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.

xMEMS Labs Debuts Cutting-Edge Reference Designs for True Wireless Stereo Earbuds and In-Ear-Monitors

Accelerating the adoption of solid-state micro speakers in consumer audio products, MEMS audio and semiconductor pioneer xMEMS Labs today announced the availability of two innovative reference designs for purchase at the xMEMS web store. 

The first unit, known as Harding, serves as xMEMS’ reference design for 2-way True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds, while the other is for audiophile-level full-range in-ear-monitors (IEMs). Both are available for a limited time and in extremely limited quantities, with the goal of providing interested audio brands and manufacturers with accelerated time-to-market leveraging xMEMS’ patented designs. 

According to xMEMS VP of Marketing and Business Development Mike Housholder, by making these reference designs available for purchase, the company is giving brands the best possible starting point so they and their customers can immediately begin reaping the benefits of the world’s first all-silicon, monolithic MEMS micro speakers. 

“As we continue to build momentum and awareness around our MEMS-based technologies that deliver a better sounding speaker with greater production efficiency and uniformity, we’re doing everything we can to support every customer who understands the value of making MEMS speakers part of their future product story,” Housholder said. “That’s why we’re making available for purchase a limited number of our TWS earbud and IEM designs to any forward-looking brand or manufacturer seeking a roadmap for the fastest possible adoption of xMEMS technology.” 

In addition to the design itself, those who make a purchase will be able to request the complete xMEMS design files for each solution, including their acoustic, mechanical and electrical components. 

The Harding 2-way TWS earbud design delivers superior high-frequency response and clarity featuring Cowell, the world’s smallest solid-state micro speaker. Cowell serves as the tweeter for highly realistic mids and highs and is paired with a custom-designed 9-mm dynamic driver woofer that delivers thumping bass. This ANC-ready (Active Noise Canceling) design embeds a Qualcomm Bluetooth Audio SoC and three microphones per earbud for noise canceling.

All told, Harding is a turn-key ODM design that’s fully integrated with all the needed components and expertly tuned acoustics to enable a seamless transition from legacy coil speakers to all-silicon micro speakers in TWS earbuds. 

Montara Plus, the world’s highest output MEMS micro speaker, is the ideal full-bandwidth transducer for an IEM reference design that delivers sound pressure levels up to 120 dB @ 200 Hz. This USB-C IEM design embeds a hi-res audio DAC from Synaptics and a voice microphone for phone call and web support.

Furthermore, Montara Plus’ lightning-fast transient response and wide bandwidth (20Hz to >40kHz) achieve the highest fidelity and clarity in a simplified, single speaker IEM, creating a path to smaller, lighter, simpler IEM designs without the phase alignment and design complexities of multi-driver IEM implementations.

“We’re seeing demand for xMEMS speakers grow exponentially as brands all over the globe try to stand out in the market and streamline their production efforts. By selling these reference designs, we’re doing our part to ensure the switch to MEMS speakers is as smooth and efficient as possible so more brands, manufacturers and their customers can soon benefit from xMEMS’ industry-changing innovations,” Housholder concluded.

Tech Review – Majority MP3 Player Pro

Majority Audio recently launched the Majority MP3 Pro and we took a first look at it here if you want to check that out before we move along where we took a good tour of the UI and what to expect inside.

As stated in that article it has been a bit since I actually used an MP3 player and I went through some amount of those back in the day, like most if not all we now use our phones to consume music which is fair but for me this is like a dumb phone to an extent as it has taken me away from my phone and all the notions and not listening to my music to its full extent also this has been good for testing earbuds headphones and speakers too along the way.

The build quality is excellent here and it does remind me of how good some MP3 players did look and feel like, this also comes with plenty of on board storage and you can add your own via Micro Sd card which was ideal for me as I had a pile of music stored one from years ago but the album art was out of kilter however all the tracks still in place but then check my old laptop which gave me some more music with album art in most instances which never really bothered me however when you have a display it of course looks aesthetically better than a random image.

This does not look cheap and looks more premium than what you will pay for it with its color screen with buttons on the right side and a navi wheel on the front which at times for me took a while to get use to using being so long since I last used such a device.

The earphones that came with the device are not the greatest in the world but decent and give you great crisp and clear audio however you can connect to your own or even a speaker to really get things going, you can also use the built in speaker on the device but connecting it to a speaker is better but then again if you only want low volume or personal use the speaker is fine you can also use this to record audio on the go which is handy for taking notes they can be done in wav or MP3 files. You can also watch stored movies on this which is kinda cool so if you have any ensure to transfer to your SD card.

