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.

Brighten Every Move With the Viltrox K90 30W RGB Fill Light

Viltrox has announced the availability of the K90 RGB Fill Light, a high-power 30W fill light designed for creative professionals in photography and videography. This slim, lightweight unit is easy to carry, at less than 1 meter long and less than 870g in weight, but it provides excellent color rendering and controllable light to quickly set the scene. The K90’s soft light means a soft box is not essential. A long-life battery and USB-C power connection ensure users can keep shooting in even the most demanding situations.

One of the key advantages is the exceptional cost-effectiveness of the two-light stick package. The standard K90 package comes equipped with two K90 light tubes along with four magnetic clamps for secure attachment. This powerful new addition to the Viltrox Light Stick series joins the 8W Viltrox K21 and 20W K60/K60V.

Bright, true-to-life illumination
With a full RGB color range, 2500K–8500K color temperature range, and more than 26 customizable lighting effects, the K90 unlocks endless creative possibilities. Delivering 2300 lumens of luminous flux and 2550 lux illuminance at full power (at 5500K and 0.5m distance), the K90 provides consistent, powerful illumination.

Powered by 448 high-quality LED beads – evenly distributed between RGB, warm white, and cool white –this fill light ensures even illumination and long-lasting performance. With a color rendering index (CRI) of 95 and a Television Lighting Consistency Index (TLCI) of 97, the K90 delivers exceptional color accuracy, bringing the user’s vision to life with vibrant and natural results.

Efficient app control and creative effects
The K90 RGB fill light offers versatile control options for enhanced creativity. The Viltrox Link app connects the light via Bluetooth to mobile devices and empowers users by making it easy to adjust light parameters and effects, so enabling seamless control of individual lights or entire groups. The K90’s pixel function allows a single light to act as a pixel when used in a group, unlocking exciting creative possibilities.

The K90’s adjustable color temperature and full RGB control make it suitable for a wide range of fill lighting scenarios. In the Correlated Colour Temperature (CCT) mode, it also supports Green-Magenta adjustment. Functions can be adjusted via physical buttons, remote control, or the mobile app.

Versatile power options and accessories
Built-in battery life is about 70 minutes, and the USB-C connector charges the battery in as little as 120 minutes, and the light can be used while charging. Most popular USB-C power connection standards are supported, including PD (USB Power Distribution 2.0, 3.0 and 3.1), Samsung AFC, Huawei FCP/SCP, and QC (Quick Charge 2.0 and 3.0)

The K90 comes with a customized shockproof hard-shell protective case for easy storage and protection. This light is durable and easy to use, thanks to the high-quality soft light tube, four magnetic clamps compatible with other Viltrox products, and a 1/4-inch threaded hole on both sides.

Pricing & Availability
Viltrox Official Store: https://geni.us/K90PR

Viltrox Amazon store: https://geni.us/K90Amzn

MSRP: $229.99 / €266.99

See our light reviews 

La dolce vita – Envisage drives business growth for Italica

Envisage, a leading Sage partner and part of The Noledge Group, today announces that it has deployed the Sage 200 business management solution to drive business growth for Italica, a family-run supplier of Italian wines and provisions to restaurants, delicatessens, and hotels.

Based in Newcastle, Italica was established as a family business over 15 years ago. The business handles an average of 100 orders per day and, as it continued to expand, outgrew its existing Sage 50 solution. To keep pace with Italica’s evolving needs, Envisage implemented the powerful Sage 200 system, which can flex and scale in line with business growth. It will enable Italica to expand and futureproof, while simplifying its operations.

The platform is accessible to all of Italica’s employees across the business – including office-based workers and the delivery team on the road – which is great for collaboration. It delivers much improved communication and easily available real-time data which allows it to streamline operations for all departments, from the warehouse, inventory, and invoicing, to sales, customer service, and delivery. This more connected business leads to enhanced productivity and the increased ability to innovate and roll out new products and services for customers.

