Month: September 2024

Irish-led wave energy project gets go ahead from EU

A €19.6 million partnership project, which aims to be the stepping stone towards large scale wave energy commercialisation, has received formal go-ahead from the European Union.

WEDUSEA is a pioneering collaboration between 14 partners, spanning industry and academia from across the UK, Ireland, France, Germany and Spain. It is co-ordinated by the Irish company OceanEnergy.

The project is co-funded by the EU Horizon Europe Programme and by Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency.  

In common with all other Horizon Europe projects, WEDUSEA has undergone a comprehensive independent review by EU appointed external experts following its initial project design period to ensure the technical designs and all plans, budgets and protocols are fully in place and approved.

The green light has now been received from the EU and the project can proceed to its next stage.

The WEDUSEA project will demonstrate a grid connected 1MW OE35 floating wave energy converter at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) wave energy test site at Billia Croo in Orkney, Scotland. A rigorous technical and environmental demonstration will happen over a two-year period in Atlantic wave conditions.

OceanEnergy has developed the OE35, which is the world’s largest capacity floating wave energy device. Floating on the ocean’s surface, the device incorporates a trapped air volume, with the lower part open to the sea. Wave pressures at the submerged opening cause the water to oscillate and drive the trapped air through a turbine to generate electricity. Electricity generated will be exported to the UK grid via EMEC’s subsea cables. 

Prof Tony Lewis, Chief Technical Officer at OceanEnergy, says: “Wave energy is the world’s most valuable renewable resource with around 30TWh of potential annual production waiting to be harnessed. That’s almost ten times Europe’s annual electricity consumption. However, this potential has yet to be fully realised. The project will demonstrate that wave technology is on a cost reduction trajectory and will thus be a stepping stone to larger commercial array scale up and further industrialisation. We predict that the natural energy of the world’s oceans will one day supply much of the grid.” 

The WEDUSEA project has three phases. The first phase is the initial design and build of a device suited to the ocean conditions at EMEC’s Billia Croo wave energy test site. This will be followed by the demonstration at the site, lasting two years. The final phase will be commercialisation and dissemination which sees the capitalisation and exploitation of the results. 

Matthijs Soede from the European Commission said at the start of the project: “WEDUSEA is set to be a major catalyst for the wave energy industry, unlocking the full potential of this exciting renewable technology. 

 

Prof Lars Johanning of University of Plymouth says: “The WEDUSEA partnership has worked hard to ensure that all detailed designs and planning are robust, to prove that the project is viable and that the project will be delivered within budget. Now we have received the green light from the EU, it’s all systems go!”

The wave converter build starts in the second half of 2024 and the demonstration at EMEC is expected to begin in June 2025.

 

Disclaimer: Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

This international partnership comprises the following 14 organisations:

  1. OCEAN ENERGY (NEW WAVE TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED) – IRELAND 
  2. INNOSEA – FRANCE
  3. ADVANCED SIMULATION TECHNOLOGIES – SPAIN
  4. FRAUNHOFER GESELLSCHAFT ZUR FORDERUNG DER ANGEWANDTEN FORSCHUNG EV – GERMANY
  5. UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, CORK – IRELAND
  6. GAVIN AND DOHERTY GEOSOLUTIONS LTD – IRELAND
  7. EXCEEDENCE LTD – IRELAND
  8. WOOD – IRELAND
  9. HYDRO GROUP PLC – UK
  10. THE EUROPEAN MARINE ENERGY RESEARCH CENTRE – UK
  11. LONGITUDE CONSULTING ENGINEERS LIMITED – UK
  12. UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH- UK
  13. INNOSEA LTD – UK
  14. GREEN MARINE (UK) LTD -UK 

The website is www.wedusea.eu

HONOR Redefines Mobile AI Solutions with PC powered by Snapdragon, on-device AI Agent and AI Deepfake Detection at #IFA2024

Today at IFA 2024, HONOR unveiled three groundbreaking mobile AI Solutions: AI PC powered by Snapdragon® X Elite platforms, AI Agent and AI Deepfake Detection. The launch was accompanied by a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring HONOR CEO George Zhao; Alex Katouzian, Group GM of MCX at Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.; and Mark Linton, VP of Device Partner Sales at Microsoft. Together, they explored the convergence of AI and Snapdragon technology, discussing how these innovations are shaping the future of mobile AI.

