Leading real hands on tech review site in Ireland with technology, business news and more. Jim O Brien Tech.
Author: Jim O Brien/CEO
CEO and expert in transport and Mobile tech. A fan 20 years, mobile consultant, Nokia Mobile expert, Former Nokia/Microsoft VIP,Multiple forum tech supporter with worldwide top ranking,Working in the background on mobile technology, Weekly radio show, Featured on the RTE consumer show, Cavan TV and on TRT WORLD. Award winning Technology reviewer and blogger. Security and logisitcs Professional.
Netflix is Looking for the Best Translators Around the Globe
Netflix are pleased to introduceHERMES, the first online subtitling and translation test and indexing system by a major content creator.
Since Netflix launched globally, the scale of our localization efforts has increased dramatically. It’s hard to believe that just 5 years ago, we only supported English, Spanish and Portuguese. Now we’ve surpassed 20 languages – including languages like Korean, Chinese, Arabic and Polish – and that number continues to grow.
Our desire to delight members in “their” language, while staying true to creative intent and being mindful of cultural nuances is important to ensure quality. It’s also fueling a need to rapidly add great talent who can help provide top-notch translations for our global members across all of these languages.
Since netflix have unveiled their new HERMES tool two weeks ago, thousands of candidates around the world have already completed the test, covering all represented languages. This is incredible to us because of the impact it will ultimately have on our members as we focus on continually improving the quality of the subtitles on the service.
We’re quickly approaching an inflection point where English won’t be the primary viewing experience on Netflix, and HERMES allows us to better vet the individuals doing this very important work so members can enjoy their favorite TV shows and movies in their language.
What would you do if the hard drive inside your computer crashed and you lost all of your precious data? Your spreadsheets, documents, photos, personal information, emails, videos and more? What would you do if you lost your unencrypted USB flash drive or hard drive, would your whole world come tumbling down knowing that someone out there holds all that precious information – and how much would you be prepared to risk if it was your company and it was your customer’s details? Would you be able to pay a fine to the ICO of up to £500,000?
“Encryption isn’t just for the tech-savvy. Personal data such as financial documents, passwords and family photographs and videos are precious and as consumers, we should all be as aware as businesses when it comes to keeping data safe. Mark World BackUp Day by backing up and protecting your precious and confidential data as disasters such as hard drive crashes as well as loss and theft of USB drives does happen and can lead to serious consequences..” Says John Michael, CEO, iStorage Limited
These are nightmare scenarios that we all do not want to face and with 2016 labelled as ‘the year of the data hack’ from TopTechNews, The Guardian, IT Security News and more, iStorage Limited, manufacturers of PIN authenticated hardware encrypted portable data storage drives, shares tips on how to avoid such disasters, just in time for World BackUp Day on 31st March!
Tip 1: Back Up Your Data: In a modern world where users rely heavily on their personal items being stored on mobile phones, laptops and computers, there’s never been more importance placed on backing up! World BackUp Day reminds users to keep additional copies of the information that you don’t want to lose whether it’s your own personal information or company data that you are working with. Backing up your data gives you peace of mind that you won’t have lost the only copy of your data.
Tip 2: Use a Secure Drive:
We’ve all heard the stories of people commuting and working on their laptops, and losing the USB drive that they were working on. Risking the loss of personal or company information, enduring panic and endless nights worrying where that information could end up, can all be prevented by taking precautions by using a secure drive like the iStoragedatAshur® PRO USB 3.0 flash drive. This PIN authenticated hardware encrypted flash drive is only accessible by a 7-15 digit alphanumeric PIN meaning that if the flash drive happened to be lost or stolen, data or information would not be accessible unless the correct PIN was entered.
Tip 3: Avoid common passwords:
A recent Reader’s Digest article identified the most common passwords of 2016 being ‘123456’, ‘qwerty’, ‘111111’ and ‘password’. Prevent yourself from being an ‘easy target’ for fraudsters by helping yourself and creating personal and memorable passwords. Another word of advice is to create a series of passwords so that you do not have a ‘one password fits all’ scenario – make it harder or near impossible for someone to hack you and don’t give easy access to other accounts by using the same password across several sites!
Tip 4: Seek additional security features:
What do you look for when seeking a secure flash drive? Do your research and look at what additional security features are available. At a time when data security is extremely high on the agenda for all businesses due to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) becoming law throughout all EU countries in May 2018, users can rest assured that all data stored on iStorage portable data storage drives are encrypted to military grade standards. Meaning if the device is lost or stolen, and an unauthorised user attempts to use it, the storage device remains in lockdown, with a Brute Force Self Destruct Feature being deployed after 10 unsuccessful consecutive attempts of entering the PIN.
