Month: May 2025

Track Every Dollar: The Secret to Smarter Spending and Saving

Budgeting in 2025 doesn’t have to stress you out, and Albert, a top budgeting planning app, makes it super simple. This US-based app offers tools like expense tracking and automatic expense categorization to manage your finances efficiently. Whether you’re a college student or self-employed, Albert helps track spending, pay bills, create financial dashboards, and build an emergency fund. 

This guide’ll show how Albert’s user-friendly features create breathing room in your budget and track your spending. Ready to take control of your money? Let’s dig deep into why Albert is essential for smarter budgeting this year!

Why Albert’s Tools Are Essential for Smart Budgeting in 2025

Albert’s budgeting app is a game-changer for managing money. It offers a free version that syncs bank accounts for real-time expense tracking. Its zero-based budget assigns every dollar of your income to monthly expenses, savings goals, or debt repayment. Automatic expense categorization sorts spending into different categories, like utility bills or streaming services, helping you set spending limits. 

Features like due date alerts ensure you pay bills on time, supporting goals like saving for a down payment or reducing credit card debt. With Albert, you gain insights into your cash flow, making budgeting in 2025 easy and stress-free. (150 words)

Albert’s User-Friendly Design for Beginners

Albert’s budgeting planning app shines for beginners, like college students, with its user-friendly interface on Google Play. A 2024 Bankrate survey found 64% of Americans want simpler budgeting apps. Albert syncs checking accounts and credit cards, offering a clear view of your finances. Its free version includes robust budgeting features, like tracking expenses and categorizing spending, helping you save money without needing a paid version like other apps, such as Credit Karma.

Zero-Based Budgeting for Every Dollar

Zero-based budgeting ensures every dollar of your income has a job, from fixed expenses to savings. Albert’s budgeting features make this easy by syncing banking data to track day-to-day spending. A 2023 Forbes study shows zero-based budgeting cuts discretionary spending by 17%, freeing up cash for an emergency fund or a 401(k).

Creating Custom Budgets

Albert’s custom budgets let you assign money to specific goals, like child care or a savings account, ensuring your monthly budget aligns with your financial priorities and creates breathing room.

  1. Real-Time Expense Tracking Saves Money

Albert’s real-time expense tracking monitors every transaction, from credit card purchases to utility bills. Automatic expense categorization sorts costs into different categories, helping you track spending analysis and avoid overspending. Thus, managing money is simple and effective.

  1. Cash Flow Management Made Easy

Innovative cash flow management means knowing your money coming in and out. Albert’s app tracks income and expenses, ensuring you cover your monthly costs and save. For example, setting aside $15 weekly builds a $780 emergency fund annually.

  1. Syncing Accounts for Clarity

Albert’s app connects bank accounts and tools like Credit Karma to show your net worth and overall finances. Reviewing transactions and credit reports helps you make smart choices, like allocating funds for debt payments or retirement savings, all from your mobile device.

Staying on Top of Due Dates

Albert’s due date alerts help you pay bills on time, avoiding late fees. Syncing accounts ensures you track expenses like streaming services, keeping your budget plan on track across multiple devices.

  1. Debt Repayment and Budgeting Together

Reducing credit card debt while budgeting is tricky, but Albert’s expense trackers make it doable. A 2024 NerdWallet study found that 67% of budgeters with clear plans pay off debt faster. Albert tracks debt payments alongside other expenses, balancing debt repayment and savings goals.

  1. Building Savings Goals with Albert

Albert’s savings goals help you save for a down payment or emergency fund. Regular contributions, like $10 weekly to a savings account, grow with interest rates, ensuring you’re ready for unexpected costs or big purchases like a home.

Why Albert Stands Out Among Budgeting Apps

Albert’s free version offers more hands-on tools than other apps like YNAB or Credit Karma. Its envelope system with unlimited categories and security features makes it the best app for budgeting in 2025, easily accessible on Google Play.

Key Benefits of Budgeting with Albert

  • Free and Powerful: Albert’s free version includes top budgeting features.
  • Real-Time Tracking: Monitor spending instantly with automatic expense categorization.
  • Goal-Focused: Supports savings goals and debt repayment.
  • Secure Syncing: Connects accounts with strong security features.

