Tech Upgrades to Improve Travel Efficiency

In today’s fast-paced world, technology is a traveler’s best companion. Whether it’s for a business trip or a leisurely vacation, the right tech tools can transform a cumbersome journey into a seamless adventure. From smarter storage solutions to advanced navigation tools, tech upgrades are making travel more efficient than ever. 

This article delves into key innovations that can optimize your travel experience.

Maximizing Digital Storage Space

Modern travel involves carrying multiple digital devices, each requiring ample storage for files, photos, and videos. For many, laptops with SSDs (Solid State Drives) by Lexar are an essential part of their travel kit, offering faster speeds and better reliability than traditional hard drives. 

Storage needs vary depending on usage, and travelers should consider options that align with their demands. Portable SSDs and cloud storage subscriptions can be game-changers, as portable drives provide quick access to backups while cloud storage enables syncing across devices, ensuring that important files are always within reach.

When choosing between storage capacities, understanding the difference between 256GB and 512GB SSDs is crucial. A 256GB SSD may suffice for light travelers who rely on cloud storage or primarily use their devices for web browsing and basic tasks. However, frequent travelers often find 512GB SSDs more suitable, as they provide additional room for offline files, high-resolution media, and resource-heavy applications. 

The right choice depends on individual needs and whether you want to avoid frequent data management on the go.

Smarter Navigation Systems

Efficient navigation is vital to staying on schedule and reducing travel stress. Modern GPS systems and mapping apps have become indispensable tools, offering real-time traffic updates, route optimization, and offline capabilities for areas with limited connectivity. Devices like advanced GPS trackers or smartphones equipped with satellite navigation systems can help travelers avoid delays and find alternative routes.

For international travel, apps that integrate with translation tools or currency converters enhance usability. Some apps also highlight nearby points of interest, such as rest stops or scenic views, ensuring you make the most of your journey. Investing in navigation tech not only saves time but also reduces the frustration of getting lost in unfamiliar locations.

Enhanced Connectivity On the Go

Staying connected during travel is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Portable Wi-Fi hotspots are a practical solution for travelers who need uninterrupted internet access. These devices are compact and allow multiple gadgets to connect simultaneously, making them ideal for families or groups. Additionally, choosing a global SIM card can eliminate the hassle of finding local network providers at each destination.

For frequent flyers, noise-canceling headphones or earbuds with Bluetooth connectivity enhance productivity and comfort. These devices can block ambient noise during flights or train rides, creating a conducive environment for work or relaxation. Some advanced models also offer voice-assistant integration, enabling hands-free operation while commuting.

Travel-Friendly Power Solutions

Managing power for devices during trips is often overlooked until the moment you run out of battery. Power banks, particularly those with fast-charging capabilities and multiple ports, are invaluable for keeping devices charged on the go. Solar-powered chargers are another eco-friendly alternative for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a reliable energy source in remote locations.

Universal travel adapters with USB-C compatibility ensure that your devices remain functional no matter where you are in the world. These compact tools are versatile and eliminate the need to carry multiple adapters, further streamlining your packing process. For those with an extended itinerary, portable power stations can power larger devices, such as laptops, for longer durations.

Simplified Packing with Smart Luggage

Smart luggage is transforming the way we pack and transport our belongings. With innovative features such as integrated GPS trackers, USB charging ports, and weight sensors, these modern bags enhance organization and boost efficiency for travelers.

Some models also include compartments specifically designed for gadgets, ensuring that they are both secure and easily accessible.

For travelers who prioritize minimalism, packing cubes or compression bags can maximize suitcase space and reduce clutter. Pairing these with a lightweight carry-on ensures mobility without compromising on essentials. Smart luggage not only enhances convenience but also minimizes the risk of misplaced belongings, giving travelers peace of mind.

 

Streamlined Check-Ins and Security

Airports are often a bottleneck in the travel experience, but technology is helping to speed up processes like check-ins and security screenings. Mobile boarding passes, biometric scanners, and automated kiosks have made it easier to navigate airports efficiently. Pre-enrollment in programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry can significantly reduce wait times, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying their journey.

