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.

Halosphere VR Review: Unlocking the World’s Hidden and Disappearing Treasures

In an era where travel is constrained by time, finances, or physical limitations, Halosphere VR offers a revolutionary way to explore the world. Fully integrated with Apple Vision Pro, this virtual reality platform brings history, culture, and nature to life through immersive 8K 3D video in 360° and 180° formats.

Halosphere VR isn’t just another travel app—it’s a tool for preservation, showcasing iconic and endangered locations in the highest quality. Whether you’re a travel enthusiast, history buff, or someone unable to travel physically, Halosphere makes virtual travel a reality.

What is Halosphere VR?

Halosphere VR is a virtual reality platform that takes users on journeys to breathtaking destinations—all from the comfort of home. With 8K 3D video resolution, optimized for Apple Vision Pro, Halosphere offers sharp visuals for an immersive experience.

Featuring over 100+ locations across seven continents, Halosphere VR celebrates cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and ecosystems at risk of disappearing. Learn more at Halosphere.ca.

Key Features of Halosphere

  1. Exclusive Apple Vision Pro Integration

Halosphere VR uses Apple Vision Pro capabilities to deliver smooth 360° and 180° experiences. Every detail—from vibrant landscapes to cultural relics—comes alive in 8K 3D resolution with Spatial Audio.

  1. 8K 3D Video Content

Halosphere VR sets a new standard for virtual travel. Whether marveling at Iceland’s northern lights or diving into Indonesia’s reefs, Halosphere ensures unmatched quality.

  1. Virtual Access to Endangered Locations

Many destinations are at risk due to climate change or urbanization. Halosphere preserves these treasures in stunning detail.

  1. Inclusivity and Accessibility

With features like subtitles and an intuitive interface, Halosphere is ideal for hearing-impaired users and individuals with mobility challenges.

  1. Interactive Learning Tools

Explore destinations with in-app information powered by Wikipedia, complemented by quizzes for an engaging educational experience.

  1. Offline Access

Download locations and enjoy offline—perfect for travel or remote settings.

Why Halosphere VR is a Must-Have

  • For Travel Enthusiasts

Halosphere VR provides access to over 100+ locations across all seven continents, including Greece’s ancient ruins, Iceland’s natural beauty, and the Maldives’ coral reefs. This Halosphere VR review highlights how the app redefines exploration by combining cutting-edge technology with stunning destinations. For those seeking immersive adventures, Halosphere VR travel offers the perfect solution.

  • For Environmental Advocates

Halosphere promotes sustainable tourism, reducing the need for physical travel while protecting fragile ecosystems.

  • For Those with Limited Mobility

Halosphere VR is a lifeline for individuals unable to travel physically, offering the world’s beauty in an accessible format.

How to Get Started

Halosphere VR is available now on the App Store. Visit Halosphere.ca to explore more and join the growing community of virtual travelers.

Final Thoughts

Halosphere VR isn’t just an app—it’s a movement to preserve, educate, and inspire. With immersive 8K 3D video, Apple Vision Pro integration, and destinations spanning every continent, Halosphere sets a new benchmark for virtual travel experiences. As the ultimate Halosphere virtual reality platform, it ensures the wonders of the world remain within reach for everyone.

Download Halosphere VR today at https://apps.apple.com/us/app/halosphere-virtual-travel-app/id6478453596 and explore the world like never before.

STM Goods BagPack Review

The STM Goods BagPack is the ultimate travel companion for those seeking simplicity and versatility. Lightweight and compact, this bag features a unique inflatable laptop airbag that protects up to a 16” laptop. Inflate it when you need to carry your device, and deflate it when you’re done—then roll it up and store it away. When not in use, the entire bag folds neatly into its own front pocket and we have been testing this out.

Having tested many bags from STM Goods and still using them today I can vouch for their durability and robust build and excellent quality and any trip I go on or break here in Ireland there are only STM Goods products used and this also included laptop bags which this new offering is aimed at but anyone can use this bag.

The bag is mega portable and collapses into a small footprint as you will see in the video review below and from the small footprint to the bags size itself will do most people with a daily carry for work or the gym for example and if you are a tech head like me this is also ideal for the plane carry on.

With this cleverly designed bag you are ensured your prized possession being your laptop is secure and sage with the inflatable tune inside I did think there would be a pump of some sorts inside however no and having said that it takes literally 30 seconds or less to inflate the bag with the pump as you will see in the video review below.

