Bank of Ireland is warning about an increasing number of false articles appearing online designed to defraud consumers through fake financial products, investments or cryptocurrency schemes.
The articles appear like news articles from genuine media outlets, but are false advertisements that fraudsters are paying for online. The advertisements feature fabricated news stories with claims about specific cryptocurrency trading platforms or designed to entice readers to websites where they can then be defrauded. The false articles/advertisements generally feature a well-known personality or celebrity, combined with a controversial headline to grab attention.
Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud at Bank of Ireland said: “Fraudulent advertisements are increasingly appearing online and on social media channels and are designed to steal consumers’ money through fake financial products, investments or cryptocurrency schemes. We see more and more fraud attacks starting from social media and tech platforms – these fake ads should be caught before they are published online, but many are not.
“Unfortunately, supervision of this is very inconsistent, at times it’s like a game of whack-a-mole trying to report the different scams to the social media companies and get them taken down. It’s unacceptable to see fraudsters operating so openly on social media. No company should be generating advertising revenue from criminals – social platforms really need to step up and crack down.
“Our advice to consumers is: Don’t click on these adverts, ignore them completely, and if an investment sounds too good to be true, it’s probably fraud.”
Examples of recent scam articles featuring Bank of Ireland:
Virtual reality is expected to be the next major disruptive technology, and it could completely change the face of the online world. By 2030, around one billion people could be using VR devices, consuming new forms of entertainment within the metaverse.
Ireland has grown into one of Europe’s foremost tech hubs over the last two decades, and it is well positioned to be at the heart of this VR revolution. There are countless companies in the country that are making great progress with VR innovations.
VR Will Have Many Applications in the Future
VR is on the cusp of the mainstream already, and it will be helped by some of the leading online industries over the next few years. The online casino sector is likely to incorporate it soon, just as it did with live streaming. The blackjack at Paddy Power, for instance, now includes numerous immersive options with live dealers. Live Lightning Blackjack Live and Unlimited Blackjack are two games that put players right at the centre of the action.
VR will play a major role in the next stage of the evolution of casino table games. Live streaming already puts players at the centre of the action, but VR will add another element of immersion. Instead of viewing the action through a screen, players will feel like they have set foot into a virtual casino.
Countless VR Companies in Ireland
There are myriad VR companies operating within the vibrant tech scene of Ireland, and many of these have been recognised for their innovative contributions to the field. Due to the growing nature of the tech landscape here, there’s a lot of collaboration. This means that the industry can propel forward rapidly.
When it comes to immersive content, the VRAgency is one to watch. It focuses on virtual and augmented reality content and aims to offer video content for brands and adventurers. It’s listed by Futurology as one of the most innovative VR companies in Ireland.
Mersus Technologies is another exciting start-up. The Athlone-based company has developed an immersive virtual reality platform that mirrors real-world environments. This is used for worker training in advanced manufacturing processes but could be applied to other fields as well.
When Will VR Become Mainstream?
All these Ireland-based companies are helping VR inch closer to the mainstream, and it feels like it won’t be long now before everyone is using the technology. Apple’s Vision Pro could be a major catalyst towards the boom if it is able to have the same effect as the iPhone had on the smartphone market.
Meta is also making excellent progress in the VR market, with an aim of making the technology more accessible to a greater number of people. Mark Zuckerberg expects the Metaverse to be fully operational by 2030, which could mean VR is mainstream by then.
The VR revolution is coming, and Ireland is going to be a huge player in its progress. Along with tech companies innovating with the technology, Ireland-based entertainment sites will integrate it soon as well.
Ever wanted to use a mouse with your laptop but always found carrying it separately too inconvenient?
Sydney based startup Bellpont just released its first product – Travel Pad. Like its name implies, it’s a travel mousepad with a side pouch that can hold accessories like mouses.