The new system creates greater visibility of stock levels and Italica can easily identify popular or in-demand products, enabling it to meet evolving customer requirements and remain competitive. Italica can also identify upsell or cross-sell opportunities for customers. Clear data and actionable insights contribute to improved reporting for the business, leading to more informed decision making.

The highly scalable new solution also utilises automated cloud data backups which are carried out quickly and efficiently without interruptions, leading to a lower risk for Italica. Envisage also provides proactive customer care should any issues occur, which is crucial for Italica.

Envisage is part of The Noledge Group, which last year announced that it is investing €1.8 million over the next three years to expand its business in Great Britain following growing demand for its solutions in the market.

Michelle Marrone, Director, Italica, said: “Our customers are at the heart of what we do, and our Sage 200 solution is enabling us to better meet their needs. The solution removes the guesswork and allows us to analyse data and effectively adapt product lines to suit changing demands.

“In addition, streamlined communication across all functions of the business is vital and our team can access the data they need – when they need it – regardless of location. The Sage 200 solution implemented by Envisage has given us the confidence to scale our business and seamlessly expand our offering for customers.”

Chris Hawley, MD Great Britain, Envisage, said: “Our end-to-end Sage 200 solution has transformed Italica’s operations and supports all aspects of the business. Increased capacity and reliable backups of critical information give Italica access to invaluable data which will form the basis for strategic business decisions as the company grows and expands.

“Furthermore, efficiency is key in the fast-moving food and beverage industry and the solution enables more streamlined workflows for employees. We have built a valued relationship with Italica and we are excited to continue to support and work closely with the team as the business goes from strength to strength.”

EIZO Releases New 24.1-inch Color Management Monitor with HDR Support

EIZO Corporation has introduced the 24.1-inch ColorEdge CG2400S color management monitor, the successor to the ColorEdge CG2420. It is the first 24.1-inch monitor in the CG series to feature HDR workflow support for professional creatives, as well as the first monitor in the ColorEdge lineup to have its housing made from recycled plastic for reducing environmental impact.

Designed to meet the diverse needs of professional creatives in fields such as photography, video editing, design, and print, the CG2400S features WUXGA (1920 x 1200) resolution on a 24.1-inch screen. With a typical contrast ratio of 1800:1, the highest in the ColorEdge CG series, the monitor produces true blacks to ensure shadows are rendered in high detail and lifelike accuracy. It is also equipped with a retardation film to overcome color distortion from optical shifts, allowing tones to retain their depth even when viewed from an angle.

The CG2400S is the first 24.1-inch model in the CG series to support the hybrid log-gamma (HLG) transfer function and perceptual quantization (PQ) curve for displaying and editing HDR content. These optimized gamma curves render images more accurately to how the human eye perceives the real world compared to SDR, ensuring professional creators can reliably work in HDR. 

The monitor features a USB Type-C input for seamless connection to notebook PCs with a single cable, reducing cable clutter and eliminating the need to reconnect multiple peripherals so users can start creating instantly. This convenient, multi-purpose connectivity also supplies up to 70W of power to connected devices, eliminating the need for a laptop’s bulky power supply unit, and enabling a faster, more efficient setup when moving between creative workspaces or working remotely.

The CG2400S is equipped with EIZO’s award-winning built-in sensor technology and proprietary ColorNavigator 7 color management software, allowing users to effortlessly calibrate the monitor automatically at designated times. This eliminates the need for a third-party calibration device and ensures the screen maintains color accuracy over time.

When using the CG2400S in the video production workflow, the Sync Signal function automatically adjusts the monitor’s settings, such as input range and color format, according to the video signal. Furthermore, system managers can utilize the monitor’s Pixel Inspection function to verify that technical settings match the current project’s predefined color parameters. These convenient functions ensure creators are always working within the correct parameters, minimizing the risk of costly rework and production delays.