When not in use you simply deflate again and pack it away and it takes up little storage and is an innovative minimalist accessory and looks trendy for anyone to have, check the video below for more..

 

  • COMPACT & COLLAPSIBLE – Compact Self Contained Storable Backpack, collapses and storage in its own pocket offering easy stowage; ideal for the outdoor enthusiast, business trips or travel, this backpack is a game changer in convenience and portability.
  • INFLATABLE LAPTOP PROTECTION – Integrated protection with our convenient one breath inflatable laptop sleeve; then when it’s time to stow away simply release the air valve to deflate and stuff neatly into its own front pocket.
  • COMFORTABLE CARRY – Experience a comfortable carry with our BagPack backpack; contoured straps hug your shoulder perfect for travelers, commuters, a daypack for an active lifestyle, or an ultralight book bag.
  • DURABLE & CONVENIENT – Our BagPack is durable and convenient, constructed of high quality zippers and rugged 210D Nylon while offering the benefit of a lightweight, easy to store, compact water resistant backpack
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & VERSATILE – Travel light with our compact backpack; this thin nylon backpack is ultralight and ideal for men and women, it’s a perfect daypack for hiking, camping or any outdoor travel excursion
  • DIMENSIONS – Backpack dimensions 18.9 x 12.4 x 6.3 in /

BUY

Other STM GOODS Reviews

Video Review

How VPNs Can Help Protect Your Online Privacy Against Growing Threats

VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) are programs you can use to help protect yourself against the myriad threats you face on the internet, from cybercriminals to ISPs and marketing companies intent on farming your personal information. A lot of people underestimate the benefits of VPNs, mainly because they put more focus on using tools like antivirus software or email scanners. However, overlooking the benefits of VPNs in favor of other programs is foolish, especially when you can combine them. This post explores the benefits of VPNs and how they can help protect your online privacy from cybercriminals. 

Encrypts Your Connection

VPNs encrypt people’s internet connections, which in simple terms just means that they ensure all data transmitted is fully secured. A VPN service, therefore, will be able to guarantee that everything you do on the internet will be private. You don’t have to worry about people spying on what you are doing, stealing your passwords, or harvesting your personal information. In the introduction to this post, an allusion was made to the undeniable fact that people’s ISPs collect information about them and sell it to marketing companies. When you use a VPN, this isn’t something you have to worry about. You won’t have to deal with endless targeted advertisements, nor the more insidious threat of your information being stolen and sold on the internet to criminals who want to either impersonate or steal from you.

Masks Your IP Address

Your IP address gives people an idea of where you are in the world. While most people’s IP addresses do not point to their exact geographic location, they still give a rough idea of where they are. If you want to remain totally anonymous on the internet, the last thing you want is, for obvious reasons, people to have your IP address. The good thing about VPNs is that they completely hide people’s locations by giving them false IP addresses. Their IP addresses will show them as being in countries they are not in. This comes with the additional benefit of enabling users of VPNs to access streaming services and video game servers hosted in the countries their IP addresses register them as being in. VPNs are, because of this, the ideal solution for people concerned about data security. 

Secures Public Wi-Fi Networks

Public Wi-Fi networks are notoriously dangerous. It is not uncommon for criminals to hijack and use them to steal people’s information and even key log them. A good way to safeguard against the threats of public Wi-Fi networks, while still using them, is to invest in a VPN. There are many VPNs you can use, some free, and some paid. You need to shop around and find the one that is right for you. A good way to do this is to read reviews. Product reviews give you insight into what specific programs are like to use and can help you to find ones you feel are right for you and your needs. 

VPNs can protect you. They are an invaluable resource for regular users of the internet. It is important to shop around and find the best one you can. You can do that by following the guidance offered above. 

Top 7 Python Development Companies

Most people do not understand the true power of a programming language. Instagram, Youtube, Spotify, Reddit, even Google all have one thing in common – they all use Python. Whether it’s powering dynamic websites, crunching massive datasets, or streamlining repetitive tasks, Python’s versatility and simplicity make it an undeniable leader among all available high-level programming languages. Any python software company is truly a cornerstone of modern IT sphere.

But the magic of Python alone isn’t enough — choosing the suitable company can make or break your project. And among a wide range of the python programming companies presented on the IT market nowadays, it is all the more challenging to pick the right one.  

