Leading real hands on tech review site in Ireland with technology, business news and more. Jim O Brien Tech.
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.
Nokia today announced that it has signed a multi-year patent license agreement with Samsung covering the use of Nokia’s video technologies in Samsung’s televisions. Under the agreement, Samsung will make royalty payments to Nokia. The new agreement is separate from Nokia and Samsung’s existing 5G patent license agreement. The terms of the agreement remain confidential between the parties.
Arvin Patel, Chief Licensing Officer, New Segments at Nokia, said: “We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Samsung covering the use of our video technologies in their world-class TVs. The agreement is yet another proof point of Nokia’s leadership in video and multimedia technologies, and further validation of our decades-long investments in multimedia R&D and standardization.”
Nokia is a leader in the development of video and multimedia technologies, including video compression, content delivery, content recommendation and aspects related to hardware. In the past 25 years, Nokia has created almost 5,000 inventions that enable multimedia products and services and continues to play a leading role in multimedia research and standardization. Nokia’s expertise in multimedia and video research is built on continuous investment to advance the industry. Nokia has invested around €150 billion in R&D since 2000 (including over €4 billion in 2023 alone) for cutting edge technologies including cellular and multimedia.
SD Worx Ireland, a leading payroll and HR solutions provider, today announces the results of its latest research which found that 30% of employers in Ireland cite pay equity as a top challenge when it comes to rewarding employees. To tackle this, nearly three-quarters (74%) of Irish organisations say they are investing in pay equity initiatives.
The independent study was commissioned by SD Worx and carried out by iVOX among 1,000 employers in Ireland to gain insights into how organisations are rewarding their employees and addressing gender pay inequity in a changing and competitive talent landscape.
The EU Pay Transparency Directive, which came into force in 2023, requires Irish organisations to report and provide transparency across key areas including pay equity and gender pay gaps. SD Worx’s research found that some 49% of employers in Ireland are committed to pay transparency, which would see the pay level of employees being made available to employees of similar grade in the organisation. Moreover, 43% of organisations cite pay transparency as a top challenge when rewarding employees.
As the war for talent continues to rage, businesses are adopting more strategic approaches to rewards. More than half (51%) of employers say their reward policy plays an essential role in their reputation as an employer. As such, 31% are offering flexible wage payment dates, which could include paying employees early, or paying on special request.
Some employees have the flexibility to choose how they would like to be rewarded, and 31% of employers say that workers can put together their own reward package based on an allocated budget. Aside from salary, employee rewards offered by Irish employers include bonuses and commission (53%), health and wellness benefits (48%), and vouchers (45%).
The survey suggests that the rising cost of doing business is having a significant impact on employers. Over half (51%) say that their organisation is struggling to strike a balance between attractive rewards and manageable labour costs. The same number of employers state that total wage costs are on the rise, while 42% cited wage cost pressures as another key challenge when it comes to rewarding employees.
Eimear Byrne, Country Leader, SD Worx Ireland, said:“Tackling pay inequity needs to be at the forefront of employers’ agendas in Ireland, as equal pay for equivalent work should be the rule, not the exception. Businesses of all sizes must establish structures to effectively manage their pay transparency obligations, especially as mandatory gender pay gap reporting is extending to organisations with more than 50 employees in 2025.
“Businesses must place their team members at the core of all business decisions – particularly in relation to rewards and remuneration. Not only will this lead to happier, engaged, and productive employees who are more likely to stay long-term, it will also set organisations apart as they look to attract new, skilled workers.
“The ever-increasing cost of doing business is being felt across the board, and our research shows that Irish employers are finding it difficult to balance what employees want and need with what the business can reasonably afford to do. To navigate these challenges effectively, organisations need to be capable of delivering transparent reporting and supporting wage cost projections. These tools are essential for businesses to ensure sustainable success.”
As big data becomes more and more popular, businesses are taking note and implementing big data strategies into their operations. However, with this newfound power comes new security risks that must be taken into account. In this blog post, we will discuss six things you need to know about big data security. By understanding these risks, you can take the necessary precautions to protect your business’ data!
