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.

Navigating the Dynamic Intersection of Digital Art Galleries in the Shifting Landscape of Decentralized Currency.

Bitcoin, a decentralized digital currency, emerges as a disruptive force across various industries, reshaping conventional norms in transactions and ownership within the realm of digital art. The evolution of digital art, moving from traditional forms to creative expressions in the digital realm, signifies an ongoing digital art renaissance. This article thoroughly explores the intersection of Bitcoin with the thriving digital art scene, delving into the symbiotic relationship between the decentralized currency and digital art galleries. As we immerse ourselves in the dynamic world of digital artistic expression, insights emerge on how Bitcoin seamlessly integrates into the ever-evolving fabric of digital art galleries. Amidst this transformative integration, a notable development is the rise of https://immediate-ewave.com/, an online trading solution that enhances accessibility and engagement within the digital art market.

Bitcoin as a Revolutionary Currency in the Art World

Decentralization: Redefining Art Market Dynamics

Bitcoin’s decentralized nature challenges the conventional art market by eliminating the need for intermediaries. This section explores how this decentralization impacts the traditional dynamics of art transactions.

Bitcoin’s Role in Disintermediation

An exploration of how Bitcoin serves as a catalyst for disintermediation in the art world, erasing the need for middlemen and fostering direct transactions between artists and collectors.

Transparency and Trust in Art Transactions

Unpacking the transparency afforded by Bitcoin transactions, this section discusses how the blockchain ensures a trustworthy and transparent ecosystem for art transactions.

NFTs: Transforming Digital Art Ownership

Understanding Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs)

An in-depth exploration of NFTs, the unique cryptographic tokens that have become synonymous with digital art ownership, and their role in transforming the landscape.

The Role of NFTs in Authenticating Digital Art

Investigating how NFTs serve as digital certificates of authenticity, revolutionizing the concept of ownership and provenance in the digital art space.

NFT Marketplaces and Integration with Bitcoin

Examining the emergence of NFT marketplaces and their integration with Bitcoin, this section discusses the synergy between these two blockchain-based technologies in the realm of digital art.

Bitcoin’s Influence on Digital Art Curation

Decentralized Curation Platforms: Shaping Artistic Visibility

An exploration of decentralized curation platforms that leverage Bitcoin, emphasizing how they enhance artist visibility in the digital art landscape.

Artist Visibility Enhanced by Bitcoin

Delving into the ways Bitcoin contributes to the visibility of artists, spotlighting the mechanisms that enable artists to reach wider audiences.

Challenges and Opportunities in Curating with Bitcoin

Addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by Bitcoin in the curation of digital art, this section provides insights into the evolving landscape of artistic curation.

Crypto Art Collectors: The Rise of a New Community

Profiling the Crypto Art Collector

A closer look at the characteristics and motivations of crypto art collectors, exploring the emergence of a distinct community within the broader art world.

Bitcoin’s Impact on Art Investment Strategies

Investigating how Bitcoin influences the strategies employed by art investors, shaping new paradigms in the valuation and acquisition of digital artworks.

Building Community through Blockchain Technology

Examining the role of blockchain technology, particularly Bitcoin, in fostering a sense of community among art collectors and enthusiasts within the crypto art sphere.

Challenges and Criticisms

Environmental Concerns Surrounding Bitcoin and Digital Art

A critical examination of the environmental implications associated with Bitcoin transactions in the context of digital art, addressing concerns related to sustainability.

Regulatory Challenges and the Need for Standardization

Exploring the regulatory challenges faced by the intersection of Bitcoin and digital art, and the potential need for standardization to ensure a secure and legally compliant ecosystem.

Addressing the Exclusivity and Accessibility Debate

Discussing the ongoing debate surrounding the exclusivity and accessibility of digital art in the Bitcoin era, considering both challenges and potential solutions.

Future Trends and Possibilities

Emerging Technologies Shaping the Future of Digital Art

An exploration of the cutting-edge technologies poised to shape the future of digital art, envisioning how these innovations might interact with the transformative capabilities of Bitcoin.

