Month: September 2023

Tech Review – Samsung Galaxy A04s on Tesco Mobile

The Samsung Galaxy A04s is an affordable device from Samsung on the Tesco Mobile network and comes in at a really tasty price especially if you are a clubcard holder at 99 euro, normally 179 euro on prepay pricing at the time this review goes out so prices are subject to change.

The device is again similar to other Samsung phones on the Samsung portfolio and has thin bezels on the sides and top and a small chin on the bottom finished with a glossy finish all round and I suggest you get a case for it to keep it safe from getting smashed if you drop it, this can happen to anyone and I always advise getting a case no matter the cost of the phone.

It has a good sized screen for media consumption and does a decent job here with bright enough panels inside being a PLS LCD 90Hz refresh rate with up to 400 nits and a 6.5 inch screen.

Onto the camera next which most people are obsessed with these days and there and we have a 5mp front facing camera and three rear cameras which are 50mp f1.8 camera 2mp macro and 2mp depth cameras. But how these translate into real world images and videos can be seen below with the video and image taken with the device itself so you be the judge but from where I stand using high end phones most of the time they are not bad at all. You are maxed out at 1080X30fps and have 10X zoom as with images and like most phones bar the higher end S23 ultras for example all apart after 4X and this happens with many phones.

The device is powered by a 5000mAh battery which for me is great and will last a day easily and me being a power user so for the average joe you should get two days use no problem here. Inside the phone is ran by an Octa Core 4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 processors. Not bad but sluggish on some instances in my testing but again this depends on the apps you use.

When it comes to multitasking it worked fine for the most part but sometimes opening apps was a pain and there was some lag between swapping apps on multitasking but this is to be expected at this price no matter the device with similar inerts running it and again depending on your apps of choice, for general use such as social media emails browsing and so on for the most it will be fine and run nicely, my personal workload uses power consuming apps which will obviously slow things down more for me.

Overall for me this is an ideal second phone as I am more inclined to use higher end phones so for going out or going to a festival etc it is ideal and not an expensive loss should you loose it or it gets damaged, it can lack speed sometimes even opening some app and the camera is decent enough which for some is important.

Using the Tesco Mobile network is fine I have multiple sim cards here as I test the networks, over the last few weeks I have been using competing mvnos once of which has gone horrifically slow especially on data which is An Post so I will be moving over to tesco mobile now as it had no issues when testing. Check out their billpay plans here and prepay here and check out the device itself in the video below with image and video samples, So for the parents that are looking for a cheap phone that will do for the younger teens out the this might be the right phone. You can get it here.

Video and image samples and walkthrough

Data Edge 5G Tech Day

Data Edge, the leading Irish network and application performance management company, will host a free seminar on Wednesday, 18th October, in The Address Citywest Hotel, Co. Dublin, to look at the challenges and opportunities that network operators and regulators face when it comes to 5G deployment and testing.

As 5G networks are being widely deployed around the world, the cellular network operators, their subcontractors, and the National Regulator Authorities need to ensure that the networks are functioning well by measuring Radio Frequency (RF) metrics in the field.

Data Edge’s seminar will provide attendees with a full day of education, networking, and live demonstrations. Industry experts will outline how 5G networks are currently being deployed and how best to optimise their performance, providing customers and partners with faster and improved connectivity that can enable a better overall experience.

The event is being co-hosted by Anritsu, a global provider of innovative communications Test and Measurement solutions for more than 125 years. Cyril Noger, Radio Frequency (RF) & Wireless Field Application Engineer, Anritsu EMEA, will present at the event, and be joined by Andrew Cole, an Anritsu Field Application Engineer responsible for the company’s wireline product portfolio.

With more than 26 years’ experience in the Test & Measurement industry, Cyril is an industry expert who has focused on RF and wireless technology, starting with 2G and though every iteration up to 5G.  He will present a number of the day’s talks, including; Ensuring Performance of 5G Network with Accurate Field Measurements, and Performing Indoor and Outdoor Network Coverage Mapping. Andrew Cole, also a veteran of the sector with 40 years’ experience, will speak about efficient testing of today’s wired networks, as well as assisting with the live demonstration.