In line with EIZO’s commitment to transitioning its products to more environmentally conscious materials and packaging as part of its company-wide sustainability efforts, the CG2400S is the first monitor in the ColorEdge series to use recycled plastics in its housing. Made of over 85% recycled plastic, one of the highest among EIZO’s monitors, it helps reduce plastic waste, conserve resources, and promote the reuse of materials to preserve the natural ecosystem. It is also securely packaged using molded pulp made from recycled cardboard and newspaper instead of environmentally unfriendly materials.

Additional Features

・98% reproduction of the DCI-P3 color space

・3D LUT for advanced color grading

・Smooth gradations with 10-bit simultaneous display from a 16-bit LUT¹

・Screen uniformity with patented digital uniformity equalizer (DUE) technology

・Fanless operation

・Light-shielding hood included

・5-year manufacturer’s warranty²

Availability

The ColorEdge CG2400S will begin shipping in April. The date of availability varies by country or region. Contact the nearest EIZO group company or distributor for more details.

Munchd takes on Just Eat and Uber Eats with launch of new mobile app

Munchd, the disruptive online food ordering platform committed to empowering local takeaways and restaurants to save money, which launched in February 2024, has announced the launch of its highly anticipated mobile app for both iOS and Android devices. 

This custom-built app, developed over the past year alongside the expert digital team in award-winning, Dundalk based marketing agency ZOMA, marks a significant milestone for Munchd, and is poised to disrupt the food ordering industry, providing a direct and compelling alternative to established giants like Just Eat and Uber Eats.

Building on Munchd’s core mission of supporting local businesses, the app offers a seamless and convenient ordering experience for customers while maintaining its groundbreaking 1% commission model for restaurants.Typically the larger competitors charge 10% – 30% commission. Munchd’s unique approach allows takeaways and restaurants maximise their profits, reinvest in their businesses, and offer more competitive prices to consumers.

The Munchd app brings a wealth of features to users, including effortless browsing of a diverse selection of local restaurants and takeaways all in one convenient location. Users can enjoy streamlined ordering, placing orders quickly and easily with an intuitive and user-friendly interface. The app also provides access to exclusive deals, a loyalty program, and promotions available only through the app.

Since its launch in early 2024, Munchd’s prototype app has achieved an impressive turnover of nearly €2 million, highlighting its rapid growth and strong market demand. One of the demo takeaways on the Munchd platform managed to save over €100,000 on fees in 2024, which highlights the cost savings that takeaways and restaurants can achieve by switching to Munchd. 

“The launch of the Munchd app is a game-changer for the food industry,” said David Kieran, Managing Director of Munchd. “For over a year, we’ve been dedicated to developing a platform that truly benefits both restaurants and customers. This app represents the culmination of that hard work, offering a superior ordering experience while staying true to our commitment of 1% commission for restaurants. We believe this will level the playing field, help the already struggling hospitality sector and allow food businesses to thrive and give consumers more choice and better value.”

The Munchd app is now available for download on iOS and Android devices. Customers can download the app from the App Store and Google Play Store by searching for “Munchd”, or visiting www.munchd.io.

Restaurants and takeaways interested in joining the Munchd platform and benefiting from the 1% commission model can visit http://www.munchd.io/join for more information.

IDA Ireland launches new five year strategy Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation, 2025-29

IDA Ireland today unveiled its new five-year strategy, Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation, 2025-29, building on its previous success in helping to transform the Irish economy. The strategy has been developed from a position of strength evidenced by the significant economic impact delivered to Ireland and the global economy through the investments from IDA Ireland’s client base.

The FDI sector, established and embedded in Ireland, is a national asset which has been transformative for the economy and the people of Ireland, accounting for 11% of total national employment and expenditure of over €38bn in the Irish economy annually. Ireland is viewed internationally as a centre for value and knowledge creation, exporting over €420bn in goods and services globally on an annual basis.

