Gardena, Husqvarna Group’s leading gardening brand in Europe, is proud to announce several new products for the 2024 gardening season, marking another milestone in the company’s commitment to electrification. As a pioneer in the industry, Gardena continues to lead the way by enabling garden owners to shift to battery-powered products.
Central to Gardena’s approach is the Power for All Alliance, a joint 18V battery system platform established together with Bosch in 2020, offering home and garden owners the flexibility of using a single battery across more than one hundred power tools from leading manufacturers worldwide. This collaborative initiative, that the Husqvarna brand also is a part of, reflects the Group’s dedication to enhancing user experience and promoting interoperability within one of the largest cross-brand 18V battery systems for homes and gardens.
Introducing product highlights for 2024, all powered by Power for All batteries:
Wall-Mounted Hose Box PowerRoll: Offers freedom and flexibility as well as maximum convenience for watering. Thanks to the rechargeable battery, the hose is automatically and evenly rolled up at the touch of a button.
Multi Cleaner AquaBrush: The AquaBrush combines versatility with performance while cleaning around the house and garden.
Weed Brush EasyWeed: Say goodbye to manual weed removal with this powerful and efficient solution. It cleans precisely and removes unwanted green and deposits without chemicals.
Grass and Shrub Shears PowerCut: Perfect for the maintenance of lawn edges and regular pruning of shrubs with exceptional results.
All motorized products from Gardena are electrified, supporting Husqvarna Group’s ambition to have 2/3 of the motorized products electrified by 2026. By the end of 2023, 41% of Husqvarna Group’s motorized products were electrified.
Two-thirds of compliance experts in the financial services sector believe, to some degree, that new laws which allow the Central Bank to fine individuals up to €1 million for rule-breaking – and empower the regulator to go after a person’s assets – could result in “financial ruin” for workers in the financial industry. Furthermore, more than six in ten (62pc) of those surveyed believe the wealth of the individual being investigated should be taken into account when deciding the size of any fine they are to be hit with.
This is according to the findings of a new survey by the Compliance Institute, which polled 175 compliance professionals working primarily in Irish financial services organisations nationwide.
The Compliance Institute survey examined attitudes towards new laws passed last March as part of the Central Bank’s move to clamp down on individuals found guilty of wrongdoing in the financial services industry.
Following changes that were introduced by the Individual Accountability Framework (IAF) Act last year, the Central Bank can now take direct enforcement actions against individuals in authorised roles for the first time. As part of this direct enforcement, individuals can be fined up to €1m for wrongdoing (see Appendix).
Commenting on the survey findings, Michael Kavanagh, CEO of the Compliance Institute said:
“The new laws means that for the first time, the Central Bank can now take direct enforcement actions against individuals in authorised roles. Despite concerns that the new powers could lead to the financial detriment of workers in the financial services sector, our survey found that an overwhelming 85pc of compliance professionals are in favour of the new laws. Almost one in five (17.5%) are already confident the changes are “necessary and well-measured”, while a further 67pc are waiting to see how the new laws work in practice before they make a final judgement.
Furthermore, of those who oppose the Central Bank’s new powers, just 4pc believe sanctions should be limited to the institution only.
This strengthening of powers has generated both discussion and debate throughout the financial services industry and while some groups have welcomed the move, others have voiced their concerns.”
The Compliance Institute points to arguments made by certain lobby groups late last year that these laws could make it harder for the financial services industry to attract and retain talent while others suggested they could even result in “financial ruin” for workers in the sector. Indeed, a survey conducted by the Compliance Institute last year found there was growing concern that new governance rules giving the Central Bank new powers to hold individuals accountable for wilful wrongdoing in the financial sector[1] could stymie the recruitment of senior executives in the field, with nine in ten firms in the sector saying they believe the new rules will make it difficult for firms to hire individuals into particular senior roles.
Mr Kavanagh added:
“Just 12pc of the people we surveyed agreed the changes could hamper the industry in Ireland, but a larger percentage (25pc) believe they could in fact result in financial ruin for the workers involved.In reality however, most people are on the fence, but one in three are confident that the Central Bank will be proportionate in the application of the powers”.
The Compliance Institute says the new laws should ultimately underpin sound governance across the financial services sector which in turn, consumers should benefit from.
Mr Kavanagh explained:
“While individuals could be fined up to €1m under the new laws, the Central Bank has promised it will apply the sanctions to individuals in a way that takes account of the unique challenges they face compared to firms. Most (62pc) also believe that the wealth of the individual should be considered while almost 6 in 10 say the access to advice provided by their employer should be factored in.”
