Month: March 2026
Rhombus Announces Recon, the First Autonomous Physical Security Solution
Rhombus, a leader in cloud-managed physical security, today announced Rhombus Recon, an autonomous physical security solution designed to extend physical security beyond the limits of fixed cameras.
Rhombus Recon solves the problem of what is happening outside the view of existing cameras. With Rhombus Recon, companies can autonomously or manually dispatch a robot to do a closer investigation or patrol of a particular event. Additional situational awareness is provided by the broader Rhombus platform of AI Cameras, Sensors, Access Control, and Alarm Monitoring which together, is the first solution of its kind.
Harnessing the power of advanced AI, Recon takes patrolling and investigations to new levels by allowing customers to take specific actions based on what it sees. For example, Recon can be dispatched to check how well stocked the shelves of a store are, or whether a bathroom is clean, or even if there is a potential intruder coming in the back door. When paired with Rhombus Insights, Recon can provide operational data across all aspects of an organization.
“With Rhombus Recon, we aim to give every organization the equivalent of an extra person that is available 24/7 to be an extra set of eyes and ears.” says Brandon Salzberg, CTO at Rhombus. “Leveraging AI and LLM’s, these robots can complete complex assignments, and we view them becoming an essential part of the operations of most companies.”
Examples of how Rhombus Recon can support operations include:
Proactive incident response
If a Rhombus camera detects a potential intruder, the system can dispatch a robot to investigate the area. The robot can approach the scene, stream live video to operators through the Rhombus Console, and trigger automated deterrents or escalation workflows through Rhombus Alarm Monitoring.
Automated inspections
Facilities teams can program a robot to follow scheduled routes through warehouses, manufacturing environments, or campuses. During patrols, the system can collect video evidence, perform safety checks, and generate alerts when anomalies are detected.
Mobile gap coverage
Large outdoor environments such as construction sites, logistics yards, and storage facilities often contain areas where installing fixed cameras is difficult or cost-prohibitive. Recon enables mobile patrols that continuously monitor these areas and stream footage back to the Rhombus platform, transforming previously unmonitored spaces into actively
monitored security zones.
How Rhombus Recon Extends Physical Security
• Mobile situational awareness – Uses data from Rhombus cameras, sensors, and access control systems to understand and navigate environments.
• AI-powered analysis – Applies advanced AI to detect threats, safety risks, or operational anomalies.
• Autonomous or on-demand dispatch – Robots can be triggered automatically by events or deployed manually by operators.
• Fleet management – Security teams can monitor and control multiple robots across locations through the Rhombus Console.
• Integrated response workflows – Recon connects with Rhombus Alarm Monitoring to enable escalation, live verification, and coordinated response.
The platform is designed to work with robotics manufacturers including Boston Dynamics, Unitree, and others allowing organizations to deploy autonomous security across a range of robotic form factors.
As organizations face increasing security demands and ongoing labor shortages, autonomous solutions like Rhombus Recon can help augment security teams by performing patrols, inspections, and investigations across large or complex environments.
Availability
Rhombus will demonstrate an early version of Rhombus Recon at ISC West in Las Vegas from March 23–27 (booth #L18). Organizations interested in learning more about autonomous mobile security or joining the early access program can visit
www.rhombus.com.
About Rhombus
Rhombus is an open, cloud-managed physical security platform that brings security cameras, access control, sensors, alarm monitoring, and integrations together under a single pane of glass. Thousands of organizations trust Rhombus to drive operational excellence, improve safety, and streamline workflows through a comprehensive suite of smart security solutions.
Rhombus is backed by Caden Capital, Cota Capital, Tru Arrow Partners, NightDragon, Bluestone Equity Partners, and Uncorrelated Ventures, and is on a mission to make organizations safer and more intelligent with simple, smart, and powerful
physical security solutions.
CANYON RGB Wireless Keyboard Review (HKB-W11)
The HKB-W11 Wireless Keyboard is designed for those who want more from their setup. With dual connectivity, switch effortlessly between 2.4GHz wireless and two BT channels.
The Canyon HKB-W11 is a slim, full-sized wireless keyboard that punches significantly above its weight class, particularly for users who split their time between multiple devices. It positions itself as a budget-friendly alternative to premium low-profile decks like the Logitech MX Keys or the Microsoft Surface Keyboard.