Leading Irish telecoms analyst, Luke Kehoe, who specialises in the area of 5G, will also deliver a talk at the event on the current state of play of Ireland’s 5G rollout.

Speaking about the event, Paul Phelan, CEO, Data Edge said: “Advances in network speed are the backbone to supporting all the innovation that is happening in the technology industry, and without it the digital economy would not be able to thrive as it has done. This seminar will provide attendees with valuable insights into how best to optimise their networks and to make the most of 5G, navigating the obstacles and making the most of the opportunities that it presents.”

Further information and registration are available here. Places are limited so early booking is strongly recommended.

QDOS launches iPhone15 collection

Today QDOS, a global designer and manufacturer of premium cases, screen protection and power, is launching its collection for the Apple iPhone 15 series, with a clear emphasis on boosting the recycled content within their product lineup.

The new collection of protective cases which includes QDOS’ HYBRID, HYBRID FORCE + SNAP, HYBRID SOFT + SNAP and TOUCH PURE + SNAP are all made using up to 83% recycled materials and boast plastic free, 100% recycled and recyclable packaging. Available in beautiful new pastel colours, as well as blue titanium and natural titanium, the stylish new cases have been designed to complement the colours of the new iPhone 15.

QDOS’ commitment to sustainability continues with the launch of its first recycled glass product to the market, the OPTIGUARD™ ECO GLASS protector for iPhone 15, which uses 44% pre-consumer, recycled glass. The company is already known as a brand leader for its ground-breaking OPTIGUARD™ products and is proud to be Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified and members of AMFORI.

Here are the new QDOS products in more detail:

OPTIGUARD™ ECO GLASS for iPhone 15

 

QDOS’ new range of OPTIGUARD™ ECO GLASS screen protectors are now even stronger. The glass is 9H on the scratch and impact resistance scale, using the strongest material to protect the screen from scratches and impact, without compromising the transparency of the screen underneath.

Each of the three options for iPhone 15 protector screens are shatter proof and made using 44% recycled glass. The glass maximises light transmittance, ensuring crystal clear clarity with no compromises. It also boasts super-smooth, super-sensitive touch screen sensitivity.

The glass is finished with a layer of oleophobic coating to repel greasy fingerprints. An added layer of antimicrobial protection kills 99.9% of bacteria and prevents the spread of microbes which might damage the phone.

All of the screen protectors come with a 100% recycled applicator tool that provides an easy way to apply the screen to avoid air bubbles forming under the surface. What’s more,  it can be recycled into household waste.

For extra peace of mind, all the screen protectors are covered by the OPTIGUARD™ Lifetime Warranty.

The range includes:

OPTIGUARD™ ECO GLASS screen, SRP £24.99

  • Recycled flat, clear tempered glass

OPTIGUARD™ ECO GLASS Plus, SRP £29.99

  • Recycled curved, clear tempered glass
  • 3x stronger than regular tempered glass
  • Black frame engineered for reinforced protection from cracks around corners and edges
  • Ultra strong impact protection

OPTIGUARD™ ECO GLASS Privacy, SRP £34.99

  • Recycled curved, privacy tempered glass
  • Curved edge-to-edge screen protection for full screen coverage protection
  • Privacy filter reduces vision from 180 degree angles, protecting sensitive data

QDOS iPhone 15 case collection

HYBRID for iPhone 15

  • SRP £19.99

The HYBRID is a crystal clear case, made using 83% recycled materials; our highest percentage recycled case.

With 2m drop protection, a back panel made from recycled polycarbonate, and shock absorbing flexible TPU, the phone case beautifully highlights the design of the phone, whilst allowing maximum protection.

Antimicrobial coating and anti-yellowing agents ensure the case stays clean and clear for longer.

HYBRID FORCE + SNAP for iPhone 15

  • SRP 29.99

The HYBRID FORCE + SNAP is a crystal clear case made using 75% recycled materials.