People love the notebook-like shape which fits snugly into backpacks while the zippable side pouch prevents anything from falling out. Most types of mouses, USB sticks and pens can now be conveniently carried with a laptop. It acts as a seamless addition to people’s laptops and brings the following design insights:
The non-slip Neoprene base grips to whatever surface you’re working on and prevents skidding.
The padded Nylon edges prevents fraying and drastically increases the pads lifespan.
“Carrying a laptop by itself was simple and convenient. But there were just times like doing graphic design or making PowerPoint presentations where the trackpad didn’t cut it” said the designers. “We thought – what if there was a way where people could carry a mouse with their laptop and be able to use it effectively”?
Travel Pad ships free to most major regions, including Australia, the US, Canada, UK, EU and East Asia. A 3 year global warranty is offered as well as 30 day no hassle returns.
The advent of blockchain technology has brought about a paradigm shift in the digital realm, ushering in decentralized systems characterized by transparency, security, and efficiency. In the vanguard of this technological evolution stands Cardano, a next-generation blockchain that distinguishes itself through a pioneering approach to scalability, sustainability, and smart contract execution. Originating in 2015 under the guidance of Charles Hoskinson, a co-founder of Ethereum, Cardano’s inception was marked by a dedication to rigorous academic research and a mission to foster a more inclusive financial ecosystem. This commitment propelled Cardano towards addressing the inherent limitations of previous blockchain iterations, positioning it as a trailblazer in the ongoing transformation of the digital landscape.In a constantly changing and intricate financial landscape Immediate Apex, an Investment Education Firm, stands out by offering vital advice and direction in investment education
Genesis of Cardano
Cardano’s development approach is firmly rooted in peer-reviewed academic research, which establishes a strong and secure foundation for the project. By drawing lessons from the earlier blockchain endeavors such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, Cardano places a significant emphasis on creating a modular and scalable architecture. This commitment to modularity and scalability positions Cardano as a third-generation blockchain, striving to address the scalability and sustainability issues that have posed challenges for its predecessors in the blockchain space.
Cardano’s Unique Architecture
Ouroboros Consensus Algorithm
Cardano’s distinctive structure centers around the Ouroboros consensus algorithm, which operates on a proof-of-stake (PoS) principle, distinguishing it from energy-intensive proof-of-work systems. This PoS mechanism not only promotes sustainability but also enhances energy efficiency. Ouroboros divides time into epochs and slots, providing a reliable and secure framework for confirming transactions, thus contributing to Cardano’s robust and eco-friendly blockchain ecosystem.
Layers of the Cardano Blockchain
Cardano operates on a dual-layered blockchain, comprising the settlement layer for handling transactions and the computation layer for executing smart contracts. This separation enhances scalability and allows for future upgrades without compromising the core functionality.
Smart Contracts on Cardano
Cardano’s smart contract platform, built on the computation layer, brings programmability to the blockchain. While Ethereum pioneered smart contracts, Cardano distinguishes itself by addressing some of Ethereum’s limitations. The Cardano team has taken a cautious approach, learning from past security vulnerabilities, and prioritizing formal verification to ensure smart contract reliability.
Cardano’s smart contracts bring advantages such as reduced gas fees, enhanced security, and increased flexibility for developers. Potential use cases range from decentralized finance (DeFi) applications to supply chain management and identity verification.
Governance and Sustainability
Decentralized Governance Model
Cardano’s governance model involves ADA token holders participating in decision-making processes. This decentralized approach ensures that the community has a voice in protocol upgrades and network improvements. ADA holders can propose and vote on changes, fostering a collaborative ecosystem.
Sustainability and Funding
Cardano recognizes the importance of sustainable development. To fund ongoing research and updates, a treasury system allocates a portion of transaction fees for future development. This self-sustaining mechanism allows Cardano to evolve and adapt without relying on external funding sources.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Academic Collaborations
Cardano has forged partnerships with renowned academic institutions worldwide, fostering collaboration in blockchain research and development. This commitment to academic rigor enhances the credibility and innovation behind Cardano’s technology.