1) Why Is Big Data Security Important?
Big data security is important for a few reasons. First and foremost, it ensures the safety of your data. This is especially critical if you’re handling sensitive information, such as customer data or financial records. Also, huge volumes of data usually have insufficient protection and are a great opportunity for criminals to ply their trade. To fight off these malicious activities, you need protection in form of adjusted big data security measures as seen at https://www.pgs-soft.com/blog/big-data-security-is-important/ website. Additionally, big data security helps to prevent against data breaches, which can be costly for your business in terms of both money and reputation.
2) What Are The Biggest Big Data Security Risks?
There are a few big data security risks that you should be aware of. One of the most common is data breaches, which can occur when sensitive information is stolen from your business’ systems. This can happen through hacking, malware, or even human error. Another big risk is insider threats, which occur when an employee or contractor with access to your data misuses it. This can be done intentionally or unintentionally, but either way, it can be disastrous for your business. Finally, big data security risks also include things like denial of service attacks and data loss. Closely related to big data security are the essential considerations of Access Control Management, ensuring data protection and privacy.
3) How Can You Protect Your Business From Big Data Security Risks?
Now that you know some of the biggest risks, you may be wondering how you can protect your business. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to help mitigate these risks. First, invest in a good security system and make sure it’s up to date. This will help to deter hackers and other malicious actors from gaining access to your data. Second, train your employees on proper data handling procedures and make sure they understand the importance of security. Third, implement a robust data security posture management (DSPM) strategy to continuously assess and improve your organization’s data security measures.
Finally, have a plan in place for what to do in the event of a data breach or other incident. By taking these precautions, you can help keep your business’ data safe!
4) What Are Some of The Biggest Data Breaches in Recent History?
There have been a few notable data breaches in recent years that have made headlines. One of the most infamous is the Equifax breach, which occurred in 2017 and affected over 147 million people. Another big one is the Yahoo! data breach, which happened in 2013 and impacted over three billion people. These breaches are a reminder of how important it is to take data security seriously and to have proper protections in place. Also, it’s important to note that even small businesses are not immune to data breaches. In fact, 43% of all data breaches occur at small businesses! This just goes to show that no business is too small to be a target. Additionally, the average cost of a data breach is $148 per record, so it’s not something to take lightly!
5) How Can You Prevent Data Breaches?
As we’ve seen, data breaches can have a significant impact on your business. So, how can you prevent them from happening in the first place? One way is to invest in proper security measures, as we discussed earlier. This includes things like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, continuous security testing, and encryption. Additionally, you should train your employees on security procedures and make sure they understand the importance of keeping your data safe. Finally, have a plan in place for what to do in the event of a breach. By taking these steps, you can help to prevent data breaches from happening at your business. While no system is perfect, these measures can help to deter and detect data breaches, and give you a plan of action to follow if one does occur.
6) What Are Some of The Other Biggest Security Threats?
In addition to data breaches, there are a few other big security threats that businesses need to be aware of. These include things like denial of service attacks, which can shut down your systems; malware, which can infect your computers and cause damage; and phishing scams, which can trick your employees into giving up sensitive information. By being aware of these threats and taking steps to protect against them, you can help keep your business’ data safe! For example, you can invest in security measures like firewalls and intrusion detection systems, train your employees on proper security procedures, and have a plan in place for what to do in the event of an attack.
What Are the Different Types of Data Security?
Now that you know a bit about big data security risks and how to prevent them, you may be wondering what types of data security measures are available. There are a few different types of data security, including physical security, biometric scanners, logical security, and access control. Physical security measures help to protect your data from things like fires and floods, while logical security measures help to protect your data from things like malware and hacking. Access control measures help to restrict who can access your data and what they can do with it. By implementing these different types of security measures, you can help to keep your data safe!
What Are the Main Components of Big Data?
