Month: August 2025

Soft2Bet: Revolutionizing iGaming through MEGA Platform and Global Expansion

Soft2Bet was established in 2016 by visionary entrepreneur Uri Poliavich. What was once one person’s dream to revolutionize the game of online gaming has now grown into a global technology power, empowering operators and players worldwide. Soft2Bet growth story to become a company to watch since it was started. Based in Malta, Soft2Bet now has over 100 staff members and holds an amazing 19 licenses in 10 jurisdictions. Its rapid growth is a result of its focus on innovation, regulatory compliance, and creating truly entertaining gaming experiences that reward players for playing again and again.

The MEGA Platform: Changing the Way Players Play

Soft2Bet’s crown gem is the Motivational Engineering Gaming Application (MEGA) which launched in 2023 and caused shockwaves in the industry. This is not another gamification platform – it’s something completely different in terms of how online casinos interact with players. The platform combines personalized elements of avatars, collectibles, and city-building that take gaming more into the experience than actual betting.

The proof is in the pudding. MEGA operators have recorded remarkable success:

  • 4-fold increase in player screen time;
  • 65% rise in Net Gaming Revenue;
  • 50% growth in deposit sizes;
  • 45% growth to Average Revenue Per User.

These aren’t figures – they’re real players, more engaged, having more fun, and more committed to their favorite game websites. The site is a success because it taps into what people naturally enjoy: advancement, rewards, and personalized experiences that seem like they’re just for them.

B2B Solutions That Actually Work

The company has several successful B2C brands, each designed for specific markets and player preferences. Betinia and Campobet serve players in Sweden and Denmark, while Tooniebet is focused on the Ontario region in Canada. Don.ro serves the Romanian players, and Quickcasino focuses on the Swedish market.

Comprehensive Operator Support

Soft2Bet does not just sell software and depart. They form partnerships with operators to provide complete turnkey solutions that include all of what is necessary to run a successful online gaming operation. Their approach includes frontend customization, sportsbook and casino integrated solutions, managed services, and payment integration with over 220 different payment methods.

Global Reach and Accessibility

Supporting over 20 languages and offering over 12,500 games from hundreds of leading providers, Soft2Bet allows operators to reach international audiences. The platform features over 1 million live events each year, giving players endless options for entertainment whether they like slots, table games, or sports betting.

Innovation Through Investment

In July 2024, Soft2Bet unveiled the launch of Soft2Bet Invest, a €50m innovation fund dedicated to funding entrepreneurs and businesses working within the iGaming and casual gaming sectors. It’s not just about making money – it’s about creating the next generation of gaming innovations that will shape the future of the business.

The project was acknowledged in September of 2024 when it took home the “Outstanding Contribution to Gaming 2024” award at SiGMA East Europe. This award is specifically presented to organizations that make significant contributions through technological advancement, mentorship, and strategic investment in gaming industry growth.

Responsible Gaming Leadership

Soft2Bet is dedicated to player protection, regulated by amongst the world’s toughest licensing regulations. Each of their 10 jurisdictions has independent responsible gaming, fraud, and compliance teams. Several gaming authorities conduct regular audits to ensure they always maintain and surpass regulation.

But in addition to simply complying with legal regulations, Soft2Bet takes positive steps beyond. They understand that sustainable business success is based on players having enjoyable, secure experiences they can enjoy responsibly for the long term.

Award-Winning Excellence

Soft2Bet’s commitment to innovation has been best rewarded by industry-wide recognition. At the 2025 Global Gaming Awards EMEA, Soft2Bet won a historic triple: Executive of the Year for Uri Poliavich, Platform Provider of the Year for Soft2Bet, and Product Launch of the Year for the MEGA platform.

Other recognitions include the iGaming Sword Award 2023 Turnkey Supplier of the Year, which further establishes Soft2Bet as a top player in the industry that continues to deliver results for operators and players alike.

With a US expansion planned, starting with New Jersey, and additional expansion on regulated markets around the world, Soft2Bet is the future of iGaming technology. With their blend of innovative products, regulatory expertise, and genuine commitment to player experience, they are perfectly positioned to drive continued success in a transforming industry.

Aviva Insurance Ireland and ClubberTV join forces in multi-year partnership

Aviva Insurance Ireland, one of Ireland’s leading insurance providers, has today been announced as a major partner of ClubberTV, the fast-growing sports streaming platform transforming how grassroots GAA and community sport are brought to fans across Ireland and beyond.