“When it comes to mobile computing, AI is not just a buzzword, it’s a revolution,” commented George Zhao, CEO of HONOR Device Co., Ltd. “At HONOR, we’re committed to working with our partners to deliver powerful AI capabilities and seamless connectivity, while protecting our users’ privacy. Through open collaboration with industry leaders, we’re creating devices that empower individuals and redefine what’s possible.”

“At Qualcomm Technologies, we believe the neural processing unit is the key to unlocking the true potential of AI in PCs,” added Alex Katouzian, Group GM of MCX, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “The Snapdragon X Elite with its industry-leading neural processing unit performance empowers AI PCs like the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 to deliver next-generation AI experiences. Not only will users see a significant boost in capabilities, but the neural processing unit efficiency also translates to longer battery life, allowing users to stay productive for extended periods.”

HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon: Redefining PC in the Mobile AI Era

The PC landscape is undergoing a radical transformation, driven by advancements in AI and the rise of Snapdragon platforms. Fueled by HONOR’s platform-level AI capabilities and developed in collaboration with top industry leaders, HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon heralds a new era of computing.

Featuring a sleek and compact design, the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon is a marvel of lightweight engineering. It incorporates cutting-edge platform-level AI features alongside robust hardware and software solutions, ensuring unmatched productivity and user experience. It translates the lightweight and slim characteristics of smartphones to laptops, delivering the lightest and slimmest AI PC on the market, weighing approximately 1kg with a slimness of 1cm. Delivering an immersive visual journey, the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon features a captivating 14.6-inch HONOR FullView Touch Display boasting a crystal-clear 3.1K resolution. It also includes an outstanding 97% screen-to-body ratio, the largest among 14-inch laptops. The HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, elevating the computing experience to new heights in terms of power, efficiency, and security.

The HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon also enables a smooth transition of Windows applications on X86 to the Windows on Snapdragon architecture. Based on years of research on the ecosystem, HONOR created a Hotspot Library that uses platform-level AI to identify frequently used scenarios and trigger translation optimization efficiently. HONOR has improved 16% of the average boot-up time[1] with translation optimization across a diverse array of Windows applications. Currently, HONOR has optimized a total of the Top 14 applications across six major categories, including browsers, online meetings, media, office, social software and tools.

HONOR will provide details of the availability of the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon in the UK and Ireland in the near future.

Seamless AI Experiences Elevated by the Power of MagicRing

In the mobile AI era, seamless cross-OS connectivity will truly empower users to unlock AI everywhere. Unlike the manual point-to-point connections in traditional solutions, the HONOR MagicRing allows multiple devices of the same account to automatically connect with low power consumption.

The MagicRing not only connects devices but also connects services across the devices. The solution also enables users to use the same set of keyboard and mouse for multiple devices, receive calls and notifications on a device other than their smartphones, and control the smartphone’s camera on the PC. With the secure and smooth flow of services and information across devices, MagicRing makes multi-device AI experience easier. For example, as one of the typical scenarios of Windows on Snapdragon experience, Cocreator allows users to produce fantastic artwork with simple draws. Powered by MagicRing, users can seamlessly access Cocreator on their HONOR MagicPad 2, drawing AI masterpieces with their Magic-Pencil. In the Meanwhile, they can also use AI Eraser from HONOR Magic V3 on the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Snapdragon to experience unparalleled levels of convenient mobile AI.

HONOR AI Agent: The First On-device AI Agent for the Open Ecosystem

The HONOR AI Agent is a revolutionary always-on personal assistant designed to enhance and simplify users’ daily lives. By intuitively understanding users’ requests and intentions through language analysis and UI awareness technology, the AI Agent that learns from their habits and device environment can intelligently make decisions across various apps and services. This capability allows it to automate complex tasks. HONOR demonstrated how to find and cancel unwanted app subscriptions across different apps with just a few simple voice commands on their smartphones.

As we look to the future, the HONOR AI Agent is poised to become the cornerstone of mobile AI, and it is anticipated to arrive with the HONOR Magic7 Series later this year in China. This innovation not only signifies a leap in technology but also heralds a new era where AI seamlessly integrates into our daily routines, enhancing everyday productivity and efficiency.