Now that we’ve covered some of the basics of big data security, let’s take a look at the main components of big data. Big data typically consists of three things: volume, velocity, and variety. Volume refers to the amount of data you have. Velocity refers to the speed at which your data is growing. Variety refers to the different types of data you have. By understanding these three components, you can start to get a better idea of how to manage and protect your big data!
If you’re handling big data, then you need to be aware of the security risks involved. By understanding these risks and taking steps to protect your business, you can help keep your data safe from harm! Big data security is important for businesses of all sizes. We hope this has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us. Thank you!
Barometer of fixed internet connections in Ireland, The analysis period is from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024.
The nPerf barometer is based on 15,886 tests performed by users in real conditions via the nPerf website or using the nPerf application available on Android and iOS.
Sky achieved a notable performance with a nPerf score of 112,942, offering a balanced Internet experience with a Download bitrate of 104 Mbps and an Upload bitrate of 33 Mbps. Despite a Latency of 21 ms, Sky excelled in Browsing at 83%.
Three, with a score of 90,522, focused on providing solid Internet basics, displaying a Download bitrate of 65 Mbps and an Upload bitrate of 30 Mbps, while maintaining a Latency of 32 ms.
Virgin Media led the market with a top nPerf score of 124,559, showcasing a superior Download bitrate of 216 Mbps and an Upload bitrate of 44 Mbps, coupled with a Streaming performance of 89%.
Vodafone showed a strong presence with a score of 114,795, highlighted by an exceptional Upload bitrate of 46 Mbps and outstanding Browsing performance at 85%.
Eir delivered robust results with a nPerf score of 121,760, accompanied by a Download bitrate of 187 Mbps and an Upload bitrate of 45 Mbps, excelling in Streaming at 89%.
“This year, we have seen remarkable improvements in overall performance, particularly in upload speeds and browsing experiences, indicating a positive trend towards enhancing user experience,” said Sébastien de Rosbo, Managing Director nPerf.
Focus WiFi:
Virgin Media is the operator that offers the best WiFi experience in Ireland.
WiFi is a wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to the Internet without physical cables. It provides flexibility and mobility, enabling users to access the Internet from various locations within the coverage area. The main advantages of WiFi are its convenience and the ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
The FNTCASE case line up for iPhone 16 series is now out and with us sporting the iPhone 16 which we think will be one of the most popular out of the new Apple portfolio have been checking out some of their cases just launched recently.
With a wide range of cases and colours on offer for everyone here FNTCASE has iPhone users covered this year and an added bonus these case come with free screen protectors giving you the ultimate protection ready to go and affordable which is great and it is not often you get free screen protectors when you buy a case so it is not to be missed.
Both cases tested here are excellent one that shows your devices true colour and one that is smoked in color which is my pick of the two but this is my choice.
Both cases work with wireless charging have tactile keys raised edges front a back and bumpers on the corners giving you more protection along with the extra grip and are magsafe compatible with strong magnets which makes life easier if you have magsafe products at home the office and indeed your car.
Check out the video review below for more.