The first thing you’ll notice is the ultra-slim profile. Despite its 19mm thickness, the ABS plastic body feels surprisingly rigid. It features a fixed ergonomic tilt—there are no adjustable feet, but the “wedge” shape provides a natural typing angle for most. I am no keyboard expert but for me typing is great the keys travel well with a 2mm distance and are tactile and could be a daily keyboard for me.
The HKB-W11 uses scissor-switch mechanisms, the same tech found in high-end laptops so for most this will be fine
The CANYON HKB-W11 shines. It offers Triple Connectivity:
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2.4GHz Wireless: Via a magnetic USB-A dongle (stored on the bottom).
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Dual Bluetooth Channels: Allowing you to pair with a tablet and a phone simultaneously.
Overall this is a great keyboard to use and looks good at any desk even if you are not the PC gamer type and with superb battery life and multiple connectivity options
Product Features:
- Dual Connection: 2.4GHz & BT channel*2
- 113 Buttons & 10 Million clicks
- RGB backlight; 7 Backlight colours
- Key Illumination
- Compatibility: Win/MAC/ISO phone/android phone
- Rechargeable: Built-In Li-Pol 1600 mAh Battery
- Material: ABS
- Charge cable: 1m (PVC)
- Electronic life cycle: 10000000 Cycles
- Maximum peak current capacity: 1600 mAh
Ring unveils ULTRASTART + AIR – a compact jump starter and inflator
Renowned auto accessory giant, Ring Automotive, has long been dedicated to providing the aftermarket with new and exciting products, and one of its first of 2026 is the ULTRASTART + AIR!
This new product is a powerful, multi‑functional emergency tool combining a jump starter and tyre inflator in one compact unit.
Similar to other products in its portfoilio, this new product from Ring is not limited to being just one piece of equipment, but multiple. The ULTRASTART + AIR is a jump starter, tyre inflator, as well as an LED light and powerbank to ensure the user has everything available to them in an emergency. It is also a compact item that can easily be stored in the glove compartment or anywhere in the vehicle if necessary.
For the jump starter aspect of the tool, its comes with two smart clamps that offer reverse polarity protection and also has a boost function for starting dead batteries. In addition, the ULTRASTART + AIR has integrated hose storage for the tyre inflator element and a storage bag that will hold all of the extra accessories it comes with.
In terms of the engines it can assist with, it’s suitable for up to a six litre petrol and three litre diesel engine. It has a clear display, is easy to use and has an ergonomic body, so is comfortable to hold.
Marketing Director, Henry Bisson, commented: “We are regularly conducting market research on what would be the most helpful to technicians as well as drivers, which is where the ULTRASTART + AIR has come from. Having one piece of equipment that can solve a variety of problems is convenient for all and so, very popular, which is why more of the tools we’re introducing to the market are multi functional.
“The ULTRASTART + AIR is a very powerful tool and due to its suitability for many vehicles, we anticipate this being one of our bestsellers.”
Top 7 Data Visualization and Tableau Courses to Build Analytical Leadership Skills in 2026
According to a 2026 report by Mordor Intelligence, the Business Intelligence market adoption has hit 82%, yet a severe training gap remains.
Research from BCG indicates that 70% of digital transformations fail due to poor data literacy and visualization.
In this article, you will discover the top data visualization courses designed to bridge that gap and drive real analytical leadership.
How Have We Selected These Best Tableau & Power BI Training Courses?
- Curriculum relevance to the 2026 data-driven corporate ecosystem.
- Institutional prestige & the professional caliber of the certifying body.
- Focus on analytical architecture (e.g., Power Query, DAX, AI Copilot integration) rather than mere data entry.
- Flexibility of delivery modes suited for high-level executive schedules.
- Direct applicability of outcomes to enterprise-scale problem-solving & financial modeling.
Overview: Best Tableau & Power BI Courses for 2026
| # | Program | Provider | Primary Focus | Delivery | Ideal For |
| 1 | Advanced Data Viz (Power BI) | Great Learning | Executive Dashboarding | Online/Self-Paced | Senior Leaders |
| 2 | Data Analysis & Viz (Power BI) | Coursera (MS) | Technical Modeling | Online/Self-Paced | Career Switchers |
| 3 | Data Visualization in Power BI | DataCamp | Interactive Exploration | In-Browser | Hands-on Managers |
| 4 | Tableau Essentials | Great Learning | Visual Storytelling | Online/Self-Paced | Technical VPs |
| 5 | Power BI (PL-300) | ONLC | Certification & Governance | Live Virtual | Compliance Officers |
| 6 | Power BI for Data Analysis | Data for Dev | Humanitarian Impact | Online Workshop | Non-Profit Leaders |
| 7 | Power BI Nanodegree | Udacity | Project-Based Mastery | Online/Mentored | C-Suite Finance |
Best Power BI Training and Tableau Courses in 2026
1. Advanced Data Visualization using Power BI — Great Learning
This Power BI Training course by Great Learning is designed for professionals who need to go beyond basic reporting to build robust, executive-level data pipelines.