1. Imaginary Cloud: Experts in Building User-Friendly Applications 

Imaginary Cloud is a seasoned player in the sphere of Python development, with a rich history of producing top-tier digital solutions for the past 14 years. They were founded in 2010. They have received numerous honours, including Top 100 Fastest Growing Companies and Top 1000 Global Companies in 2020 & 2021. Over the years, Imaginary Cloud has honed its skills in Python, making it a go-to partner for businesses seeking innovative solutions. 

They are known for creating user-focused applications, and, moreover, provide full transparency and clear communication which makes them reliable and trust-worthy. They take strong ownership of the projects, meaning you can expect a partner ready to help you every step of the way. 

They also have a proven track record of delivering high-quality solutions. Some of the projects they developed over the years are a publicly accessible website and a subscription-based web application for Confinze, giving Confinze’s clients access to their financial information; improvement of an iOS app for Jinga Life, which is a digital, personalised, family health platform; digitalization of UNUA’s workflow by designing an iPad app and a backoffice app meant for supporting sellers during the sales process and for managing factory orders.

2. Toptal: Connecting Businesses with Top Python Developers 

With Toptal, you are welcome to a network of the top freelance software developers, designers, marketing experts, finance experts etc. It only accepts 3% of the applications after a thorough screening. Veritable crème-de-la-crème of developers and specialists. Their exclusive network of Python developers will not just meet your expectations, they will exceed it with value adds that will further enhance your project. 

One of Toptal’s standout features is its flexible collaboration models. They provide their clients with a choice – whether they want to work with a freelance developer directly, outsource the development or hire developer for a certain project, Toptal provides a solution. 

Startups and large enterprises alike benefit from Toptal’s curated talent pool. Developers associated with Toptal are tested on their soft skills. They are not only amazing workers, but also great teammates. Moreover, there is always a trial period while working with a new freelancer that Toptal connected you with.

3. Evrone: Innovation and High-Quality Development 

Established in 2008, Evrone has emerged as a leading IT outsourcing company specializing in high-load system development for web, mobile, blockchain, and more. On their website you can see the results of their work for yourself. It is genuinely amazing how much they accomplished. More than 400 implemented projects and 150 international awards (WEB GURU, CSSLight, Awwwards etc) definitely make them a market leader in this sphere. 

Evrone’s most desirable perk is their enormous team of high-class professionals. More than 300 people are working on the projects, keeping up with new trends and developments. And those who work with them obviously trust them since 70% of their revenue come from long-term contracts with companies from more than 30 countries. Examples include a big data processing service for the advertising agency SberMarketing, evolution and implementation of new features for a crypto payment processing service, a website for a major corporation in the proptech and development sector “Samolet”.  

Evrone’s main areas of expertise include web development, analytics, and custom solutions. Their comprehensive service offerings encompass agile software development, software architecture consulting, digital transformation, and more, ensuring clients receive end-to-end support for their projects. That is exactly why this is the best company for all your python outsourcing needs.

4. Merixstudio: Integrating Python Solutions for Businesses 

Merixstudio is a Polish top python development company recognized for its expertise. Established in 1999, it’s a full-stack agile firm that helps you all through the planning, designing, and development of your web applications and digital products.  

The company specializes in developing solutions for SaaS products and startup projects. They develop e-commerce sites on daily basis, usually with the usage of Magento technology. Their core competencies and skills that make them stand out include creating top of the line web applications and UX/UI design.  

Merixstudio combines innovation with adherence to high development standards to produce exceptional results. Varying skillsets and perspectives presented in their teams are another welcome bonus.

5. DOIT Software: Custom Applications and Turnkey Solutions 

DOIT Software help enterprises, SMEs, and startups to solve unique business challenges to achieve significant results. The company is renowned for creating custom applications and turnkey solutions that address unique business needs. With a focus on innovation and efficiency, DOIT Software has become a reliable ally for organizations across diverse industries.

Their portfolio showcases successful projects such as advanced CRM systems and tools for business process automation. Example of these include a proactive network relationship management solution NRM, a mobile app to support a healthcare solution provider ID-Queue’s interpreting services and many others, detailed on their website in the portfolio section.

DOIT Software employs a result-oriented approach. They promise to their clients that they will keep in-house-like control over the project and team while building a long-term engagement with the company.