Potential Collaborations between Bitcoin and Augmented Reality

Investigating the potential synergy between Bitcoin and augmented reality, envisioning how these technologies may converge to create immersive and novel artistic experiences.

Forecasting the Evolution of Digital Art Galleries in the Bitcoin Era

Speculating on the future trajectory of digital art galleries, this section outlines potential scenarios and developments influenced by the integration of Bitcoin into the artistic landscape.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bitcoin’s influence on the digital art world is undeniably transformative. The decentralized nature of Bitcoin has revolutionized art transactions, eliminating intermediaries and fostering transparency in the process. The advent of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) has further reshaped digital art ownership, providing a unique and authenticated framework. Bitcoin’s impact extends to the curation of digital art, enhancing artists’ visibility and presenting both challenges and opportunities for the evolving landscape. As we anticipate continued evolution in the Bitcoin-digital art intersection, the article underscores the dynamic relationship between these two realms, paving the way for innovative possibilities. The conclusion encourages readers to embark on a thoughtful exploration of Bitcoin’s multifaceted impact on the ever-expanding landscape of digital art galleries, recognizing the potential for ongoing adaptation and growth in this exciting intersection.

FUJIFILM launches the INSTAX MINI 99 instant camera – First Look

RATINGEN, Germany, 14th March 2024: FUJIFILM Europe GmbH, Imaging Solutions Division, announced today the launch of its’ high-end, analog instant camera, the INSTAX MINI 99 instant camera (MINI 99). With its classic and stylish matte black finish, the MINI 99 brings advanced new features including color effect dials, a unique Vignette Switch, plus brightness and focus modes to maximize the potential of each photo while maintaining the traditional INSTAX aesthetic.  

The MINI 99 features a first of its kind Color Effect Dial. This unique dial control has six effects – Faded Green, Warm Tone, Light Blue, Soft Magenta, Sepia, and Light Leak – which allows the user to customize, create and curate a one-time only unique image. Driven by LED lights within the camera, the Color Effect feature exposes the chosen color onto the INSTAX MINI instant film, creating the desired effect on the printed INSTAX MINI photo.

The MINI 99 also comes with an exciting new switch, the new Manual Vignette Switch. Located on the lens housing it can be used to add an artistic shaded frame around the image. 

“Advances in instant photography technology has allowed us to maintain the look and feel our users love, while adding exciting new technology, that will allow them to truly reflect their creativity and artistic expression,” states Shin Udono, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, FUJIFILM Europe GmbH. “This is why INSTAX MINI 99 is especially exciting to Fujifilm, and we believe for image makers as well.” 

Other INSTAX MINI 99 Product Features Include:

Brightness Control Dial: This feature offers five distinct levels of brightness: the Light (“L+”) setting indicates the brightest exposure, the “L”, “D”, and “N” settings offer the normal range of brightness, and the Dark (“D-”) setting represents the darkest available brightness level. 

Shooting Modes: A variety of shooting modes enhance the user experience, with Indoor Mode designed for low light situations, Sports Mode, which increases the shutter speed to grab the perfect action shot, Double Exposure Mode, which lets the user combine two images into one, and Bulb Mode, which increases the amount of light let in when creating the image, creating a brightened effect on the print. 

The camera’s Landscape, Standard, and Macro Focus Modes are easily accessible by adjusting the lens dial. Landscape Mode focuses on subjects positioned at a distance reference of “3.0m and beyond”. Macro Mode is perfect for close-ups and selfies at a distance reference of “0.3m to 0.6m”. Users can select Standard Mode for everything in between. 

Self-timer: It is at hand to help create the perfect group image, and MINI 99’s flash controls include Auto mode, Fill-in (flash will always fire regardless of lighting), Red-eye Removal, or the option to turn the flash off, depending on the user’s lighting situation.

Grip and Tripod Mount: To enhance grip in even the most active image-making situations, MINI 99 comes with a precision-milled, Base Grip with Tripod Mount that also acts as a grip when attached to the camera (tripod sold separately).