It provides an in-depth dive into hierarchical charts, clustering, and complex What-If analyses.
Enrolling in this GLA Pro+, learners gain access to 500+ courses, AI-powered career tools, guided projects, and recognized certifications from Microsoft and AWS to strengthen their career prospects.
By the end of this course, leaders can extract actionable insights from real-world business scenarios.
- Delivery & Duration: Online, 11 hours, self-paced with 1 major guided project (FIFA Player Analysis).
- Credentials: Certificate of completion (Great Learning and Microsoft recognized).
- Instructional Quality & Design: Faculty-led video modules featuring enterprise case studies and interactive labs.
- Support: 24-hour AI assistance, AI resume builder, and personalized mock interviews.
Key Outcomes / Strengths:
- Architect data modeling workflows utilizing advanced visualizations and cross-filtering.
- Formulate dynamic parameters to execute high-stakes What-If scenario analyses.
- Synthesize complex datasets through clustering to identify market outliers.
- Evaluate operational bottlenecks through interactive dashboards to drive profitability.
2. Data Analysis and Visualization with Power BI — Coursera
Developed directly by Microsoft, this program focuses on the technical end-to-end process of preparing and modeling data.
It is the gold standard for those seeking a software-authorized path to the PL-300 certification.
The curriculum emphasizes data cleaning with Power Query and the implementation of scalable relational models.
- Delivery & Duration: Online, flexible schedule; approximately 30 hours of instructional material.
- Credentials: Shareable Professional Certificate from Microsoft and Coursera.
- Instructional Quality & Design: Video lectures from Microsoft experts combined with hands-on labs.
- Support: Peer discussion forums and automated grading with instant technical feedback.
Key Outcomes / Strengths:
- Deconstruct enterprise databases into functional datasets using Power Query.
- Implement robust dimensional data models using star schemas for reporting accuracy.
- Translate business requirements into clear visual narratives using advanced features.
- Apply best practices in data governance within the Power BI Service environment.
3. Data Visualization in Power BI — DataCamp
This interactive course serves as a strategic entry point for managers who value efficiency.
It utilizes an in-browser sandbox to teach the essentials of data visualization software, requiring no local installation.
The focus is on rapid drag-and-drop dashboarding and immediate data exploration.
- Delivery & Duration: Online interactive platform; 6 hours of modular, skill-focused learning.
- Credentials: Statement of Accomplishment upon track completion.
- Instructional Quality & Design: 60 interactive exercises offering immediate coding and design feedback.
- Support: Community-led help center and downloadable coding cheatsheets.
Key Outcomes / Strengths:
- Navigate the Power BI interface to connect to local and cloud-based datasets.
- Construct foundational visualizations, including interactive bar charts and geographic maps.
- Evaluate sorting and filtering techniques to drill down into specific data points.
- Implement basic DAX measures to calculate essential performance indicators.
4. Tableau Data Visualization Essentials — Great Learning
This Tableau course by Great Learning helps professionals move past spreadsheets to build robust, executive-level data stories.
It provides an in-depth dive into visual analytics, data structuring, and parameterized reporting. The focus is on “visual logic,” ensuring that dashboards solve specific business problems rather than just presenting raw numbers.
Enrolling in this GLA Pro+, learners gain access to 500+ courses, AI-powered career tools, guided projects, and recognized certifications from Microsoft and AWS to strengthen their career prospects.
- Delivery & Duration: Online, 8 hours of video content with 1 major guided project.
- Credentials: Verified Certificate of Completion in Tableau.
- Instructional Quality & Design: Faculty-led modules focusing on storytelling and dashboard blueprinting.
- Support: Access to a network of 5 million+ learners and dedicated AI mentorship.
Key Outcomes / Strengths:
- Architect dynamic dashboards utilizing heat maps, tree maps, and Pareto charts.