The new partnership marks a significant moment for both organisations, bringing together Aviva’s long-standing commitment to Irish sport with ClubberTV’s innovative approach to live and on-demand sports coverage.

Under the new agreement, Aviva will become an official partner of all ClubberTV coverage for the upcoming 2025/26 season, with prominent branding integrated across Clubber’s live match broadcasts, digital platforms, and community outreach initiatives, reinforcing both organisations’ dedication to growing grassroots sport.

Speaking at the announcement, Declan O’Rourke, CEO at Aviva Insurance Ireland commented, “At Aviva Insurance Ireland, we understand the power of sport to connect communities, and grassroots GAA is at the heart of communities throughout the country. We are proud to support the growth and development of ClubberTV in making our national game more accessible to national and global audiences. We’re delighted to support a platform that gives communities more in terms of access, entertainment and inspiration”.

Founded in 2020, Clubber has become Ireland’s leading live streaming platform for local and grassroots sport. Using cloud-based technology, it removes the need for traditional broadcast infrastructure, enabling high-quality, live coverage from any location. This year alone, it will stream over 1,500 games, cementing its position as the go-to platform for grassroots and semi-professional sports. Clubber holds exclusive, multi-year GAA broadcast rights across Ireland and is actively expanding its footprint into additional counties, sports, and international markets.

Jimmy Doyle, CEO of Clubber TV added, “To welcome Aviva Insurance Ireland as our first major partner is a proud moment. It validates the vision we’ve had from day one: to unlock the power of local sport and bring it to fans everywhere. Together with Aviva, we look forward to increasing the visibility of grassroot sport.”

 Fans can watch games from 14 counties including the Tipperary, Cork and Kilkenny Club Hurling Championships, as well as the Kerry, Kildare and Meath Club Football Championships, plus some of the Camogie Club Championships with flexible subscription options.

CHERRY introduces high-end mechanical keyboards for modern office use

Designed with quieter operation, sustainability and comfort in mind, the new KW 300 MX, KW 300W MX, KW 550 MX LP and KW X ULP 2.0 MINI mechanical keyboards from CHERRY are aimed at modern office and home working environments.

The KW 300 MX and KW 300W MX feature insulated housing, a compact 82- key layout and CHERRY’s latest MX2A switches, which deliver a soft and quiet typing experience. The hot-swappable sockets allow users to change switch types easily, while high-quality PBT keycaps support long-term durability. Both models offer dimmable white backlighting, and the KW 300 MX includes replaceable keycaps for Mac users.

Additional features include a 1000 Hz polling rate, anti-ghosting, N-key rollover, and AES-128 encryption. The keyboards connect via Bluetooth 5.2 or USB-C and use 65% recycled plastic in the lower housing. Packaging is plastic-free and instead uses silk-like paper and paper-based seals.

The KW 550 MX LP uses CHERRY’s new MX Low Profile 2.0 switches to reduce overall keyboard height and sound output. With a 96% layout and under 22mm in height, it includes adjustable feet and offers both Bluetooth 5.2 and USB-C connectivity. As with the other models, the packaging does not include plastic.

For users seeking a compact design, the KW X ULP 2.0 MINI features ultra-low-profile mechanical switches and a 75% layout suitable for Windows and macOS. A discrete anodised aluminium top plate houses concave polycarbonate keycaps which are designed for grip and longevity. Wireless options include USB-C, 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.2 Low Energy, with AES-128 encryption ensuring secure use in shared work environments.

The CHERRY logo doubles as a charge status indicator, and a magnetic nano receiver and transport pouch made from recycled materials enhance portability. The updated model uses additional recycled content and has been refined for quieter operation.

Tanja Knahn, Head of Brand & Communication at CHERRY, said: “Modern mechanical keyboards with RGB and special designs are now widely available on the market for gamers. However, the situation is different in the office and home office sectors. Countless users want modern and ergonomic mechanical keyboards in the office environment too. Mechanical keyboards that don’t attract attention in shared offices with unpleasant typing noises and colourful RGB lighting.

“We are now fulfilling this wish with the compact and sustainable models KW 300 MX, KW 300W MX, KW 550 MX LP, and KW X ULP 2.0 MINI – all elegantly designed and wireless. The different switch technologies and form factors result in a wide range for diverse requirements.”