The World’s First On-device AI Deepfake Detection Technology

As the technology behind deepfakes becomes more sophisticated, the potential for misuse, including identity theft and the spread of disinformation, grows significantly. HONOR’s on-device AI Deepfake Detection represents a groundbreaking solution designed to protect users from the increasingly prevalent threat of deepfakes. This innovative detection system employs advanced algorithms to meticulously analyze various elements, including pixel-level synthetic imperfections, border compositing artifacts, inter-frame continuity, consistency in face-to-ear hairstyle, and the positioning of synthetic traces. By examining these characteristics, the technology can accurately identify manipulated content, distinguishing between genuine media and deceptive alterations.

Chipolo teams up with Metabo, iodyne, and Knirps to add advanced tracking integration to partners’ original products

Chipolo, a leading creator of Bluetooth item tracking solutions, is excited to announce a series of fresh partnerships with Metabo, iodyne, and Knirps. These collaborations highlight Chipolo’s expanding B2B services, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to simplifying lives by enabling other businesses to seamlessly integrate advanced tracking technology into their products.

Primož Zelenšek, CEO and co-founder of Chipolo:

“We are proud to be partnering with strong international brands like Metabo, iodyne, and Knirps to make everyday life a little easier for our customers. Helping companies integrate tracking technology into their products demonstrates the versatility and adaptability of our solutions; we tailor them to meet specific needs and ensure they are compatible with our partner’s app. This initiative sets the stage for future collaborations with brands focused on outdoor and adventure markets, something we are beyond excited about. From keys and wallets to umbrellas, tool cases, or even equipment like bikes, finding missing items will no longer interrupt your adventures! You can now focus on what matters most without worrying about your gear.”

Elevating efficiency with Metabo

In collaboration with Metabo, a leading player in the power tool sector, Chipolo integrated advanced tracking technology into a new, stand-alone tracker for power tools and tool cases. Launching in September, the tracker will be compatible with both the Metabo app and the Apple Find My app, proving Chipolo’s capacity to scale and adapt its solutions across multiple platforms.

Upgrading professional equipment with iodyne

Chipolo’s partnership with iodyne brings tracking technology to the forefront of high-end video production equipment. By embedding tracking features into iodyne’s future Pro storage devices, Chipolo advances the level of security of these valuable devices. Product shipments will be available in Q1 2025.

Innovating everyday essentials with Knirps

Chipolo teamed up with Knirps to introduce a finder solution for a frequently misplaced item: the umbrella. By integrating Chipolo ONE Spot and Chipolo ONE Point into Knirps’ renowned umbrellas through custom silicon holders, lost umbrellas will no longer be a common issue. The bundled products will be available on Knirps’ website starting in Q4 2024.

See our Chipolo reviews 

Why You Should Start a Business Right Now

If you want to do something that’s going to change your life for the better, then starting a business is a good idea. You get to become your own boss. You get to give yourself some flexibility and some freedom. And yes, while it makes him a little bit of extra stress at first, you give yourself options in life. There is never a bad time to start your own business, so why not start it right now if you’ve got an idea? There are so many reasons you should go ahead and say yes to it. Below, we’ve put together a list of the most important.

1, You get to have some control over your future. When you take the reins of your own working life, you stop answering to somebody else and you answer only to yourself. That may sound like a selfish endeavor to some, but honestly, it’s one of the best things that you can do for yourself, especially if you are trying to strike out by yourself to do something good. It’s harder, it’s more work, but you get to have it under your control. You can research the correct NDIS software for NDIS providers. You can research the right customer relationship management software. You can choose what works for you rather than go with what somebody else believes. No matter the type of business that you have, you’re the one in control and you’re the one in charge.

2. You get to work where you want, when you want, and how you want. Part of being more in control of your own future is being in control of the day-to-day business that you have. The work that produces your income is yours, since starting your own business can give you the flexibility and the freedom to work whenever and wherever you’d like. It’s liberating and it’s often not something everybody gets to feel.

3. Amount of flexibility. Needing more flexibility is a good reason why people start their business. Maybe you need to have more flexibility to care for your family members, or maybe you want to pursue other passions. Working for other people isn’t always the easiest thing to do. When you start a business, you get a chance to do it all.

