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.

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

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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. 

 

Understanding Business Representation: How Companies Stay Compliant and Secure

Starting a business can be exciting, but it also comes with legal and administrative responsibilities. In many countries, companies must appoint a local representative to meet regulatory requirements. This role helps businesses stay compliant with laws and ensures smooth operations, especially for foreign entrepreneurs or companies expanding into new markets.

But what exactly does this role involve? Why is it necessary, and how does it benefit business owners? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What Does a Business Representative Do?

A business representative, often a local individual or organization, acts on behalf of a company to fulfill legal obligations. Many governments require at least one local representative for businesses operating in their country, especially for companies owned by foreigners.

The representative’s responsibilities depend on local laws but may include:

  • Ensuring compliance with government regulations and filing necessary documents.
  • Acting as a point of contact between the company and authorities.
  • Holding official roles in the business structure, such as a director position, without having control over operations.

This role allows companies to function smoothly without their owners needing to be physically present in the country.

Why Is It Required?

Many countries implement this requirement for legal and security reasons. It ensures that if a company faces legal issues, there is a local person who can respond to authorities. This is especially important for businesses with overseas owners, as governments need a way to enforce rules and protect stakeholders.

For example, if a company fails to file taxes or follow certain regulations, the authorities can communicate with the local representative. This helps maintain transparency and accountability.

The Benefits of Having a Business Representative

Besides meeting legal requirements, appointing a business representative comes with several advantages:

1. Easier Market Entry for Foreign Businesses

For entrepreneurs looking to set up operations in another country, navigating legal and administrative processes can be overwhelming. Having a local representative simplifies this process, ensuring the business complies with local laws without requiring the owner to be physically present.

2. Peace of Mind for Business Owners

Managing a business in a foreign country comes with challenges, including keeping up with legal changes. A representative helps handle these responsibilities, reducing stress for business owners and allowing them to focus on growth.

3. Professional Guidance

Experienced representatives are often well-versed in corporate laws and procedures. They can provide valuable insights on regulatory requirements, helping businesses avoid penalties and operate smoothly.

4. Maintaining Privacy

In some cases, business owners prefer to keep their names off public records for privacy reasons. A representative can take on official roles in the company’s structure without interfering with decision-making.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Business Representative

While appointing a representative is a legal requirement in many places, choosing the right one is crucial. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Trustworthiness: Since the representative’s name may appear on official documents, choosing someone reliable is essential.
  • Legal Knowledge: A good representative should be familiar with corporate regulations to ensure compliance.
  • Experience: Professionals with experience in corporate services can provide better support.
  • Non-interference in Business Operations: The representative should not have control over the company’s daily operations unless specifically agreed upon.

Common Myths About This Role

Because this role involves legal responsibilities, some misconceptions exist. Let’s clear up a few common ones:

  • “The representative owns the business.”
    – Not true. The legal owner remains the actual business owner, and the representative only serves an administrative role.
  • “They have control over company decisions.”
    – Unless given specific authority, representatives do not interfere with business operations. Their role is mainly regulatory.
  • “It’s only for big companies.”
    – Even small and medium-sized businesses may need a local representative, depending on the country’s regulations.

Conclusion

Having a business representative is a necessary step for many companies, especially those expanding into new regions. It ensures compliance with legal requirements, provides peace of mind, and helps businesses operate smoothly. While the role comes with responsibilities, choosing the right person or service provider can make the process simple and hassle-free.

If you’re planning to start a business in another country, understanding these requirements early can save time and effort. Many businesses turn to nominee director services to fulfill these legal obligations without disrupting their operations. With the right support, you can focus on growing your company while staying compliant with local laws.

VDIAGTOOL VD70S wireless automotive diagnostic tool review

The VDIAGTOOL VD70S wireless automotive diagnostic tool is a kit for the more serious motorist or mechanic packed with more features than any other kit I have tested in the past.