Budgeting Apps Comparison: Albert vs. Others

App Best For Cost Key Feature Example Budget ($1000 Income)
Albert (Free Version) Beginners, Self-Employed Free Real-Time Expense Tracking $340 expenses, $60 savings
YNAB Detailed Budgeters $14.99/month Envelope System $350 expenses, $50 savings
Credit Karma Credit Monitoring, Basic Budget Free Credit Report Integration $330 expenses, $40 savings
Monarch Money Advanced Users $9.99/month Net Worth Tracking $345 expenses, $55 savings

This table shows Albert’s free app offers unmatched features for 2025 budgeting, balancing cost and functionality.

Final Words

Albert’s budgeting planning app is essential for 2025. It offers real-time expense tracking, zero-based budgeting, and secure syncing. Start using Albert’s free tools to manage money, reduce debt, and easily achieve financial goals!

How to Earn While You Play: Playtime Makes It Possible in 2025

Gaming isn’t just about fun anymore — in 2025, it’s also a smart way to earn a little extra money on the side. Whether you’re waiting for the bus, relaxing on the couch, or killing time between tasks, you can now get rewarded just for playing games on your phone. 

And one app is making that easier than ever: Playtime. 

What Is Playtime and How Does It Work? 

Playtime is a play-to-earn app that rewards you for doing something you already enjoy — playing mobile games. Instead of filling out surveys or jumping through hoops, you simply choose a game from Playtime’s collection, start playing, and earn rewards based on how long you play. 

It’s perfect for casual gamers who want to earn passively in their downtime, without changing their daily routine. 

Why Playtime Stands Out 

What makes Playtime so popular among users is its simplicity. You don’t need to grind or complete complex tasks — just open the app, pick a game, and play. The app tracks your playtime automatically and rewards you with real money or gift cards. It’s that easy. 

Here are a few key features that make Playtime worth a try: 

  • Instant payouts – You can cash out your rewards quickly via PayPal or gift cards. 
  • Low withdrawal threshold – Start withdrawing with as little as $0.40, unlike other apps that make you wait until you earn $20 or more. 
  • No earning limits – The more you play, the more you earn — no caps, no fine print. 
  • A variety of games – From casual puzzles to strategy titles, there’s something for every type of player. 

Why Play-to-Earn Apps Like Playtime Are Booming 

Apps like Playtime are growing fast in popularity because they fit naturally into everyday life. You don’t need any special skills or hours of free time. All it takes is a smartphone and a few spare minutes — whether you’re on your lunch break or winding down in the evening. 

For people looking to turn idle moments into something productive, Playtime offers a no-pressure, low-effort way to earn on the side. 

Tips to Make the Most of Playtime

If you’re just getting started with Playtime, here are a few tips to boost your experience: 

  • Set a goal: Whether you’re saving up for a gift, treating yourself, or just want extra coffee money — knowing what you’re earning for can keep things fun. 
  • Stay consistent: Even short sessions each day can add up over time. 
  • Explore new games: Trying different titles keeps things interesting and helps you earn more. 

Final Thoughts 

Earning money while playing games might sound too good to be true — but with apps like Playtime, it’s a real and achievable side hustle. No stress, no pressure, just fun with a few extra perks. 

So if you’re looking for a simple, flexible, and rewarding way to earn in 2025, give Playtime a try. Your gaming time could start paying off sooner than you think.

Google I/O 2025: From research to reality

At Google I/O, they  showed Google is fully in the Gemini era, showcasing significant AI innovations across products, research, and infrastructure, all geared towards making AI more helpful for everyone. Check out the recap below of what to expect.

From research to reality — we’re taking cutting-edge research to build the most helpful AI that’s more intelligent, agentic and personalized. 

And we’re building on impressive momentum — every one of our 15 products with over half a billion users now uses Gemini, our natively multimodal AI model family. 

Intelligent
We are shipping models at a relentless pace — in March, we released Gemini 2.5 Pro, setting new state-of-the-art across key benchmarks and representing a significant leap in reasoning, coding, science and maths capabilities, and we’ve built on that progress today: 

  • Gemini 2.5 advancements: Gemini 2.5 Flash is now our default model, blending incredible quality with lightning-fast response times. Our enhanced reasoning model, Deep Think (in Gemini 2.5 Pro) uses our latest research on thinking and reasoning 

  • New creative tools: Introducing Veo 3 and Imagen 4, our frontier-pushing video and image generation models. Creatives: try Flow, our new AI filmmaking tool, to create story elements (cast, locations, objects, styles) with natural language, all in one place.