For frequent travelers, digital wallets that store travel documents and vaccination records simplify the process further. With these tools, accessing your itinerary or showing proof of identification becomes effortless, reducing stress and saving time.

Entertainment on the Move

Long travel hours can be monotonous, but portable entertainment solutions make them enjoyable. Tablets or e-readers are excellent for consuming books, movies, or games without carrying bulky items. Many streaming platforms now allow users to download content for offline viewing, perfect for flights or areas without internet access.

Additionally, portable gaming consoles or foldable keyboards for tablets can keep you entertained and productive simultaneously. Compact projectors are a newer innovation, enabling travelers to create a cinematic experience in hotel rooms or while camping. These entertainment upgrades ensure that downtime during travel is engaging and memorable.

Staying Safe with Travel Tech

Safety remains a top priority for all travelers, and tech advancements have provided numerous tools to enhance security. Personal GPS trackers allow loved ones to monitor your location in real time, offering peace of mind during solo trips. Anti-theft backpacks with hidden zippers and RFID-blocking compartments protect valuables from pickpockets and digital theft.

Smart locks for luggage, controlled via smartphone apps, ensure that your belongings remain secure. Some locks also feature GPS tracking, so you can locate your luggage in case it gets misplaced. Investing in safety-focused travel tech is an excellent way to minimize risks and enjoy your trip worry-free.

The Future of Travel Efficiency

As technology continues to evolve, so will the ways we travel. Emerging trends like artificial intelligence in trip planning, virtual reality for immersive pre-travel experiences, and autonomous vehicles promise to redefine the industry. These innovations aim to make every aspect of travel more efficient, from booking to arriving at your destination.

Travelers who embrace these advancements will not only save time but also enhance the overall quality of their experiences. Whether through smarter storage, better connectivity, or enhanced safety, tech upgrades ensure that modern journeys are as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

All in all, adopting the right tech upgrades can dramatically improve travel efficiency and make every trip a pleasure rather than a chore. By carefully selecting tools that cater to your specific needs, you can transform even the most challenging journeys into smooth and productive adventures. With a world of technology at your fingertips, there’s no limit to how far—or how efficiently—you can travel.

Boom Ignites Huddle Room ‘Explosion’ With Dedicated Meeting Room In A Box Conference Kit

Conferencing manufacturer Boom Collaboration, has launched a dedicated ‘meeting room in a box’ video kit specifically for huddle rooms and smaller locations.

The all-in-one solution features a high performance camera, speakerphone and one cable connection hub – designed to simplify installations and inspire further demand for Bring Your Own Meeting deployments.

It’s part of a new range of complete solutions, demonstrating the Texas-based company’s ethos of delivering better meetings, simply, for any device across any platform in any room.

Optimise

The BYOM Small Room Kit can be found at boom.co and features the MEZZO 4K wide angle camera and GIRO Pro professional wireless audio speaker with a 360° omnidirectional microphone. It also includes the ZYGO plug-and-play hub for simple and quick connections.

“In recent years there’s been an explosion in huddle room deployments and our new kit is ideally suited to these type of smaller more versatile locations,” explained Co-Founder Holli Hulett.

“The video conferencing market offers two distinct ways forward, with dedicated in-room systems or Bring Your Own Meeting alternatives. Our new range of meeting room in a box kits simplify the process of choosing the right equipment for the right rooms, to optimise the overall user experience and take away any installation headaches, whichever route is taken.”

She emphasised: “The flexibility and lower cost of BYOM solutions – where users bring their laptops or mobile devices to connect to a room’s AV system – has seen a significant rise, as hybrid and flexible work models became more common. In many ways huddle rooms represent the market hot-spot.”

Co-Founder Fredrik Hörnkvist agrees. “The use of individual devices is now firmly taking over with plug-and-play simplicity, lower costs and a platform agnostic approach some of the main driving forces.”

He concluded: “This is especially popular for SMBs embracing hybrid work. They greatly outnumber bigger organisations by around 1000:1 so there’s more volume and more reseller opportunities compared to fully-fledged room systems. Our new dedicated kit for smaller rooms makes it easy for installers and their customers to create the optimal BYOM meeting experience in a quick and hassle-free way.”