- Formulate complex calculations and parameters to allow end-user interaction.
- Synthesize clear data-driven stories using Tableau’s unique storyboarding features.
- Apply data blending techniques to merge disparate sources into a unified visual truth.
5. Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst (PL-300) — ONLC
For professionals focused on corporate compliance and official standards, this program offers an exam-aligned curriculum.
It emphasizes the governance and administrative aspects of a Power BI deployment. It is specifically tailored for those who will oversee an organization’s entire BI infrastructure and security protocols.
- Delivery & Duration: Live virtual classes (4 days) or self-paced on-demand options.
- Credentials: Prepares students for the Microsoft PL-300 certification exam.
- Instructional Quality & Design: Instructor-led labs that replicate real-world enterprise IT environments.
- Support: Direct interaction with certified instructors and post-training resources.
Key Outcomes / Strengths:
- Architect secure data environments by applying Role Level Security (RLS).
- Manage the full lifecycle of a report from initial query to final publication.
- Optimize report performance by identifying bottlenecks in the data model.
- Standardize metric definitions across the organization using shared datasets.
6. Power BI for Data Analysis Workshop — Data for Dev
This specialized workshop is ideal for leaders in the non-profit sector. It frames Power BI within the context of monitoring, evaluation, and impact reporting.
The course focuses on using data to tell a compelling story to donors and stakeholders, using humanitarian-specific datasets.
- Delivery & Duration: Online workshop; 10 hours of intensive, project-focused training.
- Credentials: Certificate of Participation in Data Analysis for Development.
- Instructional Quality & Design: Case-study driven learning using real humanitarian datasets.
- Support: Access to a peer community of development professionals.
Key Outcomes / Strengths:
- Build specialized impact dashboards that track project indicators and donor requirements.
- Automate the cleaning of multi-source field data for immediate visual analysis.
- Formulate interactive maps to visualize project reach and resource distribution.
- Cultivate transparent data environments that facilitate trust with global stakeholders.
7. Data Analysis and Visualization with Power BI — Udacity
The Udacity Nanodegree offers an intensive, real-world analytical blueprint for professionals seeking mastery.
It moves from basic navigation to complex DAX iterators and time-intelligence functions. It is the most comprehensive option for those seeking a deep career pivot into professional data engineering or C-suite analytics.
- Delivery & Duration: Online; approximately 4 months at 10 hours per week; mentored.
- Credentials: Professional Nanodegree Certificate.
- Instructional Quality & Design: Project-centric curriculum reviewed by human experts for industry-grade quality.
- Support: Technical mentor support, career coaching, and portfolio reviews.
Key Outcomes / Strengths:
- Synthesize advanced relational data models (Star and Snowflake schemas).
- Build dynamic time-intelligence tools and apply complex DAX measures.
- Design custom scenario analyses utilizing advanced conditional formatting.
- Execute professional-grade data storytelling that bridges the gap for C-suite decisions.
Conclusion
In 2026, the distinction between a “manager” and a “data analyst” is rapidly disappearing. The ability to command data visualization tools at an advanced level is no longer just about generating simple charts; it is about engineering the architecture of business intelligence.
Selecting the right online free courses with certificate today is the most significant step toward mastering data visualization and analytical leadership in 2026.
FUJIFILM announces its instax mini 13 instant camera
FUJIFILM Europe GmbH, Imaging Solutions Division, has announced the introduction of its instax mini 13™ instant camera (mini 13). Following in the footsteps of the popular instax mini 12™ instant camera launched in 2023, mini 13 brings a fun, playful new look and feel with its soft, sculpted shape and a metallic silver logo that accents the front of the camera.
New for mini 13 is the introduction of a self-timer, with options for 2 or 10 seconds, giving the photographer the opportunity to be in the shot themselves with their subjects, or for easy hands-free selfies (with the help of the included wedge-shaped angle adjustment accessory). The mini 13’s main features also include a Close-Up Mode, Selfie Mirror, and Auto Exposure capabilities, as well as the Parallax Correction feature, in which the camera’s viewfinder aligns with the lens when using Close-Up Mode, minimizing object shifts to produce a centered photo. The mini 13 also features Automatic Flash Control, which optimizes image quality in bright or low light situations. The lens structure is designed to provide intuitive steps both for powering the camera on/off and for accessing the popular Close-Up Mode with a simple twist of the lens.