 

Agentic
By applying our cutting-edge AI models across Google products, we can make them more agentic — capable of intelligently taking action on your behalf, with your permission, across a variety of tasks, from complex academic research to restaurant reservations, across the web and in your Google apps:

 

  • Project Mariner: Launched last December, Project Mariner now includes a system of agents that can complete up to ten different tasks at a time. Starting in the US, these agents can simultaneously help you look up information, make bookings, buy things, do research and more

  • Get things done, directly from Search: We’re building the agentic capabilities of Project Mariner into AI Mode in the US, helping people save time with tasks like purchasing tickets to a baseball game

  • Project Astra in Google Search: We’re integrating Project Astra’s Live capabilities into Search in the US, so you can talk back-and-forth with Search about what you see in real-time, using your camera. Stumped on a project? Simply tap the “Live” icon in AI Mode, point your camera, ask your question, and get an explanation, with links to other resources you can explore in more detail 

  • Shopping features: Our new shopping experience in AI Mode combines Gemini model capabilities with our Shopping Graph to help you browse for inspiration, and choose products that are the “right fit”. See how an outfit looks on you, and ask our agentic checkout feature to make the purchase when the price is right. 

 

Personalised
Combine knowledge of the real world with information you share about your world, so AI can be even more helpful. Optionally share personal context like search history, emails, or your schedule allows for AI responses tailored to your preferences:

  • Gemini: Our goal for the Gemini app is to become the most helpful universal AI assistant. We’re enhancing Gemini Live in the Gemini app with personal context. With your permission, it will integrate with Google services like Maps, Calendar, Tasks, and Keep (and more later) for deeper daily assistance. And it’s getting even better with more Project Astra live capabilities coming soon to Gemini Live. 

  • AI Mode: our most powerful AI search, features advanced reasoning, multimodality, and deeper exploration via follow-up questions and web links. It now also offers personalized suggestions based on past searches or other Google apps, starting with Gmail. Search “Nashville weekend, friends, food & music,” and AI Mode suggests restaurants from your booking history and activities near your hotel.

  • Gemini Deep Research & Canvas: Make Deep Research personally powerful by blending your own private files with public data for insights unique to your context. Then, let Canvas bring your personal vision to life, as Gemini 2.5 Pro turns your descriptions into working code, apps, and creative content faster than ever.

 

With this, and all our groundbreaking work, we’re building AI that’s more intelligent, agentic and personalised, enriching our lives, advancing the pace of scientific progress and ushering in a new age of discovery and wonder.

See our Google Reviews

JLab Epic Lux Lab Edition Wireless Headphones Review

The JLab Epic Lux Lab Edition Wireless Headphones have been the latest cans on my ears the last few weeks and being a massive headphone fan I could not wait to test these out.

The presentation to begin with was excellent and first impressions last and one like this could leave slight hints at others as to how it is done.

Inside the box we also get a carry case which is excellent as these fold up and will keep them safe when not in use, also we get a wireless charger, yes you seen that correctly a wireless charger for you headphones which for me is great as I have adopted it all over the house and office so no more cables for me here but of course you can charge the old fashioned way if you like

The build quality is also excellent with a nice matt finish and metal frame which does not squeak or make noise when extending the arms each side and feels really premium all round.

You have the usual i/os and one button and the rest is gestures#swipes giving them a clean look with no buttons protruding from the sides and this works well with the one button being an MFB (multi-function button) quite common to day to have less buttons in general.

Moreover all these can be controlled in the JLab app which is excellent and being my first time to  try it I was impressed and the level of control you get here compared others and no fixed controls which are annoying and if you purchase these do spend time on the app and go through it we have done so in the video review down below and you can also get an idea in the screenshots provided.

There is 32 mm high-fidelity dynamic drivers on deck here and these do pack a serious punch and from testing many headphones during and year these are the best so far to date I have tried, the ANC to being with is excellent and impressive with stay aware also present but do delve into ANC and see for yourself how good it is.

The audio is what you want to know about and it is glorious you also have Spatial Audio here which if you have not tested before do so and this is also now coming the norm in headphones and earbuds like ANC was when it first came out it just takes things to a new level for the audio experience.

Highs lows and mids all great all genres tested where excellent with my test tracks and with the JLab app you only enhance the full audio experience and it is one to sit back and enjoy and forget about the world outside, no lag latency no tinny sound infact all round just perfect in my book and with the EQ settings it just gets better so do check them all out. Calls also for the few I took were excellent and also

used on teams and other sites like these for chats and no issues noted either end, also you have multipoint technology on board which like many today use their laptop and phone its another great feature to have and works flawlessly.