With 2m drop protection, a back panel made from recycled polycarbonate, and shock absorbing flexible TPU, the phone case beautifully highlights the design of the phone, whilst allowing maximum protection.

Antimicrobial coating and anti-yellowing agents ensure the case stays clean and clear for longer. The MagSafe case is fully compatible with other MagSafe accessories, and the SNAP magnet enables fast and secure wireless charging.

HYBRID SOFT + SNAP for iPhone 15

 SRP 29.99

  • Colours include: pink, blue, green, black, blue titanium, natural titanium

The HYBRID SOFT + SNAP is a MagSafe compatible, soft touch, translucent, coloured case with a frosted back panel made using 73% recycled materials.

The range is made from an ultra resistant and rigid recycled polycarbonate back with flexible, shock absorbing, recycled TPU.

It comes in a range of six beautiful new colours, including three pastel colours, specifically designed to complement the new iPhone 15 palette.

The cases have a MagSafe compatible SNAP magnet, providing a striking pop of colour which matches the metallic finish of the buttons and the camera lens surround. The case is coated with long lasting anti-yellowing agents to avoid discoloration, as well as a scratch-resistant coating.

TOUCH PURE + SNAP for iPhone 15

  • SRP 29.99
  • Colours include: pink, blue, green, black, blue titanium, natural titanium

The TOUCH PURE + SNAP is a MagSafe compatible, liquid silicone case made using  57% recycled materials.

The interior is lined with microfiber made from recycled nylon and TPU, with a shock-absorbent, recycled polycarbonate structure. The cases come in a range of six beautiful new colours, including three pastel colours, specifically designed to complement the new iPhone 15 colour palette.

Antimicrobial coating ensures the case stays clean for longer. The cases have a MagSafe compatible SNAP magnet, allowing for 15W fast wireless charging.

 The entire range is available to buy from the QDOS website, Vodafone and from John Lewis.

Twelve South introduces HiRise 3 Deluxe, a luxury 3-in-1 charging stand for Apple devices

Twelve South, an innovative Apple accessories designer, today introduces HiRise 3 Deluxe, a luxury 3-in-1 MagSafe wireless charger for iPhone (including iPhone 15 models), AirPods and Apple Watch (including Series 9). With an elegant space-saving vertical design, this modern all-black stand featuring vegan leather, round corners and smooth edges has a luxury feel, perfect for any bedside table or desk.

The HiRise 3 Deluxe allows users to connect their iPhone in both portrait and landscape modes, delivering up to 15W of fast wireless charging.  It allows users to connect their iPhone in both portrait and landscape mode (perfect for StandBy mode in iOS 17), delivering up to 15W of fast MagSafe wireless charging.

Additionally, it offers fast-charge for the Apple Watch and a 7.5W wireless charger in the base for AirPods or a second compatible phone. HiRise 3 Deluxe is available from mid-October exclusively from Apple UK, in-store and online, priced at £149.99. It is available to pre-order now from https://twelvesouth.eu.

Freeing Apple lovers from the clutter of numerous charging cables, users can place their iPhone on the soft leather MagSafe charger which guarantees the fastest possible charging.

Apple Watches, including Ultra, can either be charged flat, or simply flip the fast charger up from the base to charge it upright, in Nightstand mode. Additionally, users can charge their AirPods or even a second phone on the charging base. HiRise 3 Deluxe offers a seamless charging experience for all three devices.

From the aluminium post to the vegan-leather wrapped base, the HiRise 3 Deluxe has been thoughtfully designed to evoke quiet luxury. Compact, with a footprint smaller than an iPhone Pro Max, this 3-in-1 wireless charger not only saves space and streamlines multi-device charging but offers a stylish addition to a user’s home décor as well.

HiRise 3 Deluxe is available from mid-October from Apple UK for £149.99 or can be pre-ordered now from www.twelvesouth.eu.