“Our instax™ mini line of mini instant cameras, smartphone printers, and film represents not only an incredible value for our users, but in many cases, it’s a user’s first foray into analog photography,” said Shin Udono, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, FUJIFILM Europe. “The mini 13 is a perfect fit because experimenting with instant photography – trying out new lighting, poses, or scenes (especially by using the new self-timer feature), are all fantastic ways to express oneself artistically and be a part of your art. We’re looking forward to seeing what our community creates with the mini 13!”
instax UP!™ Smartphone App Update Announced
Along with the introduction of mini 13, the free, downloadable instax™ UP! smartphone app is debuting new and enhanced features. This app is designed for instax™ users to digitally scan, import, organize, and store their photos in one place, regardless of which instax™ instant film, camera or printer product they use. The updated version brings increased image scanning precision by integrating the use of AI. The overall learning capability of the app has been greatly enhanced so that it can recognize images versus backgrounds or other extraneous content, resulting in cleaner, more precise scans.
New Film Variety Introduced
Pastel Galaxy, the new instax™ mini instant film, will be introduced along with mini 13, featuring a fun cosmic theme complete with sparkly, glossy embellishments, and soothing colors to add a cool vibe to a user’s instax™ photos.
Colors, Pricing, and Availability
Fujifilm’s instax mini 13™ instant camera will be available in Dreamy Purple, Frost Blue, Candy Pink, Lagoon Green, and Clay White. It will be available to purchase at Fujifilm retailers nationwide from 25th June 2026 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of €90.00 (inc. VAT). The instax™ mini Pastel Galaxy film will also be available to purchase from 25th June 2026 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of €11.50 (inc. VAT).
For more information on instax, please visit www.instax.ie
Edifier ES20 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Review
The Edifier ES20 is a compact portable Bluetooth speaker that can deliver 6W (RMS) of dynamic sound with punchy bass, thanks to the features a Φ43mm full-range driver with neodymium magnets and a Φ55mm passive bass radiator, powered by a high-efficiency Class-D amplifier. With an IP67 dust and water resistance rating, it’s built for both indoor and outdoor use. Enjoy up to 15 hours of continuous playback, Bluetooth 5.4 with stereo pairing and multi-point connection, and clear calls via the built-in high-sensitivity microphone. Ambient lighting effects and Edifier ConneX app support add a personalized, connected experience.
Having tested the bigger model which is the ES60 some weeks ago I had high expectations and as always Edifier do not dissapoint considering the size of this speaker, not only does it have good looks it has great sound and also sports lighitng effects to suit any mood.
Also on board is the Edifier ConneX app which allows you to customise things even more making it a more vibrant speaker and allows you to cahnge the EQ the light effects and volume and is a simple UI and App to use on this speaker making it easy to get the desired effects.
The sound is excellent for its size as you will see in the video review down below and we also go through the app so you are aware of what is going on it is simple.
Overall this speaker looks great and sounds great ansd ideal for any home or office or your bedside locker giving you a punchy sound and will easily fill a room with good tunes.
Edifier ConneX App
- DYNAMIC 6W RMS SOUND: 43 mm full-range driver and 55 mm passive bass radiator powered by a Class-D amp deliver punchy bass and clear highs for rich audio
- SEAMLESS BLUETOOTH V5.4: Multi-point pairing lets you connect two devices simultaneously or sync two ES20 speakers for immersive stereo sound
- LONG-LASTING PLAYTIME: High-capacity battery delivers up to 15 hours of continuous playback and USB-C fast charging restores full power in no time
- DURABLE COMPACT DESIGN: Fully dustproof and waterproof for reliable outdoor performance, with included strap for secure, on-the-go listening
- MOOD-SETTING AMBIENT LIGHTING: Five built-in effects enhance any setting from cozy indoor gatherings to backyard outdoor parties, adjustable via top controls or the app
- INTUITIVE CONTROLS & APP CUSTOMIZATION: Use top buttons or EDIFIER ConneX app for playback control, volume, lighting and sound mode customisation
Mangoal Front and Rear DashCam (OEM MG-006C-1BA) Review
The Mangoal OEM MG-006C-1BA is a dual dashcam kit featuring front 4K and rear Full HD cameras, powered via your vehicle’s OBD port rather than the traditional cigarette-lighter cable. The unit comes with a 128GB microSD card, adhesive mounting, and uses the SkyCamm mobile app (iOS/Android) for setup, live view, and playback.