Industry Partnerships
Strategic partnerships with industry players have strengthened Cardano’s position in the blockchain space. Collaborations range from technology integrations to joint initiatives, expanding Cardano’s reach and impact.
Challenges and Future Roadmap
Current Challenges
Cardano, like any evolving technology, faces challenges. These may include user adoption, interoperability with other blockchains, and regulatory considerations. However, the project actively addresses these challenges through continuous development and community involvement.
Future Roadmap
Cardano’s roadmap includes planned upgrades, such as the introduction of smart contracts, to enhance functionality and meet the evolving needs of users. The Alonzo upgrade, for instance, has positioned Cardano to compete more effectively in the decentralized application (DApp) space.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cardano’s journey represents a significant leap forward in the realm of blockchain technology. Its commitment to academic research, unique architecture, sustainable governance, and strategic collaborations position Cardano as a leading contender in shaping the next generation of blockchains. As the project continues to evolve and overcome challenges, it remains a key player in the ongoing transformation of the digital landscape.
Bitcoin, a decentralized digital currency, emerges as a disruptive force across various industries, reshaping conventional norms in transactions and ownership within the realm of digital art. The evolution of digital art, moving from traditional forms to creative expressions in the digital realm, signifies an ongoing digital art renaissance. This article thoroughly explores the intersection of Bitcoin with the thriving digital art scene, delving into the symbiotic relationship between the decentralized currency and digital art galleries. As we immerse ourselves in the dynamic world of digital artistic expression, insights emerge on how Bitcoin seamlessly integrates into the ever-evolving fabric of digital art galleries. Amidst this transformative integration, a notable development is the rise of https://immediate-ewave.com/, an online trading solution that enhances accessibility and engagement within the digital art market.
Bitcoin as a Revolutionary Currency in the Art World
Decentralization: Redefining Art Market Dynamics
Bitcoin’s decentralized nature challenges the conventional art market by eliminating the need for intermediaries. This section explores how this decentralization impacts the traditional dynamics of art transactions.
Bitcoin’s Role in Disintermediation
An exploration of how Bitcoin serves as a catalyst for disintermediation in the art world, erasing the need for middlemen and fostering direct transactions between artists and collectors.
Transparency and Trust in Art Transactions
Unpacking the transparency afforded by Bitcoin transactions, this section discusses how the blockchain ensures a trustworthy and transparent ecosystem for art transactions.
NFTs: Transforming Digital Art Ownership
Understanding Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)
An in-depth exploration of NFTs, the unique cryptographic tokens that have become synonymous with digital art ownership, and their role in transforming the landscape.
The Role of NFTs in Authenticating Digital Art
Investigating how NFTs serve as digital certificates of authenticity, revolutionizing the concept of ownership and provenance in the digital art space.
NFT Marketplaces and Integration with Bitcoin
Examining the emergence of NFT marketplaces and their integration with Bitcoin, this section discusses the synergy between these two blockchain-based technologies in the realm of digital art.
An exploration of decentralized curation platforms that leverage Bitcoin, emphasizing how they enhance artist visibility in the digital art landscape.
Artist Visibility Enhanced by Bitcoin
Delving into the ways Bitcoin contributes to the visibility of artists, spotlighting the mechanisms that enable artists to reach wider audiences.
Challenges and Opportunities in Curating with Bitcoin
Addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by Bitcoin in the curation of digital art, this section provides insights into the evolving landscape of artistic curation.
Crypto Art Collectors: The Rise of a New Community
Profiling the Crypto Art Collector
A closer look at the characteristics and motivations of crypto art collectors, exploring the emergence of a distinct community within the broader art world.
Bitcoin’s Impact on Art Investment Strategies
Investigating how Bitcoin influences the strategies employed by art investors, shaping new paradigms in the valuation and acquisition of digital artworks.