Tech Review – EDIFIER TWS1 Pro 2 earbuds

The latest earbuds from EDIFIER have been in my ears some time now and it is time to have a chat and once again they knock it out of the park bar one small caveat for me so lets get that out of the way which is in fairness a small gripe and that is the limit on the controls at one time on the earbuds which is two commands. It is no huge deal but can be fixed with a software update but the rest from here on in is just great.

The design is clean I like it with the glossy white finish and nice clean case to go with the earbuds so overall clean simple and to the point and not too bulky an earbud either. They fit well in the ears and look good and also stand out and the brand logo is there for all to see, I have noticed here more shops stocking EDIFIER products which is great and they are a company I can stand by as I have done so for years with great audio products and I like to see the brand being now noticed more by third part retailers here.

The EDIFIER connect app is where it is also at and again they have all the features required bar the control limits but having said that you cans till put your own options in here, they are fully customisable and let you take control, Why I say this about the controls and the two controls option per side is we are mostly used to having three or more options each side but it is fine due to the options you have here and for most I would imagine will give them a pass here.

The EDIFIER TWS1 Pro – techbuzzireland

The EQs are great you can also customise your own and enjoy all the other features on board you have also go wear detection, low latency so for gamers they are ideal and I noticed no lag latency during my testing on gaming or audio etc, the volume is loud which I personally prefer and the ANC is pretty decent you also have two levels of ANC and transparency mode/ ambient sound which is great.

The sound overall though is brilliant, loud clear clean hues on all genres and pretty much center stage and for the price you cant really go wrong, battery life is on the lower end but no huge deal here and overall anyone who picks them up will be happy with these earbuds and again I would not expect anything less from the company.

 

The App

 

 

Main Features:

    • Long Battery Life. Around 4 hours music playtime with ANC ON with 12 hours charging case. A total 16 hours playtime.
    • Active noise cancellation with 2 levels of ANC selection and multiple ANC modes is designed to reduce unwanted background noise in various environments.
    • Clear call quality. Built-in microphone to ensure high quality calls.
    • Wear Detection. Music will pause automatically when taken out of your ear and will start playing once you place them back in.
    • Ultra-low latency connection with seamless experience on gaming activities.
    • Edifier Connect App. Unlock all the features through APP: customize control setting and EQ selection (Classic/POP/Classical/Rock).
  • Dust proof and splash proof for active wear. IP54 certified.

Price & Availability:

The Edifier TWS1 Pro 2 is available for £49.99 from https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C7L1KJRQ

Video Review

Fraud Alert: new ‘Live chat’ scam to gain remote access to customers’ PCs and banking information

Bank of Ireland is warning about a new wave of fraud that has been targeting customers of banks in Europe, the UK, the US, Australia, and New Zealand and is now in operation in Ireland.  The fraudsters are mainly targeting business banking customers at this time, duping them into allowing remote access to their computers and bank accounts.

Reports of this type of scam to Bank of Ireland’s fraud line are increasing daily, as the fraud gang target Irish customers.

This spike in fraudulent activity has occurred as Bank of Ireland launch a major national fraud awareness campaign to warn customers of the prevalence of fraud, with 96% of consumers believing they will be targeted in the next six months, and 82% saying they are targeted at least once per month.

What happens?

  1. The customer gets a phone call from someone claiming to be from Bank of Ireland.
  2. The caller asks the customer to log into their online banking as normal.
  3. The caller (fraudster) then asks the customer to go to another new website address, saying that this is: “for a live chat service” or “to verify the customer’s PC”, but in reality it allows the fraudster remote access to the customer’s PC.  The fraudster can now see the customer’s screen and access all of the customer’s files and programmes.
  4. The caller will set up payments on the customer’s online banking and ask the customer to read out the one-time codes from their BOI app to approve the payments.Bank of Ireland’s advice 
  1. If you get a call from someone who asks you to go to a website or to click on a link that they will send to you, just hang up. 
  2. Never allow a caller to take remote access of your PC.
  3. If someone asks you for a one-time code from your online banking app, they are a fraudster.  Never, ever share those codes with anyone, even if they say they are from Bank of Ireland.
  4. Be very careful when logging on to your online banking website.  The safest thing is to type in the website address yourself or to log in through the main Bank of Ireland website at bankofireland.com 

Commenting on the current wave of fraudulent messages, Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: “Fraudsters operate a range of scams that target people, all designed to access people’s bank account details or dupe them into transferring money. This new scam is of particular concern as fraudsters are convincing people to allow access to their PCs via a fake ‘live chat’, where they can access Business customers’ online banking, and other personal files and information.  