Mangoal, founded in 2013, specialises in OEM dash cams and wireless chargers compatible with over 15+ global car brands and 1,000+ models. Their devices hold CE, RoHS, and FCC certifications.
Installation & App (SkyCamm)
The installation process was more straightforward than expected. Using the OBD connector eliminates the need to hardwire into the fuse box or battery. Cables tucked away cleanly, creating a professional, near-invisible finish — a big plus over suction-cup models.
⚠️ Tip: Always check your vehicle model before purchasing the OBD cable — some cars (e.g., Mazda 6) may require specific connectors.
The SkyCamm app connects via Wi-Fi (not your home network). It’s user-friendly, offering live viewing, video downloads, and configuration for recording resolution, loop duration, and voice alerts. Tutorials show car-specific installation steps, making the setup accessible even for first-time installers.
Camera Quality & Footage Analysis
Testing covered day and night recording on an Android phone (downloaded footage), and viewed on a Windows laptop, and a 55-inch 4K television.
The front camera produced sharp, true-4K imagery (3840 × 2160 px)
| Camera | Resolution (H × V) | Megapixels | Common Name | Notes | Average File Size (1 min) | 128 GB Storage |
| Front 4K UHD | 3840 × 2160 | 8.3 | Ultra HD (4K) | Manufacturer spec confirmed | 130 MB (TechBuzz Ireland test result) | ≈ 16.8 hours |
| Front + Rear | – | – | Dual recording | Combined total | 188 MB (TechBuzz Ireland test result) | ≈ 11.6 hours |
Visual results:
- Daytime: Excellent sharpness and licence-plate legibility even at distance.
- Night: Clear and well-balanced exposure, maintaining visibility in low light.
- Playback: Crisp and stable across devices, minimal compression artefacts.
- Storage: Efficient loop recording; G-sensor reliably locks collision footage.
Overall, the footage quality outperforms many mid-range dash cams, particularly for the 4K front lens.
Strengths
- True 4K front camera delivers crisp, high-detail footage.
- Clean, wire-free installation using OBD power.
- Free SkyCamm app is intuitive and feature-rich.
- 128 GB card included (a welcome bonus).
- Dual-channel continuous recording with event lock.
Limitations
- Rear camera records at Full HD, not the advertised 2K.
- 1-year warranty feels short for the price bracket.
- Adhesive mount makes repositioning difficult once fixed.
Verdict
The Mangoal MG-006C-1BA dash cam kit stands out for its 4K front recording, discreet OBD installation, and simple app control. While the rear camera isn’t true 2K and the warranty is modest, the overall package offers excellent visual quality and seamless installation.
Based on TechBuzz Ireland’s real-world testing, a 128GB card provides around 11 hours of dual-camera footage before automatically overwriting older files — typical behaviour for continuous loop recording. This is ideal for drivers seeking a permanent, tidy setup with reliable 4K recording.
Understanding Megaways Slots: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
Want to learn how one of online slots’ hottest mechanics works? Read our complete Megaways slots explained guide. Megaways slots are completely different to your typical spin-the-reels-and-match-the-scatters style of online slot game. They’re constructed differently, they play differently, and they pay out differently.
The Problem…
Players start playing Megaways slots without understanding how the mechanic works. That’s a big problem because knowing how Megaways slots work before you play gives you the upper hand.
We cover everything you need to know below.
Megaways Slots Explained: Table of Contents
- What Are Megaways Slots?
- How Does the Megaways Mechanic Work?
- Key Features Beginner’s Should Know
- Best Megaways Slots
- Tips For Playing Megaways Slots
What Are Megaways Slots?
If you’re new to online slots then knowing what are Megaways slots is where we start. Megaways slots refer to a group of online slot games that use a unique reel modifier engine developed by Aussie studio Big Time Gaming (BTG).
Instead of traditional paylines Megaways slots have multiple symbols per reel that change with each spin.
Effectively, they have a fluctuating number of ways to win that increase with each pull of the lever.
Why? More on that below.
The Megaways slot engine first appeared in 2016 when Big Time Gaming released Bonanza, a gold rush-themed Megaways slot that caught the eyes (and reels) of players around the world. Since then more than 30 game studios have created over 200 unique Megaways titles.
Who knew Aussie dev’s would blaze such a trail for slots?
How Does the Megaways Mechanic Work?
