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.

Managed SEO Services In 2025: What You Get And How It Works

Search engine optimization (SEO) has become an essential part of online success. As businesses strive to improve their online visibility and rank higher on search engine results pages (SERPs), managed SEO services have emerged as a powerful solution. In 2025, these services will have become more sophisticated, incorporating advanced AI-driven analytics, user experience optimization, and hyper-local strategies.

If you are considering hiring a professional SEO company, this article will provide you with an in-depth understanding of managed SEO services, what they include, and how they work to enhance your online presence.

What Are Managed SEO Services?

Managed SEO services refer to comprehensive SEO solutions provided by agencies or experts to businesses that want a hands-free approach to SEO. Instead of handling SEO in-house, businesses outsource their SEO needs to professionals who implement strategic, data-driven approaches to improve website rankings, traffic, and conversions.

These services cover various aspects of SEO, including on-page optimization, link building, technical SEO, content creation, and local SEO services. By leveraging managed SEO, businesses can focus on their core operations while ensuring their digital marketing efforts remain effective and up-to-date.

What You Get With Managed SEO Services

When you invest in managed SEO services, you gain access to a suite of benefits that enhance your website’s search performance. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Comprehensive Website Audit & SEO Strategy

A professional SEO company starts by conducting a thorough website audit to assess your site’s performance, identifying technical issues, content gaps, and keyword opportunities. Based on the audit findings, an SEO strategy is formulated to improve rankings and user engagement.

2. Keyword Research & Competitor Analysis

To rank effectively on search engines, businesses need to target the right keywords. SEO experts conduct in-depth keyword research and analyze competitors to identify the best keywords for driving relevant traffic. Website SEO services ensure your content aligns with search intent and ranks well for industry-related terms.

3. On-Page SEO Optimization

On-page SEO involves optimizing various elements on your website to make it search engine-friendly. This includes:

  • Title tags, meta descriptions, and header tags
  • Internal linking structure
  • Image and multimedia optimization
  • Mobile-friendliness and page speed optimization
  • Schema markup for better indexing

4. Technical SEO Enhancements

Technical SEO plays a crucial role in website performance. Managed SEO providers address issues like:

  • Website crawling and indexing
  • Broken links and 404 errors
  • XML sitemaps and robots.txt configuration
  • HTTPS security and website speed improvements

5. High-Quality Content Creation

Content remains king in SEO. A managed SEO service includes content creation strategies, ensuring:

  • Blog posts, articles, and web pages are optimized for SEO optimization services.
  • Engaging, informative, and keyword-rich content is published regularly.
  • Content aligns with Google’s E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) principles.

6. Link Building & Off-Page SEO

Backlinks from authoritative sites improve domain authority and search rankings. Managed SEO services focus on:

  • Earning high-quality backlinks through guest posting and partnerships.
  • Building citations and mentions for local SEO services.
  • Removing toxic backlinks that harm SEO performance.

7. Local SEO Optimization

For businesses targeting local customers, local SEO services ensure they appear in Google’s local search results and map packs. This includes:

  • Optimizing Google My Business (GMB) profiles.
  • Managing local citations and directory listings.
  • Encouraging customer reviews and improving local engagement.

8. Analytics & Performance Monitoring

A key advantage of managed SEO services is continuous tracking and reporting. Businesses receive detailed reports that include:

  • Traffic insights and keyword rankings.
  • Conversion rates and engagement metrics.
  • SEO adjustments based on real-time data.

How Managed SEO Services Work

Understanding how managed SEO services operate can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Initial Consultation & Website Audit

The process begins with a consultation where SEO experts assess business goals, target audience, and existing website performance. A comprehensive SEO audit identifies areas of improvement.

Step 2: Strategy Development

After the audit, the SEO team creates a customized strategy outlining keyword targets, content plans, technical improvements, and link-building efforts.

Step 3: Implementation of SEO Tactics

Once the strategy is approved, the SEO team begins executing the plan, implementing on-page optimizations, technical fixes, and content enhancements.