4. You could make amazing money. Money is always the end game, but not usually the first thing people think of when they want to work their own business. Maybe there’s a problem that you want to solve because you’re frustrated that other businesses aren’t doing it. Maybe you know that you have an idea that could go global and you want to have that little bit of celebrity or fame that comes with it. Money is the option here, and it’s not about getting rich quick, but getting rich in the long term. If you approach it the right way, you can make a lot of money when you own your own business and you have a lot of control over how you use it and when you use it.

5. You have the opportunity to grab even more opportunities when you work for yourself. You have the chance to gain amazing opportunities that may not have come your way otherwise. Your working life deserves fulfillment and you can often find that when you are working for yourself and choosing which opportunities you’d like to pick up.

6. You get to open more doors. Because most businesses are conducted online these days, you get the chance to open the doors to a huge variety of online business models. From online service based businesses to e-commerce outlets, there are so many options for you that you’re going to be supported for choice. Many of those options can be started with a smaller amount of cash than you think. Because of the worldwide online connectivity, you also get the opportunity to recruit talented people from anywhere in the world, so you don’t have to be on your own if you don’t want to be.

7. It feels good. One of the things you have to consider with starting your own business is the personal fulfillment you’re going to get out of it. Having your own business gives you the chance to feel passionately connected to what you’re doing. And when you start your business, you get to decide whether you have a social impact or an environmental impact or any impact at all. You want people to love coming to work every day, and when you design your own business, you get to do it exactly how you want and when you want.

8. You are in control of the impact that you make. Making an impact at whether it’s for environmental or selfish reasons is something that you can do when you start your own business. You can choose where to invest your charitable giving and you can choose whether or not to be socially minded. Giving back is so important, and if you want to have a good reputation in your local environment, that’s exactly what you could do. The more money you make, the more impact you could have.

9. Create an environment that’s your own. What do you prefer your working environment to look like? If you’re working for somebody else right now, nobody’s going to ask you that question because they’re not interested in what you want. They’re interested in what your boss wants. When you work for yourself, you get to set the culture, the formality, and everything else that comes in your new organization. If you want a workplace that’s more casual, you can make it happen, and if you want formality, you can have that too. If you don’t want to have a workplace and you want to save your money on your overhead, that’s also something you can achieve.

10. You get to fix whatever problems you want to fix. Sometimes people start a business because they want to be able to address something that’s important to them. If that’s you, you’re in control!

Dreame Elevates the Robotic Cleaning Experience at #IFA2024

Dreame Technology, a pioneer of innovative household appliances, will demonstrate how it is shaping the future of home automation with the unveiling of its newest core technologies and products at IFA 2024 on stand H9-403.

At Europe’s largest consumer trade show Dreame will debut the company’s latest cutting-edge technologies and a new lineup of products. This follows the launch of Dreame’s X40 Ultra Complete and the Lawnmower A1 earlier this year.

Dreame has actively listened to consumers, producing leading products that meet their needs and add value to their lives. Continuing this ambition, Dreame has focused on advancing appliances that empower users globally. 

Innovation Leads to Upgrades of Robotic Vacuum

Making its debut at IFA will be Dreame’s H14 Pro, a wet and dry vacuum cleaner with a 18000Pa Suction and 180-degree flat design for easy cleaning under furniture and in tight corners. It is equipped with an innovative Liquid Separation Motor™, which ensures powerful cleaning—even while the vacuum cleaner is lying parallel to the floor and vacuuming. 

Another highlight will be the L40 Ultra, the latest addition to Dreame’s high-end flagship series. With cutting-edge robotic features, it effortlessly simplifies the consumer’s cleaning routine. SideReach™ technology reaches even the trickiest spots, while MopExtend™ RoboSwing ensures thorough mopping. L40 Ultra also boasts a smart RGB sensor, which detects dirt with precision. The self-cleaning washboard and mop utilise 70°C hot water to tackle stains effectively. Plus, with a powerful 12,000Pa suction, pet hair and dirt are picked up in fewer passes, leaving floors sparkling clean.

Dreame’s H14 Pro and L40 Ultra will be available and shipping in the UK from October. 

Innovative Product Powered by Four Technologies

Dreame is set to revolutionise home life with four new technologies. The ProLeap™ System optimises robot vacuum cleaning performance, while VersaLift Navigation ensures seamless navigation in tight spaces. The HyperStream™ Detangling DuoBrush prevents hair tangles and enhances cleaning efficiency. Lastly, the AutoFlow™ Fully Auto Refilling & Draining System offers hands-free wet and dry vacuum maintenance. Available for demonstration at IFA, these innovations highlight Dreame’s commitment to advancing home technology and delivering unparalleled convenience and performance.