FNTCASE for iPhone 16 Phone Case: Magnetic Matte Textured Shockproof Military Grade Drop Protection Cell Phone Cover
Compatibility: FNTCASE for iPhone 16 case, produced in the 1:1 ratio of the iPhone 16 6.1 inch. Our slim TPU+PC material cases fit your iPhone body like a glove and naturally show off the beauty of your phone. And precise cutouts allow full access to the speaker, camera, buttons, and other ports
Strong Magnetic Attraction: Compatible with Magnetic chargers and other Qi Wireless chargers without signal interference. Our iPhone 16 case has 38 super N52 magnets built in. Its magnetic attraction reaches 2400 gf, which is almost 7X stronger than ordinary, so it won’t fall off no matter how it shakes while charging
Matte Texture & Excellent Touch Feel: The iPhone 16 case uses high-grade matte TPU and PC material, refined and elegant beauty without obscuring the logo. The frosted surface provides you with a comfortable hand feel and the nano-antioxidant layer can effectively prevent stains and scratches
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10FT Military Grade Protection: Passed Military Drop Tested up to 10FT. This iPhone 16 case backplane is made with rigid polycarbonate and flexible shockproof TPU bumpers around the edge and features 4 built-in corner Airbags to absorb impact, which can prevent your Phone from accidental drops, bumps, and scratches
Screen & Camera Raised Edges: The tiny design of 2.5 mm lips over the camera, 1.5 mm bezels over the screen, and 0.5 mm raised corner lips on the back provides extra and comprehensive protection, can minimize and reduce scratches
FNTCASE for iPhone 16 6.1 inch Case: Magnetic Charging Anti Yellowing Shockproof Magsafe Support Phone Case
【Crystal Clear & Never Yellow】Using high-grade Bayer’s ultra-clear TPU and PC material, allowing you to admire the original sublime beauty of iPhone 16 while won’t get oily when used. The Nano antioxidant layer effectively resists stains and sweat, keeping the case clear like a diamond longer than others
【Strong Magnetic Attraction】Compatible with Magnetic chargers and other Qi Wireless chargers without any signal influence. This iPhone 16 case has built-in 38 super N52 magnets. Its magnetic attraction reaches 2400 gf, which is almost 7X stronger than ordinary, it won’t fall off no matter how it shakes when you are charging
【10FT Military Grade Protection】Passed Military Drop Tested up to 10 FT. This iPhone 16 clear case backplane is made with rigid polycarbonate and flexible shockproof TPU bumpers around the edge and features 4 built-in corner Airbags to absorb impact, which can prevent your Phone from accidental drops, bumps, and scratches
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【Raised Camera & Screen Protection】The tiny design of 2.5 mm lips over the camera, 1.2 mm bezels over the screen, and 0.5 mm raised corner lips on the back provides extra and comprehensive protection, even if the phone is dropped, can minimize and reduce scratches and bumps on the phone.
【Ultimate Grip & Slim Fit 】To prevent hand sweat and grease which normally could cause a slippery grip and additional phone drops, this iPhone 16 Case adopts an ergonomic square side with textured no-slip buttons to provide an excellent grip, which feels secure yet soft and comfortable to hold in your hand. Plus, it supports wireless chargers, eliminating the need to remove the case for charging.
【Compatibility & Professional Support】 Only compatible with iPhone 16 Phones. We are confident in our ability to provide you with quality products and services.
QDOS, a leading UK designer of premium smartphone cases, screen protectors and chargers, launches its SIP+SNAP MagSafe water bottle range, combining hands-free convenience that keeps you hydrated on the go.
Perfect for home, work, gym and travel, the SIP+SNAP bottle comfortably fits into a work bag or rucksack, easily attaching your phone, so it’s near and accessible. It also makes a great stand for viewing content or doing video calls on the go, or following workouts. It even replaces a tripod for filming, offering a convenient solution for content creators.
The bottle has a capacity of 500ml, boasts a leak-proof, flip-top lid, stainless steel body and double-wall insulation for optimal temperature retention – keeping drinks cold for 24 hours or hot for 12 hours.
The SIP+SNAP range features a sleek, lightly textured, matte finish, offering a comfortable, secure grip and comes in four colours to match the iPhone 16 cases of blue, black, natural and pink, retailing at £29.99 from QDOS.
The MagSafe technology allows seamless and secure magnetic attachment to phone cases for hands-free use. And, if your smartphone doesn’t have a built-in MagSafe ring, the SIP+SNAP includes an extra MagSafe sticker for seamless compatibility with any mobile device.
In keeping with all QDOS’ products, these 2-in-1 hydration stations align with the current trend of making everyday objects smarter and more integrated, blending functionality with modern technology.
Analysisof Bank of Ireland customer behaviour between 14 and 24 December has shown record Christmas digital banking usage.
On Thursday, 19 December close to 1.6 million digital banking logins were recorded across Bank of Ireland’s iOS and Android mobile apps, as well as through its online banking website. This is higher digital banking usage than any other peak holiday or shopping period including Christmas, the traditionally busy Black Friday sales, and the Easter holiday season. The peak 2024 login figure is an increase of 4% compared to December 2023.