Step 4: Link Building & Content Marketing

High-quality backlinks and authoritative content are developed to improve rankings and drive organic traffic.

Step 5: Monitoring & Adjustments

SEO is an ongoing process. Performance is continuously monitored, and strategies are adjusted to align with Google’s algorithm updates and industry trends.

Why Choose Managed SEO Services in 2025?

With search engines becoming more intelligent and competitive, businesses need a solid SEO strategy to succeed. Managed SEO services provide:

  • Expertise from seasoned professionals.
  • Access to advanced SEO tools and analytics.
  • Time-saving solutions for business owners.
  • Consistent improvements in rankings and traffic.

Conclusion

In 2025, managed SEO services will continue to be a vital component of digital marketing success. By leveraging SEO optimization services, businesses can achieve sustained growth, higher rankings, and improved online visibility. Whether you need local SEO services or comprehensive website SEO services, investing in a professional SEO company ensures that your business remains competitive in an ever-changing digital landscape.

If you are ready to take your SEO strategy to the next level, consider partnering with a managed SEO provider to optimize your website and grow your online presence effectively.

TCL 60R 5G: Next-Gen 5G Performance Without the Price Tag

TCL, a global leader in display innovation for smartphones, tablets, and connected devices, is proud to announce the European availability of the TCL 60R 5G, first unveiled at MWC 2025. Designed to make 5G access more inclusive, the TCL 60R 5G delivers smooth performance, immersive visuals, and long-lasting battery life in a feature-rich device that’s more accessible than ever.

With broader attainability, the TCL 60R 5G brings high-speed 5G connectivity to more people, empowering everyday communication, streaming, and productivity—without compromise.

5G Performance Meets Everyday Affordability

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset—a power-efficient 6nm processor that delivers advanced 5G capabilities—the TCL 60R 5G features an octa-core CPU clocked at up to 2.4GHz, offering strong, reliable performance. Users experience up to 20% faster app launches and 10% smoother scrolling, making daily interactions seamless and responsive—thanks to TCL’s exclusive NXTURBO software acceleration. This proprietary optimisation technology enhances GPU and RAM efficiency, enabling smoother graphics and faster load times for a more fluid user experience.

The 6.6-inch HD+ display offers a 120Hz refresh rate, bringing vibrant visuals and smooth transitions to everything from social feeds to videos and gaming. Slim at just 8.3mm, and lightweight for everyday portability, it’s a smartphone that feels premium without the premium cost.

All-Day Power, Entertainment and More

The TCL 60R 5G is equipped with a large 5200mAh battery that provides up to two days of usage on a single charge. TCL’s smart charging technology helps extend battery health over time, making this device a smart long-term investment. Dual stereo speakers enhance the multimedia experience, while expandable storage up to 2TB ensures users have ample space for apps, photos, and videos.

Capture every moment with the 50MP AI triple camera system, offering enhanced image clarity and intelligent scene recognition. From low-light photos to sharp portraits, the TCL 60R 5G delivers quality where it matters.

Designed for Everyday Life

The TCL 60R 5G is built to adapt to a range of lifestyles. For students, it’s a reliable tool for online learning and communication. Professionals benefit from its fast connectivity and multitasking capability, supported by up to 12GB RAM (via RAM expansion). Families and on-the-go users will appreciate the anti-fingerprint matte finish and IP54-rated resistance to dust and splashes.

With a commitment to inclusivity, performance, and practical design, the TCL 60R 5G helps users stay connected, creative, and in control—all at a highly competitive value.

The TCL 60R 5G (128GB) will be available at Vodafone. For a limited time, it will be on promotion for just £70 for 4 weeks, subject to availability. After the promotional period, the price will return to £99.

Ireland’s oldest surfing retailer, Lahinch Surf Shop wins bespoke AI-powered advertising campaign with Google

Google, in partnership with Enterprise Ireland (EI) and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEO), has today announced Lahinch Surf Shop as the overall winner of this year’s You’re the Business competition. Situated on the picturesque prom in Lahinch Co Clare, the family-founded business was selected for its innovative use of digital tools to grow and evolve its operations. As the top winner, Lahinch Surf Shop will receive a truly unique prize: a custom AI-powered advertising campaign developed by Google AI in collaboration with a team of AI experts.