All products will be available from Tuesday 5th August 2025. The suggested retail prices are:

KW 300 MX at £95.36

KW 300W MX at £119

KW 550 MX LP at £99

KW X ULP 2.0 MINI at £189

The KW 300W MX version is designed for Windows only and does not include Mac keycaps.

For further information about CHERRY products, visit cherry.de/en-gb

myFirst CareBuds Safe Volume Kids EarBuds Review

The MyFirst CareBuds Safe Volume Kids EarBuds are an affordable pair of earbuds for kids who want such which is many these days or headphones.

Coming in an attractive package they set the tone straight away at with what to expect, inside you get your usual manuals and extras which is for me great, you get a lanyard strap and loop for the earbuds to pop into so they do not get lost nor the case which is brilliant as adults are bad enough loosing an earbud or two or the case, you will not have to worry here with your child’s getting lost.

The earbuds themselves are a familiar stem shape with a two toned colour which is nice and matching accessorizes as mentioned above and there is simple controls for you child to use.

The MyFirst CareBuds have several controls but not all as expected from regular earbuds we go through these in the video review below. There is no companion app so it is an easy set-up.

You can manage calls skip and reverse tracks and play an pause and that is it this is all done by simple taps you can also change the transparency mode however this automatically adjusts when your child starts walking.

From a sound perspective the sound is fine for a child and do not expect what you would find from regular grown ups earbuds they are also safe on your child’s ears which is vital and your child will have no issue with how they sound unless more advanced but they are kids earbuds they keep your child safe and take into account the transparency mode.

The Perfect Combination of Fun and Safety for Kids

  • 85db Max Volume
  • Smart Transparency
  • Easy Touch Control
  • Kid-sized Comfort

PROTECT YOUR CHILD’S HEARING

85db Max Volume

The myFirst CareBuds are designed with the safety of young children in mind. With a maximum volume of 85db, these earbuds are specifically engineered to ensure that kids won’t be able to turn up the volume to potentially harmful levels.

EVERYTHING WITH A TOUCH

Easy Touch Control

The myFirst CareBuds come with user-friendly touch controls that make it easy for kids to play and stop music, pick up and end phone calls, and manually activate the transparency mode. This feature enables children to operate the earbuds with ease and convenience, without having to fumble with complicated buttons or controls.

PRIORITISING SAFETY

Smart Transparency Mode

myFirst CareBuds also have a unique feature that automatically switches them to transparency mode when the earbuds detect body movement. This is a crucial safety feature for kids, as it allows them to hear their surroundings while walking on the road or engaging in other activities.

NOISE CANCELLATION

Experience Clearer Audio

The new ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) Microphone in CareBuds uses special algorithms to cancel out background noise and improve voice quality during calls.

HIGH QUALITY MUSIC

Immersive Audio Experience

Enjoy listening to high quality music with immersive sound journey tailored to their needs. Specially designed for kids aged 3 to 12 years old, myFirst CareBuds offers a one-of-a-kind listening adventure that’s secure, comfortable, and tailored to your children.

SPLASH-PROOF CAPABILITY

IPX4 Water Resistant

myFirst CareBuds are protected from water splashes such as rain or sweat.

Key Features:

  • Small Ear Tips
  • 85 decibel limit
  • Up to 25 hours of battery life
  • Water resistant and rugged
  • Movement Activated Transparency Mode
  • Anti-Loss Strap and Lanyard Included
  • Built-In Microphone
  • True Wireless Connection

BUY

Other Kids tech reviews

Video Review 

Penneys has launched its new customer app in Ireland

Penneys has launched its new customer app in Ireland. The launch marks the next step in the retailer’s strategy to harness the power of digital to support its stores and bring the best of Penneys to more people. Available to download from Apple Store and Google Play Store from today, the new app brings the full Penneys experience into the palm of your hand, letting users enjoy the ease of digital browsing while still capturing the excitement of in-store discovery.

The new customer app offers an immersive browsing experience that makes it easy to scroll through Penneys’ newest trends and style inspiration wherever you are, while the popular stock checker feature lets shoppers instantly see if their must-have items are available at their local Penneys store. A built-in store locator provides quick access to opening hours and directions, while the favourites feature allows users to save top picks for their next visit. Customers can also opt-in for personalised notifications to stay up to date on the latest arrivals, collection launches and exclusive updates. All of this is delivered through an intuitive, user-friendly app design that ensures effortless navigation.