“We are urging customers to take extra care when logging into their online banking, to ensure it is a legitimate site.  People are currently being directed to fake sites, receiving follow-up phone calls from fraudsters and then being convinced to allow remote access. This scam is multi-layered and the international nature of the scam shows that it has been highly effective for the fraudsters elsewhere.   

“Unfortunately fraud has become an everyday part of people’s lives. We know that 96% of people surveyed by Red C say they expect to be personally targeted by a fraudster in the next six months and 82% say they receive a fraudulent attempt at least once a month.  Most people who have been a victim of fraud said they fell for the scam because they were distracted or too busy at the time. Which underlines the need for vigilance.  

 That’s why we are reminding customers that, often, all is not what it seems while fraudsters continue to masquerade as trusted businesses and organisations.   The message is: Stop, Think, Check – access your banking only through the official website or by typing in a website address and treat every unsolicited call, text or email as a potential fraud attempt”.  

Bank of Ireland has introduced a new national advertising campaign reminding customers that fraudsters are active on a daily basis and to ‘Stop, Think, Check’ in all transactions relating to their banking or personal information.

For more advice and information on fraud, visit Security Zone

6 Real Ways You Can Make Money Online Beyond Selling Goods

In the digital age, the Internet has revolutionized the ways we communicate, learn, and most pertinently, make money. The online world is overflowing with opportunities for savvy individuals to boost their income beyond traditional methods. This isn’t limited to selling goods alone, as is often presumed. This article shines a spotlight on various legitimate and innovative ways to earn money online, with potential avenues that may not have crossed your mind. Whether you’re seeking a full-time remote position or a side hustle to grow your savings, these 6 real ways to make money online could be your stepping stone to financial flexibility.

1. Take Online Surveys & Participate in Focus Groups

Market research companies are always looking to hear what consumers have to say about their products and services, so they reward individuals for providing candid feedback and opinions. This could mean taking an online survey or participating in a virtual focus group. Even though the payouts aren’t usually significant, it’s a great option if you’re short on time and don’t mind giving your two cents.

In addition, many survey sites offer rewards programs and sweepstakes that you can join for free. All this means is that even if you don’t qualify for a particular survey, you still have the opportunity to make money through other activities like clicking on ads or watching videos.

2. Become a Freelance Writer or Editor

If writing is in your blood, then this could be the perfect opportunity to make some extra money. There are numerous freelance websites through which you can connect with clients looking for help in creating high-quality content. Whether it’s SEO web content, magazine articles, social media copywriting, or blog posts, the demand for experienced writers is always on the rise. You could also join an editing platform to work on manuscripts and other projects as they come in. 

When starting out, you’ll likely be offered lower rates in order to build up your profile. But as you gain more experience and establish yourself as a professional freelancer, you can begin charging competitive prices for your work. You might even land some long-term contracts with larger organizations, enabling you to make a living wage from the comfort of your home.

3. Investing With a Broker

Investing money is an excellent strategy for growing your wealth over time. However, if you’re not well-versed in the stock market and financial jargon, it can appear overwhelming. This is where the expertise of a broker becomes invaluable. Namely, the professionals at Forex Broker Listing suggest that by partnering with a trusted broker, you can receive guidance on how to prudently and securely invest your funds. With the right brokerage platform, you can conveniently access market data and research from anywhere with an Internet connection. 