Accompanying the launch of the INSTAX MINI 99 is the introduction of a new INSTAX MINI film, PHOTO SLIDE. This new film has been inspired by the design of motifs featured on photographic film mounts and complements the print expression of an INSTAX MINI 99. 

Pricing and Availability:

Fujifilm’s INSTAX MINI 99 instant camera will be available at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 200.00 (incl. VAT). It is expected to be available for purchase on 4th April 2024 at Fujifilm stockists nationwide. For more product information, visit https://www.instax.ie/cameras/mini-99/

INSTAX MINI PHOTO SLIDE instant film is expected to be available on 4th April 2024 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of EUR 10.00 (incl. VAT) per pack (10 sheets), for more information about this new INSTAX mini instant film variety, visit www.instax.ie/film/#film-selector

INSTAX UP! Smartphone App Update

And that’s not it! Fujifilm also announces an update to its free, downloadable INSTAX UP! Smartphone App. The INSTAX UP! Smartphone App is designed for INSTAX users to digitally scan, import, organize, and store their photos in one place, regardless of which FUJIFILM INSTAX instant film, instant camera or instant Smartphone printer product they use. 

The latest addition to the INSTAX UP! Smartphone App is its album feature. Utilizing this clever new feature, users can easily organize and store their digital FUJIFILM INSTAX photos by themes, such as holidays, friends, and favorites. Within the album feature, users can add, tag, share, download and delete INSTAX images from the digital album, encouraging easy organization of the INSTAX digital image collection. A list/box view can be created for each album. The updated INSTAX UP! App is available today.

Unboxing and First Look 

 

ASUS Introduces Zenfone 11 Ultra

ASUS today announced the new Zenfone 11 Ultra during a dedicated online launch event. The company unveiled all the details about this mighty device, the latest iteration in the company’s Zenfone flagship series, and showcased how it redefines expectations for powerful smartphones. Zenfone 11 Ultra marks an important switch to a larger form factor that provides more of everything, packing a better camera system, a stronger processor, and a bigger battery into a meticulously-designed chassis.

“With Zenfone 11 Ultra, ASUS provides users with premium design, a flagship camera, AI features, and a longer battery life,” said ASUS Co-CEO S.Y. Hsu, speaking at the launch event. “In short, Zenfone 11 Ultra is everything a flagship phone in 2024 should be and it will provide the greatest benefit to the end user.”

Zenfone 11 Ultra is available in a choice of four refreshing colors, all inspired by different landscapes around the world, and ready to fit the user’s style. Of course, ASUS also built the new Zenfone with sustainability in mind — incorporating recycled materials such as the 100% recycled aluminum used for its frame and an increased proportion of recyclable packaging.

Ultra-immersive display meets sustainable design

Zenfone 11 Ultra sports an immersive display that captivates the senses. With a 6.78-inch 144 Hz AMOLED display enhanced by Pixelworks® technology, users are treated to vibrant visuals that come to life with low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) technology for energy efficiency. The phone’s design is equally impressive, featuring a remarkable 94% screen-to-body ratio achieved through significantly smaller bezels.

Zenfone 11 Ultra comes in four colors inspired by landscapes from around the world. The popular classics Skyline Blue and Eternal Black reflect the blue day and black night skies of Scandinavia, while Misty Grey and Desert Sand are inspired by foggy mornings and breathtaking dunes, respectively. The phone’s back cover features a mirror-finish ASUS 30th anniversary logo on a matte finish for a premium feel and maximum holding comfort.

But Zenfone 11 Ultra is not just strong and stylish – it’s also a true champion of sustainability. Its eco-friendly phone frame is made of 100% recycled aluminum and its display is composed of over one-fifth recycled glass, bringing ASUS one step closer to a circular supply chain. We have also managed a 94% reduction in plastic use for the packaging by relying on wrapping paper for the phone and the cable.

Zenfone 11 – techbuzzireland

Ultra-performance backed by a more powerful battery

Showcasing powerhouse performance, Zenfone 11 Ultra is driven by the flagship Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform. This cutting-edge platform enables seamless operation for any task, from intensive gaming sessions to multitasking with ease. With high-performance 16 GB RAM and 512 GB of internal storage, users can rely on a robust device capable of handling AI tasks effortlessly and offering smooth gameplay and immersive graphics.