In addition to the overall winner, 23 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from across Ireland, spanning a range of industries from print studios and food producers to bespoke cabinet makers have been awarded an exclusive, money-can’t-buy prize as part of the You’re the Business campaign. Those selected will receive a digital support package from Google which includes a one-year Google Workspace Business subscription with access to AI-powered tools like Gemini Advanced and NotebookLM and a one-to-one consultation from Google experts on how to get the best out of Google Workspace. Winners will also receive a You’re the Business trophy and digital assets and are invited to attend a dedicated Winners event in Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin.

Speaking about the competition Eileesh Buckley, co-owner of Lahinch Surf Shop in Clare said:

“It’s an incredible honour to be recognised as part of the You’re the Business campaign. At Lahinch Surf Shop, we’ve always believed in leveraging the power of digital tools to connect with our customers in meaningful ways. Being selected for this bespoke AI-powered advertising campaign is an exciting step forward, and we’re really looking forward to working with Google’s team to take our digital presence to the next level.”

Cera Ward, Managing Director, Large Customer Solutions, Google Ireland said:

“SMEs comprise 90% of all enterprises in Ireland. Businesses like Lahinch Surf Shop and all those we are celebrating today are an integral part of the economy generating employment and providing services across the country. Through You’re the Business we want to help founders leverage a range of digital tools, including AI, to help them reach their growth potential. We’ve been proud to partner with Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices in the delivery of the programme and I want to congratulate all the winners announced today.”

Delivered by Google in partnership with Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Office, You’re the Business is an online platform offering digital training and tools to businesses in Ireland free of charge. Now in its third year, the initiative has taken on a new AI-focus with the online platform offering new training modules where users can explore AI tools and learn how AI can help them prepare for the future.

The competition element rewards businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to digital at different stages of their journey. Entrants were asked to submit a written entry telling their story around how they’ve utilised or enhanced digital skills in order to help their business grow or succeed online.

Kieran Comerford, Chair of the Local Enterprise Offices, said;

“The role of digital in the evolution and growth of any SME has never been so keenly felt than over the past number of years.  Giving them access to Google’s in-depth expertise through the You’re the Business programme is a fantastic step to help these companies maximise their online presence.  This programme along with the suite of online supports through the Local Enterprise Offices and Enterprise Ireland to help businesses digitise, is helping give them a competitive advantage both here and internationally.  Congratulations to all the winners today and we look forward to continuing to support them as they grow over the coming years.”

For further information on the winners and the You’re The Business initiative, please visit: g.co/yourethebusiness

Winning SMEs:

Biometric Authentication in Online Casinos

Biometric authentication is transforming the industry by enhancing security and simplifying the player experience. Using unique traits like fingerprints or facial recognition, it verifies identities with ease. Discover how biometrics brings benefits, tackles challenges, and shapes the future of online casinos, alongside trends like no KYC casinos that prioritize minimal verification for faster access.

What Is Biometric Authentication?

Biometric authentication verifies a user’s identity through distinct physical or behavioral features. Unlike passwords or PINs, biometrics are nearly impossible to copy. Common methods include:

 

  • Fingerprint scanning: Involves analyzing the unique patterns of ridges on a person’s fingers.
  • Facial recognition: Using advanced algorithms to map facial features.
  • Voice recognition: Detecting unique vocal patterns.
  • Iris scanning: Analyzing detailed iris patterns.

 

In online casinos, biometrics make logging in and handling transactions easier, either replacing or improving traditional ways of verifying identity.

Why Biometrics in Online Casinos?

Biometric authentication is important because it offers security, works efficiently, and builds trust. These features explain why more people and businesses are starting to use it.