The new strategy, which is aligned with the Programme for Government and the White Paper on Enterprise, sets out IDA Ireland’s ambition for continued growth through four key strategic objectives;

  • Strengthen long term investment
  • Scale cutting-edge innovation
  • Drive sustainable change
  • Maximise regional opportunities

While recognising the challenges ahead for FDI investment including increased competition, geopolitical uncertainty, and rapid technological change, IDA Ireland has identified  four key growth drivers – digitalisation and AI; semiconductors; health; and sustainability –  which will lead to a range of intersecting and connected opportunities across IDA Ireland’s core sectors of focus – Life Sciences, International Financial Services (IFS), High Value Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology and Content & Consumer Services.

 

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

 Strengthen long term investment

IDA Ireland will prioritise retaining and renewing the 1,800 client companies based in Ireland, acknowledging their vital role in the Irish economy. We will partner with them as they aim to enhance their competitiveness and productivity through transformative talent development initiatives and assist them in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in a changing global economy.

Scale cutting-edge innovation

Ireland’s FDI base has helped position the country as a central hub for global technological innovation. The new strategy aims to build on the existing innovation ecosystem, enhance pan-European and global innovation linkages, and increase the scale and impact of innovation by supporting next-generation and collaborative research, development, and innovation (RD&I).

Drive sustainable change

IDA Ireland client companies are instrumental in shaping a green and digital global economy. Ireland has the potential to be a prime location for green-powered and digitally enabled enterprises. IDA Ireland will collaborate with clients to enhance their digital maturity and sustainability, while attracting a new wave of green and digitally enabled investments.

Maximise regional opportunities

Maintaining the strength of Dublin as a key global hub remains a strategic priority. The significance of our capital city enables the attractiveness of Ireland and supports our ambition for balanced regional development. IDA Ireland client companies employ over 165,000 people in regional locations across Ireland, benefiting from the local ecosystem, infrastructure, and talent to drive investments. The regional strategy has proven to be successful, and IDA Ireland is committed to further enhancing regional opportunities for clients by providing next-generation sites and building solutions.

 

TARGETS

In pursuit of these objectives, IDA Ireland will win 1,000 investments to:

  • Secure €7bn in new RD&I investment
  • Deliver 550 regional investments
  • Reduce IDA Ireland client carbon emissions by 35%
  • Create 75,000 jobs
  • Upskill 40,000 people

In turn, this will support IDA Ireland client spending in Ireland of €250bn over the lifetime of the strategy on wages, Irish goods and services, and capital investment, providing further opportunity and economic impact across local supply chains. By 2030, the strategy aims for a more competitive, innovative and sustainable FDI environment in Ireland. The ambitious plan underscores Ireland’s commitment to fostering a resilient economy, adapting intelligently, and seizing new growth opportunities in an era of change and evolvement.

Minister Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise Tourism & Employment said: “I very much welcome the publication of IDA Ireland’s new strategy today and recognise the importance of ensuring we work together to protect FDI’s position as a cornerstone of Irish economic success.  Ireland remains committed to foreign direct investment (FDI) as one of the key components of the Irish economy. We have proven adept in the past at anticipating and responding to shifts in the global landscape, realising growth opportunities as sectors evolved and new technologies emerged. In a period of marked global change and uncertainty, this strategy will direct the focus of IDA Ireland as it partners with client companies to enhance the resilience, productivity, and innovation of Ireland’s FDI base.

In a world of uncertainty, companies can be certain that Ireland remains determined to remain a leading location in which to grow, innovate and succeed. Through decades-long partnership across the public and private sector, Ireland has won investment and built up an FDI base in high value, cutting edge services and manufacturing sectors. Protecting this existing base, positioning it for further success and securing the next generation of investment is of critical importance. This strategy will ensure IDA adapts to a changed global landscape to achieve these ambitious objectives.”