When it comes to sound it does a great job but I would also check source of music as many of my songs are on an SD card years old and I think partially corrupted when I added new music it sounded great with my own choice of headphones and earbuds this is not to knoch the earbuds that came with the device which are find for anyone not to hooked up on fantastic audio and the price you pay overall here you should not expect insane quality audio but with decent earbuds you will be fine and it is nice that they gave you earbuds in the first place as they are a dying item now with phones and other products normally shipped with such.

For the price you pay though today you are getting a sound robust quality product with a color screen and many other options not seen on MP3 players and good sound and also a distraction from your mobile phone with the ability to connect to external speakers.

Key Features of the Majority MP3 Pro:

  • 5.0 Bluetooth Connectivity
  • 4hr Charging Time
  • 65GB Internal Storage
  • Compatible with SD cards up to 128GB
  • Earphones included
  • Integrated Speaker
  • Dimensions: 4.2cm x 6.6cm x 1.8cm
  • Weight: 33g

BUY

Video Review

TRIBIT launches the upgraded StormBox 2 portable Bluetooth speaker.

TRIBIT, a global brand which aims to make high-quality audio accessible to all, today announces the launch of the upgraded StormBox 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. Following on from the success of its predecessor StormBox, the StormBox 2 now has upgraded features including a more stable and faster Bluetooth 5.3 allowing for a range of 30m, TRIBIT App compatibility for full customisation, TWS and 24 hour playtime. With 360°sound, 2 embedded full-range speakers and a 2*17W power output, the StormBox 2 truly packs a punch. The TRIBIT StormBox 2 is available from TRIBIT  for £63 and Amazon for £62.99.
360° surround sound:
It delivers the ultimate enjoyment and allows users to be fully immersed in the powerful 360° audio with this Bluetooth wireless speaker, delivering 34W peak power. Equipped with two 48mm full-range drivers, crystal-clear sound quality is guaranteed.
Music streaming day and night:
 
The StormBox 2 looks compact and light, but it’s a powerhouse when it comes to playtime. Armed with RunStretch technology, it can deliver an impressive 24 hours of playtime (tested at 60% volume without the XBass feature) perfect for long car rides or travel. Weighing only 580g and measuring 180mm x 69mm x 69mm, it’s easy to pack in a rucksack and take on hikes, camping trips, or holidays. The Bluetooth 5.3 and 30-meter wireless range mean there are no concerns about signal loss or dropouts, and it only takes around 4 hours to fully recharge. Better yet, the sleek yet robust design and waterproof rating of IPX7 make it the perfect companion for outdoor adventures, pool parties and trips to the beach.
Customisable:
A common complaint can often be based on personal preferences, some like more bass, some less. Some more treble, some less. The StormBox 2 has been upgraded to meet this need for personalisation. Via the TRIBIT App, the sound can be fully customised to match individual preferences and listening environments. Users can choose to switch between Audiobook, Classic, Jazz, Rock, and XBass (the default) or disable these pre-sets entirely as preferred. A customised EQ curve with nine bands that range from 80Hz to 13kHz can also be created. This includes different EQs, custom EQ, OTA upgrade and other functions.
One-click pairing: 
For users who enjoy a truly big immersive sound, TRIBIT has got it covered with the upgraded StormBox 2 which now allows for cross-model pairing! Double up the audio experience by pairing two StormBox 2 speakers or seamlessly pair with the StormBox Flow or XSound Plus 2 wireless speakers for a booming sound. Party mode can also be activated to elevate any gathering, boost the mood at parties, and enjoy the music brought by double the volume. It’s party time!

Quantum Group Chooses Zutec for Document Management, Quality Management, Handover Management and Health and Safety

Quantum Group, a leading developer in Ireland, has selected Zutec to manage construction project data from a single platform. Zutec leads the way in providing construction and property management software solutions to contractors, housebuilders, developers and asset owners across the UK and Ireland, and will roll out document, quality, handover and health and safety management solutions to support Quantum in delivering safer, higher standard homes and properties.

Patrick Shaughnessy, Construction Director at Quantum Group, commented: “At Quantum, we place a huge emphasis on build quality and excellence, and are proud to lead the way in bringing in specialist and innovative techniques to support our drive to be more effective, efficient, productive, and sustainable.

“In a market where quality cannot be overlooked, we required a platform to differentiate ourselves from others and create a framework for quality-driven processes. With innovation at its core, Zutec fitted the bill in terms of an easy-to-use platform that provides solutions, features and functionality that gives us more control over how we manage documents and information related to construction and quality for all our projects – all from one place. This will help us better manage site teams, site progress, suppliers, and sub-contractors, and ultimately raise the standards of the quality and innovation across our developments.”

