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.

iStorage, Global Leaders In Secure Data Storage Solutions, Introduces The Groundbreaking diskAshur3 Range With Advanced FIPS 140-3 Level 3 Compliant Technology

iStorage, the leading provider of hardware encrypted, portable data storage and cloud encryption solutions, are proud to announce the launch of their new diskAshur3 range. The new diskAshur3 range will be unveiled at InfoSecurity Europe, ExCel London on June 4th, 2024 on stand C45. Attendees can visit their stand to speak with iStorage’s data security experts and learn how to securely store and protect valuable data.

The new diskAshur3 range includes three products: diskAshur3, diskAshur PRO3, and diskAshur DT3. Each drive boasts advanced security features, including three encryption modes (patent pending), no preset PINs, and user-configurable PINs ranging from 8 to 64 digits. With capacities of up to 16 TB for portable drives and up to 24 TB for desktop drives, these devices provide unparalleled security with ample storage capacities. The new range incorporates all the essential features of other iStorage products such as ease of use, platform independence and tamper-proof sleek designs.

The diskAshur3 range is TAA compliant featuring FIPS PUB 197 validated AES XTS 256-bit hardware encryption along with Common Criteria EAL 5+ certified secure microprocessors, ensuring robust protection against unauthorised access. The diskAshur3 and diskAshur PRO3 are portable HDD/SSD drives with capacities of up to 5TB (HDD) and 16TB (SSD). The diskAshur DT3 is a desktop HDD drive offering the same level of security and high-capacity storage of up to 24TB.

Government Accreditation

The diskAshur PRO3 and diskAshur DT3 are amongst the first encrypted HDDs/SSDs pending the new FIPS 140-3 Level 3 scheme, demonstrating compliance with the latest U.S. government computer security standards for cryptographic modules. This certification aligns with ISO/IEC 19790 standards and represents the highest level of data protection and encryption.

High Capacity and Speed

The diskAshur3 range offers storage capacities of up to 24TB and data transfer speeds of up to 450 MB/s, surpassing the impressive speeds of the diskAshur2 range

No Preset PIN

With no preset PIN functionality, users must configure an 8-64 digit PIN before use, providing an additional layer of security to protect stored data.

John Michael, Founder & CEO of iStorage, commented: “Our new diskAshur3 range offers top-level security features, high capacities, and faster transfer speeds, making it the ultimate solution for secure data storage. These drives, with capacities of up to 24TB and pending FIPS 140-3 Level 3 validation, are one-of-a-kind in the industry.”

He added, “With the rise in remote work, sophisticated ransomware attacks, and increased privacy regulations, organisations need to reevaluate their cybersecurity measures. Secure encryption and regular data backups are essential to prevent data breaches and ensure business continuity.”

In today’s digital age, data security is more critical than ever. The rise of remote and hybrid working, coupled with the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks, underscores the need for advanced data protection solutions. iStorage’s diskAshur3 range addresses these challenges by offering secure, high-capacity storage solutions that meet the highest industry standards, helping organisations safeguard their data against evolving threats.

See our latest iStorage reviews

 

EA SPORTS UFC 5 Kicks-Off Fight Week with UFC 304 in Manchester, England

EA SPORTS UFC 5 is kicking off Fight Week in celebration of the highly anticipated UFC 304 event in Manchester, England, by featuring four new Alter Egos (Michael Bisping, Darren Till, Alexander Gustafsson, and Khabib Nurmagomedov).

The following Four new rostered fighters will also be added to UFC 5 alongside new Fight Week challenges, Pick Ems, and vanity content, which is now live:

UFC 304 Fight Week starts in UFC 5. Through the Fight Pick’ems option, players can select who they think will win each of the Main Card fights. Choosing the winner and method for each fight will unlock in-game prizes. Completing the in-game Punch Card will reward players with in-game unlockables, including one of the newly featured Alter Egos (Alexander Gustafsson from UFC 165).