Using the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3’s remarkably power-efficient CPU and other components, as well as a bigger 5500 mAh battery capacity compared to its predecessor, ASUS improved Zenfone 11 Ultra’s battery life by 26.5%. This enhancement ensures that users can enjoy uninterrupted usage for extended periods. Supporting more than 26 hours of regular use, Zenfone 11 Ultra sets a new standard for endurance in the smartphone industry.

The phone has also been upgraded to include 65 W HyperCharge capability for maximum charging performance, allowing users to power up their devices quickly and efficiently. For added convenience, Zenfone 11 Ultra supports wireless charging via any Qi-compatible wireless charger.

The epitome of ultra-imaging

The camera system in Zenfone 11 Ultra stands out as extraordinary, redefining smartphone photography and videography. The 50 MP camera is supported by advanced features like the 6-Axis Hybrid Gimbal Stabilizer 3.0, Super HyperSteady video stabilization, and OZO Audio-powered 3D surround-sound recording. These elements combine to deliver unparalleled stabilization and audio quality, setting new standards in smartphone imaging technology. Stability takes precedence, thanks to the third-generation 6-Axis Hybrid Gimbal Stabilizer. This innovative technology ensures that videos remain blur-free and shake-free — even when the phone is in motion — enabling users to capture professional-quality shots effortlessly.

Complementing the hardware advancements, Zenfone 11 Ultra introduces various software tweaks to further enhance its imaging capabilities. AI Portrait Video mode offers a depth of field effect, adding a professional aesthetic to videos, while manual focus adjustment grants users creative control over the visual narrative.

AI support further enhances the user experience, introducing features like HyperClarity and AI Object Sense, which help to take realistic images and capture every life moment. HyperClarity, activated during zooming, significantly increases image clarity through deep-learning models, reconstructing images and adding details based on AI recognition. Additionally, the 32 MP front camera boasts improved low-light performance and a wider angle, ensuring stunning selfies even in challenging environments.

The power of ultra-intelligence

Zenfone 11 Ultra offers advanced AI features and leverages the powerful on-device AI performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 to redefine the way users engage with their devices. With AI Noise Cancellation capabilities, powered by machine learning computational techniques, the phone ensures crystal-clear audio quality in all scenarios, be it phone calls, instant messaging calls, or in-game communications.

Also, the device introduces AI Call Translator[i], enabling instant speech-to-text conversion and translation into the user’s preferred language. By leveraging sophisticated AI models, Zenfone 11 Ultra comprehends contextual nuances, facilitating seamless communication across language barriers. The translation is then converted into clear voice output, enhancing comprehension and connectivity for users worldwide.

The AI Wallpaper[ii] feature on Zenfone 11 Ultra empowers users to craft personalized wallpapers effortlessly based on 6 different style-directions. With just a few prompts and our advanced AI algorithm, users can create unique backgrounds that reflect their style and personality, adding a touch of individuality to their device.

Another revolutionary feature is the AI Transcript[iii] function, which offers real-time transcription while using the recorder app both while recording and from existing voice files, powered by advanced AI technology. With the help of the phone’s built-in recorder tool, it allows you to easily capture and save transcripts.

The Zenfone 11 Ultra transforms file management with Semantic Search. Users can search for photos in their gallery and installed apps using keywords, thanks to multimodal learning. This intuitive feature understands natural language commands, supporting multiple languages and offline functionality. Additionally, it’s integrated into phone settings for easy access, streamlining user experience while setting up the phone.

With ASUS GlideX, users can stream apps from phones to other devices like PC screens. The tool simplifies file transfers, enhances conference calls, and consolidates device control. Mirroring your phone screen on your PC allows you to enjoy media with family, friends, and colleagues. As another productivity-enhancing application, Phone Link enables file transfers via drag and drop, texting from PCs, call management, and notification customization, redefining the smartphone-to-PC experience for unparalleled convenience and efficiency.