ASUS announced the virtual launch event for the highly anticipated Zenfone 11 Ultra, taking place on 14th March at 12:00 BST.The Zenfone 11 Ultra launch event will be streamed online, allowing tech enthusiasts and media representatives from around the world to witness the unveiling of this revolutionary device.
Experience this powerful smartphone that blends cutting-edge hardware, innovative software, and elegant design into one stunning device. This new mobile experience is redefined by innovative Al features that offer unmatched user interaction and seamless capture of life’s moments.
Random number generators have a major part to play in the world of gaming. They’re used in multiple ways, to provide a fun and exciting experience for players across the world. RNG makes games unpredictable.
Why is Unpredictability Fun?
The exact placement of where enemies spawn in a room might be mildly inconvenient, but a boss randomising their attacks would prove to be disastrous. In short, without random number generators, games would be predictable and boring, but by including them, it’s possible to complete the same game over and over again whilst getting a different experience each time.
Unpredictability is fun. It’s easy to see, because with unpredictability, comes a rollercoaster of emotions. From highs to lows and everything in between, it helps to add a new dynamic to gaming. A prime example of this would be roulette. The numbers on a roulette wheel are generated via an RNG, and this ensures that every time, the same numbers have the chance of appearing. The game comes purely down to luck, which makes for a unique experience. As a player, you might be able to find historical information that highlights hot or cold numbers, but there’s no chance that this streak will continue.
Another example would be with loot chests in games. If you open a loot chest on one save, the next time you load up the game, you can’t guarantee you’re going to get the same item. Sometimes players save, then reload their game, and re-open the same chest over and over again until they get the item they want. With that being said, there’s no way of predicting what the item is going to be. Although item rarity can come into the equation, the overall seed number used to dictate the chest reward is purely random.
Combat and Fighting Systems
Have you ever had a character in a game that’s just…bad? It doesn’t matter who you go up against because you just can’t seem to come out with a win. Why does this happen? Because of RNGs. No matter how much you train, there is always going to be another character who is better than you. This power creep helps to make games exciting, as the power of your character will always be determined by an RNG. One time you may do 50 hit points of damage, and the next only 25. RNG can also dictate when a hit is critical.
RNGs are also evident in map creation. When generating map seeds, RNG is used to come up with a number in which the entire map is found. Cliffs, rivers, ravines and forests can be spawned so that they look natural in the given world, purely because it’s random. If a developer had to place individual trees in a game, you’d start to see patterns which would pull away from the general realism of the game.
RNG helps to eliminate this, by ensuring that worlds are generated differently each time the game is loaded, providing players with an exciting landscape that encourages exploration.
munchd, a new online food ordering platform built specifically to empower local restaurants and takeaways is set to shake up the food industry with its game-changing 0% commission model. Unlike competitors charging hefty commissions and transaction fees, munchd also boasts a minimal 1.4% transaction rate on orders, allowing restaurants and takeaways to increase their profits and thrive in an increasingly difficult economic landscape for the hospitality industry.
Developed by Dundalk based marketing agency, ZOMA, munchd operates with a transparent approach, in contrast to many traditional online ordering systems that often hit restaurants with crippling, and sometimes hidden, transaction fees. This model allows businesses to maximise their profits, and ultimately offer more competitive prices to their customers. munchd’s commitment to local businesses extends beyond its 0% commission model, as the platform allows the user to control all customer data, build brand loyalty, and promote their business all from one central hub.
Explaining the rationale behind developing munchd, David Kieran, ZOMA Managing Director said: “In the current economic climate, businesses across the hospitality industry are struggling to keep up with rising costs. With the array of ordering apps in the restaurant and takeaway sector, businesses offering delivery services have faced exorbitant commissions and escalating expenses. munchd aims to empower these businesses by reclaiming their earnings, fostering local economic growth, and ultimately lowering the prices consumers pay for delivered items.”
For food lovers, munchd offers a user-friendly experience when ordering food. The platform already hosts a diverse selection of local restaurants and takeaways; and online, users can browse menus, place secure orders, and then track their deliveries in real-time. Diners can either order at munchd.io or by visiting the business’ own website.
David Kieran continued “munchd is simple and easy to use, it gives takeaways and restaurants more control over their own profile; and has ultimately allow us to expand the offerings and value we bring to the end consumer.”
munchd’s first client, Vincent Del Duca, owner of Tony’s Pizzeria said: “munchd has had a massive effect on our profitability and business – it has been a game changer. Thanks to the 0% commission rate and munchd’s commitment to giving takeaways and restaurants back the money they are paying in huge commissions, the savings you make on that side of it alone can equate to a week’s wages for some employees.”