The headphones are also comfortable to wear all day and if you need a charge do no forget the wireless charging puck you get and besides that they have up to 90 hrs battery life which is great which will vary on your personal settings and if you are in the market for new headphones these should be on the list right now and you will thank me later. See the video review below for more.

Features of the JLab Lux Edition 

JLab’s Best Sounding Over-ear Headphone Ever 

The Epic Lux Lab Edition’s sound is powered by 32mm high-fidelity custom dynamic drivers that provide Hi-Res audio and a frequency response of 20 – 20 kHz for users to enjoy their music in stunning clarity. Enhanced by JLab’s Lab Spatial Audio algorithm with head-tracking technology, the Epic Lux Lab Edition creates an immersive 360-degree sound experience, resulting in highly dynamic and lifelike music and content experiences.

The First JLab Headphone with Adaptive Noise Cancelation

The Epic Lux Lab edition is the first from JLab to offer Adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (AANC) technology that filters through various noise frequencies in real-time and Artificial intelligence (AI) automatically reduces environmental sounds up to 35 DB. Switch to Be Aware mode to hear outside sounds when desired, which is ideal for taking phone calls that feel natural or listening to music or podcasts in situations that require heightened awareness.

Enjoy Clear Calls with Environmental Noise Cancellation 

Featuring 4-cutting-edge beamforming microphones (two on each earcup), combined with JLab’s advanced environmental noise cancelling algorithm, the Epic Lux Lab Edition offers crystal clear and uninterrupted communication during phone calls. Whether you’re on a call during a busy commute or speaking outside on a windy day, the microphones ensure professional and personal calls are handled with ease, no matter the environment.

Long Playtime and Convenient Charging 

Boasting over 60+ hours (ANC on) to 90+ hours (ANC off) of playtime on a single charge, the Epic Lux Lab Edition is ideal for all-day and all-week use. Unique to this model, the headphones support wireless charging and include a magnetic wireless charging pad, offering 5 hours of playtime from just 5 minutes of charging. Additionally, the built-in USB-C port provides a quick and convenient option for traditional charging.

Unmatched Comfort, Connectivity, and Control 

Crafted for comfort, the headphones feature Cloud Foam™ ear cups and padded headband, ensuring that they remain comfortable even during extended wear. Their foldable design maximises portability, making them perfect for travel, fitness, and work.

The Epic Lux Lab Edition prioritises connectivity with advanced Bluetooth Multipoint Technology, allowing users to seamlessly pair and switch between two devices at once. Plus, LabShare Mode enables users to share their audio with another LUX headphone user. Additionally, built-in Google Fast Pair enables quick pairing with compatible devices, while Find My functionality allows users to always keep track of the headphones on Android devices.

Easily control your media via multiple methods on the Epic Lux Lab Edition. Swipe on the earcup to control media playback, use the dedicated buttons for quick commands, or program the tap capability to further enhance your experience. Customise these controls directly through the JLab App to personalise your listening experience.

Personalise Your Audio with the JLab App 

JLab empowers users to personalise their audio experience with the JLab app, offering customisable noise cancellation and Be Aware settings, touch and swipe controls, and sound preferences. Alternatively, users can use the app to choose from preset options like JLab Signature, Balance, or Bass Boost Sound.

 

 

 

Technical Specifications

  • 32mm high-fidelity custom dynamic drivers and Spatial Audio
  • Adaptive Noise Cancelling and Be Aware mode
  • 90+ hours of playtime (60+ hours with ANC on)
  • Customisable experience via JLab App
  • Bluetooth multi-point
  • Google Fast Pair and Find My Device Functionality
  • Wireless Charging Pad and Built-In USB-C Charging Port
  • 2-Year Warranty

Buy

See our headphone reviews

Video Review

PayPal hosts hackathon to help make a real impact for 10 startups in Ireland

PayPal today announces the outcome of its ‘HACK for IMPACT’ initiative hosted in Dunboyne Castle in County Meath. The hackathon for startups saw PayPal support local entrepreneurship and collaborate with 10 local startups over a 24-hour period.

With the help of InnerCity Enterprise, the startups talked through their business plans and challenges, with ideas proposed by more than 30 PayPal mentors from teams across Ireland and Europe. The digital solutions workshopped during the event included website design, app creation and marketing strategies.