Biometric logins to the mobile banking app have also grown in popularity, up by 45% in December 2024 compared to December 2023. Over 3 million biometric logins were recorded during the month.
The pre-holiday period analysed saw contactless transactions increasing by 2%, with over 1.9 million contactless transactions recorded on 23 December alone, also making this a record-breaking figure for contactless transactions by Bank of Ireland customers. And, while digital banking and contactless payments increased, the number of ATM transactions fell 12% in December 2024 compared with the same date range (14 – 24 Dec) in 2023.
Ciarán Coyle, Group Chief Operating Officer, Bank of Ireland said: “As demonstrated by these latest figures consumers really value the speed of digital banking, especially during particularly busy holiday and shopping periods. We pair that digital service with telephone and branch options for more complex matters or bigger decisions. Being able to bank from anywhere – home, office, or on the move – is one of the greatest benefits of digital banking and that’s why we are focussed on continuing to invest in and enhance our digital banking services.”
In an era dominated by technology, the importance of efficient hardware storage cannot be overstated. Whether you’re a small business looking to enhance your workspace or a seasoned technician working from home, properly organizing hardware contributes significantly to productivity and ease of access. Taking the time to ensure your physical storage is well-structured and functional saves time and reduces stress during critical projects. Proper organization leads to improved workflows and enhanced overall efficiency in any environment.
Categorize by Type
The first step to efficient hardware organization is categorizing your items. Grouping components according to their types—such as screws, cables, and connectors—can significantly streamline your workflow. When every item has a designated place, you can easily locate what you need without rummaging through piles of mixed components. Clear labeling of each category can further enhance this method by allowing you to identify where each type is stored quickly.
Consider using bins or containers for each category. It is advisable to choose transparent containers so that you can easily view their contents. While some items may be smaller and require specialized storage solutions, larger components can benefit from shelving systems. By investing in proper categorization from the start, your storage system will become both intuitive and straightforward to maintain as your inventory grows.
Utilize Weatherproof Storage Options
When it comes to organizing hardware, especially in areas prone to moisture or temperature fluctuations, it’s vital to invest in weatherproof storage solutions. Opting for the Bud industries ip65 weatherproof containers can be an excellent choice for safeguarding your valuable components. Items stored in such containers are not only protected from water or dust but also resist various environmental factors that may lead to degradation over time.
Moreover, weatherproof storage options provide peace of mind, ensuring that your hardware remains intact, regardless of external conditions. By prioritizing durable and weather-resistant solutions, you safeguard your investments and simplify future maintenance challenges.
Optimize Vertical Space
In many storage environments, vertical space is often underutilized. Capitalizing on this space enhances your ability to store more while keeping floor space clear for movement. Use shelving units that reach the ceiling or floating shelves to create additional storage areas for items that are not frequently accessed. Implementing hooks for tools or cables can also help to maximize vertical organization while maintaining accessibility.
By organizing vertically, you can maintain a more spacious workshop and avoid cluttering surfaces. Consider heavy-duty racks for holding heavier items and ensure that they are properly secured. Not only do you increase your storage capability, but you also create a visually appealing and orderly workspace that inspires productivity.
Use a Consistent Labeling System
Consistency is crucial when it comes to labeling your storage solutions. A well-organized space can quickly become chaotic if items are not labeled uniformly. Choose a clear labeling system that everyone who uses the space understands. This might include color-coded labels or standardized nomenclature for each category, which ensures that equipment is always returned to the right place after use.
Additionally, consider incorporating digital labels or scanning QR codes on the labels for a tech-savvy approach. This system can provide detailed information about each component, including specifications and quantities, accessible through a smartphone or computer. Such an organized approach greatly simplifies the inventory management process and reduces the chances of errors when retrieving items.
Employ Modular Storage Solutions
Modularity in your storage design promotes flexibility and adaptability in your setup. Modular storage solutions allow you to reconfigure your arrangement easily as your inventory changes or expands. Such storage options are often customizable in size and shape, so they can be adjusted to accommodate various components while efficiently utilizing your stored space.