Founded in 2016, ZOMA specialises in cutting edge web design, content creation and digital marketing solutions; working across a range of industries including corporate, health and wellness, fashion, food and hospitality, tourism, sport and events, construction, property, agriculture, medical, and manufacturing. It is one of the leading Shopify partners and largest Wix partner in Ireland & UK; official Google Partner; Business All-Star accredited and recipient of the Business All-Star One to Watch Award; SFA member and recipient of the National Best Place to Work Award; and was named the 2023 Louth Overall Business of the Year at Louth Business Awards.
Restaurants and takeaways interested in joining munchd can register by visiting www.munchd.io/join.
The Creative Aurvana Ace earbuds are the latest on offer from a duo announced not so long ago and we have been putting them the test over the last while and have been eagerly awaiting to do so due to the new xMEMS drivers that come inside them.
The design and build are pretty standard and this also applies to the ACE 2 which has a smokey transparent finish, the case is an average size and same for the buds themselves which have small stems and sit in the ear perfectly giving a secure fit and some passive noise isolation so in short ideal for anyone.
The earbuds are touch controlled and have settings to adjust them to your needs which is good to see you have all the features required from a pair of earbuds here such as play and pause skip and reverse tracks and of course your voice assistant plus an EQ in their app which is simple to use and navigate which you can see in the video review below.
There is 3 mics each side and there is 10 mm drivers inside these which might seem small for some but average for earbuds but they have solid state xMEMS drivers which gives you better sound quality and aptX and for the money the sound is excellent here and decently loud too which is how I like it.
There is also a low latency mode for gamers here and overall with the sound you can here more instruments and distinguish between the highs lows and mids and other noises you might not pick up on other earbuds giving more clarity all round and an enjoyable listening experince overall with no lag latency noted either or tinny sound when maxed out as how I use my earbuds, calls also crisp and clear both ends during my testing.
The Creative Aurvana Ace series, powered by xMEMS drivers, has been expertly tuned to deliver remarkable audio clarity with a wider frequency response ranging from 5 Hz to 40 KHz. With this comprehensive range, users will get to enjoy a truly immersive and lifelike audio experience, whether it’s for music, movies, or conference calls
The App
Creative App – Aurvana Ace -techbuzzireland
POWERED BY xMEMS DRIVERS – Enjoy a rich, detailed sound profile across all genres, from booming bass to crisp highs. Coupled with high-quality aptX Adaptive audio codecs, the Creative Aurvana Ace deliver great audio performance on the go
UNINTERRUPTED AUDIO STREAMING – the next-generation Bluetooth LE Audio offers exceptional wireless audio quality with lower bitrates and power consumption, delivering a more immersive high-definition listening experience
NOISE CONTROL FEATURES – Tune out with Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), allowing you to enjoy your music without interference. Tune in with Ambient mode lets you connect to the world around you
LONG BATTERY LIFE – Comes with a battery life of up to 24 hours total playtime, 6 hours on a single charge, and recharge via the included USB-C cable
BE HEARD CLEARLY – Featuring a total of six built-in microphones and powered by Qualcomm cVc (Clear Voice capture) noise cancellation technology, these integrated mics ensure crystal clear voice calls
Creative Aurvana Ace is priced at US$129.99 and is available at Creative.com.
Japanese high-end audio pioneers, Final, introduces the VR500 wired Gaming Earphones, delivering an extraordinary gaming audio experience without breaking the bank. The VR500 sets a new standard for affordable immersive audio, offering gamers a high-end experience at a remarkably low price.
The VR500 specialises in “sound image localization” in order to accurately reproduce the direction of sound, providing gamers with a three-dimensional soundstage for a heightened sense of realism and immersion. Whether you’re in the midst of a battle or exploring a virtual world, Final’s expertise in high-end audio is evident in the VR500 – elevating your gaming experience to new heights.
The VR500 features Final’s newly developed precision-tuned dynamic drivers that deliver exceptional audio clarity at a fraction of the cost of other gaming earphones and headphones. From subtle in-game cues to explosive sound effects, the VR500 ensures an immersive gaming experience without the premium price tag.
In games, sound effects and dialogue are localised to the creator’s intended position and can be heard clearly, making it easy to identify each sound even in situations where sound effects overlap – allowing deeper immersion into a wide array of digital dimensions.