Having assessed the projects based on innovation, collaboration, impact, completion and presentation, the judging panel selected three winners. Treats by Sylvia, an award-winning mini cheesecake business enabled by an ecommerce website, took first place.

Mic Drop, a mobile application developed to enable networking and digital tipping for musicians in Ireland, came in second place and Vets Near Home, a home call out veterinarian services provider underpinned by an ecommerce platform with payment functionality, placed third. Eve Brassil, owner of Vets Near Home, commented: “The team have been incredible. They haven’t just developed a website but helped me future-proof my business.”

The other startups and concepts involved were:

  • Createnesz Virtual Solutions – A virtual assistance business hoping to develop a website booking system with payment functionality and membership area.
  • Oliverita – An olive oil business built on an ecommerce and inventory management platform with blockchain capabilities.
  • Perfect Fit Nutrition – A nutrition and wellness website and blog to offer advisory-based subscriptions.
  • Print Paper Press – A company specialising in creating vintage-style newspaper prints, empowered by an ecommerce platform with enhanced functionality.
  • Reflektor Coaching – An online booking and e-learning platform to facilitate wellness coaching.
  • The Mushroom Butcher – A farm-to-fork organic mushroom business supported by an ecommerce and inventory management platform.
  • Hug & Hold Doula support – A doula and post-partum/early childhood services provider seeking a mobile application and online booking and e-learning solution.

Speaking about the hackathon, Paul Ryan, Global Head of Risk Specialised Servicing and Ireland Site Lead, PayPal, said: “This hackathon is all about having an impact. As well as having an impact for the startups involved, in turn, they can have an impact on the wider community. From digital payments to online booking systems, this event shows the vital role that technology plays in how organisations originate and operate – and, perhaps more importantly, innovate. Through collaboration and expertise, PayPal takes pride in turning such great ideas into real outcomes.”

Evanne Kilmurray, CEO of Inner City Enterprise, added: “PayPal’s Hack for Impact is an incredible opportunity for our clients, who would gain access to professional mentorship and cutting-edge, tailored technical help designed specifically for their unique start-up business needs. I am both happy and impressed to see the innovations and collaborations that emerged from this event and how they made a meaningful difference for our community.”

The judging panel consisted of Evanne Kilmurray, CEO Inner City Enterprise; Neil McDonnel, CEO of the Irish SME Association (ISME); Luigi De Curtis, Senior Director of SMB Europe, PayPal; Paul Ryan, Global Head of Risk Specialised Servicing and Ireland Site Lead, PayPal; and Ciaran Maceochaidh, Senior Director of Global Professional Services, PayPal.

2025 Irish Smartphone Usage Stats

Not so long ago, mobile phones were used only for communication. However, as these devices advanced, they started replacing everything from cameras to gaming consoles. Today, they’re an integral part of everyday life in Ireland. This is best highlighted in the most recent Irish smartphone usage stats. In this article, we look at the most important figures and what they mean long term.

More People are Gaming on Mobile

Remember the famous Nokia Snake game? While still considered a classic, the games available on smartphones are significantly better. From mini-games for passing time to full-fledged titles that have their console versions, mobile gaming has evolved into a serious segment of the gaming industry. Even online casinos are available on mobile, allowing you to play poker or spin slots with just a few taps, all that in fully optimized apps. With mobile gaming on the rise, it’s no wonder 55% of adults in Ireland now play games on mobile. This means that smartphones are now the most dominant platform in the country, with only between 37% and 40% playing on consoles.

5.05 Million People in Ireland Own a Smartphone

Today, it’s practically impossible to go about your day without a smartphone in your pocket. Whether you want to make a phone call, look up an address, or buy something, you can do it all from this little device. And people in Ireland are doing exactly this, with 5.05 million people in the country owning a smartphone. With the tech constantly evolving, it’s natural to expect this figure to go up even more in the coming years. According to projections, the number of smartphone users in Ireland will reach 5.22 million by 2029.

Smartphones Are the First Thing People See in the Morning

While it’s not surprising that almost everyone in Ireland now owns a smartphone, you may be left stunned by the fact that for 74%, it’s the first thing they see in the morning. These devices have already started to replace traditional alarm clocks, but their use continues even after the alarm goes on. They’re responding to messages, scrolling through social media, or reading the news. Not only this, but people in Ireland also use their smartphones right before going to bed. In fact, 54% say they stay awake longer than planned because they’re on their phones.