Okay. Let’s break down the Megaways slot engine…
Standard Megaways slots have 6 reels. When you spin the reels, each reel will randomly show between 2 and 7 symbols at once. To work out the total ways to win you multiply the total number of symbols across all 6 reels together.
Formula Example: Ways to win = Reel 1 X reel 2 X reel 3 X reel 4 X reel 5 X reel 6
So if every reel shows 7 symbols down, you have 7,176 possible ways to win on that spin (7X7X7X7X7X7).
At full capacity most Megaways slots offer up to 117,649 ways to win per spin. Some games like Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Megaways pushes that ceiling even higher at 1,000,000 possible ways to win.
Now compare that to your average online slot with 20 fixed paylines.
Here’s the thing…
More ways to win increases the amount of potential win combinations per spin.
Having more ways to win doesn’t guarantee you a win. Most Megaways slots are high-volatility games. Winning combinations will often land in big clusters — and go missing for longer stretches. That’s normal. Know the signs before playing.
Key Features Beginner’s Should Know
Megaways slots have a variety of features you won’t find on regular slot games. Knowing what’s what is essential.
Cascading Reels
A winning combination will cause the winning symbols to disappear from the reels. New symbols will fall into place to take their place. If new symbols complete another winning combination — they too will vanish.
Creating multiple consecutive wins from one spin.
This feature is known as cascading reels, and it’s what makes Megaways slots so much fun.
Win Multipliers
Most Megaways slots feature a win multiplier that increases during the free spins round. The multiplier starts at 1x and grows with each consecutive win. By the end of a massive cascade players have seen their multiplier reach astronomical figures.
Big wins are had during this stage.
Free Spins Bonus Round
Like most online slots, Megaways feature a bonus round where players can win free spins. When triggered by scatter symbols, the free spins round is where the win multiplier feature comes into play.
Slot hunters should do everything they can to trigger this bonus feature. It’s the difference between a good and bad Megaways experience.
The Extra Horizontal Reel
Have you noticed how a lot of Megaways slots have an extra horizontal reel resting above the main 6 reels? Well, that reel multiplies the total ways to win even higher, getting you closer to the maximum amount on each spin.
Best Megaways Slots
With hundreds of Megaways slots to choose from online today, beginners should start with these top three:
- Bonanza Megaways — The original Megaways slot game from Big Time Gaming. Featuring up to 117,649 ways to win, a 96% RTP and a max win of 26,x your stake. A true Megaways classic!
- Gonzo’s Quest Megaways — Originally developed by NetEnt, this long-running Megaways slot features multipliers that climb to 15x during free spins.
- The Dog House Megaways — If you haven’t heard of The Dog House yet then where have you been? Developed by Pragmatic Play, the slot features a 96.55% RTP and max win of 12,305x your stake. Consistently one of the top performing Megaways slots online.
Pick one of these three Megaways slots to learn the basics. Get familiar with how cascading reels work and how the free spins bonus round affects your total winnings. From there you can start exploring bigger and better Megaways games.
Tips For Playing Megaways Slots
Ready to start playing Megaways slots online? First, read these tips:
Know the volatility. Megaways slots don’t pay out small wins as often as you’d think. There will be longer periods without wins that test your patience. Adapt your session budgets accordingly. Don’t get panicked during a cold streak.
Look at the RTP%. Return to player percentages can vary from Megaways slot to Megaways slot. Always look for games with an RTP of 96% or greater. Bonanza has 96% RTP, The Dog House Megaways has 96.55%. Learn the others before diving into a new Megaways game.
Play demo mode. Don’t jump into a new Megaways game without testing out the demo version first. Learn how the cascading reels interacts with the free spins multiplier. Get a feel for the game in question without risking real money.
Budget your session. Unlike low or medium volatile slots, Megaways games can run through a bankroll quickly during a cold-loss streak. Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it.
The Bottom Line
Megaways slots are an exciting addition to the online slots industry. Learning how Megaways slots work is the first step to getting the most out of your sessions.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Megaways slots use special mechanics that change the number of ways to win on every spin.
- While most Megaways slots have a maximum of 117,649 ways to win. Some offer over 1 Million ways!
- Megaways slots have unique features like cascading reels and win multipliers.
- Megaways slots are generally high-volatility. Don’t get discouraged if wins come less frequently.
- If you’re new to Megaways start playing Bonanza Megaways, Gonzo’s Quest Megaways or The Dog House Megaways — three of the most popular Megaways slots available online today.