Enhanced Security

Casinos manage sensitive data, from payment details to personal information. Biometrics reduce unauthorized access risks, as biological traits are far harder to forge than passwords. A stolen password can be guessed, but replicating a fingerprint or iris is a difficult challenge.

Seamless User Experience

Players prioritize convenience. Biometrics eliminate the hassle of remembering passwords or completing lengthy verifications. A quick scan allows instant account access, boosting engagement and satisfaction.

Fraud Prevention

Identity fraud, such as account takeovers, plagues the gambling sector. Biometric systems ensure only the rightful user can log in or authorize transactions, significantly reducing fraud risks.

Privacy-Friendly Verification

Players increasingly prefer privacy-focused platforms that don’t demand much personal information. Casinos that offer no KYC are a clear example, allowing participation without detailed identity checks. These platforms can be further strengthened by integrating biometrics, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, which offer secure verification methods without requiring detailed personal documents.

Challenges of Biometric Adoption

Despite its potential, biometric authentication faces obstacles that casinos must address:

Privacy Risks

Biometric data is highly personal, and players may fear breaches or misuse. Casinos need strong encryption and clear data policies to gain user confidence.

Device Compatibility

Not all devices support biometric technology. Older hardware may lack the necessary sensors, potentially alienating some users. Environmental factors, like dim lighting, can also hinder performance.

Regulatory Hurdles

Casinos must closely follow strict regional laws, such as GDPR and CCPA. It’s crucial for biometric systems in these establishments to adhere to these legal frameworks. This compliance is necessary to avoid any possible fines or negative impacts on their reputation.

Implementation Costs

Integrating biometrics requires a large financial commitment due to the need for specialized equipment, sophisticated software, and comprehensive training for staff. These high costs can create significant hurdles for smaller businesses, especially those operating in highly competitive environments where managing high costs is particularly difficult.

The Future of Biometrics in Online Casinos

Biometric technology is progressing and expected to tackle current challenges, which could lead to more widespread use. Major trends consist of:

 

  • Multi-Factor Biometrics: Combining different methods like fingerprints and face scans can make security much stronger and more precise. It’s like using a double lock on your door, adding extra safety and assurance.
  • AI Enhancements: Artificial intelligence boosts how biometric systems work. These systems become faster and more accurate. Imagine having a reliable system that efficiently identifies unusual patterns and maintains optimal performance.
  • Behavioral Biometrics: New and exciting methods like keystroke and walking pattern analysis are emerging. These can keep checking your identity seamlessly as you play games, making sure you stay secure without interruption.
  • Privacy-Centric Solutions: As platforms increasingly focus on privacy, biometrics might soon become the standard method for secure and straightforward access. This approach allows users to safely access necessary resources with minimal effort. It respects privacy needs while providing strong protection for all systems involved.

Conclusion

Biometric authentication is reshaping the online casino landscape by introducing a highly secure and straightforward way to verify user identities, thereby significantly reducing fraud risks. While there are concerns, such as privacy issues and associated costs, the substantial advantages in building trust and enhancing process efficiency are notable. As the online casino sector advances, biometrics are anticipated to become a critical component, especially on platforms where privacy and efficiency are paramount. By integrating biometric technology, casinos can keep a competitive edge in an ever-evolving, technology-driven industry.

BandRain Alpine Loop Strap Pixel Watch 3 45mm Review

The BandRain Alpine Loop Strap Pixel Watch 3 45mm is a  nice addition to have in your strap collection and loop straps have been a favourite on my Apple Watches over the years however I do like other ones and this is purely a matter of choice and everyone has their own choice of straps.

Materials is another matter for breathability and this one for me has always been the best type of strap for comfort security with the g-hook clasp and looks, Now I have had some outlandish looking straps I could only wear for certain periods of time but these always win on the wrist for me check out the video below for more.