Building Community through Blockchain Technology
Examining the role of blockchain technology, particularly Bitcoin, in fostering a sense of community among art collectors and enthusiasts within the crypto art sphere.
Challenges and Criticisms
Environmental Concerns Surrounding Bitcoin and Digital Art
A critical examination of the environmental implications associated with Bitcoin transactions in the context of digital art, addressing concerns related to sustainability.
Regulatory Challenges and the Need for Standardization
Exploring the regulatory challenges faced by the intersection of Bitcoin and digital art, and the potential need for standardization to ensure a secure and legally compliant ecosystem.
Addressing the Exclusivity and Accessibility Debate
Discussing the ongoing debate surrounding the exclusivity and accessibility of digital art in the Bitcoin era, considering both challenges and potential solutions.
Future Trends and Possibilities
Emerging Technologies Shaping the Future of Digital Art
An exploration of the cutting-edge technologies poised to shape the future of digital art, envisioning how these innovations might interact with the transformative capabilities of Bitcoin.
Potential Collaborations between Bitcoin and Augmented Reality
Investigating the potential synergy between Bitcoin and augmented reality, envisioning how these technologies may converge to create immersive and novel artistic experiences.
Forecasting the Evolution of Digital Art Galleries in the Bitcoin Era
Speculating on the future trajectory of digital art galleries, this section outlines potential scenarios and developments influenced by the integration of Bitcoin into the artistic landscape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bitcoin’s influence on the digital art world is undeniably transformative. The decentralized nature of Bitcoin has revolutionized art transactions, eliminating intermediaries and fostering transparency in the process. The advent of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) has further reshaped digital art ownership, providing a unique and authenticated framework. Bitcoin’s impact extends to the curation of digital art, enhancing artists’ visibility and presenting both challenges and opportunities for the evolving landscape. As we anticipate continued evolution in the Bitcoin-digital art intersection, the article underscores the dynamic relationship between these two realms, paving the way for innovative possibilities. The conclusion encourages readers to embark on a thoughtful exploration of Bitcoin’s multifaceted impact on the ever-expanding landscape of digital art galleries, recognizing the potential for ongoing adaptation and growth in this exciting intersection.
RATINGEN, Germany, 14th March 2024: FUJIFILM Europe GmbH, Imaging Solutions Division, announced today the launch of its’ high-end, analog instant camera, the INSTAX MINI 99 instant camera (MINI 99). With its classic and stylish matte black finish, the MINI 99 brings advanced new features including color effect dials, a unique Vignette Switch, plus brightness and focus modes to maximize the potential of each photo while maintaining the traditional INSTAX aesthetic.
The MINI 99 features a first of its kind Color Effect Dial. This unique dial control has six effects – Faded Green, Warm Tone, Light Blue, Soft Magenta, Sepia, and Light Leak – which allows the user to customize, create and curate a one-time only unique image. Driven by LED lights within the camera, the Color Effect feature exposes the chosen color onto the INSTAX MINI instant film, creating the desired effect on the printed INSTAX MINI photo.
The MINI 99 also comes with an exciting new switch, the new Manual Vignette Switch. Located on the lens housing it can be used to add an artistic shaded frame around the image.
“Advances in instant photography technology has allowed us to maintain the look and feel our users love, while adding exciting new technology, that will allow them to truly reflect their creativity and artistic expression,” states Shin Udono, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, FUJIFILM Europe GmbH. “This is why INSTAX MINI 99 is especially exciting to Fujifilm, and we believe for image makers as well.”
Other INSTAX MINI 99 Product Features Include:
Brightness Control Dial: This feature offers five distinct levels of brightness: the Light (“L+”) setting indicates the brightest exposure, the “L”, “D”, and “N” settings offer the normal range of brightness, and the Dark (“D-”) setting represents the darkest available brightness level.