Feargal O’Rourke, Chairman IDA Ireland said: “Our new strategy is designed to keep the FDI pipeline strong but also to recognise the importance of holding on to what we have. FDI companies in Ireland tell us of their need to constantly show relevance back at corporate HQ whether it is upskilling their employees with digital and AI skills, having a sustainable operation, or maximising their effectiveness and efficiency. Our role is to help our client companies in these areas and our strategy will underpin this. If we can lead, and play our part in delivering on our strategy, it will have a positive societal and economic impact for Ireland. While today marks the launch of our strategy, it also represents an opportunity for Ireland to recommit to a strong FDI strategy and to, in a sense, “renew our vows” to make Ireland the best, most sustainable and most welcoming country in the world for FDI.”

Michael Lohan, CEO IDA Ireland said, “Innovation, competitiveness, resilience and ambition are at the core of our new strategy that is designed to further propel FDI in Ireland. I am extremely proud of the performance by the IDA team who, in partnership with our 1,800 clients and stakeholders, have achieved exceptional results against the objectives set out in our previous strategy. The impact of FDI is reflected in every facet of the Irish economy from our employment numbers to our enterprise base, integrated supply chains and the development of critical infrastructure.

We are now ready to rise to the challenges of today.  Our new strategy recognises the scope and scale of our clients’ activities, their transformational journeys, as well as the complexities of the global landscape in which IDA Ireland and our clients now operate. It identifies Ireland’s areas of strength and the opportunities for continued FDI growth. It is now absolutely crucial that we build on the solid foundation we have laid and focus on continued partnerships with the strong FDI base in every region in Ireland, to drive sustainable growth through capital investment, innovation and talent development that will strengthen, maintain and deepen our position as a location of choice for continued foreign direct investment.

Download Adapt Intelligently: A Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Innovation here

KraftGeek – Phone/Camera/iPad Variety Tripod Review

The KraftGeek – Phone/Camera/Tablet variety tripod is an additional ideal kit for those with bigger devices they use and of course maintains your standard devices like your mobile phone.

This can be used in several ways however and also be used as a selfie stick for those who love to take them which is many but not my scene at all being honest.

With a telescopic extension it can make life much easier for all tasks if you are indoors or on the go and this also has a robust build like all their models and will stand the test of time, \I use several of these here and when outdoors and they all still work perfectly today and none have broke. typically the phone grip breaks on many I have had in the past but not with KraftGeek models.

You can easily switch between selfies and tripod use with the one press action and with the adjustable height it is perfect for anyone requiring photos or videos, not forgetting the bluetooth remote this can allow you to get even more functionality out of this and also the cold shoe mounts for adding lights or mics and makes it a one stop shot for creators

Features 
  • Multifunctional Design: Easily switch between a selfie stick and tripod with a button press. Non-slip silicone pads ensure stability for videos and photos.
  • Adjustable Height: Lightweight aluminum pole extends from 12.6 to 60 inches, perfect for both outdoor and studio shoots.
  • Multi-Angle Flexibility: 360° ball head, 110° vertical adjustment, and 270° phone holder provide versatile shooting angles. Compatible with iPhone 15 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy S24, and more.
  • Universal 1/4″ Screw: Supports cameras, lights, and mics up to 4.4 lbs, ideal for travel photography or video recording.
  • 3 Cold Shoe Mounts: Attach external accessories like mics and lights for enhanced audio and visual quality, great for cooking videos and live streaming.
  • Wireless Remote Control: Capture photos and videos from up to 33 feet away using the detachable magnetic remote.

BUY

More Kraftgeek Reviews

Video Review

How Technology is Transforming Traditional Industries

From online shopping and personal assistants that know you by name, to self-driving cars, technology is revolutionizing industries and the lives of consumers at breathtaking speeds. While startups often steal the spotlight, traditional industries around the world are also riding the technology wave to stay relevant, efficient, and competitive. This blog takes a deep dive into how technology is reshaping these sectors and introduces you to noteworthy examples.

The Digital Overhaul of Traditional Industries

Technology isn’t just enhancing old practices—it’s redefining them. Here’s how traditional industries are welcoming innovation and using it to their advantage.

