublin, Nexer’s Irish team will provide digital transformation consultancy, specialised technology solutions, and modernised IT systems to a range of businesses in both Northern and Southern Ireland, including those in manufacturing, retail, wholesale, pharma, professional service, and construction.

To head up the division, Nexer has appointed James Fitzgerald as Sales Manager for the Irish market. With over eight years of experience in the IT industry, having worked on projects with British Gas, Red Bull Racing and Travelport, James will be responsible for driving business growth in the region.

Nexer’s expansion into Ireland follows the beginning of a two-year strategic partnership with leading Irish food company, Kepak, which will enable the implementation of a suite of business application solutions using Microsoft Dynamics 365 technology.

The expansion into Ireland, as well as plans to further grow the business, will open up new job opportunities for people living in the region.

Colin Crow, managing director at Nexer, said: “With this expansion, our goal is to make Nexer the go-to partner for any company looking to digitally transform in Ireland. As the European home of Microsoft, we want to grow our relationships throughout the British Isles and help to bring industries to their full potential.”

James Fitzgerald, Ireland sales manager at Nexer, said: “We have a great opportunity in front of us and we are looking forward to making a positive and long-lasting impact for businesses in Ireland looking to start or enhance their digital transformation journey.”

For more information, visit www.nexergroup.com/uk

Esri maps Ireland’s summer 2023 festival circuit

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), has created a digital map highlighting some of the best loved and lesser known festivals happening across the island of Ireland this summer.

Using Esri’s ArcGIS digital mapping system, the interactive map has something for all tastes and interests, allowing you to plan your ultimate festival adventure with ease.

Indulge in the tasty tunes at Forbidden Fruit in Dublin, dive into the inspiring realm of creativity at Wildroots in Sligo, let your senses be serenaded at the New Ross Piano Festival, and unleash your wild side at the electrifying Folk Festival in Cork. This essential map will serve as your trusted guide, leading you straight to the beating heart of Ireland’s vibrant festival culture this summer.

Link to map

Pearl & Dean Ireland and Stella Cinemas partner with Audi Ireland in media-first deal

Cinema advertising contractor Pearl & Dean Ireland has landed a pioneering media-first deal for Audi Ireland to run as an exclusive sponsorship partner with Stella Cinemas.

The partnership, set to begin on June 1st will run for one year and was brokered by Pearl & Dean Ireland and PHD Media, the media agency for Audi Ireland. This is a media-first deal for both brand and cinema chain, as it marks the first time Stella Cinemas will show advertising on its screens. Audi Ireland will have exclusivity in the advertising reel, meaning its advert will be the only one shown to audiences across Stella Cinemas at its sites in Rathmines and Ranelagh.

The on-screen advertising will feature Audi’s all-new Q8 e-tron vehicle, which launched into the Irish market earlier this year. The Audi Q8 e-tron provides an exciting insight into the future of electromobility at Audi where boundless creativity in design meets innovation and efficiency for a powerful, dynamic and luxurious driving experience.

Audi is passionate about creating meaningful, human-centric experiences and through emotional storytelling, driving a connection with its audiences. This latest Q8 e-tron advert does just that, allowing the audience to experience progress they can truly feel. As part of this commitment, Audi will also create a memorable journey for Stella cinemagoers from foyer to screen, with on-premise branding across both Stella Cinema sites, an Audi Mocktail served at the on-site bars and secret screenings and customer competitions planned throughout the year. Audi car owners will also be treated to free popcorn on Monday and Tuesdays throughout the year-long period.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Stella Cinema in Rathmines, which opened its doors on the 29th of January 1923. Following an 18-month restoration project in 2015, today it is a luxurious modern cinema, that also reflects the glitz and glamour of the 1920s due to its original features. Ranked 16th in the world’s most beautiful cinemas and No.1 in the best cinemas in the UK and Ireland by Time Out in 2021, Stella has established itself as a world-class cinema experience and a go-to destination for movie lovers. The Stella Cinema Ranelagh opened in 2018 and has its own unique mid-century style, showcasing a mix of Hollywood blockbusters, cult classics, arthouse favourites and highlighting Irish film where possible.

Pearl & Dean is Ireland’s market leader for cinema advertising across ROI and Northern Ireland and has 100% market share in the Republic of Ireland.

Amy O’Shaughnessy, Box Office and Marketing Manager at Stella Cinema, said: “Stella Cinema is delighted to partner with Audi for an exclusive year-long partnership. We are thrilled to work with a brand that shares many of our values and believe Audi is a perfect fit for this sponsorship. Guest experience is at the heart of everything we do at Stella and having Audi as our exclusive on-screen advertising partner will allow us to maintain our customer-first approach to the cinema experience.”