Shooting Modes: A variety of shooting modes enhance the user experience, with Indoor Mode designed for low light situations, Sports Mode, which increases the shutter speed to grab the perfect action shot, Double Exposure Mode, which lets the user combine two images into one, and Bulb Mode, which increases the amount of light let in when creating the image, creating a brightened effect on the print.
The camera’s Landscape, Standard, and Macro Focus Modes are easily accessible by adjusting the lens dial. Landscape Mode focuses on subjects positioned at a distance reference of “3.0m and beyond”. Macro Mode is perfect for close-ups and selfies at a distance reference of “0.3m to 0.6m”. Users can select Standard Mode for everything in between.
Self-timer: It is at hand to help create the perfect group image, and MINI 99’s flash controls include Auto mode, Fill-in (flash will always fire regardless of lighting), Red-eye Removal, or the option to turn the flash off, depending on the user’s lighting situation.
Grip and Tripod Mount: To enhance grip in even the most active image-making situations, MINI 99 comes with a precision-milled, Base Grip with Tripod Mount that also acts as a grip when attached to the camera (tripod sold separately).
Accompanying the launch of the INSTAX MINI 99 is the introduction of a new INSTAX MINI film, PHOTO SLIDE. This new film has been inspired by the design of motifs featured on photographic film mounts and complements the print expression of an INSTAX MINI 99.
Pricing and Availability:
Fujifilm’s INSTAX MINI 99 instant camera will be available at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 200.00 (incl. VAT). It is expected to be available for purchase on 4th April 2024 at Fujifilm stockists nationwide. For more product information, visit https://www.instax.ie/cameras/mini-99/
INSTAX MINI PHOTO SLIDE instant film is expected to be available on 4th April 2024 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 10.00 (incl. VAT) per pack (10 sheets), for more information about this new INSTAX mini instant film variety, visit www.instax.ie/film/#film-selector
INSTAX UP! Smartphone App Update
And that’s not it! Fujifilm also announces an update to its free, downloadable INSTAX UP! Smartphone App. The INSTAX UP! Smartphone App is designed for INSTAX users to digitally scan, import, organize, and store their photos in one place, regardless of which FUJIFILM INSTAX instant film, instant camera or instant Smartphone printer product they use.
The latest addition to the INSTAX UP! Smartphone App is its album feature. Utilizing this clever new feature, users can easily organize and store their digital FUJIFILM INSTAX photos by themes, such as holidays, friends, and favorites. Within the album feature, users can add, tag, share, download and delete INSTAX images from the digital album, encouraging easy organization of the INSTAX digital image collection. A list/box view can be created for each album. The updated INSTAX UP! App is available today.
ASUS today announced the new Zenfone 11 Ultra during a dedicated online launch event. The company unveiled all the details about this mighty device, the latest iteration in the company’s Zenfone flagship series, and showcased how it redefines expectations for powerful smartphones. Zenfone 11 Ultra marks an important switch to a larger form factor that provides more of everything, packing a better camera system, a stronger processor, and a bigger battery into a meticulously-designed chassis.
“With Zenfone 11 Ultra, ASUS provides users with premium design, a flagship camera, AI features, and a longer battery life,” said ASUS Co-CEO S.Y. Hsu, speaking at the launch event. “In short, Zenfone 11 Ultra is everything a flagship phone in 2024 should be and it will provide the greatest benefit to the end user.”
Zenfone 11 Ultra is available in a choice of four refreshing colors, all inspired by different landscapes around the world, and ready to fit the user’s style. Of course, ASUS also built the new Zenfone with sustainability in mind — incorporating recycled materials such as the 100% recycled aluminum used for its frame and an increased proportion of recyclable packaging.
Ultra-immersive display meets sustainable design
Zenfone 11 Ultra sports an immersive display that captivates the senses. With a 6.78-inch 144 Hz AMOLED display enhanced by Pixelworks® technology, users are treated to vibrant visuals that come to life with low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) technology for energy efficiency. The phone’s design is equally impressive, featuring a remarkable 94% screen-to-body ratio achieved through significantly smaller bezels.