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KraftGeek – FlexyMount Phone/Tablet Holder Review

The KraftGeek – FlexyMount Phone/Tablet Holder is a neaty attachment that you can have at your disposal for the bigger devices out there if you happen to use them, I just use mobile phones but there is creators out there that use bigger devices and this will serve them well as it has many uses other than those who vlog etc.

This could be an ideal attachment for the kitchen area for example whereby you could have your iPad attached to this and your tripod top watch cooking menus and so on and also other use cases would be doing musical lessons again the same idea to have your music scripts at hand and easier to access at home or on the go.

Overall this is a simple addition to your collection if you are a vlogger/blogger and more and not confined to one use and can be used in practical manners at home in your studio office and much more.

 

  • Wide Compatibility: Supports smartphones and tablets from 4.7” to 13” (3.54-8.46” width), including iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab, iPhone 15 Pro, and more.
  •  Adjustable Fit: Securely holds devices with an expand button and soft pads, fitting both phones and tablets for versatile tripod mounting.
  •  Flexible Angles: Offers 180° adjustment and 360° rotation, ideal for recording, streaming, or digital sheet music viewing.
  •  Accessory Integration: Features a built-in cold shoe mount for adding lights, mics, or monitors, enhancing your video quality.
  •  Versatile Mounting: Easily attaches to tripods, selfie sticks, music stands, and more with a standard 1/4” screw connect

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Google-led initiative to support Irish businesses returns

Google is today calling for entries to the third annual You’re the Business Competition. Delivered in partnership with Enterprise Ireland (EI) and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) , You’re the Business is an online platform offering digital training and tools to businesses in Ireland free of charge. The competition element will reward businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to digital at different stages of their journey with those selected set to receive a Google digital support package, one-to-one mentoring and the chance to win a bespoke, AI-powered advertising campaign.

The competition is open to businesses across Ireland. Entrants must submit a written entry no longer than 200 words telling their story around how they’ve utilised or enhanced digital skills in order to help their business grow or succeed online.

The judging panel, comprising representatives from Google, EI, and the LEO’s with You’re the Business alumni and past winner Sarah Timony of ADAPTAFASHION will assess the entries based on their response to the prompt ‘Tell us why you’re the business’. A PDF must be uploaded to the competition submission box on the You’re the Business website by 21 March 2025.

This year’s initiative takes on a new AI-focus. The You’re the Business online platform has access to new training modules where users can explore AI tools and learn how AI can help them prepare for the future. Selected businesses will receive a digital support package from Google which includes a one-year Google Workspace Business Standard 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 will be invited to attend a dedicated Winners event in Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin.

New this year, the company or founder that has demonstrated the most creative or effective use of digital skills to grow or enhance their business will receive a one-of-a-kind prize; a bespoke AI-powered advertising campaign, created by Google AI with a team of experts in partnership with the winner.

Cera Ward, Managing Director at Google Ireland  said:

“We are so excited to launch the third-annual You’re the Business competition and look forward to learning more about these companies, their challenges, and digital ambitions. We know that AI has the power to revolutionise the way we do business which is why we have made it a key focus of this year’s initiative. Google wants to support these companies as they take the next steps on their AI journey.”

 

Carol Gibbons, Divisional Manager. Entrepreneurship, Regions & Local Enterprise at Enterprise Ireland:

“Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices are committed to empowering Irish businesses to succeed online. Our collaboration with Google on initiatives like this competition is a key part of that commitment. We are thrilled to partner with Google on this exciting opportunity and look forward to discovering the innovative ways businesses are approaching their digital growth. We’re here to support them every step of the way on their digital journey.”

John Magee, Chair of the Local Enterprise Office Network said:

“We are committed to helping Irish businesses thrive in a digital world, and this initiative, delivered in partnership with Google, is just one of the many ways we continue to support our clients on their digital journey.”