UFC 304 takes place at Co-Op Live in Manchester, England on Saturday, July 27, and will feature a welterweight title bout between Leon Edwards (C WW) and Belal Muhammad (#2 WW). With their first match ending controversially, this is a rematch over two years in the making. There will also be the Heavyweight Interim title clash between Tom Aspinall (#1 HW) and Curtis Blaydes (#4 HW) and a marquee main card match-up between Paddy Pimblett and King Green (#15 LW). There are four fan-favourite fighters from England on this weekend’s main card in Manchester. Full card details can be found here.

There is a new Community Vote feature that is in-game from today, the start of UFC 304 Fight Week. The first in-game Community Vote will allow players to vote for up to four Alter Egos from a list of ten fighters chosen by our community. The four Alter Egos with the highest total votes will be chosen with the aim of incorporating them in a future 2024 game update. Check out the details and get updates on the Community Vote feature here.

Also dropped new gameplay updates and adjustments in a recent patch. More information on the content updates can be found here.

EA SPORTS UFC 5 is available now worldwide for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. To download UFC 5 assets for UFC 304, visit here or go to EAPressPortal.com. For more details on UFC 5, visit http://x.ea.com/ufc5/home. 

A Complete Guide to Selecting Reliable Fiber Internet Provider

Many people today are looking into fiber internet. They love the fast upload and download speeds and low latency. Multiple companies currently offer this service, so knowing which provider to choose can be challenging. What features should a person look for when comparing providers? 

Speed

ISPs that offer fiber internet allow consumers to choose from different speeds. Consumers should know what speed is best for their usage. A single person only wishing to run a few devices will find 500 Mbps ideal. Multiple individuals using the same connection while running several devices simultaneously need 1 or 2 gigabits. Choosing a provider offering 2 gigabits is best because it will be necessary as technology advances. 

One thing many people overlook when considering the number of devices they run is items that aren’t readily apparent when looking at the internet connection. People look at their phones, laptops, tablets, printers, and smart TVs. They overlook the smart home devices that allow their residences to function. These devices range from smart plugs to smart major appliances. All benefit from the internet connection and influence the internet speed needed. 

Price and Promotions

People might assume they must bundle services to get the best prices. In the past, this was often true. However, ISPs recognize they are losing business because consumers might not want phone or TV service. Standalone internet service is available, and consumers must shop around to find the right deal for their needs. To save money when purchasing a standalone service, ask about discounts and promotions that may help save money. 

Avoid Data Caps

ISPs often impose data caps. When a customer exceeds this amount, the provider charges for any extra data used. Choosing an unlimited plan ensures data is always available when needed, and the customer knows how much they will pay for the service each month. 

Smart Installations

When having fiber internet installed, request a Wi-Fi signal strength test. This test helps identify dead spots in the home so extenders or mesh Wi-Fi can be installed. A gig-speed installation may also be requested. 

Tech Support

Nobody wants to have issues with their internet. When problems arise, they want help immediately. Look for a company with robust tech support to resolve matters quickly and efficiently. Many providers today offer automated troubleshooting with the option of speaking to a live person if the automated system isn’t of help. Having multiple options makes it easy to get help when needed. 

Consider Additional Services

Internet service providers often offer additional services to enhance the user experience. They may offer apps that provide password and device protection or identity monitoring. Cloud storage remains popular with many internet users today, and the ISP might offer this storage at a discounted price for its customers. Having one provider for multiple services is beneficial, as the customer only has one place to turn when they need help with their account. 

Updated Equipment 

Look for a provider with the latest equipment. Technology advances at an astounding rate, so choosing a provider whose fiber footprint is expanding is best. They need state-of-the-art service to keep up with these changes. 

Once a fiber internet provider is selected, it’s time to focus on the home network. Consider upgrading devices to benefit the most from the new network. When you see how excellent this internet service is, you’ll want to do more online. 

BELFAST FIRM DEMONSTRATES SAFE AUTOMATED TRANSPORT AT FARNBOROUGH AIRSHOW

Belfast-based ANGOKA, cyber security experts in land and air mobility, has landed at Farnborough Air Show, the world-leading annual aviation industry exhibition. The ANGOKA delegation is demonstrating its latest technologies which protect connected and automated drones and aircraft from cyber intrusions, hack attacks and other unplanned events to an international audience.