Zenfone 11 Ultra comes in four colors inspired by landscapes from around the world. The popular classics Skyline Blue and Eternal Black reflect the blue day and black night skies of Scandinavia, while Misty Grey and Desert Sand are inspired by foggy mornings and breathtaking dunes, respectively. The phone’s back cover features a mirror-finish ASUS 30th anniversary logo on a matte finish for a premium feel and maximum holding comfort.
But Zenfone 11 Ultra is not just strong and stylish – it’s also a true champion of sustainability. Its eco-friendly phone frame is made of 100% recycled aluminum and its display is composed of over one-fifth recycled glass, bringing ASUS one step closer to a circular supply chain. We have also managed a 94% reduction in plastic use for the packaging by relying on wrapping paper for the phone and the cable.
Zenfone 11 – techbuzzireland
Ultra-performance backed by a more powerful battery
Showcasing powerhouse performance, Zenfone 11 Ultra is driven by the flagship Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform. This cutting-edge platform enables seamless operation for any task, from intensive gaming sessions to multitasking with ease. With high-performance 16 GB RAM and 512 GB of internal storage, users can rely on a robust device capable of handling AI tasks effortlessly and offering smooth gameplay and immersive graphics.
Using the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3’s remarkably power-efficient CPU and other components, as well as a bigger 5500 mAh battery capacity compared to its predecessor, ASUS improved Zenfone 11 Ultra’s battery life by 26.5%. This enhancement ensures that users can enjoy uninterrupted usage for extended periods. Supporting more than 26 hours of regular use, Zenfone 11 Ultra sets a new standard for endurance in the smartphone industry.
The phone has also been upgraded to include 65 W HyperCharge capability for maximum charging performance, allowing users to power up their devices quickly and efficiently. For added convenience, Zenfone 11 Ultra supports wireless charging via any Qi-compatible wireless charger.
The epitome of ultra-imaging
The camera system in Zenfone 11 Ultra stands out as extraordinary, redefining smartphone photography and videography. The 50 MP camera is supported by advanced features like the 6-Axis Hybrid Gimbal Stabilizer 3.0, Super HyperSteady video stabilization, and OZO Audio-powered 3D surround-sound recording. These elements combine to deliver unparalleled stabilization and audio quality, setting new standards in smartphone imaging technology. Stability takes precedence, thanks to the third-generation 6-Axis Hybrid Gimbal Stabilizer. This innovative technology ensures that videos remain blur-free and shake-free — even when the phone is in motion — enabling users to capture professional-quality shots effortlessly.
Complementing the hardware advancements, Zenfone 11 Ultra introduces various software tweaks to further enhance its imaging capabilities. AI Portrait Video mode offers a depth of field effect, adding a professional aesthetic to videos, while manual focus adjustment grants users creative control over the visual narrative.
AI support further enhances the user experience, introducing features like HyperClarity and AI Object Sense, which help to take realistic images and capture every life moment. HyperClarity, activated during zooming, significantly increases image clarity through deep-learning models, reconstructing images and adding details based on AI recognition. Additionally, the 32 MP front camera boasts improved low-light performance and a wider angle, ensuring stunning selfies even in challenging environments.
The power of ultra-intelligence
Zenfone 11 Ultra offers advanced AI features and leverages the powerful on-device AI performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 to redefine the way users engage with their devices. With AI Noise Cancellation capabilities, powered by machine learning computational techniques, the phone ensures crystal-clear audio quality in all scenarios, be it phone calls, instant messaging calls, or in-game communications.
Also, the device introduces AI Call Translator[i], enabling instant speech-to-text conversion and translation into the user’s preferred language. By leveraging sophisticated AI models, Zenfone 11 Ultra comprehends contextual nuances, facilitating seamless communication across language barriers. The translation is then converted into clear voice output, enhancing comprehension and connectivity for users worldwide.