Speaking at the launch announcement, past winner and judge for the 2025 competition Sarah Timony [pictured], CEO and Founder, ADAPTAFASHION:

“Participating in the You’re the Business competition was a fantastic experience. The programme provided me with invaluable support and resources that directly contributed to the growth and success of ADAPTAFASHION. I’m so grateful for the opportunity and would encourage fellow founders to participate in this year’s initiative to see how far digital can bring you on your growth journey.”

Entries are open now with further information on the You’re the Business competition available at: g.co/yourethebusiness

Irish software research centre Lero to open doors for women to esports competitions

Research to determine if women have cognitive advantages that could help them become stars in the male-dominated esport sector, where players compete for more than €500 million in prize money annually, has been launched by Lero, Ireland’s Research Centre for Software, and University of Limerick.

Lero researchers at the bespoke Esports Science Research Lab—the first of its kind in Europe—have teamed up with Logitech, a designer of software-enabled hardware solutions. This collaboration aims to leverage Logitech’s expertise in hardware design and Lero’s research capabilities to establish elite women gamers’ cognitive and gaming abilities.

 Director of the Esport Science Research Lab and Co-Principal Investigator on the project, Professor Mark Campbell, said gaming is now a multi-billion-euro industry with professional gamers, coaches, and competitions viewed by audiences that compare in size with well-established major sporting events like the Superbowl, the golf majors, Wimbledon, and the Six Nations.

“Even though esports don’t require as much physical effort as traditional sports, there is a dichotomy whereby men feature much more prominently than women at the highest levels of play. Yet most of the video gaming and esports research to date predominantly tests male participants, which means we know little to nothing about elite women gamers’ cognitive and gaming performance.”

Dr Adam Toth, Principal Investigator on the project, added: “This project will continue to grow the capabilities and expertise within the Lero Esports Science Research Lab, utilising bespoke experimental techniques, expert investigators, and high-level processing and analysis tools to identify the attributes of elite women gamers and how we can enhance women’s performance and experience in gaming.”

Dr Toth said the goal of this project is to extend collaborative work between Lero and Logitech in esports and break new ground by investigating the cognitive and gaming performance of elite women gamers.

“We will do this by using bespoke hardware and software to capture behavioural, physiological and performance data during professional and amateur gamers’ training and play sessions to highlight any significant cognitive differences between male and female gamers. This data primarily will come from the differing instrumentation of games/gaming devices, and processing and analysis techniques will be employed to assess the cognitive and in-game similarities and differences of elite women gamers compared to their male counterparts,” he added.

The two-year project at the University of Limerick, which will cost close to €120,000, builds on a successful eight-year collaboration between UL and Logitech and will enhance the capabilities and status of the Esports Science Research Lab at the University of Limerick.

DigiBio Healthtech Innovation Programme Offers €38,000, Mentorship

The DigiBio Healthtech Innovation Programme, designed to cultivate the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs in the rapidly evolving health and wellbeing sectors, is now accepting applications for the second year of its ground-breaking innovation programme. Only 12 exceptional individuals from diverse backgrounds will be selected. Those who are passionate about innovation and delivering real impact are encouraged to apply.

Hosted and managed by Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) in partnership with core partners RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin City University, Trinity College Dublin and Tyndall National Institute, this transformative 10-month full-time postgraduate programme, commences in September 2025.

Programme Highlights:

  • €38,000 Scholarship: participants will receive €38,000 tax-free to participate in the programme
  • Expert Mentorship: participants will get invaluable guidance from experienced clinical, industry, investment and technology professionals
  • Comprehensive Training: hands-on training in needs-led innovation, design thinking and entrepreneurship will be provided
  • Direct Access to Healthcare Environments: participants will spend up to 8 weeks in a healthcare environment identifying real healthcare problems to address
  • Exploration of Commercial Opportunities: participants will be supported in developing and validating viable business propositions.

The current participants come from varied backgrounds and include a GP, nurse, physiotherapist, digital health designer, medical device designer, financial manager, digital transformation manager, and solicitor.

Carl Power, DigiBio Healthtech Innovation Programme Director, said:

“By providing aspiring innovators and entrepreneurs with the training, resources and support they need to succeed, this programme will play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare with impactful solutions.