Features

 

  • Enhanced Metal Lugs: Our braided band for Pixel Watch features the latest design with plastic connectors and internal stainless steel lugs to ensure a precise and secure lock on the Google Watch interface and eliminating rattling during vibrations.
  • Built for Comfort: The sport wristband for Google Watch 2/1 is made from high-performance breathable two-layers nylon for a comfortable and lightweight feel and will make you forget you’re even wearing it.
  • One Size Fits Most: The corrosion-resistant metal G-hook slides easily into the loops for secure fit and easily adjust to your ideal size according to your wrist. Fits wrist sizes of 5.9″-9.0″ (150mm-230mm).

BUY 

Other Strap Reviews

Video Review

Meet the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today has revealed the full specifications of the Galaxy S25 Edge, a category-defining slim smartphone joining the Galaxy S series. Crafted with style and strength in mind, Galaxy S25 Edge strikes a new balance of premium, pro-level performance in a resilient titanium body only 5.8mm thick. S25 Edge delivers on the S series legacy, integrating an iconic Galaxy AI-enabled camera and unleashing a new realm of creativity in an effortlessly portable device.

“Galaxy S25 Edge redefines smartphone design, with no compromise on performance. It’s our slimmest S Series device yet, created with style and strength in mind. Featuring an iconic Galaxy AI-enabled camera, it opens up a world of creativity in a light, elegant form factor for customers wanting stylish design and the best features Galaxy has to offer,” said Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience VP of Product and Marketing, Samsung UK & Ireland.

Exceptionally Sleek and Strong Design

With a thin 5.8mm chassis, Galaxy S25 Edge is a remarkable feat of engineering that reimagines nearly every element of smartphone design for an even more compact and convenient experience. Its refined frame bridges form and function at just 163 grams, taking slim smartphones to the next level while staying true to the Galaxy S series’ unified design.

Alongside its streamlined silhouette comes exceptional resilience. The optimally curved edges and sturdy titanium frame offer enduring protection for everyday use. The latest Corning® Gorilla® Glass Ceramic 2, a new glass ceramic offering that delivers engineered resilience, is used for the front display to yield both vibrancy and strength on Galaxy S25 Edge.

Dynamic Creativity with a Pocketable 200MP Camera

The slim and light design of Galaxy S25 Edge makes it easier than ever for users to capture memorable moments and express their creativity anytime, anywhere. The 200MP wide lens upholds the Galaxy S series’ iconic camera experience while taking Nightography to a new level. Thanks to its ultra-high resolution, users get sharper photos while maintaining clearer shots with large pixel size —capturing images with over 44% improved brightness in low-light environments. The 12MP ultra-wide sensor features autofocus, which powers crisp, detailed macro photography for even more creative flexibility.

Galaxy S25 Edge benefits from the same ProVisual Engine that was optimised for Galaxy S25 with pro-grade enhancements, like ensuring sharp details for clothes or plants and natural, true-to-life skin tone in portraits. Galaxy AI-powered editing features, including fan-favorites like Audio Eraser and Drawing Assist are all brought over from the Galaxy S25 series, pairing advanced creative and editing tools with a never-before-seen slim form factor.

Peak Performance Expertly Configured in Ultra-Slim Housing

Galaxy S25 Edge is built to deliver premium performance, starting with the Snapdragon 8 ® Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy, the same processor available in all Galaxy S25 series devices globally. Customised by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., the chipset powers Galaxy S25 Edge’s on-device AI processing capabilities and offers reliably fast performance all day. Galaxy S25 Edge also keeps its cool under sustained use thanks to a reconfigured vapor chamber that is now thinner, yet broader for steady heat dissipation.

Matching the Galaxy S series’ renowned performance standards, Galaxy S25 Edge features advanced, efficient AI image processing with ProScaler which delivers a 43% improvement in display image scaling quality, while incorporating Samsung’s customised mobile Digital Natural Image engine (mDNIe).

A Trusted Companion with Galaxy AI

Integrating Galaxy AI at nearly every touchpoint, Galaxy S25 Edge offers our most natural and context-aware mobile AI experiences yet. Users get personalised, multimodal AI capabilities with peace of mind that their personal data is always safe.