Tip 5: Make life easier with cross platform compatibility
Unlike software based encrypted hard drives, where the password is entered via a keyboard, iStorage products are completely platform independent, working across all operating systems including Windows, MAC OS, Linux, Thin Clients, Embedded Systems and medical equipment without the need for any drivers or software, making them adaptable for all industries.
So if there’s one thing to take away from ‘2016’s Year of the Data Hack’ stories, it’s to backup and protect your data to a trusted, secure and easy to use portable data storage device and iStorage offers the perfect solutions.
To celebrate World BackUp Day, and to encourage users to protect their data and back up regularly, iStorage is offering their diskAshur DT – an OS and Platform independent USB 3.0 Desktop Hard Drive featuring XTS-AES 256-bit Hardware Encryption (no software required) + free nero BackItUp software (worth £39.99).
iStorage diskAshur DT is available from 1TB – 8TB with prices starting at £179.99 for 1TB – £479.99 for an 8TB. To take advantage of the offer or find out more information, please see: www.istorageuk.com/product/diskashur-dt
For more information on the award-winning iStorage range or to find out how to protect yours or your organisation’s confidential data in preparation for World BackUp Day or GDPR, please visit www.istorage-uk.com
Following the Samsung S8 and S8+ announcement, tech21 has unveiled its brand new ‘Designed for Samsung’ range including the patented dual-layer application screen shield for the edge screen, and the most transparent clear case on the market.
Tech21, the number one phone protection brand in the UK for mobile devices, today launched its new and innovative ‘Designed for Samsung’ range for the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+. The range includes a unique and patented screen shield for the S8’s edge screen and the most transparent clear case on the market.
Leading the way in innovation, design and protection, tech21 has developed Pure Clear, a near invisible case that does not compromise phone performance. Pure Clear is significantly more transparent and has better clarity than any other clear case available today. Created using tech21’s unique R&D facilities at the National Physical Laboratory*, the revolutionary new design offers 3.7 times more effective protection than the current market leading clear case* yet is 50% thinner and 50% lighter.
Tech21 continues to transform the impact protection landscape with the Impact Shield Anti-Scratch screen protector – the brand’s first protective shield for edge screen devices. The product features a patented two stage application allowing for simple, bubble free application and strong, lasting adhesion. It is designed to work perfectly with the curves of the S8’s screen, holding the shield securely in place, while the addition of BulletShield™ technology, also used in bullet proof glass, absorbs impact force and protects the screen from drops.
2 in 1 Evo Wallet – More protection. More convenience
An innovative design that gives you 2 cases in 1. With two card slots concealed in the Evo Wallet’s detachable cover, your cards are kept secure and easily accessible. And when you don’t need the extra storage, unclip the front cover and convert it into a slim, lightweight case.
Evo Wallet also features FlexShock™ (an ultra-efficient impact absorbing material) and an all-new 3-layer impact absorption system which offers 3m/10ft drop protection whilst being significantly thinner than previous versions. Availability: O2, EE and tech21.com. RRP: £39.95
Evo Tactical – Durable protection. Refined
Designed to endure the busy day ahead while complementing your smartphone’s premium, refined design. Featuring FlexShock™ and an all-new 3-layer impact absorption system Evo Tactical now offers 3m/10ft drop protection. Availability: O2 and tech21.com. RRP: £29.95
Evo Check – More protection. More personality
Ultra-thin, lightweight and with 3m/10ft drop protection thanks to FlexShock™. The best-selling case returns with its unique check pattern in a range of refreshed colours, including Smokey/Black, Clear/White, Light Blue and Rose Tint. Availability: O2,Three and tech21.com. RRP: £29.95
Pure Clear – Protect. Reveal.