6. STX Next: Europe’s Largest Python Development Firm 

Since its establishment in 2005, STX Next has grown into Europe’s largest python programming company. Boasting of some of the finest Python developers in their staff of more than five hundred, they can supercharge your project with extraordinary code. Over the 19 years, STX Next has earned a global reputation for delivering high-quality software solutions powered by Python among clients from Canada, South Africa, Australia, Scandinavia, Western Europe, and the Middle East. Some of the companies that STX Next has done projects for include Sendcloud based in Netherlands, Procsea in France, VetMedux in USA and many others.

STX Next specializes in large-scale projects, offering end-to-end services for businesses requiring robust and scalable solutions. If you need to scale your project up or down depending on your budget and needs, it can be done very easily with STX Next.

7. BairesDev: A Global Team of Python Developers

BairesDev is one of the fastest-growing international outsourcing companies. They have been reimagining the tech landscape for more than a decade, transforming Fortune 500 brands and leading companies across multiple industries and verticals. Their scalable and high-performing software solutions for various clients across the globe are definitely worth considering.

The company’s portfolio includes collaborations with numerous Fortune 500 companies including Google, Rolls-Royce, Adobe and many more, showcasing its ability to handle large-scale and high-stakes projects. BairesDev’s core services include: 

  • web development 
  • mobile app creation 
  • data analysis. 

They deliver a variety of custom web development projects, from enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to SaaS applications using Python and other tools. 

Python has earned its place as one of the most widely used programming languages, powering everything from web applications to data analytics and automation. It has been around since 1991 and as of right now it is the most popular programming language. The global demand for it only increases with passing years, as is evident by the success of the top 7 python development companies. 

Collaborating with professional Python developers unlocks the full potential of this programming language. It is used by the companies in a variety of ways, to work with artificial intelligence, with game development and graphic design etc. The best companies for python developers featured in this article show a proven track record of delivering exceptional results. They can fulfill many functions for their clients, such as consulting, testing their projects, debugging them.

Ookla Shares Analysis of Storm Éowyn’s Impact on Telecoms Infrastructure

The UK and Ireland are in recovery mode after Storm Éowyn wreaked havoc on electricity and telecoms infrastructure in recent days. With record wind gusts exceeding 180 km/h recorded in Ireland and a ‘major incident’ declared on the Isle of Man, the storm has been historic in both its strength and the extent of the damage caused across the islands.

Today, Ookla Shares Analysis of Storm Éowyn’s Impact on Telecoms Infrastructure severe and sustained decline in mobile performance across all operators in Ireland and parts of the UK on a scale not seen before.

On the day the storm made landfall (24th January), median mobile download speeds in Ireland (10.04 Mbps) were 78% lower than the preceding 7-day average of 47.43 Mbps, while median latency was 23% higher at 47.6 ms. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, mobile download speeds at the 10th percentile—a critical metric reflecting the poorest network performance—dropped significantly on the same day, falling by 63% to 2.19 Mbps and by 74% to 1.31 Mbps, respectively, compared to the 7-day average.

The unprecedented scale of impact on telecoms infrastructure serves as the latest and most high-profile call to action for hardening networks against increasingly frequent and severe storms in the UK and Ireland.

You can find the full analysis and Speedtest Intelligence® data here: https://www.ookla.com/articles/storm-eowyn

Why Startups Should Leverage Freelancers for Rapid Growth

In today’s fast-paced world, startups are under constant pressure to innovate, scale, and deliver results—often with limited resources and tight budgets. One key strategy that has emerged as a game-changer for many startups is leveraging freelancers. The flexibility, expertise, and cost-efficiency that freelancers bring to the table are invaluable for businesses looking to grow quickly and effectively.

Freelancers can help fill skill gaps without the commitment and overhead of hiring full-time employees. Whether your startup needs graphic designers, content writers, or developers, freelancers offer a wealth of expertise on demand. By strategically incorporating freelancers into your team, you can boost productivity and innovation while keeping costs in check.

The Rise of the Freelance Economy  

The freelance economy has grown exponentially in recent years. According to reports, the gig economy contributes billions to global economies annually, and the number of skilled professionals turning to freelancing continues to rise. This trend provides startups with an ever-expanding pool of talent to tap into.

For startups, this growth presents an opportunity to access specialized skills and experience that would otherwise be out of reach. Freelancers often bring diverse industry knowledge and fresh perspectives, enabling startups to adapt to market changes quickly and innovate without being hindered by traditional hiring processes.