Most brokers also offer attractive bonuses for new customers that make it easier to start investing without a large initial outlay. Knowing when and where to put your money can help you earn a profit in the long run, without putting too much strain on your finances.

4. Become an Online Tutor

 

If you have a passion for teaching, why not leverage those skills to earn some extra income? Platforms like WizIQ and Udemy offer opportunities to create and teach your own online courses or join existing ones. This allows you to set your own rates and schedule, granting you full control over your workload. According to ReviewsXP, teaching experiences can vary from hosting live lectures or webinars to developing engaging content such as video tutorials and quizzes. The best part is, that most online tutoring positions don’t require a formal degree as you can virtually transfer your knowledge to eager learners.

5. Become an Affiliate Marketer

Affiliate marketing involves promoting different products and services as part of a larger network or platform. When customers click on your affiliate links and purchase the advertised product or service, you’ll receive a commission from the merchant. The amount varies depending on the platform and the products in question, so it’s worth doing some research to find out which companies offer attractive rates for their affiliates.

What makes affiliate marketing so great is that you don’t need to own a website or blog to get started. You can join an affiliate program and simply publish your links on social media or other channels to earn commissions. You can even bundle several products together as part of a package deal, and then promote it to a wider audience for greater success.

6. Become a Virtual Assistant

The term “virtual assistant” (VA) refers to an individual who provides administrative services remotely from home. Basically, you’ll be completing tasks that help busy executives and entrepreneurs who can’t do everything themselves. As a result, there is a growing demand for talented VAs to take on day-to-day tasks like scheduling meetings or conducting research. You could even offer copywriting services if you have the necessary expertise, as this skill is in high demand among businesses. Depending on the company, you might also have to manage social media accounts or answer customer service queries. 

The internet isn’t simply a vast pool of information—it’s a bustling marketplace of opportunities, too. Whether it’s taking online surveys, freelance writing, investing with a broker, tutoring, affiliate marketing, or becoming a virtual assistant, there are numerous legitimate ways to make money online. Remember, no venture is without its challenges and each one requires dedication, perseverance, and discipline. However, with a clear strategy and consistent effort, you can tap into these platforms and generate a substantial income from the comfort of your home. The digital world is yours to explore and profit from, so take the first step towards financial autonomy today.

UNLEASH World Returns to Showcase Companies Transforming the Future of Work

UNLEASH, the fastest-growing HR events across Europe and the US, returns to Paris for its 11th year on 17-18 October, 2023. Organised by UNLEASH, a global digital media and events business dedicated to HR, technology, learning and recruitment leaders, the flagship UNLEASH World conference has been the epicentre for HR, recruitment, learning expertise and tech influence for the last decade. This year, it returns to explore the transformative power of technologies such as AI in shaping the future of work.

Set across 12 theaters, UNLEASH World attendees will hear from visionary keynote speakers including CEOs from L’Oréal, Aliaxis and Roullier Group, CHROs from Airbus, Spotify and Sodexo, and Rugby legends, Jonny Wilkinson, CBE and Serge Betsen. With a diverse range of keynote speakers, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities, UNLEASH World provides cutting-edge insights and best practices for everyone – from CEOs to HR leaders and executives.

“UNLEASH is the most influential HR event in the world, where attendees are given the opportunity to meet the who’s who of the industry from some of the most exciting brands and employers in the world – under one roof, over two days of face-to-face meetings,” said Marc Coleman, CEO and Founder at UNLEASH. “Massive thanks too to our Headline Sponsors who are the heartbeat of the HR Industry and help ensure UNLEASH is the go-to global event for HR Leaders, including: AWS, Bob, Deloitte, Eightfold, Phenom, Qualtrics, SAP SuccessFactors, Visier, Workday, and Workhuman”.