Fintan Costello, Head of Penneys Ireland and Northern Ireland said; “We know our customers love the buzz of a Penneys store — from discovering the latest trends to picking up everyday essentials for the family. Our digital channels are driving shoppers into our stores, and so with more people browsing online before they shop, the Penneys app extends that experience, offering a convenient and inspiring way to explore our ranges anytime, anywhere. Whether at home or on the go, now it’s never been easier to connect with Penneys.”

The retailer has been steadily investing in digital, building on the success of its social media platforms – 26 million followers globally, consistent website growth with 20% of people who visit the website using the stock check feature. The launch of the app in Ireland reflects a growing demand from customers who want digital tools that complement their in-store experience. Among people visiting the Penneys website in Ireland, women’s fashion topped the most popular search category, but it’s the Home offering that’s the rising star with shoppers, coming in as the second most searched term. From stylish cushions and candles to smart storage, nearly every home in Ireland has a touch of Penneys — and now, browsing the latest trends is just a tap away with the new app in your pocket.

The Penneys customer app officially launches in Ireland today. Whether you’re planning your next shopping trip or checking what’s in stock before you shop, it’s your go-to fashion companion.

Aer Lingus Unveils Major Mobile App Upgrade

Aer Lingus has unveiled a major refresh of its mobile app, as part of an extensive upgrade programme designed to transform the digital travel experience for its customers. This multi-million euro app investment is a key milestone in the airline’s broader digital vision to become a leader in customer-centric travel innovation.

The new and improved Aer Lingus app introduces several new features aimed at delivering a more seamless, intuitive and helpful experience for customers, especially on the day of travel. These enhancements were developed in close collaboration with a dedicated research panel of 1,300 Aer Lingus customers, ensuring that the upgrades reflect genuine passenger needs and preferences.

The mobile app upgrade has already resonated strongly with users, as reflected in the app’s jump in ratings, from 3 stars to 4.8 on Android and 4.7 on iOS. App downloads have also increased by one-third (33%) compared to the same period last year. Over 2.2 million people in Ireland and 3.5 million globally have used the Aer Lingus mobile app in the last 12 months, showing the growing importance of mobile-first options for customers.

 

Key app updates include:

  • Live Flight Status via Live Activities, viewable directly on users’ locked screens, keeping passengers informed in real-time.
  • Wayfinding Support through Dublin Airport and New York (JFK), providing easy navigation to gates and key amenities.
  • A Redesigned Home Screen, streamlining navigation for faster access to critical information.
  • A completely reimagined My Trips section, now featuring a travel assistant and streamlined access to trip extras, greatly improving the day-of-travel experience. Almost 90% of app users from a recent survey of 5,000 rated the improved My Trips section either 4 or 5 stars.

“Aer Lingus’ app upgrade is much more than just a facelift, it’s a major step forward in delivering a smarter, more personalised travel experience for our customers,” said Susanne Carberry, Chief Customer Officer at Aer Lingus. “From real-time updates to in-airport navigation, we’re committed to improving every touchpoint of our customers’ journey. These improvements reflect our ongoing investment in digital innovation and our belief that technology plays a central role in creating the best possible travel experience.”

This latest app refresh is part of a larger, multi-year digital transformation initiative at Aer Lingus focused on using technology to simplify, support and enhance the end-to-end customer journey.

The Aer Lingus app is available to download on iOS and Android.

Viltrox AF 15mm F1.7 Air: Compact Wide-angle Lens With Cinematic Flair

Viltrox is pleased to announce the AF 15mm F1.7 Air, a compact wide-angle lens that offers creative freedom in an ultra-portable format. This pocket-sized, lightweight lens (180g to 195g), designed for APS-C format cameras, offers a wide 84.9° field of view (equivalent to 22.5mm in full-frame terms) along with reliable, silent autofocus performance. The Viltrox AF 15mm F1.7 Air is ideal for capturing expansive street scenes, sweeping landscapes, dramatic architecture, lively vlogging, and atmospheric interior spaces.