Flexibility in Scaling Operations  

One of the most significant advantages of working with freelancers is flexibility. Startups often experience unpredictable workloads, and hiring full-time staff during uncertain growth phases can strain budgets. Freelancers allow you to scale your operations up or down based on current needs.  

For instance, if you’re launching a new product, you might need a team of content creators for a few months. Freelancers can fill this temporary need without requiring a long-term commitment. Once the project ends, you can scale back, conserving resources for other priorities.

Additionally, freelancers work on their own schedules and often remotely, making them a perfect fit for startups operating across different time zones or without dedicated office spaces.

Access to Specialized Skills  

Freelancers often have deep expertise in their chosen fields. They continuously upskill to stay competitive in the gig economy, giving startups access to highly skilled professionals who can deliver quality work without the learning curve associated with training full-time employees.

Need someone with expertise in UI/UX design, SEO, or app development? There’s a freelancer for that. By tapping into this vast talent pool, startups can ensure their projects are handled by professionals who bring the latest knowledge and best practices to the table.

Cost Efficiency  

Cost is a major concern for startups, especially those operating on limited budgets. Freelancers can help reduce costs in several ways:

 

  • No Overhead Costs: Freelancers typically work remotely, eliminating expenses related to office space, equipment, and utilities.  
  • Pay-for-Performance: Unlike full-time employees who are paid a salary regardless of workload, freelancers are paid for the specific tasks they complete.  
  • No Long-Term Commitment: Hiring freelancers allows you to avoid the long-term financial obligations associated with permanent employees, such as benefits, insurance, and pensions.  

 

This cost-effective approach ensures that startups can allocate resources to other critical areas, such as product development and marketing.

Faster Time-to-Market  

Freelancers are accustomed to working on tight deadlines and managing multiple projects. This efficiency is a boon for startups that need to move quickly to seize market opportunities or address competitive pressures.

For example, a startup launching an e-commerce website can hire a freelance web developer and content writer to complete the project in weeks rather than months. This speed ensures that startups can stay ahead of the competition and respond to customer needs in real time.

Enhancing Creativity and Innovation  

Startups thrive on fresh ideas and innovative approaches. Freelancers, who often work with multiple clients across various industries, bring a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the table. Their exposure to different challenges and solutions can inspire new ideas and approaches that in-house teams may not have considered.

By incorporating freelancers into brainstorming sessions or project development, startups can foster an environment of creativity and innovation that sets them apart in competitive markets.

Overcoming Geographic Limitations  

The rise of remote work has erased many geographic barriers. Startups no longer need to limit themselves to local talent pools. By hiring freelancers, businesses can access global talent and find the best person for the job, regardless of location.  

This global reach not only broadens the pool of potential candidates but also allows startups to gain insights into different markets, cultures, and customer behaviors—valuable assets for businesses looking to expand internationally.

Building a Diverse Team  

Diversity is increasingly recognized as a driver of innovation and business success. Freelancers offer an opportunity to build diverse teams by bringing unique perspectives and experiences to your projects. Whether it’s cultural diversity, varied professional backgrounds, or different ways of thinking, freelancers can enrich your startup’s approach to problem-solving and creativity.

Tips for Successfully Leveraging Freelancers  

While freelancers offer numerous benefits, working with them requires a thoughtful approach. Here are some tips to ensure a successful collaboration:

 

  1. Define Clear Goals: Clearly outline the scope, deliverables, and timeline for each project. This helps freelancers understand your expectations and deliver quality results.  
  2. Communicate Effectively: Use tools like Slack, Trello, or Asana to maintain open lines of communication and track progress.  
  3. Check Portfolios and Reviews: Before hiring, review freelancers’ portfolios and client feedback to ensure they have the right skills and experience for your project.  
  4. Set a Budget: Discuss pricing upfront to avoid misunderstandings and ensure the project stays within budget.  
  5. Establish Trust: Treat freelancers as valued members of your team by providing constructive feedback, recognizing their contributions, and respecting their time.  

 

Common Misconceptions About Freelancers  

Despite their growing popularity, some misconceptions about freelancers persist. Let’s address a few:  

 

  • Freelancers are not committed: Many freelancers are highly dedicated professionals who take pride in delivering quality work.  
  • Freelancers are only for small tasks: While freelancers excel at handling individual projects, many are capable of managing complex, long-term assignments.  
  • Freelancers are unreliable: Like any professional, reliability varies. However, thorough vetting and clear communication can mitigate risks.  