Android Users Dominate Ireland

The Android vs. iOS debate is always ongoing, and in Ireland, Android is clearly in the lead. Apple’s iPhone has a strong following, especially among younger generations, but Android dominates the overall market. According to the numbers from 2025, Android holds over 60% of the smartphone market in Ireland. iPhone holds over 38% while only about 0.25% goes to other, older operating systems. Android has a wide range of devices at different price points, making it more accessible, which is the main reason behind its popularity.

Samsung is the Most Popular Brand in Ireland

As mentioned above, Android has the edge over iOS in Ireland. But what about brands? According to the most recent numbers, Samsung is the leader. Out of the surveyed individuals, 42% said they own a Samsung phone, while 38% said they own an Apple phone. The number of Samsung users went up by 4% between 2023 and 2024, proving that the brand is constantly attracting new customers. With the Edge version of Samsung S25 having just arrived, this number may increase even more in the coming months. AI is one of the hottest tech trends at the moment, and the new version of the popular Samsung phone integrates it at almost every touchpoint.

Dell Technologies Unveils Next Generation Enterprise AI Solutions with NVIDIA

The world’s top provider of AI-centric infrastructure, Dell Technologies announces innovations across the Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA – all designed to help enterprises accelerate AI adoption and achieve faster time to value.

Why it matters

As enterprises make AI central to their strategy and progress from experimentation to implementation, their demand for accessible AI skills and technologies grows exponentially.

Dell and NVIDIA continue the rapid pace of innovation with updates to the Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA, including robust AI infrastructure, solutions and services that streamline the path to full-scale implementation.

Dell infrastructure advances enterprise AI innovation with enhanced power, efficiency, and scalability

Dell Technologies introduces the next generation of advanced compute, data storage, data management and networking solutions:

  • Air-cooled Dell PowerEdge XE9780 and XE9785 servers simplify integration into existing enterprise data centers, while liquid-cooled Dell PowerEdge XE9780L and XE9785L servers accelerate rack-scale deployment. The new PowerEdge servers support up to 192 NVIDIA Blackwell Ultra GPUs with direct to chip liquid cooling and can be customized with up to 256 NVIDIA Blackwell Ultra GPUs per Dell IR7000 rack. As the successors to Dell’s fastest ramping solution ever the Dell PowerEdge XE9680, these platforms can deliver up to four times faster large language model (LLM) training with the 8-way NVIDIA HGX B300.4
  • The Dell PowerEdge XE9712 featuring NVIDIA GB300 NVL72 offers efficiency at rack scale for training and 50 times more AI reasoning inference output and 5x improvement in throughput With new Dell PowerCool technology, this platform helps businesses achieve greater power efficiency.
  • The Dell PowerEdge XE7745 server will be available with NVIDIA RTX Pro™ 6000 Blackwell Server Edition GPUs in July 2025. This platform – supported in the NVIDIA Enterprise AI Factory validated design – provides a universal platform to help meet the needs of physical and agentic AI use cases like robotics, digital twins, and multi-modal AI applications with support for up to 8 GPUs in a 4U chassis.
  • Dell plans to support the NVIDIA Vera CPU, offering speed, efficiency, and performance.
  • Dell plans to support the NVIDIA Vera Rubin platform with a new Dell PowerEdge XE server designed for Dell Integrated Rack Scalable Systems.

 

Connecting it all, Dell extends its networking portfolio to include the Dell PowerSwitch SN5600, SN2201 Ethernet, part of the NVIDIA Spectrum-X Ethernet networking platform, and NVIDIA Quantum-X800 InfiniBand switches. These high-density, low-latency switches deliver up to 800 gigabits per second of throughput and are now backed by Dell ProSupport and Deployment Services to provide expert guidance at every stage of AI deployment.

Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA solutions support the NVIDIA Enterprise AI Factory validated design, featuring Dell and NVIDIA compute, networking, storage, and NVIDIA AI Enterprise software providing an end-to- end fully integrated AI solution for enterprises.

Dell AI Data Platform advancements improve AI data management

Because AI is only as powerful as the data that fuels it, organizations need a platform designed for performance and scalability. Dell AI Data Platform advancements provide AI applications with always-on access to high quality data.