The most transparent clear case on the market with 2m/6.6ft drop protection thanks to BulletShield™, an impact material also used in bulletproof glass. BulletShield™ absorbs impact force and stops that force from passing through to your phone. Pure Clear is so thin and lightweight you’ll soon forget it’s there – the perfect fit for those who don’t usually opt for a phone case. Availability: O2, EE, Three andtech21.com. RRP: £29.95
Impact Shield Anti Scratch – Unbeatable protection for edge screens
Tech21’s first edge screen shield, with a patented application process that will banish the poor experiences many have had with the current edge screen protectors on the market. The unique design allows for hassle free application combined with strong, lasting, edge to edge coverage of the Galaxy S8 edge screen. Impact Shield Anti Scratch brings the outstanding impact protection of BulletShield™ to edge screen devices for the first time. Availability: O2,Three and tech21.com. RRP £29.95
“Innovation and providing the best impact protection for smartphone devices is always at the forefront of tech21’s design process. Along with the launch of three of our bestselling cases for the Samsung S8, we are proud to come to market with two world-firsts. Exhibiting our dedication to the science behind protection, we’re proud to offer products that really work whilst being so light and thin that users won’t even notice they’re there” said Jason Roberts, Founder of tech21.
The app is FREE on Android and iOS and you can opt to buy a Greenpeace VR headset, A small donation is required.
This is one for the travelling fans which will enable you to see things up close and travel to some great places like the Amazon, Artic.. It is quite a nice app and great idea having tried it out for a few minutes and there is lots to learn..
“We all know that much of our planet’s remaining wilderness is under threat. But these places we never visit, and rarely even see, often take a backseat to problems we view as more important. By using virtual reality we hope to bring political decision-makers, corporate leaders and members of the public much closer to the amazing places we’re campaigning to protect. It’s important everyone understands how vital it is that we succeed,” said John Sauven, Greenpeace UK Executive Director in a statement.
Description
With our app you can wonder at the towering trees above your heads as you journey through the Amazon. Or see what it’s like to survive at -30°c, exploring the Arctic from the Greenpeace ship the Arctic Sunrise – it’s all about keeping warm, and not petting the polar bears…
Your phone must have an operating system of OS 4. for Android. To check your phone is compatible with VR and plays correctly please download the Google Cardboard player first.
The new duo just announced goes on sale next month but there is some price differences.. .
The much awaited news from Samsung and the S8 and S8+ has dropped today but by looking at the prices from the UK sim- free buyers will have to fork out iPhone prices to get their hands on the latest flagships from the Korean giant and with a bad year behind them they hope to rectify things this time around with the new powerhouses…. Check out the main players prices that are now available..
“The Samsung Galaxy S8 ushers in a new era of smartphone design and fantastic new services, opening up new ways to experience the world,” said DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “The Galaxy S8 is our testament to regaining your trust by redefining what’s possible in safety and marks a new milestone in Samsung’s smartphone legacy.”
Premium Camera: The Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ are equipped with an advanced 8MP F1.7 Smart autofocus front camera and 12MP F1.7 Dual Pixel rear camera for the best low-light, zoom and anti-blur photos with enhanced image processing1.
Powerful Performance: Packing powerful performance and connectivity, the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ feature the industry’s first 10 nm chip, enabling heightened speed and efficiency.
RobustEntertainment: As the world’s first mobile device certified by the UHD Alliance as MOBILE HDR PREMIUMTM, Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ let you see much richer colors and more immersive experiences while watching your favorite shows. In addition, the devices offer next-level gaming experiences with vivid and superior graphic technology, as well as Game Pack, featuring top game titles, including select titles supported by the Vulkan API.
Mobile Security: Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ are built on Samsung Knox, a defense-grade security platform2. In addition, the devices will offer a selection of biometric authentication, including a fingerprint scanner and iris scanner so users can select the method that works best for them.
Pre-orders are now live and there is some differences here on offer from the Irish Networks…
First up is Three Ireland you can see more over HERE
The S8 is €799 on pre-pay and S8+ is €899 on pre-pay
Own either laptop,PC or iPad you could be forced to pay the annual fee of €160. Where did they get that 11 inches from?
Yes I said “FORCED” which to begin with should not be an option regardless. Already this week we heard Dee Forbes speaking on radio telling us that we just pay 40c a day and its great value well the sentiment was read completely different on social media after comments made by the new chief in Montrose, Yet this again is another move to generate more revenue as reported by the Independent this morning… RTE are strapped for cash
There is already much speak about paying the annual licence fee as it is and if it is actually value for money and also mentioned on the Sean O Rourke show was the broadcasting charge which Dee Forbes said herself was MOOTED…Having said that she did say she did request a hike which would see us pay double the price but that was quickly toned later on that morning..