We are looking for 12 quality candidates, with five or more years of professional experience, who are looking to get into a start-up or perhaps a career change as an innovation leader. It’s a very hands-on programme where you also get direct access to healthcare environments. At its core, the programme is about learning and applying a specific approach to finding a problem worth solving and building a commercial case to bring it to market.”

DigiBio is supported under the Innovators’ Initiative Programme co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-2027.

Applications are open until 2nd May. You can apply here – https://www.digibio.ie/apply#apply-now .

Viltrox Reveals Innovative New Lenses at CP+ 2025 Japan

Viltrox, known for its advanced, compact autofocus lenses and camera accessories, is expected to be significant presence at the Camera & Photo Imaging Show 2025 (CP+ 2025), Japan’s premier photography and imaging trade show. In a series of highly-anticipated product launches, Viltrox aims to redefine the lens market and expand possibilities for photographers at all levels.

CP+ 2025 is Asia’s premier photography trade show, showcasing the latest camera technology and innovations. The event is held at Pacifico Yokohama, Japan from February 27 to March 2, 2025. Visit Viltrox at Hall D, Booth 49 to experience cutting-edge products, join insightful seminars, and network with industry professionals.

“This is the perfect venue to showcase our commitment to innovation and dedication to providing the tools photographers need to capture stunning images,” said Viltrox CEO, Daniel Dai (戴锦辉). “We welcome attendees to visit our booth, and experience the future of photography.”

Taking photography into a new era
Viltrox is set to debut several new standout unreleased products at the exhibition, including the AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE, AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE, AF 50mm F2.0 Air lenses, and Viltrox AF 135mm F1.8 LAB Z.

Viltrox will also introduce two new products at the upcoming CP+ show, with the Viltrox camera battery charging case debuting on February 27th, followed by the launch of the Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air lens on February 28th.

These innovative lenses, making their exclusive debut at CP+ 2025, are expected to be available for purchase soon. These products set new standards in their respective focal length classes, with the potential to become the go-to lenses for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Expert insights and advice
In a keynote speech, renowned award-winning Japanese photographer and videographer, Haseo, will offer inspiration and advice for photographers, and insights into Viltrox lens advantages. This exclusive presentation can be attended on March 1 from 2:30pm to 3pm, at Hall D Booth No. 49.

The AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE, the second lens in Viltrox’s acclaimed LAB series, is revolutionizing the 35mm category. This exceptional lens delivers stunning image quality, boasts precise autofocus, and features a wide aperture for superior low-light performance, making it a standout choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

“We are empowering photographers with the tools they need to express their own unique perspectives,” said Viltrox’s Dai. “Our new lenses and innovative accessories inspire creators to extend creative boundaries and capture stunning images.”

Lenses and accessories that empower creativity
The new AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE redefines portrait photography with its sharp details and creamy bokeh. Meanwhile Viltrox’s AF 50mm F2 Air FE combines lightweight, compact design with a versatile focal length, making it ideal for street photography and everyday photography.

As well as these exceptional lenses, Viltrox will also unveil a brand-new camera battery charging box and several other exciting innovations, such as the Viltrox DC A1 monitor, and Viltrox DC L2/L3 monitor.

“These new products embody Viltrox’s dedication to meeting the diverse needs of photographers, from hobbyists to professionals,” said Kahn Wang, Viltrox marketing director. “At CP+ 2025, we will not only introduce groundbreaking lenses but also a range of creative accessories designed to elevate the entire photography experience. We will soon announce the official release dates.”

Find out more
For more information about these new Viltrox products, visit https://geni.us/prfebcp and drop in at the Viltrox booth (CP+ 2025 Hall D, Booth 49), at Pacifico Yokohama, Japan from February 27 to March 2, 2025.