The unveiling of Zenfone 11 Ultra marks a significant milestone in smartphone innovation, showcasing a device that embodies the perfect fusion of cutting-edge technology, sustainable design, and unparalleled performance. Through a meticulous blend of premium design elements, camera capabilities, AI-driven features, and extended battery life, Zenfone 11 Ultra sets a new standard for what users can expect from a flagship smartphone in 2024 and beyond.

ASUS invites users to embark on a journey of innovation and sustainability with the Zenfone 11 Ultra, where every detail is crafted to enhance the user experience and make a positive impact on the world.

 AVAILABILITY & PRICING

ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra will be available for pre-order from March 14th in the United Kingdom from ASUS Official Online Store and Amazon UK.

ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra with 16 GB RAM and 512 GB storage will be available at £949.99 and with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage will be available at £869.99. ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra comes in Skyline Blue and Eternal Black colors in the United Kingdom.

The launch offer will run from March 14th to April 14th. Customers who purchase ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra in this period can save £80 on the 16 GB RAM and 512 GB version and save £50 on the 12 GB RAM and 256 GB version.

 

i] These features will be made available in a future software update

[ii] These features will be made available in a future software update

[iii] These features will be made available in a future software update

Tech Review – Creative Aurvana Ace 2

The Creative Aurvana Ace 2 are the next step up from the Creative Aurvana Ace which we recently reviewed here on techbuzz and given the shape and size of the case are the same the looks are not giving us a peep inside of the technology, transparent tech is now a thing and we have check quite a few bits of tech showing their inner glory. Though this one has a slightly smoked tint to it which still looks great.

The inside of the case is also surrounded in a copper colour which looks really neat and matches the earbuds looks and gives them a premium look there is a USB-C port on the bottom and indicator light and a button for pairing/resetting.

The fit is the same as before so no difference there at all and give a good seal with the right earbuds again I always say this with any earbuds and the better the seal the better the fit and the better the sound. These are again IPX5 rated so for outdoor use is no issue here at all where half of my testing was done anyway.

The tech inside this time around gives you more although they still use 10mm drivers but have the all new xMEM technology inside which really gives your earbuds a boost which they did with the Aurvana Ace. There is 6 mics this time over the Aurvana Aces 3 mics giving you crystal clear calls and from my testing both ends seemed top notch here and powered by Qualcomm cVc (Clear Voice capture) noise cancellation technology.

In case you are wondering both models support a variety of audio codecs, including LE Audio featuring the LC3 Codec for superior wireless audio quality, SBC, AAC, AptX, and AptX Adaptive, ensuring compatibility with various devices and offering high-quality audio streaming.

Coupled with Qualcomm for the integration of Snapdragon Sound’s aptX Lossless technology, the audio codec delivers hi-fidelity audio at 16-bit / 44.1 kHz, providing a CD-level experience that faithfully recreates the original recording right in your ears.

Overall there is not much difference between the Ace and Ace 2, the Creative Aurvana Ace 2 supports AptX Lossless audio codec and has Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation and you can tell the difference if you are a regular user of earbuds and can hear the distinct intricacies with the sound and you will not be disappointed by any means here at all and the same goes for the Ace too, you can’t go wrong for the money here with what you pay for either.

 

Check the video review below for more.

 

The Creative App

Creative Aurvana controls – techbuzzireland

Features and specs

Driver Frequency Response: 5–40,000 Hz / Type: xMEMS Solid-state x 2 Type: Dynamic x 2

Bluetooth Version/5.3

Wireless Codecs / LC3, AptX Adaptive, AptX Lossless, aptX, AAC, SBC

Profiles / (HFP) Hands-free Profile, (A2DP) Advanced Audio Distribution Profile, (AVRCP) Audio / Video Remote Control Profile, TMAP, HSP

Operating Frequency/ 2402–2480 MHz

Operating Range/ Up to 10m / 33 ft*, *Measured in open space. Walls and structures may affect range of device.