  • Dell ObjectScale supports large-scale AI deployments while helping reduce cost and data center footprint with the introduction of a denser, software-defined system. NVIDIA BlueField and Spectrum networking integrations boost performance and scalability.
  • Dell introduces a high-performance solution built with Dell PowerScale, Dell Project Lightning, and PowerEdge XE servers. Using KV cache and integrating NVIDIA’s NIXL Libraries, this solution is ideal for large-scale distributed inference workloads.
  • Dell ObjectScale will support S3 over RDMA, achieving up to 230% higher throughput, up to 80% lower latency and 98% reduced CPU load compared to traditional S3 for better GPU utilization
  • Dell announces an integrated solution that incorporates the NVIDIA AI Data Platform to accelerate curated insights from data and accelerate agentic AI applications and tools.

 

Software updates help organizations seamlessly deploy agentic AI

 

  • The NVIDIA AI Enterprise software platform, available directly from Dell, offers businesses the option to innovate on the Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA with NVIDIA NIM, NVIDIA NeMo microservices, and NVIDIA Blueprints, NVIDIA NeMo Retriever for RAG and NVIDIA Llama Nemotron reasoning models, and seamlessly develop agentic workflows while accelerating time- to-value for AI outcomes.
  • Simplify business-critical AI deployments while providing flexibility and security with Red Hat OpenShift available on the Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA.

New managed services streamline operations and drive faster outcomes

The new Dell Managed Services for the Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA simplify AI operations with management of the full NVIDIA AI solutions stack — including AI platforms, infrastructure and NVIDIA AI Enterprise software. Dell managed services experts handle 24×7 monitoring, reporting, version upgrades and patching, helping teams overcome resource and expertise constraints by providing cost-effective, scalable and proactive IT support.

Perspectives

“We’re on a mission to bring AI to millions of customers around the world,” said Michael Dell, chairman and chief executive officer, Dell Technologies. “Our job is to make AI more accessible. With the Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA, enterprises can manage the entire AI lifecycle across use cases, from training to deployment, at any scale.”

“AI factories are the infrastructure of modern industry, generating intelligence to power work across healthcare, finance and manufacturing,” said Jensen Huang, founder and chief executive officer, NVIDIA. “With Dell Technologies, we’re offering the broadest line of Blackwell AI systems to serve AI factories in clouds, enterprises and at the edge.”

SteelSeries Unveils Rival 3 Gen 2 and Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2

On the road to glory and the brand’s 25th anniversary in 2026, SteelSeries, the global leader in premium gaming and esports peripherals, today unveiled the Rival 3 Gen 2 and Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 gaming mice. Building on the legacy of the original Rival mice, which debuted in 2013, the new generation of mice marks an evolution of the beloved Rival 3 Series, delivering top-tier speed, all-new performance, and durability at an accessible price point in the “affordable luxury” category.
The award-winning Rival Series mice have been the staple gaming peripheral for players entering the PC gaming arena for the first time, making them true ‘game-changers.’ Crafted for versatility and durability, the Rival 3 Gen 2 and Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 are the marathon performers in the world of gaming mice, offering a battle-tested design powered by precision-engineered mechanical switches that are guaranteed for 60 million clicks. Speed is key, and an ultra-optimized 1.35ms (wired) and 1.9ms (wireless) click latency, combined with fast TrueMove Optical Sensors that have been co-developed in collaboration with PixArt, plus 100% PTFE feet for ultimate glide, deliver near-instant responsiveness for lightning-fast reactions and pixel-perfect accuracy.
RIVAL 3 GEN 2 SERIES
The Rival 3 Gen 2 Series gaming mice are engineered for superfast performance, featuring ultra-optimized click latency of just 1.35ms. This ensures near-instant responsiveness for lightning-fast reactions, allowing gamers to outperform the competition. Additionally, a True Move Core 8,500 DPI optical sensor ensures precision and accuracy with every glide.
Durability and endurance are hallmarks of the Rival 3 Gen 2 Series, with 60 million clicks guaranteed. Weighing in at 77g (95-106g for the wireless version), the battle-tested design of the Rival 3 promises long-lasting performance, ensuring reliability for years to come.
The Rival 3 Gen 2 places a strong emphasis on style, featuring a 360° enhanced underglow powered by SteelSeries Prism lighting technology.
RIVAL 3 GEN 2 WIRELESS SERIES
In addition to all the key features of the Rival 3 Gen 2 wired mouse, the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 introduces substantial enhancements with the True Move Air 18k DPI optical sensor, delivering exceptional in-game execution for both flicks and drags. Coupled with a maximum acceleration of 40g and ultra-optimized click latency of just 1.9ms, players can experience best-in-class performance.
Quantum 2.0 Dual Wireless technology is yet another benefit for players, providing a wide array of flexibility with a USB dongle for gaming-grade wireless connectivity along with Bluetooth 5.0. This enables connectivity to a wide array of devices, enhancing the overall versatility and convenience, and is ideal for those switching between work and play.
To prevent those inconvenient interruptions, the battery life of the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 has been significantly extended, offering 45 to 200 hours on 2.4GHz and up to 450 hours with Bluetooth. This allows gamers to enjoy many months of uninterrupted play without the need for frequent battery replacements. The mouse operates on a single AAA battery and is compatible with rechargeable options, achieving a reasonable weight reduction while maintaining the full Rival feel. This ensures the Rival 3 Gen 2 Wireless mouse remains efficient, durable, and lightweight for extended gaming sessions.
Additionally, gamers can now add a splash of color to their setups with new vibrant color options, including aqua, lavender, and white, alongside the classic black colorway.
Available at SteelSeries.com and retailers around the world, the Rival 3 Gen 2 and Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 are available for the following MSRPs:
  • Rival 3 Gen 2 – US $34.99 | EMEA €39.99 | UK £34.99 | APAC $39.99
  • Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 – US $59.99 | EMEA €59.99 | UK £54.99 | APAC $59.99