Coming in a solid frame this is also very robust and will stand the test of time and serve its purpose with ease and these tools do get an awful life over their duration.

These kits are a daily tool for any garage these days ableit they charge you to plug it in and if you have one of these you can go to your dealer or garage with ammo at hand to save you the costly fees they charge to plug in their own and stop them trying to tell you that you have issues that do not exist in my past experience I have been charge 99 euro once and 130 euro just to have them plug in their own diagnostic tool.

The tablet itself has a 7 inch screen and gives more information at a glance than most I have tried before if not all so this is good to have so much information right in front of you without the need to be scrolling.

There is support for all countries on this and broke down into regions you can find your vehicle on the list or just plug it into your OBD port and let it find it for you it works well and fast as I have tested on two vehicles with no issues.

You have Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity giving you a smooth experience with no lag in results or speed.

Designed for DIY enthusiasts tackling common issues such as engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS, the VDIAGTOOL VD70 S vehicle scanner offers targeted diagnostic solutions. It efficiently reads and clears fault codes while analyzing data streams, ensuring quick identification of problems.

In the images below you can see what the UI looks like and what is on offer and we also show live testing on two videos below and walk through the experince which is simple and not to complicated even for novice users.

Each time this is turned on you will get updates so make sure you accept them this also stands testament to their support of the product which again is a great selling point and good to see as over the last while testing I have seen the updates come in each time.

Check the video below for more.

The UI and Menu on tablet 

 

 

Key Features of the VD70S:

  • ECU Coding & FCA AutoAuth:Advanced capabilities typically found in high-end tools.
  • Full Bi-Directional Testing & Active Component Control:Comprehensive diagnostics at your fingertips.
  • Broad Compatibility:Works with over 10,000 vehicle models.
  • 8-in-1 Live Data Display:More data options compared to standard 4-in-1 tools.
  • WiFi & Type-C 2-in-1 Connection:30x faster than Bluetooth for seamless diagnostics.
  • Large 7-Inch Touchscreen:Intuitive and user-friendly interface for easy navigation.
  • Three Years of Free Firmware Updates to keep the tool up-to-date with the latest technologies.

Other diagnostics tools reviews

BUY

Video Review

Pace of growth in household spending accelerates in January

Bank of Ireland customers increased their debit and credit card spending for January, with an acceleration in the pace of household spending growth to 6.1%, up from 4.5% in December. This growth, which was broad-based across various sectors, significantly outpaced the current CPI inflation rate of 1.4%, indicating a real gain in consumption of approximately 4%.

A key highlight of January’s spending was a surge in summer holiday planning – travel agencies saw a 50% increase in sales from December, while airline spending rose by 90%. Although year-on-year growth in these categories was modest, spending on hotels and resorts increased by 4.9%.

Spending on sports clubs saw a substantial 23% year-on-year rise, reflecting ‘New Year, New You’ resolutions. However, the January sales season’s impact on retail was less pronounced, with clothing sales down 5% year-on-year, although electrical goods saw a 6.4% increase – November/December are now the most important months for sales of both these items.

Despite the January sales season not providing a significant boost to retail spending, likely due to the prominence of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales in November and December, spending on services saw a 4.2% year-on-year increase, driven by higher expenditure on travel and other services. ATM withdrawals decreased in January by 2% year-on-year, now accounting for just 12% of total card spending, down from nearly one-third pre-pandemic.

“January’s credit/debit card data showing nominal spending growth of 6.1% is an encouraging sign, showing households’ incomes and expenditure are now growing faster than prices. Notably, cash withdrawals now account for just €1 in every €10 spent by Irish households, well down from one-third just a couple of years ago,” said Conall Mac Coille, Chief Economist, Bank of Ireland.