Battery Life / Up to 24 hours total (ANC / Ambient Mode off), Up to 16 hours total (ANC / Ambient Mode on), Up to 6 hours per charge (ANC / Ambient Mode off), Up to 4 hours per charge (ANC / Ambient Mode on)
Based on moderate volume level. Actual battery life will vary with usage settings and environmental conditions.

 

BUY

Video Review

62% of IT leaders say AI will make their company’s services redundant within five years

A new survey from Irish IT services provider Auxilion, and supported by Hewlett Packard Enterprise, reveals that 62% of IT leaders in Ireland believe Artificial Intelligence (AI) will make their company’s services redundant in three to five years.

The research – carried out by Censuswide and involving more than 100 IT leaders and decision-makers in large enterprises across Ireland – also found that nearly two in five (38%) would leave their job if their organisation did not invest emerging technologies like AI.

Some three quarters (75%) of IT leaders are using AI to do their jobs and overall, a similar proportion of organisations (78%) are currently deploying same. Despite this uptake, nearly a quarter of IT leaders (24%) do not feel adequately trained to make the most of emerging technologies like AI.

That may explain why more than a third (36%) identified AI and machine learning as a key area of focus for the next 12 months. In terms of the IT areas that are being prioritised this year, IT service desk (49%) was most cited, followed by cybersecurity solutions (45%) and cloud infrastructure (42%).

Cloud remains key

In fact, the survey found that 85% of enterprises surveyed are now using the cloud – an increase of 8% compared to similar research conducted last year. On average, companies who have adopted cloud are using it to host nearly half (47%) of their workloads, applications, and processes.

Of the companies who have already made the move to cloud, 84% say their strategy is meeting their expectations – a marked improvement of 12% on the previous year. However, almost two thirds (65%) think their current cloud strategy is limiting business goals and 61% believe it is limiting staff.

As for the technology itself, 71% say cloud is a more cost-effective approach for their business and of those who have adopted cloud, 83% feel it is more secure for their business. Even still, over two thirds (67%) are worried about cloud security threats over the next 12 months, with 80% providing regular cloud security training to staff.

As well as concerns over security threats, three-quarters (75%) of respondents who have adopted cloud admitted that a cloud outage would be catastrophic for their business and have a serious impact on service delivery.

Commenting on the results, Donal Sullivan, Chief Technology Officer, Auxilion, said: “There’s no doubt about it, AI is here to stay. What remains to be seen is if, and how, Irish businesses leverage it. Our research suggests that those who don’t will lose out in terms of both talent and customers.

“Meanwhile, those that do will get ahead of the curve by using AI to enhance their offering and drive growth. In other words, their services won’t become redundant, but be elevated and in demand.

“Similarly, companies who lack a solid IT foundation or fail to adapt their cloud strategy are throwing away the advantage that technology offers. It’s a differentiator and innovator for businesses, but only for those who act, and react, fast enough.”

The Digital Hub opens call for first Designer-in-Residence

The Digital Hub has opened applications for its first-ever Designer-in-Residence programme, with an opportunity for a six-month residency commencing in May 2024. The residency will be based at The Digital Hub campus in Dublin 8 and will focus on engaging the ecosystem of technologists and creatives who are developing innovation in health, wellbeing, technology and content.

The residency includes a focus on exploration, collaboration and innovation, with the selected designer working with The Digital Hub, the National College of Art and Design (NCAD) and surrounding organisations to develop and execute innovative design led engagements. The residency looks to develop and create innovative products or services that address real-life challenges in health and wellbeing.

The successful applicant will also have the opportunity to curate events as well as participating in research projects and programmes to enhance the profile and skill levels in design in The Digital Hub ecosystem.

Stephen Brennan, Head of Strategy and Partnerships at The Digital Hub said:

“Launching our first Designer-in-Residence programme gives forward-thinking designers the opportunity to collaborate with our extensive ecosystem and develop real-world projects that will have a meaningful impact on the health and wellbeing of the local community. Exploring innovation through design and technology to advance the health of our surrounding community is a key focus for The Digital Hub, and our newest residency offers an ideal opportunity to expand this work.”