Reviews from SteelSeries

Using sound waves to create a smart T-shirt

Imagine wearing a T-shirt that measures your breathing or gloves that translate your hand movements into commands for your computer. Researchers at ETH Zurich, led by Daniel Ahmed, Professor of Acoustic Robotics for Life Sciences and Healthcare, have laid the foundations for just such smart textiles. Unlike many previous developments in this area, which usually use electronics, the ETH researchers rely on acoustic waves passed through glass fibres. This makes the measurements more precise and the textiles lighter, more breathable and easier to wash. “They are also inexpensive because we use readily available materials, and the power consumption is very low,” says Ahmed.

Acoustic sensors embedded in fabric

The researchers call their development SonoTextiles. They have transformed normal fabrics into smart sensors that react to touch, pressure and movement. “While research has already been conducted into smart textiles based on acoustics, we are the first to explore the use of glass fibre in combination with signals that use different frequencies,” explains Yingqiang Wang, the first author of the study that has been published in the journal external pageNature Electronics.

The researchers have woven glass fibres into the fabric at regular intervals. At one end of each glass fibre is a small transmitter that emits sound waves. The other end of each of the glass fibres is connected to a receiver that measures whether the waves have changed.

Each transmitter works at a different frequency. This means it requires little computing power to determine which fibre the sound waves have changed on. Previous smart textiles often struggled with data overload and signal processing issues, since each sensor location had to be evaluated individually. “In the future, the data could be sent directly to a computer or smartphone in real time,” says Ahmed.

When a glass fibre moves, the length of the acoustic waves passing through it changes, as they lose energy. In the case of a T-shirt, this can be caused by body movement or even breathing. “We used frequencies in the ultrasonic range, around 100 kilohertz – well beyond the range of human hearing, which is between 20 hertz and 20 kilohertz,” Wang emphasises.

Highly versatile

The researchers have shown that their concept works in the lab. In the future, SonoTextiles could be used in a variety of ways: as a shirt or T-shirt, they could monitor the breathing of asthma patients and trigger an alarm in an emergency.

The material remains elastic despite the interwoven glass fibres. The sound waves measure when someone breathes in and out. (Video: Daniel Ahmed / ETH Zurich)

In sports training and performance monitoring, athletes could receive real-time analysis of their movements, to optimise their performance and prevent injuries. The textiles also have potential for sign language: gloves with this technology could simultaneously translate hand movements into text or speech. They could also be used in virtual or augmented reality environments.

“SonoTextiles could even measure a person’s posture and improve their quality of life as an assistive technology,” adds Chaochao Sun, who shares first authorship of the study. People who want to improve their posture could receive targeted feedback to correct poor posture. The textiles could also indicate when a wheelchair user needs to change position to prevent pressure ulcers.

Although the everyday usability of SonoTextiles is potentially very high, Ahmed adds that there is still room for improvement in terms of practical application. Glass microfibres worked well as sound conductors in the lab, but they could potentially break in everyday use. “The beauty is that we can easily replace the glass fibres with metal. Sound also propagates effectively through metal,” explains Ahmed, adding “We would like to expand our research in this direction and also into other applications.” The researchers now want to make the system more robust and examine how the electronics can be better integrated into the textiles.