By digitising building information and construction documents, Quantum will use Zutec’s Document Management for planning, design, tenders, procurement, and plot tracking, including the ability to approve drawings for future developments and resolve issues on site as they arise. With project information in one place, Quantum can eliminate inefficient and costly data sprawl, but also save time and costs by having clear visibility of information that enables better understanding of projects and drives more informed decisions that bring projects to completion faster.

Quantum Group, Millers Crest, Portlaoise

 

A suite of integrated Quality Assurance and Health & Safety forms, checklists and inspections will all be delivered to Quantum by Zutec to ensure data is digitised and can be easily collected in a consistent way and housing and apartments are built to the company’s high standards. This will include the ability to upload photos to evidence work done and a snagging register so data can be reviewed, and problems resolved ahead of handover. Data related to safety inspections can be captured on-site in real-time then easily shared with teams to provide safety visibility and mitigate risk.

Zutec’s Handover Management means Quantum can effectively manage projects to completion by bringing together O&M (Operations & Maintenance) Manuals, Fire Evacuation Files (FEF) and Health and Safety Files (H&S) in one place to meet asset owner and regulatory obligations.

All data can be captured in the field by site teams and subcontractors using the Zutec Field app from any device with or without a Wi-Fi connection. Information is then synced in the Zutec cloud, when a device is online, and uploaded into the Zutec dashboard for reporting and analytics, but also for easy information, site progress and compliance.

“As developers and housebuilders look to digitise more construction and quality processes, our aim is to support them with the best solutions that help drive structure and standardisation in data and documentation across their business. Before now, Quantum didn’t have a digital system in place to manage information during the construction stages and relied on manual and paper-based processes. With Zutec they can have all their information in the cloud and workflows in place to ensure the right people have the right information at the right time, empowering teams to deliver builds more efficiently and to higher-quality standards, while giving site managers complete control and confidence over works completed. One solution for everything,” said James Cannon, Chief Revenue Officer at Zutec.

To find out more about how Zutec is helping customers deliver quality work the first time around, please visit http://www.zutec.com. Alternatively, book a demo and experience solutions for yourself: https://zutec.com/book-a-demo.

 

 

Workhuman Launches New Reporting Feature in Admin Hub to Elevate Recognition Program Management

WorkhumanÒ, the company revolutionizing the way employees celebrate, connect with, and appreciate each other in the workplace, is introducing new Reporting features in its Admin Hub, enhancing a Program Manager’s control and access to insights of their organization’s Social Recognition program.  Breaking down traditionally rigid HR reporting systems, Admin Hub’s updated Reporting functionality provides the ability to adapt report details, increases the efficient process of customizing and disseminating data, and improves collaboration in the analysis and interpretation of data.

The data from an organization’s Social Recognition program holds a treasure trove of insights: data points like the percentage of employees who give or receive recognition, how frequently it is given, and the dollar amount associated with each award. This information can help track recognition program outcomes and impact; the latest features now allow for upgraded report management and access functions that make better use of that recognition data.

 

‘Manage Reports’ feature – Enhanced Program Reporting

Workhuman’s ‘Manage Reports’ feature equips HR and business leaders with the intelligence they need to turn recognition into business success. With ‘Manage Reports,’ program managers can create and customize reports to meet the specific needs of different department leaders, modify data measures and fields in real time to accommodate ever-evolving initiatives, and add charts and graphs to seamlessly visualize data in presentations and communications.

Manage Reports facilitates the efficient communication of data across the organization. By presenting reports in a self-service manner, the data becomes more comprehensible and actionable for different stakeholders.

‘Report Access’ function – Effortless Access Management

The new ‘Report Access’ feature eliminates the need for complex Excel files or additional Workhuman account team support – allowing managers to authorize users across the company to access and centralize their reports in one location. Program Managers can provide report access on-demand, reducing the burden of ad-hoc data requests.

With ‘My Reports,’ authorized users can easily find the data they need, viewing and downloading report data as required. They can access up to three main report types, including Award Activity Reports; Recognition Intelligence, with dashboards offering a comprehensive view of recognition program performance; and, if applicable, Conversations, which displays activity like participation rates and performance metrics across the Conversations feature.

This new feature streamlines report access and enhances the efficiency of managing recognition programs by making it easier for authorized users to access the necessary data.

“Workhuman’s platform captures those authentic human moments within an organization and turns them into actionable insights, revealing patterns in the data that can inform strategy and actively shape culture. Our latest updates empower Program Managers to uncover this valuable intelligence more efficiently and effectively,” said Zoe Peterson-Ward, Workhuman’s Chief Customer Officer. “We’re revolutionizing the reporting experience for our customers, offering program owners capabilities and visibility like never before. What was once a cumbersome process is now an on-demand, self-service one, and we’re thrilled to announce that we have even more enhancements planned for later this year, all aimed at providing our customers with the ultimate recognition program experience.”