Cassie Joyce, Agency & Client Director at Pearl & Dean Ireland, said: “Cinema advertising holds a unique power – the ability to weave a brand’s story into the anticipation and excitement that comes with a trip to the movies. We are delighted to collaborate with PHD to bring this electrifying media-first partnership together.  It’s been very exciting to connect two incredible brands; the ultimate premium cinema experience in Stella Cinemas and such an iconic automotive brand as Audi.”

Deirdre Schwer, Head of Marketing & Customer Experience at Audi Ireland, said: “We are delighted to be embarking on this landmark journey with Stella Cinemas. At Audi, our aim is not just to develop mobility solutions that inspire and excite, but to create experiences that truly resonate. These values we feel align with those of the iconic Stella Cinemas, presenting an opportunity to connect with our customers on a deeper level. We believe in progress you can feel, and securing this unique media-first partnership is yet another an important step for the brand into the future.”

Lauren Kavanagh, Innovation & Partnership Director at PHD Ireland, said:

We were delighted to negotiate this partnership on behalf of Audi as we identified great synergies between the Audi and Stella.  It is a hugely valuable media property in terms of solus advertising on one of the biggest screens in the country, and it is so exciting to see two of Ireland’s most premium brands, come together for an electrifying media first partnership’

Tech Review – Tudia MergeGrip cases for the Google Pixel 7a

Tudia is a brand we have been using some time now with all our devices and they stand up to the test and time, In fact I still use some of their cases today from devices that are near two years old and they have held up rather well and still in great shape and that means my devices are too and always cased up as I do not want an expensive screen or glass replacement bill, Tudia cover most of the mobile phones out there today and are a brand I can easily recommend to those who have just got a new phone.

The Tudia MergeGrip cases have you covered on any device you might have and the camera bar and screen are protected here yet again and I like how they tackle the camera bar again this time offering better protection than some rivals, the case again on the rear offers real grip again better than some rivals and one we recently reviewed in particular. The keys are tactile and there is a nice lip on the front of the screen meaning the device can be placed face down and rear down and to top things off wireless charging works with no issues too. Overall these cases are a winner for me again and they come in a nice range of colours to pick from unlike again other brands out there so you also get choice.

Check the video review for a hands on with the full range below.

Features

Certified Military Grade Protection and ToughRhino Technology

The Google Pixel 7a Phone Case is built to withstand the toughest conditions, providing certified military-grade protection for your valuable Google Pixel 7a phone. With the incorporation of ToughRhino Technology, this Google Pixel 7a Phone case utilizes a dual-layer design that combines strength and durability. The outer layer is made of a rugged, impact-resistant material, while the inner layer consists of a shock-absorbing cushion to disperse the force of impacts. This combination ensures optimal protection against accidental drops and shocks, keeping your phone safe and intact.

Camera and Screen Protection

Your Google Pixel 7a phone’s camera and screen are among its most vulnerable components. The Google Pixel 7a Phone Case addresses this concern by featuring raised lips and edges around the camera and screen areas. These elevated edges provide an additional protective barrier, preventing direct contact between surfaces and your camera lens or screen. With this feature, you can rest assured that your camera and screen remain shielded from scratches and accidental bumps, maintaining their pristine condition.

Non-Slip Textured Design for Enhanced Grip

The Google Pixel 7a Phone Case not only focuses on protection but also emphasizes user experience. The Google Pixel 7a Phone case incorporates a non-slip textured design on both sides and the back, enhancing grip and preventing accidental slips from your hand. Whether you’re holding your Google Pixel 7a phone during a call, browsing the web, or capturing photos, the textured surface ensures a secure and comfortable grip, minimizing the risk of accidental drops.

Thoughtful Button Design

We understand the importance of easy and hassle-free access to your phone’s buttons. The Google Pixel 7a Phone Case takes this into consideration with its tactile and clicky button design. The buttons are precisely molded and designed to offer a satisfying tactile response when pressed. You can effortlessly adjust the volume, power on/off your device, and interact with the buttons without any hindrance or frustration. This seamless button experience adds convenience and ensures stress-free usage.

Premium Build Quality and Materials

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Google Pixel 7a Phone Case exhibits a premium build quality. It is constructed from high-quality materials that are not only durable but also resistant to yellowing and discoloration over time. The Google Pixel 7a Phone case maintains its original appearance, preserving its aesthetics and extending its lifespan. Furthermore, the precise cutouts provide easy access to all ports, buttons, and features of yourGoogle Pixel 7a Phone, allowing you to connect chargers, headphones, and other accessories without any restrictions.