“I am thrilled to introduce our latest innovative vacuum cleaner lineup at IFA 2024, which leverages our latest four core technologies to meaningfully improve its usability,” said Yu Hao, CEO of Dreame. “With powerful cleaning as a baseline, the new robot cleaner demonstrates our commitment to quality, design, and innovation. It also elevates the consumer cleaning experience through innovative features – we firmly believe it will shape the future of home cleaning.”

Official Partner with Inter Milan: Clean Like A Champion 

As a leader in smart home cleaning solutions, Dreame is renowned for its innovative technology and outstanding performance, dedicated to providing efficient and convenient cleaning solutions worldwide. Inter Milan, celebrated globally for its fast-paced gameplay and exceptional skills, aligns perfectly with Dreame’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

The passion, speed, and team spirit of Inter Milan resonate deeply with Dreame’s values of innovation, efficiency, and excellence. Together, Dreame and Inter Milan will deliver a series of joint activities and promotions to showcase the shared pursuit of outstanding technology and exceptional experiences.

Attendees of IFA 2024 can visit the Dreame booth in Hall 9, stand number 403, to experience the future of household cleaning. 

 

HONOR Watch 5 announced at #IFA2024

Designed to redefine users’ lifestyles, the brand-new HONOR Watch 5 is a feature-rich smartwatch that seamlessly blends performance with intelligent user experiences, perfect for individuals striving for a healthier and smarter way of life.

Presenting a sleek metallic look and feel, the HONOR Watch 5 features an integrated aluminum body design, making it stylish yet lightweight and comfortable to wear. Featuring a universal strap adaptor, the watch is compatible with any 22mm straps, allowing users to customize its style according to their mood, outfit or activity.

Featuring a vibrant 1.85-inch AMOLED display with a peak brightness of 1000 nits, the HONOR Watch 5 provides an exceptional visual experience and easy access to notifications, even under bright outdoor environment.

Packed with a 480mAh Silicon-carbon Battery, the HONOR Watch 5 showcases an impressive battery life of up to 15 days under typical use cases. Powered by the OS Turbo X, the watch demonstrates optimized smart power management.

With Precise GPS Tracking powered by HONOR’s AccuTrack Positioning technology, the HONOR Watch 5 enhances signal strength for accurate distance and route tracking during sports activities, even in complex urban environments. To empower users to make informed health decisions, the watch offers a comprehensive suite of health features, such as Scientific Sleep Management, Healthy Morning Report and Quick Health Scan.

HONOR Watch 5 will come in three colors: Black, Gold and Green. Specific purchasing dates and pricing for the UK and Republic of Ireland for these products will be announced in the future.

Check out the Magic V3  and MagicBook Art 14

 

HONOR MagicBook Art 14: Unlocking AI-powered Future Productivity Elegantly #IFA2024

Showcasing the Vine-leaf Curves Design and Satin Enamel Spraying Technology, this laptop is a marvel of lightweight engineering, incorporating cutting-edge platform-level AI features alongside robust hardware and software solutions, ensuring unmatched productivity and user experience. Translating the lightweight and slim characteristics synonymous with smartphones to laptops, HONOR is introducing the lightest and slimmest AIPC to the market. The HONOR MagicBook Art 14 showcases the pioneering Topology Lightweight Structure, weighing just approximately 1kg and measuring a slim thickness of 10mm[14]. Boasting an alloy body crafted from magnesium and a keyboard constructed with titanium, this laptop epitomizes a perfect balance of lightweight design and durability.

Integrating an industry-leading Modular Camera Design, the laptop features a detachable magnetic configuration that enhances privacy and adaptability, delivering a wider and immersive visual journey. The HONOR MagicBook Art 14 features a captivating 14.6-inch HONOR FullView Touch Display boasting a crystal-clear 3.1K resolution. With an outstanding 97% screen-to-body ratio, the largest among 14-inch laptops, it guarantees an immersive and enriching viewing experience. Demonstrating HONOR’s commitment to users’ well-being, the display is equipped with the industry’s foremost eye protection technologies, such as 4320 High-frequency PWM Dimming, Dynamic Dimming technology, and E-book Mode, ensuring a comfortable and safe viewing experience.