Mirroring the broader Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy S25 Edge integrates AI agents that work seamlessly across multiple apps, helping as a true AI companion to get things done more easily. Galaxy AI also gets better at integrating with daily routines. Now Brief and Now Bar include third-party app integrations for greater convenience and helpful reminders during everyday commuting, dining and more.

Thanks to Galaxy’s deep integration with Google, Galaxy S25 Edge brings Gemini’s latest advancements to more users. For example, with Gemini Live’s new camera and screen sharing abilities, users can show Gemini Live what they see on their screen or in the world around them while simultaneously interacting with it in a live conversation.

Experiences powered by Galaxy AI on Galaxy S25 Edge aren’t just convenient—they’re designed with privacy at the core. On-device AI processing ensures data is kept secure by Samsung Knox Vault, continuing Samsung’s unwavering commitment to ensure hyper-personalised mobile experiences never sacrifice privacy.

Rooted in craftsmanship and driven by performance, Galaxy S25 Edge delivers pro-level photography, personalised AI experiences, and more. It goes beyond a slim form factor to challenge expectations for what a smartphone can be.

Availability

The Galaxy S25 Edge will be available for pre-order from today (13th May) and widely available in operators, retailers and on samsung.com/ie from 30th May.

Galaxy S25 Edge will be available in a captivating range of colours, including Titanium Silver, Titanium Jetblack and Titanium Icyblue.

Customers who pre-order Galaxy S25 Edge from selected retailers can double their storage for the same price.

Pricing

Galaxy S25 Edge RRP

  • 256 GB – €1269
  • 512GB – €1389

See our Samsung Reviews 

Essential tech features for sports betting

Technology is transforming every industry, including gambling. Today, we’ll explore the key trends that are changing the way people bet.

Security tech that protects your funds and identity

Placing bets should never compromise your privacy or financial security. Modern devices and sportsbooks often use biometric logins, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, to keep your account locked down. For an added layer of protection, many bettors choose a virtual private network (VPN) to mask their location. If you want to avoid regional restrictions or keep your activity private, a VPN can be a smart tool.

Blockchain and smart contracts can also ensure safer transactions. With platforms that rely on transparent record-keeping, you can see exactly when and how your deposits and withdrawals occur. In a crypto environment, the ledger is often public, and that can help build trust and cut down on shady practices. If you value provably fair betting, look for the best new betting sites that clearly list their security protocols, ensuring your activity stays away from prying eyes. Playing on these websites ensures fairness in every aspect of the game.

Performance-ready devices: Speed, battery, and multitasking

When you’re placing live bets in the middle of a fast-paced game, response time is crucial. If your device lags or your battery fades, you could miss key moments. A modern processor helps you move instantly between betting apps and live match streams. You’ll also want enough RAM to handle multiple tasks at once. This makes it easier to keep multiple screens open, like odds trackers and sports news, without crashing.

Long battery life is more than a convenience. Often, live-action bets don’t wait. If your device dies in the middle of a wager, you might lose your shot at favorable odds. Investing in a phone or tablet with solid battery performance can make the difference between locking in a winning bet and missing out entirely.

Fast and stable connections for real-time odds

Even the best device won’t help if your internet connection can’t keep up. Slow Wi-Fi or spotty mobile data can make odds appear too late, and that delay might cost you money. In many cases, in-play wagers are all about timing. You need to see the lines update in real time so you can react accordingly.

Strong Wi-Fi or a 5G cellular plan often provides the speed you need to stay in sync with sportsbooks. A stable connection is just as important as speed, you don’t want your link to drop mid-bet. If you’re serious about sports betting, prioritize reliable network access to ensure you never miss a beat on rapidly changing odds.

Betting platforms that enhance your edge

Not all sportsbooks are the same, and technology can make a world of difference. Modern platforms, especially those operating with fewer restrictions, like certain non-Gamstop sites, often provide advanced tools. They might feature in-depth analytics, unique markets, or better betting limits that let you pursue the strategies you prefer.