Slim and Lightweight Design

Despite its impressive protective capabilities, the Google Pixel 7a Phone Case boasts a slim and lightweight profile. It adds minimal bulk to your device, preserving its slim design and comfortable handling. The Google Pixel 7a Phone case seamlessly wraps around your phone, maintaining its sleekness while providing comprehensive protection. You can conveniently slip your Google Pixel 7a phone into your pocket or bag without any hassle, thanks to the slim and lightweight design of this case.

Easy Installation and Removal

The Google Pixel 7a Phone Case is designed for effortless installation and removal. With its user-friendly design, you can quickly snap the case onto your phone, ensuring a secure fit and immediate protection. The precise cutouts align perfectly with your Google Pixel 7a Phone device’s ports, speakers, and cameras, guaranteeing unobstructed functionality. Similarly, removing the Google Pixel 7a Phone case is just as simple, allowing you to switch cases or clean your device with ease.

ESB Networks and Sigma Wireless deploy national 4G/LTE private mobile network with Nokia in Ireland

Nokia and Sigma Wireless Communications today announced that ESB Networks, Ireland’s foremost energy company, has awarded a contract to Sigma Wireless and its partner Nokia for the development of a leading-edge, mission-critical private mobile network. Nokia will work with Sigma Wireless Communications and ESB to supply and install the new LTE-based private wireless system over a three-year period

This purpose-built, mission-critical telecommunications network is a key enabler for ESB Networks in delivering integration of renewable energy to the grid, decarbonization of the electrical network and electrification of heat and transport amongst other benefits. A dedicated Smart Grid telecoms network forms part of ESB Networks’ Innovation Strategy that aims to bring many benefits to Ireland from an environmental, economic and customer perspective.

Nicholas Tarrant, ESB Networks Managing Director, welcomed the development: “An ever smarter and agile electricity network is key to the delivery of a more sustainable future, with the customer at its core. The purpose-built private telecommunications network now being developed will be a key enabler in delivering integration of renewable energy to the grid, decarbonization of the electricity network and the electrification of heat and transport amongst other benefits. As such, this private, reliable, and secure mobile network will be an indispensable precursor to delivering a Net Zero-ready electricity network.”

Tony Boyle Chairman Sigma Wireless said “Sigma Wireless has a long history spanning back over 30 years working with ESB. We are delighted to be awarded this contract, partnering with NOKIA, to be trusted to provide this state-of-the-art network which is a key enabler to help ESB to achieve its key strategic goals of decarbonization and renewable energy. “

Phil Siveter, UK & Ireland CEO at Nokia said, “Enabling the decarbonizing of energy grids while ensuring resilient critical infrastructure is an opportunity that we are helping customers address across the world.  We are delighted that ESB Networks and Sigma Wireless entrust Nokia to deploy private LTE infrastructure running over their converged IP/MPLS backhaul network for critical grid communications to support the modernization and digitization of the energy grid throughout the Republic of Ireland.”

Virgin Media launches 2 Gigabit Full Fibre Broadband to 345,000 homes and businesses in Ireland

Virgin Media has announced the rollout of 2 Gig full fibre broadband to homes and businesses across Ireland. This will see Virgin Media’s new 2 Gig fibre broadband become available in towns including Tralee, Killarney and Letterkenny, along with ongoing full fibre network upgrades in areas such as Dublin, Cork and Louth.

With lightning-fast speeds of up to 2 Gig and 99.9% reliability, Virgin Media’s new full fibre broadband network is designed to revolutionise the way we connect and experience the digital world.

Today’s announcement also represents a significant milestone in Virgin Media’s three-year transition to a full fibre network, having previously led the charge in making Ireland FASTER with the switching on of 1 Gig broadband across the company’s entire network in 2020.

Virgin Media’s new 2 Gig full fibre broadband will provide customers with even faster speeds and superior reliability than ever before, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering the very best digital connectivity to consumers and businesses across Ireland.

Tony Hanway, CEO of Virgin Media said: “At Virgin Media, we always aim to deliver the very best experiences to our customers through our broadband and television services. Today’s announcement marks a step-change for our business as we will now offer superfast and reliable fibre broadband services in new regions across Ireland, resulting in greater consumer choice and increased competition.”

Recent research carried out by Amárach, on behalf of Virgin Media, showed that in this post-Covid world, a consumer’s broadband connection has never been more important than it is today, with over a third of consumers not only relying on their home broadband for their entertainment and streaming needs, but also for their home working needs.

The research also found that over half (53%) have consumed more streaming content over the last two years compared to before the pandemic.

Unsurprisingly, 47% of respondents stated that a reliable broadband connection is the most important factor when it comes to their home broadband connection with 31% stating a high-speed connection as the most important.

Our homes have become our offices, schools, cinemas and everything in between and these findings underline how integral super-fast connectivity is to our daily lives. To find out more go to www.virginmedia.ie