 

When to Avoid Hiring Freelancers  

While freelancers are a valuable resource, there are instances where hiring full-time employees might be a better choice. For example, if your startup requires ongoing, day-to-day support or specialized roles that involve company-specific training, a full-time hire might be more appropriate.  

Additionally, roles requiring deep integration into your company’s culture, such as team management, may not be well-suited for freelancers.

Conclusion  

For startups aiming for rapid growth, freelancers provide a flexible, cost-effective solution to accessing the talent and skills needed to scale. By leveraging the freelance workforce strategically, startups can remain agile, innovate faster, and allocate resources efficiently.  

As the freelance economy continues to expand, now is the perfect time for startups to explore how freelancers can support their journey toward success. With clear goals, effective communication, and a commitment to collaboration, startups can harness the full potential of freelancers to achieve their growth objectives.

NI Science Festival set to host unmissable tech events

NI Science Festival has officially launched its 2025 programme and will host a series of tech events as part of a 12-day extravaganza that will bring science to life with hundreds of events across Northern Ireland from 12th – 23rd February.

Established in 2014, NI Science Festival has grown to become the largest celebration of its kind on the island of Ireland and one of the leading science festivals in Europe.

For its 11th edition, the festival will present more than 300 events across Northern Ireland, focusing on our rich and diverse natural environment, our engineering and manufacturing heritage, sustainability, technology, the mind and body, and much more.

NI Science Festival director Sarah Jones said: “The NI Science Festival is a celebration of science, creativity, and the world around us, designed to be engaging and enjoyable for everyone. Over 12 days, the festival will pop up in venues across Northern Ireland, showcasing the incredible work of local researchers and scientists alongside some well-known guest speakers. This year’s programme is packed with exciting events for all ages, offering something for everyone. It’s an opportunity to embrace the joy of discovery, explore the power of ideas, and celebrate the possibilities science brings to our everyday lives.”

The festival presents The Ethics of AI – Navigating the Future. Chaired by Rebecca Walsh, Matrix Panel member and Director & Head of Service Design at Big Motive, Dr. Charlotte Blease, health informaticist, and Holly Toner, Data & AI Ethics Tech Lead, Kainos, discuss the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence, exploring how AI impacts society and decision-making.

At DroneVirus – What Made My Drones Go Rogue? Dr Vishal Sharma will provide an understanding of drones, including their inner workings, their communication weaknesses, and how even those with basic computing knowledge can exploit them for destructive purposes. The event will also highlight the importance of best coding practices and how you can explore these as potential areas of interest.

The future of AI and Humanity workshop includes talks and a panel discussion exploring technical, ethical, philosophical and theological issues on the future of AI.

At Data – Securing Our Future or Dominating Our Lives? a panel of experts will highlight some of the challenges they face and how their data driven solutions are making us safer, healthier, more productive and more sustainable, while respecting the need to ensure the privacy of the individual citizen and address the inequalities that our world unfortunately faces.

Putting cybersecurity skills to the test at Cyber Battleground: A Hands-On CTF Workshop for Offensive & Defensive Security which will explore a wide range of vulnerabilities across web applications, software, and even artificial intelligence, gaining valuable insights into both attack and defence strategies.

For more information and to view the full programme, visit nisciencefestival.com.

Second AI Accelerator Programme for Start-Ups Opens for Applications at University College Dublin

NovaUCD has announced that it is seeking applications from Irish-based start-ups to participate in its 2025 AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme.

The focus of this accelerator programme, which is now in its second year, is to support entrepreneurs who are developing disruptive AI solutions in sectors including, healthcare, cybersecurity, education, sustainability, finance, content creation, supply chain and customer service, for a global market.

The 6-month AI Ecosystem Accelerator, which begins in April, will be delivered by NovaUCD, the hub of innovation and start-up activities at University College Dublin (UCD), in partnership with CeADAR, Ireland’s Centre for AI.

Targeted supports for programme participants include guidance from CeADAR’s AI experts, and experienced commercial mentors, along with workshops on value proposition, scaling and investor readiness. Participants will also have access to collaborative co-working space at NovaUCD with the opportunity to connect with successful AI entrepreneurs, start-ups, corporates, investors and access to skilled interns.

Applications are open for the programme via https://www.ucd.ie/innovation/aiecosystem/.