Yuri Andersson says he is grateful to InvestNI for the opportunity. “We are here to display ANGOKA’s cybersecurity technology for machine-to-machine communication, an essential factor without which the safe operation of future uncrewed aircraft is impossible.”

“Our communication device for drones combines secure terrestrial and non-terrestrial 5G will be demonstrated and we will also show how ANGOKA’s solution can secure remote operation of vehicles, including a live hack,” says Mr Andersson.

ANGOKA is a major player in the UK Government’s Future Flight programme and is pressing for new regulations which will allow faster development of the drone sector.

“We’re constantly working to keep the skies safe through the highest standards of cybersecurity. We are seeing increasing demand for wider adoption of varied drone use across different industries, which requires Beyond Visual Line of Sight operation. It is essential to maintain a secure communication to ensure the safety of that operation.” he says.

ANGOKA is located in Hall 1 Booth 1321.

Teen-Turn launch 2024 summer work experience programme

Teen-Turn,  an EU wide digital impact organisation of the year, connects girls from underrepresented communities with women who are STEM role models at Ireland’s leading companies for summer work placements called “Teenturnships” in order to tackle the deficit of young women in STEM.

This year, Teen-Turn’s program commenced with 81 girls being introduced to their mentors. These mentors are accomplished women who are STEM professionals, including engineers, data scientists, cybersecurity and AI specialists, and senior managers from prominent companies such as Dell, BNY Mellon, Hostelworld, BD, Aptiv, Bearing Point, and Trane Technologies Thermoking.

The participating girls, from DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), rural, and underserved schools across Ireland, will engage in a two-week immersive experience in August. During this period, they will work on STEM projects under the guidance of their women-in-STEM mentors, gaining firsthand experience.

Teen-Turn believes that more girls, from areas where third level education is uncommon, exploring and gaining an interest in STEM will lead to more women earning STEM qualifications, therefore meeting a demand for skills that is outpacing supply.

Throughout the program, participants will learn from their mentors and engage in various activities each workday. Additionally, they will document and share their experiences through blogging, providing insights into their journey and the impact of the program.

New Name Enters UK Connectivity Arena – Sona Business

A new name has officially entered the UK connectivity arena, promising to shake-up the sector and ‘raise the game’ of integrated network communications.

Sona Business is a wholesale internet, cloud and hosted UC solution provider backed by a 12-year international pedigree. The ambitious company is opening flagship offices in Hull to spearheaded UK activities led by experienced industry professional and new UK Partner Manager John McKindland.

The privately owned business was started by founders Sonia Harjani and Walter Perris, with global operations centred from Dubai and Rotterdam – supported by data centres across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

High Calibre

“Sona is on a mission to shake-up the market and forge a strong UK presence based on high calibre connectivity and speed of service through a personal touch. Our core areas are connectivity, communication, cloud and mobility,” Sonia explained.

Sona’s wide-ranging portfolio includes hosted UC, SD-WAN and private cloud services, offering ‘last mile’ access and data connections across the UK and Europe. Sona enjoys a strong market presence in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Switzerland, supported by a 24/7/365 Global Network Operations Centre.

Sonia added: “There’s a lot of untapped resource and potential based on exceptional network infrastructure. Everything is in place to make a much bigger market impact and provide customers with unrivalled levels of product and service.”  

Sona provides real-time data, video and voice communication solutions over IP based on the brands of EziData, EziMobile, EziPBX, EziRoam, EziSIP, EziSMS and EziTalk. 

“The UK has taken great strides forward in recent years but in many ways they are still lagging behind the rest of Europe in terms of network performance. We want to raise the game and provide more choice,” Walter emphasised.

Sona Business Founders Walter Perris and Sonia Harjani

“We are a complete one-stop-shop with a global reach. Equally the short lines of communication with after-sales, helps us stand out from the competition. We are reachable, caring and professional. In many ways we hold the same importance as a utility provider and recognise that speed of service really matters.”

Building Blocks

He concluded: “We are an ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certified company, and our vision is to become the leading provider of advanced IP communications solutions to businesses around the world. We are committed to providing cutting edge technology services to make sure our clients are connected on a secure and extensive network.”

John boasts almost four decades of industry experience which spans military telecoms, hardware manufacturers, networks and distribution.