For 25 years, Workhuman has pioneered the employee recognition market. The company’s Social Recognition solution, backed by data and science, cultivates appreciation, enhances performance, fosters social connections, and promotes inclusivity. As Workhuman and Gallup research has shown, a strategic investment in recognition can boost a company’s bottom line.”

To learn more about how Workhuman’s Social Recognition solution empowers organizations to redefine cultures that inspire connection, drive innovation, promote adaptability, and build stronger workplaces, please visit www.workhuman.com.

Xiaomi Named One of TIME’s Most Influential Companies of 2024

TIME has named Xiaomi as one of its “TIME100 Most Influential Companies” in 2024. Xiaomi received the honor — for its first time ever — because TIME determined that it is making an extraordinary impact around the world.
In placing Xiaomi on the list, TIME cited on the company’s successful launch of its first smart electric vehicle, the Xiaomi SU7 Series, in Mainland China in March 2024. TIME praised the EV’s effort to integrate people, cars, and homes into a super-smart, people-centric ecosystem. Xiaomi set new industry records for the volume of locked-in orders and deliveries of the Xiaomi SU7 Series during the first month of its debut. Its “Human x Car x Home” ecosystem connects smart devices in unprecedented and seamless ways.
Xiaomi is committed to making sustainable investments in foundational core technologies and to continuously invest in technologies that will benefit humanity. It will invest more than RMB100 billion in research and development during the five years between 2022 to 2026. Through 15 to 20 years of effort, Xiaomi aims to become one of the top five global automakers as well as a leader in the evolving realm of global cutting-edge technologies.
“Xiaomi is honored to be selected for the TIME100 Most Influential Companies list for 2024,” said Xiaomi spokesperson. “We look forward to living up to this award by continuing to produce products that let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.”
To assemble the list, TIME solicited nominations across sectors, and polled its global network of contributors and correspondents, as well as outside experts. Then TIME editors evaluated each on key factors, including impact, innovation, ambition, and success. The result is a diverse group of 100 businesses helping chart an essential path forward.
See the full list here: time.com/100companies

Revolut scam to be aware of if selling items online

OK so many of us are now using Revolut to pay bills and sort out financials on a night out or just paying IOUs and works really well and as we know now they are an official bank in Ireland but only virtual.

I keep a nominal amount on my card due to unforeseen incidents such as being overcharged or just landed with charges which often happens with hotels so they can’t touch it, where if you use your standard debit card now they can take money and if using a VISA credit card you can fight for your money back and get a chargeback via your bank.

Like many people will use their card to shop online any on that front we can now use our Revolut card to do the same however clever scammers now also use this as a way to scam you which they tried on me recently.

This scam works the same way as you would get from a Paypal scammer asking you for details, the key thing they will ask for is your email address so as to send you the email to give you one back looking legitimate from the company and only recently this happened to me on Paypal too.

Of late Revolut is taking a lot of slack over scams due to the nature of contacting them and how it is dealt with here in Ireland and presumably the same elsewhere in the world.

Again having contacted Revolut about this I yet have to hear anything back about it but beware if you are buying online this scam is identical to one that has been on Paypal before and as always when buying or selling online be careful as this kind of things is rampant on the likes of Facebook who also have yet to respond to the matter which is nothing new.

 

IKEA is opening a new store on Roblox… and you could be paid to work there!

IKEA has unveiled a first look at ‘The Co-Worker Game’, a virtual universe coming to Roblox on June 24th. The immersive experience gives players the opportunity to experience IKEA’s unique approach to careers where non-linear career journeys are the norm and lateral moves across departments are commonplace.

As well as being the brand’s first foray into mainstream gaming, the virtual store will give people a chance to immerse themselves in the working world of IKEA. With a limited number of paid, virtual co-worker roles available in the game.

Applications for roles in the virtual store open today (3rd June, 2024) and close on Sunday 16th June, with paid shifts for 10 new co-workers up for grabs. Successful applicants will be able to flex their skills, help customers, and get promoted to move departments, just like in the real world.

Alongside the paid co-workers, the broader Roblox community, gamers and IKEA fans alike will be able to work, explore and experience the virtual world of IKEA on Roblox.

They can venture to IKEA’s famous Swedish Food Market and Bistro and serve up endless amounts of meatballs or stop over at the various showrooms and use famous IKEA products to organise the space – say hello to HEMNES heaven. All with the chance to win exclusive IKEA UGCs.