For example, storage containers that can be stacked or arranged side-by-side provide the user with many options. They can keep hardware organized without committing to a permanent layout. An adaptable setup means you can remain responsive to your needs throughout your projects, making it simple to reorganize whenever necessary.
Maintain an Inventory Log
Keeping track of your storage is just as essential as the organization itself. An inventory log is a powerful tool in hardware management. It can be a simple spreadsheet that lists items, quantities, and locations, or you can go high-tech with inventory management software. Regularly updating this log lets you keep tabs on what’s in stock, preventing unnecessary purchases and wasted expenses.
More importantly, an inventory log can help you identify patterns in your usage, letting you know what items are frequently in demand and which ones are rarely utilized. This insight can drive decisions regarding future purchases or help you plan for storage adjustments. With knowledge of your inventory, it becomes easier to maintain an organized setup that best suits your needs.
Organizing physical hardware storage need not be a daunting task. By employing these best practices, you can create a streamlined and effective storage environment, minimizing clutter and enhancing efficiency. Ultimately, an organized space helps you focus on your projects without the distraction of misplaced items, providing a more enjoyable and productive experience for all those involved.
Alienware today unveiled a range of cutting-edge gaming products designed to elevate performance, visuals, and customisation for gamers and creators alike. Key highlights include the debut of the Alienware 27 4K QD-OLED Gaming Monitor, the next evolution of Area-51 desktops and laptops, and the introduction of Elite Care, a premium support program for gamers.
The Alienware 27 4K QD-OLED Gaming Monitor, redefines visual immersion. Featuring 4K resolution, a 240Hz refresh rate, and NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro technologies, it offers a superior gaming experience with ultra-smooth, vibrant visuals. Built with Alienware’s new AW30 design language, the monitor combines cutting-edge performance with sleek aesthetics, including a space-saving compact base and enhanced cable management. The inclusion of Dolby Vision HDR and Creator Mode makes it a versatile choice for gamers and content creators.
Yoon Lee, Senior Vice President of Alienware and Gaming at Dell Technologiessaid “The new Alienware 27 4K QD-OLED Gaming Monitor sets a new standard for gaming displays, offering the world’s highest pixels per inch in any OLED or QD-OLED monitor. This latest innovation showcases Alienware’s commitment to redefining gaming experiences with unparalleled visual clarity, speed, and immersion all while delivering stunning, life-like visuals and seamless gameplay that gamers and developers alike will appreciate”
The Area-51 series marks its return with the launch of both desktops and laptops, delivering unparalleled performance and customizability. The Area-51 Desktop boasts an 80L tower, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs, and Intel Core Ultra processors, along with an advanced positive-pressure cooling system that enhances airflow and reduces noise.
The Area-51 Laptops, available in 18-inch and 16-inch configurations, are equipped with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs, Intel Core Ultra CPUs, and cutting-edge Cryo-tech cooling technology for uncompromised performance in a portable design. Both products embody Alienware’s commitment to offering the ultimate gaming experience.
“The return of the Area-51 lineup is a proud moment for Alienware, as it represents the pinnacle of performance, design, and upgradeability,” said Matt McGowan, Vice President of Alienware Product Management. “With cutting-edge features like NVIDIA Blackwell GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs, advanced thermal architectures, and scalable designs, the new Area-51 desktops and laptops are crafted to meet the evolving needs of gamers and creators, delivering unyielding performance and future-proof innovation.”
Enhanced gaming support with Elite Care
Alienware also launched Elite Care, a premium support service tailored to gaming needs. This program includes 24/7 expert assistance for installation, optimisation, and repairs, as well as advanced support features like predictive issue resolution and extended battery coverage for laptops.
The Alienware 27 4K QD-OLED Gaming Monitor will be available in the EMEA region from April 2025. The Area-51 Desktop and Area-51 Laptops will follow later in Q1 2025, with additional configurations and pricing details to follow.