He pointed out: “I needed a role to challenge me from the ground up. To launch a very established product set into the UK to a select number of partners, brick by brick; a bit like a Lego set. It’s an ideal scenario for me.

“We are a very nimble and adaptable business with high levels of availability. We’re always there when customers need us. Delivering faster, more cost effective and profitable services. The future is bright and we’re all looking forward to putting Sona firmly on the UK map.”

Evolve IP Launches Anywhere Mobile – Putting The Power Of A Desk Phone Into The Hands Of Mobile Users

Evolve IP has launched a new Fixed Mobile Convergence [FMC] mobile solution, which seamlessly combines desk phone functionality within a personal mobile device, to further accelerate its ‘work from anywhere’ strategy.

The leading UCaaS collaborations provider has announced Anywhere Mobile which uses innovative eSIM technology, designed to streamline business communication into one personal device in a ‘best of both worlds’ scenario.

Powered by technology partner, Tango Networks, the service enables Evolve IP EMEA partners to have flexibility in device usage and encourages a BYOD (bring your own device) culture across a host of industries. This drives efficiencies and convenience by turning any employee’s personal mobile phone into a fully-featured business extension.

Making Business Mobile 

Evolve IP Solutions Director, Scott Rixon says the new addition gives a business direct control over a second line on an employee’s phone, whilst personal communications remain private and secure. All business communications use the existing UC platform and business number.

“This represents a major step forward and offers a host of benefits to organisations and their staff,” he explained. “For example, it allows employees to use the mobile phones they like and are familiar with. It’s about working smarter and more effectively in an increasingly mobile-driven world. As it’s a full extension the presence of a user is visible, and the calls can be recorded and fully reported with reports and on dashboards. This should be thought of as just another way to take a call, supporting all our platform features.”

Anywhere Mobile is simple to use and requires no special apps, phone clients or training. It supports eSIM and physical SIMs. Furthermore, a business can reduce administrative overheads by eliminating personal phone expenses, according to Rixon.

“They can prevent employees from making business calls with personal numbers and retain business contacts when employees leave. Routing calls correctly means having proper call treatment, fewer missed calls and ultimately higher customer satisfaction.”

Work Anywhere Technologies 

He says Anywhere Mobile offers the best of both worlds with added cost savings and convenience.

Rixon concluded: “This is another innovative addition to our Anywhere UCaaS Solutions. Anywhere Mobile is the latest UC solution we are excited to be offering to partners across EMEA after seeing a clear demand and understanding that mobile services should sit within the essential part of any UC offering. Empowering teams to have the tools that allow them to work anywhere.”

Lee Essex, SVP Global Sales and Marketing, Tango Networks, is equally enthusiastic and emphasised: “We are thrilled to partner with and support Evolve IP with their launch of Anywhere Mobile. As leaders in fixed mobile convergence, we want to work with fellow leaders in UCaaS. Evolve IP continue to show themselves as innovators in both technology and their approach to delivering customer focused outcomes. This collaboration underscores our joint commitment to delivering seamless communication solutions on a global scale.”

To learn more, resellers can register to attend a webinar on August 7th by clicking here.

 

Nokia and eir to extend IP collaboration to support growing customer base for new services across Ireland

eir, Ireland’s leading telecommunications company, and Nokia today announced the extension of its IP collaboration to support the evolving needs and expectations of its customers with access to world-class technology and connectivity solutions.

The agreement will see eir introduce the latest 400/800GE IP backbone for larger capacity to meet future traffic growth and Nokia’s 7750 Service Router, powered by Nokia’s in-house routing silicon, FP5, for greater flexibility, power efficiency and security. This move will support eir’s commitment to provide the most reliable and unparalleled connectivity and service to every corner of Ireland.

Fergal McCann, Chief Technology Officer at eir, said: “This announcement further supports our strategy to ‘Connect for a Better Ireland’, enabling access to the latest technology and fastest speeds and to grow our network capacity to meet continued customer and traffic growth. eir is delighted to continue to grow its collaboration with Nokia for IP Network Infrastructure delivering future-proof and highly reliable network technology for our customers.”