Through keynotes on the main stage and further breakout stages, attendees will gain on some of the most pressing topics including:

  • Creating an Exponential Organization in the Modern Era
  • The Adaptive Enterprise – HR Technology in the Age of AI
  • Tech & Human Harmony in a Hyper-Connected World
  • Harnessing the Power of Resilience and Reinvention
  • Mastering Employee Connection and the Social Contract in Today’s Talent Landscape

The speaker roster itself is star-studded with 200+ of the best in the HR industry with speakers including:

  • Jean-Claude Le Grand, CHRO, L’Oréal
  • Katarina Berg, CHRO, Spotify
  • Josh Bersin, Founder & CEO, The Josh Bersin Company
  • Natalia Wallenberg, CHRO, Ahold Delhaize
  • Salim Ismail, Founder, OpenExO
  • Anika Grant, CPO, Ubisoft
  • Thierry Baril, CHRO, Airbus
  • Beatriz Rodriguez, Chief Talent and DEIB Officer, Bayer
  • Reza Moussavian, VP of People Products, Zalando
  • Maud Alvarez-Pereyre, Chief People & Transformation Officer, LVMH
  • Andrew Elston, Global Head, Workforce Strategy Enablement, HSBC
  • Laura Hingel, Global Head of Talent & Employer Branding, Christian Dior
    Henrik Hansen, VP Global Head of Integrated People Services, Philips
  • Denise King, Vice President, Global Benefits and Payroll, Medtronic
  • Artur Nejmark, Head of HRIS Operations, Volvo Group

Introducing the UNLEASH World Startup Program: A veritable launchpad for trailblazing entrepreneurs in the HR and Future of Work. UNLEASH has been the launchpad for the future of HR Tech, this high-impact platform has already seen its network of startups raise an astounding €10 billion in funding. 2023 UNLEASH World Startup Award offers an unparalleled opportunity for early-stage companies to break through. Established in 2011, this accolade has proven to be more than just a trophy; it’s a gateway to funding and exponential growth. Our last four champions and runner-up’s secured game-changing funding within months. Those interested in entering the award can find out more here.

For more information, including the agenda and how to register for the event, visit https://www.unleash.ai/unleashworld.

Esports & Gaming Federation of Ireland and Northern Ireland Esports Join Together

A strategic alignment between Northern Ireland Esports and the Esports & Gaming Federation of Ireland signals a bright future for esports players on the island of Ireland. The new entity will operate under ‘Ireland Esports’ represented by a new combined logo.

Going forward both entities will now operate as one registered not-for-profit organisation. The combined all-Ireland entity, respecting all communities, has the common goal to empower talent and provide pathways to compete on the international stage.  The alignment will share resources, facilitate education and develop domestic tournament initiatives over time.

Ireland Esports will be a member of the Global Esports Federation (GEF), the International Esports Federation (IeSF) and is committed to retain its existing close alignment with the British Esports Federation, Esports Scotland and Esports Wales.

Speaking at the announcement, Chair of Ireland Esports Steve Daly said, ‘The need to support pathways for esports athletes to compete on the international stage continues to evolve at pace. By adopting an all-Ireland approach, as has been seen in community and education initiatives as well as traditional sports and sporting federations, this strategic alignment is a significant step forward’.

‘Both entities have been successfully working together for the past 12 months and have achieved so much. Bringing them together in a more formal fashion will help accelerate opportunities for esports talent and implement professional structures successfully. Much of this hard work was seen earlier this summer as we travelled to the European Games Esports Championships to showcase the talent we have discovered on the island of Ireland’ said Michael Smyth, Ireland Esports board member, who has acted as Team Manager for both Esports NI and Ireland Esports over the last 12 months.

Athletes from Northern Ireland will have the option of participating for Ireland Esports or for the Great Britain and Northern Ireland team for international events, as is the case within the Olympic movement.

The Ireland Esports logo takes inspiration from the existing NI Esports stag logo.  The Irish stag has been a symbol, dating back centuries in Irish folklore, representing strength, power, courage, and maturity. The stag is combined with a modern interpretation of Ireland’s symbolic Shamrock motif.  The mission statement for the new entity is ‘To manage and enhance the performance of Team Ireland at international competitive tournaments whilst developing domestic competitive and educational pathways”