Designed for extended gaming sessions, the VR500 prioritises comfort without compromising affordability, and comes with a wide selection of Final’s own superior quality silicone eartips, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. The compact, ergonomic design and lightweight build allow gamers to enjoy extended playtime without discomfort.
Not only is the VR500 ideal for gaming, when it comes to music, the position of vocals and instruments becomes clearer, and sounds can be heard separately without being muddied by other frequencies – allowing you to enjoy your favourite music with new insight and clarity.
With audio content such as ASMR, you can feel the distance between the voice and your ears more clearly, giving you a vivid sensation as if you were in the room yourself.
The in-line microphone ensures clear communication with teammates during multiplayer gaming sessions, or distraction-free voice calls while on the move.
The one button control can play/pause, skip tracks and take calls with ease.
Crafted with durability in mind, the Final Audio VR500 is built to withstand the rigors of intense gaming sessions. The tough ABS resin material used in its construction ensures longevity, making the VR500 a reliable companion for gamers. On top of that, the new Matte Grey colour coating makes fingerprints and dirt less noticeable.
The VR500 represents a significant leap forward in gaming audio technology. Final believe that exceptional gaming audio should be accessible to all gamers, regardless of budget constraints. The VR500 is a testament to their commitment to delivering premium sound at an unbeatable price, ensuring that every gamer can experience the joy of high-quality audio. The E500 is not just a pair of earphones; they are a gateway to a new dimension of gaming audio.
The Final Audio VR500 Gaming Earphones are now available to buy through Amazon and selected retailers across the UK and EU for £29.99/€34.99 – offering an unmatched combination of performance and affordability.
Online colleges, also known as distance learning institutions, are key players in the digital evolution of academia. With an array of undergraduate and graduate programs delivered entirely or primarily online, these institutions are providing unprecedented access to education. The convenience of attending classes from any location with internet access has sparked a surge in enrollment, with the sector projected to grow exponentially in the coming years.
The inception and evolution of online colleges have been nothing short of revolutionary. And the reasons for its emergence go beyond mere convenience, delving deep into the fundamental needs of the modern student. The rise in popularity of online colleges can be attributed to several compelling reasons:
Cost-Effectiveness
Online education significantly cuts down on the expenses associated with traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. Without the need for commuting or on-campus housing, students can save on transportation, accommodation, and numerous other costs. But what truly sweetens the deal is the increasing number of programs offering free or discounted laptops for college students to facilitate their studies. This initiative not only eases financial burdens but also ensures students have the essential tools to succeed in a digital learning environment.
By providing technology access through such schemes, online colleges address the digital divide, making higher education more equitable. This allows students from diverse backgrounds to participate in courses they might have otherwise foregone due to tech constraints. Such inclusivity not only enriches the learning experience for all students but also broadens the horizon of what online education can offer, further enhancing its appeal and accessibility.
Self-Paced Learning
Self-paced learning stands as one of the most significant advantages of online education, permitting learners to adapt their study schedules around their personal and professional lives. This autonomy empowers students to progress through material at their comfort level, revisit complex topics as needed, and advance when ready. It’s this kind of flexibility that not only caters to various learning styles but also accommodates those juggling multiple responsibilities, like working professionals or parents.
Moreover, the self-paced format aligns with the modern educational philosophy that acknowledges that learning is not one-size-fits-all. It fosters a personalized educational journey, where the pace of learning is dictated not by the academic calendar but by individual capability and schedule. As a result, learners can approach their studies without the pressure of synchronous deadlines, often leading to a deeper and more thorough understanding of the subject matter.
Diverse Course Offerings
Online colleges cater to a broad spectrum of interests and fields, both conventional and niche. This means that students are often able to find courses that are not readily available in their local institutions. From specialized business analytics programs to cutting-edge digital arts courses, the diversity in curriculum serves as an academic buffet for curious minds across the globe. Moreover, the ability to update and expand course content quickly allows online colleges to stay abreast of emerging industry trends, further enhancing their appeal.
The global classroom environment inherent in online education enriches the learning experience by incorporating diverse perspectives. Students can engage with peers from different cultures and backgrounds, fostering a multicultural exchange of ideas that prepares them for a global workplace. This level of cultural immersion brings lessons to life in a way that traditional campuses can seldom match, offering a distinctive advantage to online learners.