The AI Wallpaper[ii] feature on Zenfone 11 Ultra empowers users to craft personalized wallpapers effortlessly based on 6 different style-directions. With just a few prompts and our advanced AI algorithm, users can create unique backgrounds that reflect their style and personality, adding a touch of individuality to their device.
Another revolutionary feature is the AI Transcript[iii] function, which offers real-time transcription while using the recorder app both while recording and from existing voice files, powered by advanced AI technology. With the help of the phone’s built-in recorder tool, it allows you to easily capture and save transcripts.
The Zenfone 11 Ultra transforms file management with Semantic Search. Users can search for photos in their gallery and installed apps using keywords, thanks to multimodal learning. This intuitive feature understands natural language commands, supporting multiple languages and offline functionality. Additionally, it’s integrated into phone settings for easy access, streamlining user experience while setting up the phone.
With ASUS GlideX, users can stream apps from phones to other devices like PC screens. The tool simplifies file transfers, enhances conference calls, and consolidates device control. Mirroring your phone screen on your PC allows you to enjoy media with family, friends, and colleagues. As another productivity-enhancing application, Phone Link enables file transfers via drag and drop, texting from PCs, call management, and notification customization, redefining the smartphone-to-PC experience for unparalleled convenience and efficiency.
The unveiling of Zenfone 11 Ultra marks a significant milestone in smartphone innovation, showcasing a device that embodies the perfect fusion of cutting-edge technology, sustainable design, and unparalleled performance. Through a meticulous blend of premium design elements, camera capabilities, AI-driven features, and extended battery life, Zenfone 11 Ultra sets a new standard for what users can expect from a flagship smartphone in 2024 and beyond.
ASUS invites users to embark on a journey of innovation and sustainability with the Zenfone 11 Ultra, where every detail is crafted to enhance the user experience and make a positive impact on the world.
ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra with 16 GB RAM and 512 GB storage will be available at £949.99 and with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage will be available at £869.99. ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra comes in Skyline Blue and Eternal Black colors in the United Kingdom.
The launch offer will run from March 14th to April 14th. Customers who purchase ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra in this period can save £80 on the 16 GB RAM and 512 GB version and save £50 on the 12 GB RAM and 256 GB version.
i] These features will be made available in a future software update
[ii] These features will be made available in a future software update
[iii] These features will be made available in a future software update
The Creative Aurvana Ace 2 are the next step up from the Creative Aurvana Ace which we recently reviewed here on techbuzz and given the shape and size of the case are the same the looks are not giving us a peep inside of the technology, transparent tech is now a thing and we have check quite a few bits of tech showing their inner glory. Though this one has a slightly smoked tint to it which still looks great.
The inside of the case is also surrounded in a copper colour which looks really neat and matches the earbuds looks and gives them a premium look there is a USB-C port on the bottom and indicator light and a button for pairing/resetting.
The fit is the same as before so no difference there at all and give a good seal with the right earbuds again I always say this with any earbuds and the better the seal the better the fit and the better the sound. These are again IPX5 rated so for outdoor use is no issue here at all where half of my testing was done anyway.
The tech inside this time around gives you more although they still use 10mm drivers but have the all new xMEM technology inside which really gives your earbuds a boost which they did with the Aurvana Ace. There is 6 mics this time over the Aurvana Aces 3 mics giving you crystal clear calls and from my testing both ends seemed top notch here and powered by Qualcomm cVc (Clear Voice capture) noise cancellation technology.
Aurvana Ace 2 and case
Aurvana Ace 2 eabuds
In case you are wondering both models support a variety of audio codecs, including LE Audio featuring the LC3 Codec for superior wireless audio quality, SBC, AAC, AptX, and AptX Adaptive, ensuring compatibility with various devices and offering high-quality audio streaming.