The Digital Hub has a track record in curating inspiring and game-changing creative technological solutions for its member companies and researchers. As the location of the Design Lab in partnership with NCAD and HSE Spark, The Digital Hub is making significant progress in placing design at the heart of the digital technology and content ecosystem.

The Digital Hub has played host to previous residency programmes over recent years including a Technologist-in-Residence and Artist-in-Residence, both of which have been successful at exploring the intersection of art and technology.

Award-winning artist Leon Butler brought his expertise in design and collaborative art projects to develop a digital model of the local liberties area of Dublin 8 and its ecosystems during his time as The Digital Hub’s most recent Artist-in-Residence. Leon’s work was built on data collected from sensors deployed by The Digital Hub’s former Technologist-in-Residence Patrick Lynch, who undertook a project focused on collating data on air quality, traffic levels and pollution in the area.

Speaking on his residency, Patrick Lynch said:

“During my time as the Tech-in-Residence, I was able to become ingrained in the local community through innovative projects monitoring the surrounding ecosystem. Beyond that, the programme enabled me to hone my skillset in areas of engineering and technical development, all while giving me access to connect with an incredible network of researchers and entrepreneurs located at The Digital Hub. I’m truly grateful for the time I spent as Technologist-in-Residence and would encourage anyone with an interest in areas such as product and UX/UI design to apply for this unique upcoming residency.”

The Designer-in-Residence programme aims to enable designers to engage in real-world projects, ground-breaking research and interdisciplinary collaborations between the thriving ecosystem of enterprise, research, innovation and creative organisations at The Digital Hub and its surrounding network.

Benefits of the programme include access to The Digital Hub facilities, an office/studio space on campus, networking opportunities with current member companies at The Digital Hub and access to a cutting-edge community in the field of innovation and technology. Total funding for the successful applicant will be in the region of €15,000 which will include fees and project costs.

Interested applicants should have direct experience in applying design methods to real-world challenges. Applicants must be a resident in Ireland or Europe and must be available to commence the residency from May 2024 and have a regular presence on campus at The Digital Hub.

More information about the Designer-in-Residence programme and application process can be found here.

AlphaTheta launch the euphonia – a professional rotary mixer

AlphaTheta Corporation announces the release of the euphonia from its AlphaTheta brand, a  professional rotary mixer which creates an amazingly natural and smooth mixing experience.

Building on over 30 years of audio technology and innovation while paying homage to rotary mixers and known for their unique sound quality and playability that enables deep immersion in music, this is the first mixer to bear the AlphaTheta name. It’s also the company’s first-ever rotary unit.

The all-new 4-channel euphonia provides a euphoric musical experience that combines the clarity of digital and the richness of analog – for the ultimate party experience. This holy grail of sound characteristics is made possible by the high-resolution, wide-ranging sound design and the inclusion of an analog transformer circuit – co-developed with Rupert Neve Designs. This enhances the harmonics in your music to create an energetic and polished sound that enables smooth mixing. The euphonia is perfect for any DJ wanting to truly deliver a sound like no other.

Yoshinori Kataoka, AlphaTheta’s President and CEO, said, “We’re so pleased to introduce the euphonia professional rotary mixer. Having watched the DJM Series evolve since I helped develop the first model in 1995, the DJM-500, I have a special feeling about the euphonia. It’s inspired by our customers’ love of music and our dream to create a new expression of the DJ mixer. We’re truly excited to witness the euphonia’s unique sound bringing excitement and inspiration to DJs and their audiences.”

Once you’ve fallen in love with the sound, you’ll notice the supreme feel of the uniquely developed rotary faders which have been carefully designed to make you feel a deeper connection with the euphonia. The 3Band Master Isolator was also custom designed so you can make dynamic changes to the music and have more sensory control over your sound. Going one step further, you can turn your spontaneous musical inspiration into impactful sound by using the 3Band Master Isolator in combination with the new Boost Send feature for powerful performances.