Crypto-based sportsbooks are also growing in popularity. Some use blockchain technology to streamline deposits and withdrawals, and they may let you bet with fewer geographical limitations. You might find that they offer more competitive odds or specialized markets. By comparing different platforms, you can pick a solution that complements your style of play. Technology in these betting environments usually focuses on user control, analytics, and fast transactions, which can give you a clear edge.

Real-time data and AI: Your new betting assistant

These days, data feeds arrive in moments, providing constant updates on team lineups, player stats, and in-game events. AI-driven software can analyze these streams instantly to spot trends or vulnerabilities in the odds. Rather than doing manual research for hours, you can rely on tools that scour the news, measure betting patterns, and sound alerts when they detect value bets.

Even casual bettors can benefit from real-time stats. You might see a team’s form dip within minutes of a key player limping off. If you have an AI or a stats tracker, you can react faster than a bettor who waits for the news to hit social media. When margins are tight, being first to update or cash out is a real advantage. These tools don’t guarantee success, but they enhance your ability to make timely, more informed decisions.

 

 

Aleph expands partnership with Spotify to manage Global Advertising Sales in over 80 markets including Ireland

Aleph, a global network of digital experts innovating at the intersection of media and payments, and Spotify, the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service, today announced an expanded partnership that makes Aleph Spotify’s advertising sales partner in 80+ markets including Ireland, providing access to 20.000+ advertisers.

Spotify Advertising has been modernizing its ad tech, strengthening its partnerships and deepening its human expertise to make it easier for advertisers to buy, create, measure, and get clear results on Spotify’s ad platform. Spotify’s efforts reflect a significant step forward in automated buying and creative innovation for the ad platform and the broader digital audio industry. Most notably, Spotify is continuing to innovate its self-serve platform, Spotify Ads Manager, with more advanced targeting capabilities, new 1P & 3P measurement solutions, and new outcome-based objectives to help advertisers of all sizes create, optimize, and measure their Spotify campaigns, including Spotify Pixel, Custom Audiences, key third-party partnerships and a new App Installs objective.

Aleph has been a trusted partner to Spotify since 2013, when the initial partnership started with four countries. The newly signed partnership brings Aleph’s comprehensive suite of services – including local media sales, payment solutions, creative support, and performance-driven automation – to effectively monetize Spotify’s advertising inventory and connect the brand with advertisers, streamlining and scaling Spotify’s ad solutions to 80+ markets including Ireland.

Aleph’s teams will have access to Spotify’s Ads Manager to guide advertisers and agencies to leverage the platform’s full potential of advertising formats and targeting capabilities to ensure they can reach listeners during key moments, such as workout sessions, focused work periods and commuting to provide advertisers and brands with unique opportunities to connect with their target audience when they’re highly engaged and help reach their marketing goals.

 Key benefits for advertisers working with Spotify Ads Manager through Aleph include: 

  • Access to Spotify’s ad formats: Advertisers will be able to utilise Spotify’s unique audio and video ad formats to craft engaging campaigns. Spotify recently introduced new ad formats available on Ads Manager, including Canvas and Opt-in Video. These new formats reimagine what ads on Spotify can be and how advertisers can engage with people through sight and sound.
  • Objective-based buying: The Ads Manager will allow advertisers to choose goals like reach, impressions, clicks, or video views for highly targeted campaigns. Spotify recently announced new outcome-based objectives to help advertisers of all sizes create, optimize, and measure their Spotify campaigns, including a new App Installs objective and a new Website Traffic Objective.
  • Lower costs: Flexible daily or lifetime budgets make Spotify advertising more accessible and cost-effective for partners thanks to Aleph’s campaign management.

“We are thrilled to partner with Spotify in 80+ markets,” said Enda Finan, Country Manager for Ireland at Aleph. “Our shared commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional value for advertisers makes this a natural partnership.”

“As we continue to grow our ads business, I’m excited to share that we’ve partnered with Aleph in order to streamline our operations, offer better solutions to advertisers and scale our business more efficiently. With the launch of our more automated solutions and Aleph’s exceptional global network and deep local expertise, we’re now able to offer advertisers around the world new tools and resources that will help them reach their campaign goals.” said Sam Bevan, Global Head of Emerging & Scaled at Spotify.