 

Event details: https://www.cpplus.jp/?hl=en

BBC Studios to make podcasts available to international audiences

Fans of BBC podcasts outside of the UK now have an all-new listening experience on BBC.com and the BBC app. The newly launched audio section of BBC.com and app is curated with international audiences in mind, making the BBC’s vast portfolio of current and archived podcasts, including hits like Global News PodcastWorld of Secrets, and Infinite Monkey Cage, plus BBC Radio 4 and World Service radio stations, easier to find.

For the first time, audiences globally can enjoy a fully integrated experience on BBC.com and the app where the BBC’s award-winning audio content sits alongside our renowned journalism and storytelling. Through this new user experience, listeners can explore deeper context and analysis on select topics, gaining a richer understanding of the issues that matter most—all without leaving the platform.

As part of this launch, the BBC will also be making BBC Sounds available exclusively to UK audiences and ending access to the service for international users beginning Spring 2025. UK users who go on holiday (outside the UK) for a short period of time will still be able to use the BBC Sounds app abroad.

This new audio experience is the latest in a series of enhancements that we have been making to BBC.com and the BBC app. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build a single, one-stop destination for the best of BBC journalism and storytelling.

BBC Studios is responsible for the monetization of digital news and factual products including BBC.com, the BBC app, BBC Select and BBC Podcast Premium, whose profits help continue to fund the BBC’s world-renowned journalism and reporting.

Header imager credit BBC

Bringing 115 Years of Manchester United History to Life with AI Photo Upscale on Magic7 Pro

To commemorate the 115th anniversary of the first game at Old Trafford, HONOR today announced that its new AI photo upscaling feature on the HONOR Magic7 Pro, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform6, has revitalized iconic historical photographs of Manchester United’s legendary stadium, nicknamed “Theatre of Dreams” in connection with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. ’s sponsorship of the club. Since 1910, Old Trafford has been the stage for countless unforgettable moments in world football. Now, HONOR’s AI technology powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite brings these treasured images into the 21st century, enhancing their clarity and detail.

From 1910 to 2025 with HONOR AI Upscale

The new HONOR Magic7 Pro, powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform offers a wide range of powerful AI photography features, from AI Super Zoom and AI Enhanced Portrait to AI Motion Sensing Capture. Its self-developed AI Upscale is a new addition which allows users to easily restore damaged or faded old portrait photos by eliminating scratches, enhancing resolution, and improving clarity to bring back cherished memories. The HONOR Magic7 Pro’s AI Upscale restored and enhanced over 40 photographs from Old Trafford’s archives, turning faded relics into polished images fit for the 21st century to showcase the technology and demonstrate Qualcomm Technologies’ innovative sponsorship with the club in delivering unique fan experiences with their partners.

“These restored photographs are an invaluable contribution to celebrating Manchester United’s history, offering a glimpse into the very first moments at Old Trafford,” commented Jason Leach, club historian at Manchester United. “The AI Upscale by HONOR is truly remarkable. It’s like stepping back in time, allowing us to see these scenes with amazing clarity. Some details that were lost to time are now more visible, bringing the atmosphere of that first game in 1910 to life for modern fans. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate 115 years of the Theatre of Dreams.”

“Old Trafford is a symbol of tradition and excellence, so we’re thrilled that our AI technology, powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite can play a role in preserving its legacy through Qualcomm Technologies’ sponsorship of the club,” said Wei Luo, Chief Imaging Architect at HONOR. “The HONOR Magic7 Pro’s AI Upscale isn’t just about improving photos, it’s about connecting people with magic moments from the past. We believe that AI can be a powerful tool for preserving cultural heritage, and this content is a perfect example of that potential. We’re excited for fans to see these restored images and experience the history of Old Trafford in a whole new light thanks to Qualcomm Technologies’ sponsorship of the club.”

“It’s fantastic to see this technology bring Manchester United’s illustrious history to life,” said Judd Heape, vice president, product management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “Our advanced AI ISP enables powerful, AI-driven photography features that make it easy for users to capture and preserve life’s most memorable moments. Our collaborations with HONOR and Manchester United powerfully demonstrate how on-device generative AI features enable the camera systems on the HONOR Magic7 Pro to deliver ultra-clear portrait photography so Manchester United fans can enjoy around the world.”

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