Coupled with Qualcomm for the integration of Snapdragon Sound’s aptX Lossless technology, the audio codec delivers hi-fidelity audio at 16-bit / 44.1 kHz, providing a CD-level experience that faithfully recreates the original recording right in your ears.
Overall there is not much difference between the Ace and Ace 2, the Creative Aurvana Ace 2 supports AptX Lossless audio codec and has Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation and you can tell the difference if you are a regular user of earbuds and can hear the distinct intricacies with the sound and you will not be disappointed by any means here at all and the same goes for the Ace too, you can’t go wrong for the money here with what you pay for either.
Check the video review below for more.
The Creative App
Creative Aurvana controls – techbuzzireland
Features and specs
Driver Frequency Response: 5–40,000 Hz / Type: xMEMS Solid-state x 2 Type: Dynamic x 2
Profiles / (HFP) Hands-free Profile, (A2DP) Advanced Audio Distribution Profile, (AVRCP) Audio / Video Remote Control Profile, TMAP, HSP
Operating Frequency/ 2402–2480 MHz
Operating Range/ Up to 10m / 33 ft*, *Measured in open space. Walls and structures may affect range of device.
Battery Life / Up to 24 hours total (ANC / Ambient Mode off), Up to 16 hours total (ANC / Ambient Mode on), Up to 6 hours per charge (ANC / Ambient Mode off), Up to 4 hours per charge (ANC / Ambient Mode on)
Based on moderate volume level. Actual battery life will vary with usage settings and environmental conditions.
A new survey from Irish IT services provider Auxilion, and supported by Hewlett Packard Enterprise, reveals that 62% of IT leaders in Ireland believe Artificial Intelligence (AI) will make their company’s services redundant in three to five years.
The research – carried out by Censuswide and involving more than 100 IT leaders and decision-makers in large enterprises across Ireland – also found that nearly two in five (38%) would leave their job if their organisation did not invest emerging technologies like AI.
Some three quarters (75%) of IT leaders are using AI to do their jobs and overall, a similar proportion of organisations (78%) are currently deploying same. Despite this uptake, nearly a quarter of IT leaders (24%) do not feel adequately trained to make the most of emerging technologies like AI.
That may explain why more than a third (36%) identified AI and machine learning as a key area of focus for the next 12 months. In terms of the IT areas that are being prioritised this year, IT service desk (49%) was most cited, followed by cybersecurity solutions (45%) and cloud infrastructure (42%).
Cloud remains key
In fact, the survey found that 85% of enterprises surveyed are now using the cloud – an increase of 8% compared to similar research conducted last year. On average, companies who have adopted cloud are using it to host nearly half (47%) of their workloads, applications, and processes.
Of the companies who have already made the move to cloud, 84% say their strategy is meeting their expectations – a marked improvement of 12% on the previous year. However, almost two thirds (65%) think their current cloud strategy is limiting business goals and 61% believe it is limiting staff.
As for the technology itself, 71% say cloud is a more cost-effective approach for their business and of those who have adopted cloud, 83% feel it is more secure for their business. Even still, over two thirds (67%) are worried about cloud security threats over the next 12 months, with 80% providing regular cloud security training to staff.
As well as concerns over security threats, three-quarters (75%) of respondents who have adopted cloud admitted that a cloud outage would be catastrophic for their business and have a serious impact on service delivery.
Commenting on the results, Donal Sullivan, Chief Technology Officer, Auxilion, said: “There’s no doubt about it, AI is here to stay. What remains to be seen is if, and how, Irish businesses leverage it. Our research suggests that those who don’t will lose out in terms of both talent and customers.
“Meanwhile, those that do will get ahead of the curve by using AI to enhance their offering and drive growth. In other words, their services won’t become redundant, but be elevated and in demand.
“Similarly, companies who lack a solid IT foundation or fail to adapt their cloud strategy are throwing away the advantage that technology offers. It’s a differentiator and innovator for businesses, but only for those who act, and react, fast enough.”