 

Mothers are leading the way in their children’s use of technology

A new report shows how the growing OurKidsCode network of creative coding workshops and clubs for families is enabling parents in communities across Ireland to be more proactive in their children’s use of technology, with mothers comprising 72% of the parents involved.

The OurKidsCode project, based in the School of Computer Science and Statistics in Trinity College Dublin, has built an infrastructure and partnership network with county councils across Ireland, including for leveraging Ireland’s rural grid of broadband connection point community centres, and Microsoft Dream Space, as well as with the National Parents Council.

This network of relationships is successfully enabling OurKidsCode to deliver facilitator-led workshops and a ‘Start a Club’ programme that supports the establishment of parent-led creative coding clubs for families with primary-level children.

The OurKidsCode programme builds parents’ confidence and skills in technology alongside their children at informal, hands-on creative coding workshops. These take place outside of school hours in libraries, primary schools and rural broadband connection point community centres.

Creative coding is the playful use of computer programming to make art, stories, or interactive projects, combining coding, crafting and making. OurKidsCode workshops are appealing to parents who are looking for ways to increase their children’s active creation rather than passive consumption of technology.

OurKidsCode has collaborated with Microsoft Dream Space since 2022 to support young people, families and educators in rural communities through inclusive STEM opportunities. Core to this collaboration are the opportunities given to rural clubs to come together to enter The Dream Space Showcase, a national STEM event that celebrates innovation and creativity found within rural clubs, schools and communities.

OurKidsCode has established fiscal and operational partnerships with county councils across Ireland and has worked closely with an increasing number of county council broadband officers since 2021. In 2024, OurKidsCode began to expand its work with county councils to include partnerships with county libraries.

Facilitated by county councils and through its broadband officers, OurKidsCode offers workshops and provides support to clubs at broadband connection points across the country, which are publicly accessible sites in rural and remote areas that have been provided with a high-speed broadband connection.

Funded by Research Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development, OurKidsCode has reached 5,240 parents and children in 111 predominantly rural locations across Ireland. The report shows females (mothers and girls) comprised 55 per cent of participants, with males (fathers and boys) making up 43 per cent, busting the gender stereotype that females are not as interested in computing as males.

OurKidsCode is committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths). By partnering with DEIS schools, local development agencies and NGOs, it strives to make workshops that are accessible to all families.

Speaking at the recent launch of OurKidsCode’s Impact Report, OurKidsCode project lead and assistant professor in the School of Computer Science and Statistics at TCD, Dr. Nina Bresnihan, said: “OurKidsCode is committed to increasing opportunities for parental involvement in children’s computing education and contributing to greater diversity, inclusivity and equal access, with a particular focus on rural communities where access to such initiatives is often limited. Getting parents involved in their children’s coding education can have powerful outcomes.

Research in our new report shows how this boosts knowledge and confidence. It also sustains families engaging together in computing activities and promotes computing as a subject choice and future careers in STEAM-related fields. Furthermore, it challenges stereotypes by promoting female participation in computing based on mothers’ interest in their children’s early education. We see mothers who take part in our workshops acting as powerful role models for their daughters, demonstrating that STEAM is a viable and rewarding path.”

Parent and club leader of the OurKidsCode club Rossmore Scratchers, Co Tipperary, Rona Toft, said: “There’s something really special about learning side-by-side with your kids and other local families in a safe, welcoming space. From starting with the OurKidsCode taster programme to running the now award-winning Rossmore Scratchers, in Rossmore, Tipperary, the friendships and fun we’ve found along the way have been the absolute highlight. I watched my kids take a project from a blank screen to something they built themselves ─ figuring out the bugs, problem-solving, and seeing it through. I’ve never been prouder; it’s amazing to see their confidence grow.”

The full OurKidsCode 2021-2024 Impact Report is available to download at www.ourkidscode.ie/impact.

Find out more at www.ourkidscode.ie.