1. Modernizing Manufacturing with Smart Technology 

Manufacturing is at the heart of our economy, and recent advancements, such as the Internet of Things (IoT – think of a web of all connected devices and Big Data), robotics, and AI, have elevated its efficiency and supercharged productivity. Smart factories equipped with IoT sensors now offer real-time data on equipment health, production rates, and supply chain dynamics. This allows manufacturers to enhance productivity while minimizing delays and costs. 

Consider how AI-powered robots are streamlining assembly lines, reducing chances of human error, and accelerating production timelines—all critical in today’s demand-driven business landscape.

2. Retail Joins the e-Commerce Revolution 

Retail has been one of the most visibly impacted sectors. Once synonymous with physical stores, modern retail has evolved into a digital-first industry. Online platforms like Amazon and Shopify have democratized access, allowing small businesses to thrive globally. 

Technology like augmented reality (AR – think overlaying digital content on the brick and mortar world a la Pokemon Go) is also breaking new ground in an ever-more engaging consumer experience. Imagine buying furniture online and “placing” a virtual couch in your living room through your phone camera. Retailers are using AR to ensure customers make confident purchasing decisions – and improve the effectiveness of their marketing. 

3. Energizing Agriculture with Precision Tech 

The traditional agriculture industry has undergone major technological upgrades. Precision agriculture uses GPS, drones, and AI to monitor crops, optimize irrigation, and predict harvest yields. Farmers can now ensure efficient resource use and achieve higher profitability. 

For example, drones are being deployed to survey acres of farmland in minutes, providing farmers with actionable data on pest infestations and weather impacts. This minimizes waste while boosting yields significantly.

4. Healthcare in the Age of Artificial Intelligence 

Telemedicine, robotic surgeries, and AI-based diagnostics are revolutionizing healthcare. For instance, wearable health devices can now track vitals such as heart rate, oxygen levels, and sleep patterns, empowering individuals to better manage chronic diseases while directing actionable data to healthcare providers. 

AI’s role in diagnostics is another game-changer. Advanced AI-powered tools are being used to detect conditions such as cancer far earlier than traditional methods, significantly improving patient outcomes.

5. Reimagining Entertainment and Gambling 

Technology has transformed how we consume entertainment, including the casino and gambling industry, particularly in places like New Jersey. The state has embraced technology to offer a thriving online casino market, allowing residents and visitors to experience the thrill of gambling from their own devices. 

With features like live dealer games and virtual slot machines now accessible digitally, online casinos offer the same excitement as brick-and-mortar setups—with the added convenience of playing anytime, anywhere. Take FanDuel Casino, for example, which offers a range of traditional casino games like blackjack and roulette along with sports betting options, all on one platform.

6. Optimizing Supply Chain Management 

Finding efficiencies in supply chain operations has always been crucial for industries like logistics, retail, and manufacturing. Technology is making it possible to achieve unprecedented levels of optimization. 

For example, blockchain is helping supply chain managers improve transparency by offering a digital ledger for tracking goods across the supply network. Meanwhile, AI enhances real-time tracking, ensuring that deliveries are on time and that companies avoid bottlenecks.

Out With the Old and in With the New 

Traditional industries are no longer confined to outdated tools and processes. Instead, they’re proving that adaptation is the key to resilience and success. Technology has become not just a tool but a driving force behind this transformation. 

Industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and even regulated markets like gambling in New Jersey are demonstrating how innovation can unlock new opportunities and efficiencies. Whether investing in IoT, leveraging AI, or redefining customer experiences with virtual tools, these sectors remind us that there is no limit to what technology can achieve.

 

Future Proofing Your Business: The Smart Path to a PC Refresh

As Windows 10 approaches its end-of-life on October 14, 2025, businesses here in Ireland face a crucial transition to Windows 11. This shift is more than a software update; it’s a strategic opportunity to leverage advanced AI-enabled devices that future-proof IT operations. Windows 11 offers more than compliance with current software – it’s a chance to embrace high-performing, secure systems that set the stage for long-term competitiveness. Tara Gale, Client Solutions Country Lead, Dell Technologies Ireland tells us more.