The Broadcasting Act 2009 does have a wide take on what is actually a TV set but portable sets such as tablets does not fall under this act and here is where the change is about to happen,but have they clearly thought this out? As is the is plenty of licence fee evaders but how will they actually police this given the current status is anything over 11 inches will be forced to foot the bill…
Most people today would have tablets from 7 -10 inch for arguments sake and these are capable of streaming and not only that we all own mobile phones ranging from 4 inch to 6 inches in size today but there is bigger out there pushing tablet size or phablets as they are better known… We now access more content than before via our portable devices which I myself do and carry on my person all the time, Is the inspector going to frisk me in the coming months? I think not… but items billed for the fee can be easily concealed and again proving who owns it… As it stands anything over 11 inches will have to foot the bill but down the road you can see where this is going…
Oculus is said the the best in VR which it arguably is but it does not come cheap and its been a hard find for some time and expensive.
Now before you go any further you will need super hardware to run Oculus and you would be looking at a laptop costing at least €1500. For those though who have the hardwear and wanted to purchase this you can now do so on Amazon in several countries so a bit of shopping and pricing would be required to bag the best deal,they also have the peripherals you would require and they do not come cheap either..
Whats in the box…
Custom Display and Optics: Rift uses custom display and optics technology designed specifically for VR, featuring two AMOLED displays with low-persistence. The technology enables incredible visual clarity as you explore virtual worlds.
Tracking System: The headset is tracked by our IR emitter constellation tracking system for precise, low latency 360-degree orientation and position tracking. The tracking system is designed to track you whether you’re sitting down or standing up.
Integrated VR Audio: Rift features an integrated VR audio system designed to convince you that you’re truly there. The integrated headphones are removable in case you want to use your own. There is also a high-quality internal microphone for social experiences.
Ergonomics and Design: The advanced ergonomic design improves the headset’s overall balance and stability. The strap architecture offloads the overall weight, allowing the headset to rest comfortably.
Includes Oculus Rift headset with built-in headphones and mic, sensor, remote, Xbox One Wireless Controller, Lucky’s Tale cables.
It is intended for Blackberry devices only but there is a way to fix that for most Android devices…
One thing that bugs the hell out of me is people snooping at what I look at on my phone,be it in a queue a friends house or whatever the situation maybe it just annoys me and I am sure it would have happened to most people. Blackberry has a new app which is really intended for Blackberry devices but there is a way to use it on other devices and its free and also handy to stop prying eyes..If you are the owner of a large device this would be particularity helpful..
Privacy Shade prevents people around you from seeing your screen by blocking out everything except for a small view area that you control, while still letting you interact with the full screen. • Turn on Privacy Shade to control the visibility of sensitive content. • View and send sensitive content while in the open without letting others around you see your private information. • Use Privacy Shade to only expose the exact area you’re reading or typing in. • Adjust the transparency of the shade to suit your environment.
If you are using a non Blackberry device you can download Blackberry Manager APK which is safe and then download the Privacy Shade App via the manager app its a simple process and works a treat on several devices I have tried aside my Blackberry devices.
Breaking down for anyone is a nightmare to say the least and it will happen to us all at some stage in our lives if it has not happened yet but are you prepared?
Engie is a new product that is set to make our life that bit easier should we run into a problem on the road.. This product has just launched in the UK and we have a unit in for review so we will tell you a bit about the idea first before we spend some time testing the unit out..
The app comes on both Android and iOS platforms which is a good start so it basically available for anyone with a smartphone which is how this diagnostic tool will work with its diagnostic tool…
Once a specific malfunction is detected, Engie will alert the best local repair shops who will assess the problem and submit independent quotes for the consumer to review in real time, saving drivers money and empowering them with knowledge and confidence when negotiating costs with a mechanic.
Engie connects to your car and offers an extensive auto repair and maintenance solution, from malfunction diagnosis to real-time quotes from nearby mechanics.
Engie connects to the car via Bluetooth device, which you can buy through the app and that plugs under the dashboard. The device is small and simple to connect.
After the connection is established with your car, our system provides reliable information about the car’s health.
How does Engie help drivers?
Engie diagnoses your car’s malfunctions and provides immediate solutions::
# Automatic alerts about car status directly to the smartphone
# A simple explanation of the malfunctions
Engie offers quotes from nearby mechanics
# Compare prices and reviews between the auto repair shops
# Find the best mechanic for your car’s malfunction
# Gain confidence and knowledge when you visit the auto repair shop
Engie helps you keep track of daily parameters and car maintenance
# Monitoring important parameters such as battery life, oil and gas level
# Monitoring upcoming services and how much they should cost with bids from auto repair shops
This is a simple process for anyone and there is no need to have any mechanical skills to use the diagnostics tool, The device connects easily under the dashboard and the process should take no more than 30 seconds. You can find a picture of the dedicated car connection here.