In collaboration with Microsoft, the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 offers users access to the advanced Copilot features, including Intelligent Email Management, Data insight & visualization, and Real-time Transcription and Summarization, elevating productivity and efficiency. Further enhancing power efficiency, the laptop features AI-driven OS Turbo 3.0, optimizing power consumption by analyzing user behavior and adjusting performance strategies precisely, guaranteeing a powerful yet reliable laptop experience.

Driven by HONOR’s Spatial Audio Technology and AI computing power, the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 redefines audio excellence. This technology combines Spatial Reconstruction and Sound Quality Equalization to create a lifelike audio environment. Coupled with advanced AI algorithms, the Bidirectional-enhanced Microphone Design ensures superior sound capture and noise reduction in any conditions, perfect for scenarios like group meetings and interviews, enabling users to enjoy an elevated communication and collaboration experience.

Powered by the high-performance Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 Processor 155H[18], the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 adopts heterogeneous cores, featuring six performance cores, eight efficient cores, and two low-power efficient cores that can turbo boost the device to 4.8GHz[19], allowing the laptop to handle demanding tasks while delivering excellent battery-saving multitasking performance efficiently.

It showcases a twofold enhancement in GPU performance and a 70% boost in AI performance, making it a reliable choice for users seeking high-performance laptop experiences. Adding to its versatility, the laptop comes with multiple ports including Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and a 3.5mm Headphone/Mic jack, enhancing overall convenience and ensuring a seamless user experience. Moreover, housing a Heterogenous Battery Design, the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Series improves space utilization by 30%[20] while offering a robust 60Wh capacity that extends battery life for users.

HONOR MagicPad2: Perfect Integration of Productivity and Entertainment

The HONOR MagicPad2 stands out with its impressive slim design, boasting an ultra-thin 5.8mm body and weighing just 555g, making it the ideal companion for on-the-go use. It features a 12.3-inch HONOR Eye Comfort Display with a 144Hz screen refresh rate, creating a visually stunning experience with enhanced smoothness and responsiveness across various content. Additionally, holding dual TÜV certifications, the tablet ensures optimal eye care through advanced innovations such as AI Defocus Display, 4320Hz high-frequency PWM dimming, Circadian Night Display, and Dynamic Dimming functionalities.

The HONOR MagicPad 2 excels not only visually but also in its audio experience. The HONOR MagicPad2 is IMAX-Enhanced certified, ensuring a high-quality entertainment experience with stunning picture quality and audio by DTS, immersing users in cinematic audio-visual feasts anytime, anywhere on Disney+. By incorporating HONOR Spatial Audio Technology, the tablet features a widened sound field of 25% compared to its forerunner, enriching the audio experience for all users.

The HONOR MagicPad 2 is powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 flagship platform, excellently handling multiple tasks such as office work and gaming. The massive 10050mAh battery serves as a powerful backup for work and entertainment, complemented by 66W fast charging technology for rapid charging and efficient power consumption, giving users peace of mind.

The HONOR MagicPad2 runs on the new MagicOS 8.0, which is based on user intent-based recognition and possesses powerful AI capabilities, bringing users an unprecedented intelligent magical experience. The Magic Portal feature can predict interaction needs and recognize intentions in advance, allowing users to generate schedules or more tasks with just a long press and drag. From Voice to Text to Handwriting Beautification and Formula Recognition capabilities, the AI-driven office tools further enhance the HONOR MagicPad 2’s productivity, empowering users to achieve more in their daily endeavors.

 

Starting at £499, the HONOR MagicPad2 comes with two color options: Moonlight White and Black and will be available to buy in the UK from 5th September via HONOR.com. For a limited time, customers in the UK will be able to claim a £50 discount plus an HONOR Magic-Pencil 3, HONOR MagicPad2 Smart Bluetooth Keyboard and HONOR SuperCharge Power Adapter Max 66W worth £186. UK customer will also be able to choose from either 12 or 24 month interest free purchase options.