Moreover, with Government aiming to ensure that 75% of Irish businesses embrace AI by 2030, employees will increasingly rely on high-performance hardware and advanced processing power in their devices to embrace the AI opportunity that lies ahead. By embracing AI PCs, organisations can stay competitive and achieve key business goals all by enhancing operational efficiency, security, and employee productivity.

Why act now?

October is fast approaching and transitioning to a new operating system across an enterprise is complex. Businesses that remain tethered to legacy systems potentially face critical risks, including increased cybersecurity vulnerabilities, non-compliance, compatibility issues, and reduced operational efficiencies. For example, as older platforms lose access to security updates, sensitive company data becomes more vulnerable to breaches, phishing attacks, and ransomware.

Here are key considerations for businesses embarking on a PC refresh as part of their transition to Windows 11:

1, Assess Current Hardware and Software Compatibility

Before making any changes, businesses should start with an assessment of their existing PC fleet. One crucial aspect to note is the updated hardware requirement for Windows 11, so planning ahead for software updates or replacements will help avoid downtime and ensure a seamless transition. Many older devices do not meet the hardware requirements to upgrade to Windows 11. The first step in the transition process is to understand your client hardware estate.

Businesses can stay on Windows 10, but Microsoft will start charging for extended security updates from October 2025. All Windows 10 devices are eligible, and a license for the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program is sold as a subscription per device. This is an expensive cost on an older device with no new features and functionality. Planning now will help determine which devices or systems can be upgraded and where new investments are required.

2. Embrace AI-Optimised Hardware

A critical component of future-proofing your business lies in adopting AI-optimised hardware. AI PCs powered by neural processing units (NPUs) are built with AI accelerators that work in tandem with existing CPUs and GPUs. AI PCs can empower users to accomplish more, faster: from streamlining workflows to enhancing video conferencing and integrating advanced AI features into creative processes.

For example, Dell’s latest line of AI-powered PCs is designed to leverage the features of Windows 11, like Copilot, your AI assistant, or Dell’s latest Copilot+ PCs with unique on-device AI experiences, like real-time adaptability. Dell AI PCs offer intelligent performance, longer battery life, cooler and lighter laptops. Coupled with Microsoft’s AI and cloud tools, this collaboration aims to redefine how businesses view workforce empowerment and operational ingenuity.

3. Prioritise Security with Modern PCs

Findings from Dell’s Innovation Catalyst Study reveal that 83% of organisations have been impacted by security attacks in the past 12 months, mainly from malware, phishing, and data breaches. Built-in PC security can de-risk organizations, yet just 4 in 10 organizations surveyed strongly agree that they emphasize buying technologies or applications with security built into them. Therein lies a major opportunity.

The security features in Windows 11 are best utilized on newer hardware. With Dell commercial devices, your workloads and data are protected wherever your employee’s work. Secure design principles and robust supply chain controls mitigate the risk of product vulnerabilities and tampering. Unique built-in defences activate zero trust principles, protecting the device while in-use, making them the world’s most secure commercial PCs¹ – an ideal partner to the most secure Windows System ever. As device-based attacks grow in our hybrid world, foundational PC security features like Dell-unique BIOS verification. Secure Boot, TPM 2.0, and virtualization-based security (VBS) become more critical than ever.

4. Embracing a New Era of Workforce Productivity and Collaboration

Enterprise Strategy Group cited 58% of organisations have started deploying PCs and laptops with built-in AI processors, and an additional 33% plan to do so. Relying on legacy systems can frustrate teams, reduce engagement, and harm retention efforts in today’s hyper-competitive job market.