Global Accessibility
One of the most transformative aspects of online colleges is their global reach, allowing individuals from any part of the world to access quality education. This proves particularly life-changing for those in remote or underserved regions who may have limited educational resources. The only requirement — a stable internet connection — paves the way for educational equity, enabling anyone with the determination to learn, regardless of their economic or geographic constraints.
Moreover, the flexibility offered by online learning platforms caters to nontraditional students, such as working professionals and parents, who need to balance their academic goals with other responsibilities. This aspect of online learning democratizes education by providing an option for those who previously may have found it challenging to pursue further studies due to time or logistical restrictions.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Online colleges not only offer flexibility and a variety of programs but also pave the way for significant career advancement. By earning degrees and certifications online, students can position themselves favorably in the competitive job market. These qualifications serve as evidence of the student’s dedication, adaptability, and familiarity with digital work environments, which are highly regarded skills in the modern workplace.
The asynchronous learning models typical of online programs allow students to implement their newfound knowledge in real-time job settings practically. This blending of academics and professional life results in a potent combination of theory and practice, equipping graduates with a versatile skill set that can be applied immediately and effectively in their current or future job roles.
Community and Network Building
Contrary to popular belief, online education is more than just a solitary experience. With features like discussion forums, social media groups, and virtual events, students have ample opportunities to engage with their peers and instructors actively. These interactions create a sense of community that fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and networking.
Through such networks, students can form professional connections that extend beyond the duration of their courses, opening doors for future collaborations and career opportunities. The online format also allows students to connect with alums from diverse backgrounds and locations, creating a rich and supportive global network.
Technological Proficiency
In an increasingly digital world, technological literacy has become a necessary skill. Online colleges equip students with the technical abilities and knowledge required to thrive in a tech-driven society. As coursework is entirely or primarily delivered through digital platforms, students become familiar with various online tools and programs that are relevant to their fields.
This hands-on learning not only prepares students for remote work but also makes them more marketable to employers seeking tech-savvy individuals. Moreover, the integration of technology in education opens up a world of possibilities for students and educators alike, leading to continuous innovation and improvements in online learning platforms.
Online colleges revolutionize education by offering accessible, flexible learning opportunities. These institutions cater to modern students’ needs, equipping them for success in a digital world. With technology advancements and a growing demand for remote learning, online colleges will shape the future of education. Whether you’re a working professional or a student seeking flexibility and global exposure, online colleges offer a great platform for academic success.
Women will soon have the power to tackle devastating menopause symptoms at the touch of a button through a ground-breaking Irish app. The Menopause Hub App, the first of its kind in this country, includes the latest information and research about the hormonal changes endured by women in their 40s and 50s.
They can also use the mobile app to monitor their own menopausal and perimenopausal symptoms and receive medication reminders. Launched by award-winning specialists, The Menopause Hub, the app is the brainchild of the clinic’s CEO and founder, Loretta Dignam.
She opened her first clinic in 2019 after finding out for herself the lack of help available to menopausal and perimenopausal women – and said the data gathered by the app can be used by researchers investigating future treatments.
“The aim is that the data collected will provide a valuable insight into the effectiveness of current therapies, such as HRT and/or cognitive behavioural therapies, and this knowledge can also be used by clinicians when prescribing treatments.
“Combining the latest technology with up-to-date data about female health will not only improve outcomes for women today, but will also improve the range and impact of menopause treatments available to future generations,” said Ms Dignam.
“There is a myriad of menopausal symptoms which women in their 40s and 50s experience in varying degrees, including insomnia, hot flushes, anxiety, depression, and brain fog, to name but a few.
“Every women’s menopause will be vastly different.
“Some will sail through it, while others will struggle to such an extent that they feel they have to give up their careers or their long-term relationships break down.
“It is, therefore, vital that we gather as much clinical data as we can to help medical researchers develop future treatments.
“For far too long, the impact menopause was having on women’s lives was ignored.
“But women are now demanding – and deserve – more help with symptoms.”
The app was developed by medical technology company Zendra Health, which is helping over 80 healthcare services and organisations across the US, UK and Ireland digitalise their care pathways.
CEO, Thomas Coleman, said that the app was co-designed by women going through menopause and clinical experts.
“Hundreds of thousands of lives across Ireland, male and female, are impacted by menopause,” said Mr Coleman, who co-founded the Dún Laoghaire-based tech firm with his twin brother, David.
“So we were delighted to develop this streamlined digital care solution for The Menopause Hub.
“Loretta is one of the thought leaders in this area and we were guided not only by her expertise but by the expertise of her medical team and by the experiences of their clients.”
The Menopause Hub App will be available to download in March.