Check out the HONOR Magic V3

Event video

HONOR Unfolds a Future with Possibilities with the Record-breaking HONOR Magic V3 at #IFA2024

Global technology brand HONOR today announced its groundbreaking AI-enabled hardware capabilities and a collaborative AI privacy protection architecture, showcasing its commitment to innovative empowerment in an AI-driven world, at IFA 2024. The event also saw the debut of HONOR’s latest AI-empowered flagship devices, including the HONOR Magic V3, the world’s slimmest inward foldable smartphone, as well as the sleek and artistic laptop HONOR MagicBook Art 14, and the cutting-edge innovative digital canvas HONOR MagicPad 2, and a stylish health tracker HONOR Watch 5.

“AI is fundamentally reshaping our industry, enriching and creating new experiences that improves creativity and productivity for consumers all around the world, every day,” said George Zhao, CEO of HONOR. “Our role as a smart device provider gives us incredible access to consumers. Combined with our expertise in devices, it informs our AI roadmap, allowing us to create personal, intuitive, and more secure AI experiences that best meet their needs. Through all our new flagship devices, we hope to deliver human-centric AI experiences that consumers will find truly magical.”

During the presentation, HONOR also highlighted its collaboration with Google Cloud. “We’re delighted to deepen our collaboration with HONOR,” said Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI of Google Cloud. “By incorporating Google’s AI models and Cloud technology, HONOR is giving Magic V3 users the ability to experience exciting new possibilities with AI in their daily lives.”

Bond Zhang, HONOR’s UK Managing Director, added: “The Magic V3 is a game changer, and we are delighted that, for the first time in the UK, it will be available from all major operators in addition to our retail partners. Customer demand for foldable devices continues to grow so we are thrilled to bring true innovation to the UK with its industry leading thinness, weight and durability.

HONOR Magic V3: The World’s Thinnest Foldable with Robust Performance

Continuing to push the boundaries of foldable devices, HONOR introduced the all-new HONOR Magic V3, the world’s thinnest inward foldable phone with enhanced durability, battery, display and AI experience, to global consumers.

With a sleek folded thickness of 9.2mm and featherlight body weighing just 226g, the HONOR Magic V3 rivals the slimness and weight of a flagship bar phone, ensuring utmost portability for users. This feat is accomplished through the meticulous application of 19 innovative materials and 114 microstructures, propelling foldable devices into a new era of precision and slimness. Featuring a dome-shaped octagonal camera module, the HONOR Magic V3 seamlessly combines the architectural beauty of dome structures with technological innovations. This camera module showcases a diamond cut, adding an element of elegance and sleekness to the device’s overall appearance.

Adding to its durability, the HONOR Magic V3 incorporates a Special Fiber into its body material, enhancing impact resistance by 40 times compared to other flagship bar phones while reducing the back cover’s thickness by over 30%. Moreover, featuring the proprietary HONOR Super Steel Hinge, the device can withstand up to 500,000 folding cycles and has attained the prestigious SGS Durability Certification. Fortified with the HONOR Super Armored Inner Screen and HONOR Anti-scratch NanoCrystal Shield, the HONOR Magic V3 is crafted to endure the rigors of daily use.

Equipped with a 6.43-inch external display and a 7.92-inch internal foldable screen, the HONOR Magic V3 delivers an immersive dual-use experience, offering an enjoyable visual journey to users. Dedicated to prioritizing user well-being and comfort, this device incorporates a range of innovative eye-comfort features, such as the world’s first AI Defocus Display technology[8], 4320Hz Risk-free PWM Dimming[9], Dynamic Dimming, Circadian Night Display and Natural Tone Display.

In addition, the HONOR Magic V3 is packed with an advanced 5150mAh Third-generation Silicon-carbon Battery, supported by the lightning-fast 66W. Wired and 50W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge, ensuring users an uninterrupted and stress-free mobile experience. Featuring the innovative HONOR Falcon Camera System which encompasses a 50MP Periscope Telephoto Camera, a 50MP Main Camera, and a 40MP Ultra-wide Camera, the device promises unparalleled imaging quality and versatility for users seeking stunning smartphone photography.

HONOR Magic V3 offers a host of intelligent features. These include Magic Portal on Foldable, along with on-device AI enabled photography features like HONOR AI Motion Sensing for Lightning-fast shots, and the HONOR AI Portrait Engine for portrait enhancement. Collaborating with Google Cloud, HONOR enriches a range of productivity features supported by Google’s AI models and Cloud technologies to empower users to improve overall efficiency, including HONOR AI Eraser, Face to Face Translation, and Translation tools in HONOR Notes. These deliver on HONOR’s promise of a new era of AI-enabled versatility and productivity, catering to the evolving demands of business and professional users.