The wide F1.7 aperture (adjustable down to F16) can deliver clean, bright images in low-light scenes such as dim cafés, nighttime street action, and indoor gatherings. It also creates smooth, natural background blur, making it ideal for portraits and close-ups with subject separation from the background, sharp, vibrant results, and a cinematic feel.

Viltrox Air Series: A complete photographic toolbox

The new AF 15mm F1.7 lens has the same compact format as other Viltrox Air series lenses. The Air series now offers a complete lightweight lens toolkit – from wide perspectives to mid-telephoto detailed shots, making a bag of these lenses perfect for creators who need efficiency, portability, and consistent results.

Advanced optics for high-quality images

The AF 15mm F1.7 Air comprises 12 elements in 10 groups. The lens’s three extra-low dispersion (ED) elements control chromatic aberration, to ensure clean, high-contrast images. Three high-refractive index (HR) elements enhance edge-to-edge sharpness, while two aspherical elements suppress distortion. Together, these optics provide accurate rendering across the frame. Viltrox’s advanced lens coatings reduce flare and ghosting, and capture clarity and contrast – even in challenging lighting.

Easy to use: Great performance out of the box

Affordable and stylish, the Viltrox AF 15mm F1.7 makes wide-angle photography accessible and enjoyable for all: from beginners to experienced creators. It is perfectly suited for everyday shooting and for creative exploration.

More details and how to buy

For more information, please visit: https://geni.us/15air_pr

Amazon Store:

US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FFMJCMCT

EU: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0FFMJCMCT

MSRP: $239 / €269 / £229

More Viltrox News

Crosley reveal a new flagship record player: meet the C65 system

Crosley announces the C65 Record Player with speakers: a belt‑drive turntable that fuses retro design with today’s audio innovations. Launching at £289, the C65 is a full system for music fans and style seekers alike.
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​The C65 delivers powerful 50W stereo sound via its bookshelf speakers, powered by a pre-mounted moving-magnet Audio‑Technica ATN3600L cartridge. The cartridge can also be upgraded over time, giving you a system that evolves with you.

 A switchable amp means you can even add the C65 system to your existing or future hi-fi system or powered / active speakers. The whole system represents a step up as an upgrade path from all-in-one record players.
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​The C65 features seamless Bluetooth 5.1 streaming. Stream your playlists to the C65 from your phone and make the most of the speakers.
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​Featuring a ​ a full-size steel platter, aluminum tonearm with cue lever, adjustable pitch control, belt-drive DC motor, and resonance‑dampening feet, the C65 is a solid performer for anyone after a plug and play vinyl system
It accommodates both 33 ⅓ RPM and 45 RPM records and includes essentials like a 45-adaptor, slip-mat, dust cover, cartridge alignment protractor and spare NP5 stylus.

The Crosley C65 is priced £289 / $299.

Click for live retail links: UK retailers include HMV, Amazon, Gear4Music and your favourite independent record stores.

New Static Speed Camera in Dolphins Barn Live today

Dublin City Council is pleased to see the introduction by An Garda Síochána of the first ever static speed camera within the Council area.

The Council worked closely with An Garda Síochána to facilitate the installation and initial operation of the camera.

The Static Safety Camera, which is located in Dolphin’s Barn, will commence operation from Friday 1st August 2025.

Dublin City Council will continue to work together with An Garda Síochána on road safety and measures which can help to improve road safety for all. The camera is located beside the maxol garage with the details below

Current Speed Limits

The default speed limit for most roads within the Dublin City Council area is 50km/h. Speed limit signs are erected at all points where there is a speed limit change. The enforcement of the speed limits is a matter for An Garda Síochána.

Dublin City Council has progressively introduced a 30km/h speed limit to many areas of the city, and Dublin City Council implemented 30km/h speed limits in all the residential areas as per approved Phase 4 – Special Speed Limit Bye-Laws 2020. Please see the map below of our Phase 4 Special Speed Limit Bye-Laws 2020.

What is a static safety camera?

A static safety camera is in one location and measures the motorists speed at that one particular point along the road.

How does it work?

As with GoSafe vans, drivers detected by static safety cameras breaking the speed limit on that road will be automatically issued a fixed charge penalty notice.

Why use static speed safety cameras?

Static safety cameras have been proven internationally to reduce speeding. Speeding is one of the main contributors to road deaths.

Check out some dashcams

See more