Among the eleven (11) start-ups which completed the inaugural programme were, Customs Window Technologies, a RegTech start-up co-founded by Brian Murphy and Johnny Dunne, and Wrksense, an AI-driven HR tech start-up transforming high-volume recruitment co-founded by Andrew Connolly and Ruaidhrí McDonnell.

Customs Window Technologies and Wrksense announced funding of €800k and €825k respectively during the 2024 programme.

Andrew Connolly, CEO and co-founder, Wrksense, said, “Following the completion of the inaugural AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme, and the insights learnt, we now target a more niche market, targeting companies that align with our overall strategy and product vision. I’d strongly recommend the AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme to entrepreneurs who wish to advance their AI start-ups through the programme’s excellent dedicated technical and commercial supports.”

The AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme is funded through the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) framework, a Europe-wide initiative with funding of €700 million from both the European Commission and the Governments of member states.

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, through Enterprise Ireland, is leading on the EDIH programme for Ireland and CeADAR is the European Digital Innovation Hub in AI for Ireland.

Michelle Doyle, Senior Manager, Strategic Innovation Partnerships, NovaUCD, said, “Following the successful completion of our inaugural AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme, delivered in collaboration with our colleagues at CeADAR, we are delighted to launch our second programme. We are now seeking applications from Irish-based start-ups with novel AI-based products or services, with a validated minimum viable product or proof of concept, and seeking investment this year, to join our next programme and be part of our ecosystem of successful entrepreneurs.”

Dr Ricardo Simon Carbajo, Director of Innovation and Development, CeADAR, said, “The AI Ecosystem Accelerator is one of the key services of CeADAR’s European Digital Innovation Hub programme. Run in partnership with NovaUCD the programme will provide entrepreneurs who are leveraging the power of AI with the required support, knowledge and network to accelerate their start-ups from ideation to investment stage.

We encourage entrepreneurs to find out the benefits of accelerating their venture with us and the range of other funded services for companies as part of CeADAR’s EDIH in AI programme.”

Applications are now open until 21 February 2025 for the second AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme via https://www.ucd.ie/innovation/aiecosystem/.

The 2025 AI Ecosystem Accelerator Programme will commence in April and will end with a showcase event in October.

Majority launches the Naga 60 2.1 Bluetooth Soundbar in the UK

Majority, the consumer electronics brand known for its innovative products, provides a truly impressive audio experience with the Naga 60, for an affordable price.

Following the success of the Majority Bowfell Soundbar and Majority Bowfell Plus 2.1 Bluetooth Soundbar & Subwoofer, Majority introduces the premium edition of their Bluetooth soundbar range, the Majority Naga 60.

The Majority Naga 60 Soundbar is available in the UK on Amazon for £69.95 from 1st February 2025.

 Where style meets substance, the Naga 60 not only awakens your home audio but features a digital display, premium buttons, and finish for a sleek and innovative aesthetic.

Revolutionising your home entertainment, the Naga 60 soundbar features a built-in 2.5” subwoofer immersing users in deep and impactful bass. Boasting 120W of power, the Majority Naga 60 provides exceptional high-fidelity sound quality and helps breathe life into movies, music, and games with the dynamic EQ controls. Accompanied by a premium remote control for easy listening, users can easily adjust volume, modes, and settings, as required.

The advanced 2.1 channel 3D surround sound technology, along with the 2.25” speaker drivers and end cap tweeters ensures that Naga 60 fills the room with the dynamic audio with clear dialogue and powerful bass.

Designed for the modern audiophile, the Naga 60 house a wide range of connectivity including 5.0 Bluetooth and HDMI ARC integration for a stress-free set-up, which can also be wall mounted. The soundbar can also be connected with USB, Optical and AUX to enhance the listening experience for every occasion.

Specs

  • Multi Connectivity: 5.0 Bluetooth, HDMI Arc, Optical, AUX, USB
  • 2.1 Channel
  • 2 x 2.25” Speaker Drivers
  • 1 x 2.5” Subwoofer
  • End cap tweeters
  • Premium Remote Control included
  • EQ Controls
  • Power Supply: DC20V 1.7A
  • Weight: 2.08kg
  • Dimensions: 610mm x 77.7m x 117mm

The Majority Naga 60 Soundbar is available in the UK on Amazon for £69.95 from 1st February 2025.

See our Majority Audio reviews