For instance, Dell’s AI PCs with Windows 11 Pro, come equipped with advanced hardware supporting machine learning processes and intelligent task execution, allowing employees to manage workloads effortlessly. Whether it’s automating repetitive tasks or maximizing computational power for data analytics, Dell and Microsoft are enabling a new era of work, one that promises improved experiences for employees while driving measurable business outcomes.

5. Plan for Better Total-Cost-of-Ownership and Sustainability

While there’s an upfront investment in upgrading, businesses will quickly recoup their costs with reduced IT maintenance, lower error rates, and improved resource utilisation. With a modern OS and hardware ecosystem, companies spend less time troubleshooting tech issues and more time driving their core businesses. In addition, flexible payment and financing solutions present a flexible monthly subscription-based model that eliminates the need for significant initial investments, providing the flexibility to scale PC infrastructure up or down as needed. This approach allows organisations to overcome financial barriers and access state-of-the-art technology.

A PC refresh tied to a Windows 11 upgrade also offers a chance to adopt more energy-efficient devices that not only save costs in the long term but also align with sustainability goals. This means that customers can be rest assured knowing the devices they purchase are being produced in ways that help reduce e-waste, increase recycling, and are energy-efficient, both in production and in use. This not only saves power costs but also improves corporate social responsibility metrics.

Regular technology refresh cycles ensure that companies utilise the most energy-efficient devices. While there are initial costs associated with these refresh cycles, the improvements in energy efficiency lead to substantial reductions in future, making it a cost-effective investment in the long run, and boost overall efficiency and environmental stewardship. By upgrading to Windows 11 and integrating advanced AI-powered PCs, Irish businesses can future-proof their IT infrastructure and maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

ProfitRaw: The Best Time to Trade a Stock [profitraw.com]

Trading is frequently short-term oriented, contrary to long-term investing. Instead of holding onto the stock for steady growth, a trader buys it for a relatively quick turnaround, sometimes within a set time limit, such as a few days or a week, a month, or even a quarter. What time of year is ideal for stock purchases? ProfitRaw will demonstrate in this post how to base trade decisions on daily, weekly, and monthly trends.

ProfitRaw declares the best times of day to buy or sell stocks

Prices and market volumes may rise in the early hours of the day. Price fluctuation is influenced by the market’s reflection of all news releases and occurrences since the last closing bell during opening hours. A more experienced trader could be able to spot the right trends and turn a profit quickly, while a newcomer to trading might lose a lot of money. Because of this, a beginner might want to stay away from trading for the first hour or during these fluctuating times.

ProfitRaw’s View On The Week’s Finest Day for Purchasing Stocks

There is no long-term data to support the belief held by some that some days regularly produce higher returns than others. Many individuals still think that the first day of the week is the finest, though. It is referred to as the weekend effect or the Monday effect, according to ProfitRaw. According to anecdotal evidence, Mondays have typically seen a decrease in the stock market. 

The Best Day for Stock Sales of the Week

In the event that Monday is the best day of the week to buy stocks, ProfitRaw suggests that Thursday or early Friday may be the best day to sell equities before prices decline. If equities are trading higher on Friday, then Friday would be the best day to take a short position, and Monday would be the best day to cover the short position.

The Ideal Season for Buying Stocks

The months with the biggest market returns are March, April, and July, followed by October through December, which is fall and winter. There is such a thing as the January effect. Prices rise at the beginning of the year due to the belief that investors are returning to the stock markets, especially for value and small-cap stocks. Follow ProfitRaw to learn more.

The Best Season to Sell Stocks

September is a slow month, according to ProfitRaw. The September effect highlights historically low returns in the ninth month of the year as institutional investors wind down their third-quarter positions. The year-over-year average returns are lowest in September. Because of this, some traders believe that September is the best time to sell stocks.

Conclusion

Of course, these suggestions are generalizations about the optimum time of day for trading stocks, the most suitable day of the week to buy or sell equities, and which month is best to do so. There are numerous exceptions and variations based on news events and changing market conditions. To begin trading right now, go to the  ProfitRaw website.