Colour and Pricing 

Inspired by the wonders of natural landscape, the HONOR Magic V3 is available three stunning colorways: Reddish Brown, Green and Black, starting at £1,699 in the UK and will be available from September the 5th via honor.com/uk, O2, Three, Amazon, Argos and Very.

The HONOR Magic V3 will also be available from both EE and Vodafone, with availability due to be announced in the coming weeks.

For a limited time only, UK customers purchasing through one of HONOR’s retail partners will be able to claim Bang & Olufsen Beoplay HX headphones worth £549 with their purchase of HONOR Magic V3.

Customers who purchase HONOR Magic V3 from honor.com/uk, will not only be able to take advantage of a 24 month interest free offer, but for a limited time will be able to claim a £300 Discount Code plus a HONOR Magic-Pen, HONOR SuperCharge Power Adapter Max 66W and 6 Months Screen Protection worth £214.

Video from event

 

https://youtu.be/xqzS9zWJWxE

Gamma Labs Research Reveals Trends in Energy Efficiency of Irish Homes

Gamma Labs, the leading location intelligence technology company in Ireland, has published a comprehensive new report that sheds light on energy efficiency trends within the nation’s housing stock. Collaborating with BERWOW, a specialist in Building Energy Ratings (BER), the report analyses energy efficiency across various socioeconomic demographics, geographic locations, and property types.

The report finds a correlation between BER ratings and the socioeconomic status of homeowners. Notably, one-third (33%) of A-rated homes are concentrated in the most affluent 10% of the country, while a mere 2% of homes in the least affluent areas achieve an A rating. Moreover, over a quarter (26%) of homes in these economically disadvantaged regions are rated E or below.

In assessing energy efficiency across counties, the study identifies stark disparities. Only four counties – Cork, Kildare, Louth, and Meath – report an excess of A/B-rated homes compared to those rated E/F/G. Conversely, counties such as Clare, Leitrim, Mayo, Offaly, Roscommon, and Tipperary show a concerning trend, with more than double the number of E/F/G-rated homes compared to A/B-rated homes.

The findings also indicate that private lettings are the least energy efficient housing option in Ireland, with 86% of such properties receiving a C rating or lower; nearly half (47%) of these homes earned a D rating or worse. In contrast, newly constructed homes demonstrated higher energy efficiency, with 89% assigned an A rating and the remaining properties receiving a B rating. Overall, it is revealed that only 42% of the entire housing stock has been evaluated for a BER certification.

Another noteworthy insight uncovered by the research was the uneven distribution of kilowatt-hours per square metre of floor area (kWh/m²), which determines a property’s BER. Peaks and troughs were observed in every band at the cutoff points between ratings and were more pronounced at cutoffs which would result in a letter change in a property’s rating.

For example, there were almost three times as many properties listed with an energy requirement of 299 kWh/m² than 301kWh/m², with 300kWh/m² being the cutoff between a C and D rating. There are a wide number of popular methods to drive even small incremental changes such as the installation of additional low energy lights or a new cylinder lagging jacket.

This report is released in conjunction with Gamma’s strategic rebranding into two distinct entities. Gamma Labs aims to simplify complexity, support profitability and enable sustainability for organisations by leveraging property and neighbourhood data. Meanwhile, its Insurtech business, Gamma Risk, uses cutting edge technology and analysis to assess risk for insurance companies and related stakeholders.

As a step towards sustainability, Gamma Labs is also part of the EU’s OneClickRENO research project. This initiative aims to transition to zero-emission building standards by emphasizing the benefits of comprehensive renovations through Building Renovation Passports (BRPs).

The full report is available on www.gammalabs.ie/white-paper-ber-insights-energy-efficiency-of-irish-homes/

Commenting on these findings, Charlotte Cuffe, Chief Data Scientist at Gamma Labs, said: “Having access to such property insights is not just useful for homeowners in terms of assessing energy efficiency and retrofitting options (including grants), but also construction companies, energy providers, banks, estate agents and insurance companies. This data can provide a baseline or a benchmark from which people can look to improve their green credentials.”

Michael Hanratty, CEO of BERWOW, added: “Equipping stakeholders with data which can enhance their service offerings, lower investment risk, and empower sustainable decision-making is a crucial step in the sustainability journey