Phil Siveter

Phil Siveter, CEO, UK and Ireland at Nokia, said: “eir has been a strategic customer for Nokia’s Network Infrastructure business for many years with our IP collaboration starting more than 15 years ago. We are delighted to extend our reach to include our latest IP routing technology and solutions to further support eir’s commitment to the quality of its services across Ireland now and in the future.”

Resources and additional information
Webpage: 7750 Service Router
Webpage: FP5 Network Processor Technology

Tech Review – HONOR 200 Pro

The HONOR 200 Pro has been my main device the last couple of months and it is a device to behold if you are into photography, not only does it look good if feels good in the hand and grabs peoples attention and is one of my favourite devices this year so far.

We have gone over the specs before here so I will not waste time on that as most just read past it anyway but we also have done a detailed walkthrough of the phone here too so you can get some idea of what to expect if you have not picked this glorious phone up yet.

If you need a case for this beast you can check out the only one we could get so far here and then we will talk about this phone some more.

The design of the phone is nice and sits well in the hand despite the big hump on the rear this one looks better and gets resolved with a case for any table rock for those who like to use on a flat surface and the matte glass finish looks stunning with the curved edges and corners so no stabbing the palm of your hand here like other devices.

Most people who know me asked about the device when seen in hand or out for lunch all liked the design and colour of the phone and that large display not knowing what else was going on under the hood.

There is a big  5200mAh battery which will be music to people’s ears and that battery has held out well after several weeks of real world use and not a few days and with my workload and way too many apps it has been a solid day and a half phone most last a day, so for the average user you will easily get two days with 100w wired and 66w wireless charging on offer.

When it comes to use as a daily driver for me this sailed through everything without a hitch and as mentioned loaded to the gills with apps and my daily workflow so for those who want a powerhouse with a big display this is where it is at.

The display then is another topic which for me is also nice on this phone being a 120Hz Oled and is excellent for consuming media indoors and outdoors which for me is important.

 

The camera. Here is where the fun starts and it is one of if not the best camera on a phone so far this year especially when it comes to portrait mode and partnered with Studio Harcourt it is a powerful camera and in fact a daily driver for my Video reviews and people have noticed this even when it comes to sound but it is portraits here and they have the lead here without question.

The HONOR 200 Pro takes portrait photography to new heights with the powerful AI-enhanced HONOR AI Portrait Engine. With a rich history of photographing legends from Roger Federer to the esteemed Queen Rania of Jordan, Studio Harcourt is synonymous with timeless portraits that showcase a symphony of visual storytelling through the skillful use of light and shadows. In collaboration with Studio Harcourt, the HONOR AI Portrait Engine distilled Studio Harcourt’s craftsmanship and understanding of shadow and light expression, empowering users to capture unique, distinctive portraits on their smartphones effortlessly.

Camera image and Video Samples

Enhanced Hardware Performance for Seamless Connectivity

The HONOR 200 Pro is packed with a large 5200mAh Silicon-carbon battery that enables up to 61 hours of continuous music streaming on a single charge. To maximize user productivity, the HONOR 200 Pro features powerful supercharge capabilities. With lightning-fast 100W Wired HONOR SuperCharge and 66W Wireless HONOR SuperCharge, users can charge their device fully in only 41 minute making it the ideal device for busy users who are always on the go. The HONOR 200 Pro also provides an impressive 12GB memory and large 512GB storage drive, which allows users to store and access their data without limitations, guaranteeing a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Walkthrough of Phone 

Equipped with the robust Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 Mobile Platform, the HONOR 200 Pro achieves a CPU clock speed of up to 3GHz, guaranteeing seamless graphics rendering and real-time responsiveness. Featuring MagicOS 8.0, the HONOR 200 Pro offers an intelligent user experience enriched with a range of AI-powered smart functionalities. MagicOS 8.0 also offers flagship features such as Magic Portal, Magic Capsule and Magic Ring on the HONOR 200 Pro that streamline user digital interactions.

Overall this phone for me is top notch and not focussing on AI gung ho like others but does offer some features it is a powerhouse of a phone, a tool for work and a camera that sends a message on how portrait photography is done on mobile.

BUY