Darren Taylor, Country People and Culture Manager, IKEA UK and Ireland: “We’re excited to be the first brand to launch paid work on Roblox to showcase how we do careers differently, bringing our unique careers philosophy to life.  

 At IKEA, there is no set route to career progression. Our co-workers are able to change roles, switch departments, and grow in any direction they choose, both in the game or in the real world. There are many ways to learn and grow at IKEA, and that’s what IKEA on Roblox is all about.“

Virtual interviews for shortlisted applicants will take place for this fully remote virtual role on June 14th, 17th and 18th. Each successful applicant will be paid an hourly IKEA Co-Worker rate for their time on the game.

IKEA on Roblox, developed by The Gang, a Swedish game design company, launches on June 24th.

For more information, the full terms and conditions and details on how to apply, please visit:  http://thecoworker.co.uk

For more information about careers at IKEA and how they’re done different, please visit: https://ikea.ie/careers

*Paid players must be 18+ and in UK or ROI to apply. This promotion is not affiliated with Roblox.  Roblox is not responsible for the fulfilment of any compensation or rewards related to this promotion, nor will participation create or result in any employment or other worker relationship with Roblox.

Emirates joins IATA’s Turbulence Aware Platform

Emirates has joined the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Turbulence Aware Platform. It will also be the first airline to integrate the IATA platform within the latest version of Lido mPilot, the mobile navigation solution from Lufthansa Systems.

Bringing these platforms together offers a wealth of data, combined with new technologies that make up-to-the-minute, highly accurate turbulence information and forecasts available for pilots, equipping them with the means to plot the best paths around affected areas for enhanced safety, efficient navigation, and optimisation of flight plans.

In conjunction with the IATA Turbulence Aware Platform, the airline has equipped more than 140 aircraft with the required onboard software to automatically share turbulence reports with all airlines contributing data to the platform. All new aircraft joining the Emirates fleet over the course of the next few years, such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 777-9, 777-8 and B787, will be enabled to participate in the programme.

Captain Hassan Alhammadi, Divisional Senior Vice President, Flight Operations Emirates Airline said: “Actively participating in IATA’s Turbulence Aware platform and equipping our pilots with a complement of the latest industry technologies such as the mobile navigation solution Lido mPilot from Lufthansa Systems are part of our commitment to ensure operational safety, efficiency, and customer comfort on every flight. We’re also proud to contribute data around turbulence through our Middle East network and extensive links across Africa, Asia, Australia, and other regions. It will help build sophisticated industry knowledge to effectively manage turbulence and evolving weather patterns with even more precision. This is only the beginning, and we are progressing with plans to integrate more cutting-edge technologies to elevate the flying experience even further, so our customers can enjoy smoother journeys.”

“Mitigating the adverse effects of turbulence is an industry wide challenge and obtaining accurate and live data is key in this endeavour. The cooperation between IATA Turbulence Aware, Emirates and Lufthansa Systems will further improve the quality and quantity of real time data made available to the industry, allowing for smoother and safer air travel for all,” said Frederic Leger, IATA’s Senior Vice President Commercial Products and Services.

“IATA Turbulence Aware data enhances the value of Lido mPilot by providing pilots with real-time, accurate and comprehensive information on turbulence, enabling them to make informed decisions and navigate more efficiently. By integrating this data into Lido mPilot, Emirates Airline can increase safety, reduce fuel consumption and minimize passenger discomfort, ultimately improving their operational efficiency and customer satisfaction,” said Andreas Medlhammer, Product Owner Pilot Charting Apps at Lufthansa Systems.

IATA’s Turbulence Aware is a global, real-time detailed and objective information resource for pilots and aviation professionals to manage and mitigate the impact of turbulence on operations. Turbulence is the main cause of passenger and crew injuries and leads to higher fuel usage. The platform pools anonymized turbulence data from thousands of flights operated around the world. The information generated from this data enables pilots and dispatchers to choose optimal flight paths, avoiding turbulence and flying at peak levels and altitudes to maximize fuel efficiency, ultimately reducing carbon emissions. Till date, Turbulence Aware ensured a safer flight for over 700 million passengers, a number that will continue to rise as new airlines join the program.

Lido mPilot is an all-in-one mobile navigational charting application from Lufthansa Systems and has been configured based on Emirates’ specific operational requirements. Lido mPilot provides pilots with easy access to terminal charts, a dynamically generated enroute map, and an Airport Moving Map (AMM).  Its data-driven, interactive maps, and the latest weather features relevant to each flight being operated ensure enhanced situational awareness and the most pertinent information for pilots.