Looking ahead, Bank of Ireland forecasts a 3% real growth in consumer spending for 2025. “Several indicators support this optimistic outlook, including employment growth at 3.7%, a low unemployment rate of 4%, and average earnings growth of 5%, which is above the CPI inflation rate of 1.4%. Budget 2025 tax cuts, worth 2% of disposable incomes at the average wage, are also expected to bolster consumer spending”, said Conall Mac Coille.

Valentine’s Day is likely to have provided a significant boost to florists, with spending typically rising 5-6 times the normal daily average during this period. There has been a consistent decline in spending on online dating services, down 17% year-on-year in January and 43% since the peak in 2021.

Workers in the data and analytics industry are optimistic of pay rises and job stability into 2025

A recent study of data analytics and AI workers in Ireland has revealed a positive outlook for salary growth with 63% expecting to see a salary increase of up to 10% this year. Workers in the data and analytics industry are optimistic of pay rises and job stability into 2025

The survey by the Analytics Institute and leader in data and AI, SAS, also reflects optimism around hiring as 37% of organisations in Ireland confirmed their intention to increase their data workforce by more than 10% this year. Job stability looks positive too, with 81% of employees intending to stay with their current employer in 2025.

Respondents revealed that job satisfaction remains high with nearly three-quarters of workers saying they would recommend their employer to a friend, while 39% said they enjoy their current role “a lot” and 50% said they enjoy it “a moderate amount”.

The findings have been revealed in the Data Salaries and Job Sentiment Analysis 2025 report, which surveyed 200 professional Analytics Institute members working in data analytics and AI roles. It highlights the latest trends shaping the data sector from salary expectations and job opportunities to employee sentiment and training requirements.

Alan McGlinn, Ireland Country Lead at SAS, said: “These findings prove that demand for AI and data-related skills remains high, and this is reflected in salary levels, increases and rising optimism about wage growth in 2025.

“While employees with these skills are in demand, those with the right combination of skills will be in particularly high demand. The findings reveal that those who changed employer within the last 12 months received significantly higher salary increases, and we might start to see more rapid career progression for some individuals and higher staff turnover.”

Data visualisation and BI reporting were revealed as critical skills to the sector, with 70% of people still believing them to be important, along with project management. Meanwhile, the report showed statistical modelling and prescriptive analytics as declining skills areas due to reduced demand for traditional predictive approaches. Not surprisingly machine learning and AI has gained consistent importance, growing from 30% in 2023 to 34% in 2025.

Lorcan Malone, Chief Executive of The Analytics Institute, said this sheds light on the key drivers for talent retention and workforce upskilling within the data analytics and AI sectors.

He added: “By understanding these dynamics, businesses can better position themselves to attract, develop, and retain the talent they need to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

“The rapid expansion of AI technologies is beginning to reshape the world of work. As companies seek to leverage these technologies, they must ensure their teams are not only equipped with the latest technical skills but also able to adapt to a constantly changing landscape. This makes investing in talent development and upskilling initiatives more critical than ever.”

While employees with these skills are in demand, those with the right combination of skills will be in particularly high demand. For those who had changed jobs within the last 12 months, the top reasons employees gave for this were:

●      Increased salary (67%)

●      For a more interesting and challenging role (32%)

●      For increased remuneration (21%)

●      For better working conditions / culture (14%)

For those who hadn’t changed employers in the last 12 months, a high proportion had still received a salary increase, but beyond this, other important factors for jobs satisfaction they highlighted included:

●      Meaningful work (64%)

●      Supportive boss (48%)

●      Hybrid work (43%)

●      Career progression (32%)

●      Nice colleagues (30%)

Overall, the report proves that as businesses increasingly rely on data -driven insights to make critical decisions, the demand for professionals with key skills remains high. Organisations that understand the incremental gains that employees with these core skills can deliver across their business, are willing to reward the best performers with significantly higher salaries and the added support to do their jobs well.

To find out more about how SAS can help businesses to work smarter with data and AI visit www.sas.com.

The full report can be found here – analyticsinstitute.org/resource/salaries-and-sentiment-analysis-2025.html