All this is just the tip of the euphonia’s “iceberg” as the mixer also features an Energy Visualizer, built-in Send FX, and multiple inputs and outputs to enable you to take your musical expression to the next level. The sound produced by the euphonia immer

Innit Audio, A New Audio Solution to Enhance your PC Gameplay

Innit Audio is proud to have officially launched its groundbreaking experience, currently for PC users. Launched on Wednesday 14th February, following a successful open beta in Q4 2023, Innit Audio promises to redefine how gamers and media enthusiasts hear, feel, and experience sound through headphones and earphones.


Innit launch video

Built on years of experience and innovation from state-of-the-art digital audio specialists Böhmer Audio, the Innit algorithm generates a virtual 3-dimensional 360×360 spatial sound field that can locate sound anywhere in 3D space around the listener. For the very first time, it’s possible to game wearing headphones without feeling that sounds are stuck inside your head, being able instead to feel that you are actually inside the game.

Mark Nichols, CEO of Innit Audio, explains “Soundwaves surround us, arriving from all directions in an infinite variety of patterns. Many are altered by their journey, bouncing off surfaces and acquiring unique distortions between the sound source and our ears. With their hyper-sensitive drums, our ears hear and translate sounds for our brains to interpret into what they understand and know to be real life. This is what we call Aural Reality.”

Nichols continues: “When using headphones, or earphones, we are pulled out of aural reality by the unnatural feeling of having these sound sources coming from right next to our ears, giving the effect of a much-reduced soundscape being heard inside your head, or maybe just a tiny bit outside. Innit solves this completely.”

All sounds played through Innit – be they from a competitive or immersive game such as Counter Strike 2 or Star Citizen, or a streamed music video – go through sophisticated audio processing by the Innit algorithm creating time domain coded sound vectors, adding missing time domain information not present in the sound stream which allows the sounds to be positioned anywhere in the 360×360 3D spatial sound field.

This achieves world-leading directional sound placement, your mind using the added information making the sound appear to be originating from a genuine, real-life environment rather than confined to two small locations on the sides of your head. In this groundbreaking move, Innit achieves for gaming audio what virtual reality headsets do for visuals — it enables you to lose yourself in the experience, seamlessly blurring the line between virtual and reality, making it feel entirely natural and fully immersive.

Bernt Böhmer, the visionary inventor behind Böhmer Audio and Innit Audio, recalls: “I first realized how important this development would be for gamers when I added Innit to my sim racing setup. Before that, my chair vibrates, the steering wheel does its thing and so on, but the audio experience didn’t pull my senses into the game in the same way, it felt artificial. But with Innit enabled, it’s on a different level – you feel the masses moving in a real car, you get the G force, and you lose any awareness that what you’re hearing, what you’re experiencing, isn’t real. You’re really there, in the car, and the first time I felt that I knew we had something special. Innit completes the experience.”

Upon launch there will be two subscription options, priced at $9.99 / €8.99 / £8.49 per quarter or $29.99 / €26.99 / £24.99 for twelve months, with the annual option being a 25% discount.

They are also offering the option to instead purchase a one-time license, which as a special launch offer costs only $69.99 / €64.99 / £59.99, providing years of audio excellence for less than the price of three years subscribing.

Innit Audio invites gamers and audio enthusiasts to embark on a new era of sound immersion. Join us on this beautiful-sounding journey, where each moment is a revelation in aural reality.

Gamers, and film, tv, and music lovers, can sign-up and download Innit directly from https://innit.audio

Tech Industry Alliance Announces TechFest 2024

Tech Industry Alliance has officially launched TechFest 2024 in the AIB offices 66 South Mall Cork with AIB being one of the main event sponsors. TechFest is its annual flagship technology conference which will be held in the Radisson Blu Hotel in Little Island, Cork from 9:30am on the 14th of May 2024. This year the focus is on “Tech for Good: Driving Deep Tech, Fostering Sustainability & Building a Better Tomorrow”and to complement the main event, a  festival of supporting events will take place throughout the week of TechFest led by well known organisations and agencies throughout the South-West region. Tickets for the main conference are currently on sale at https://techindustryalliance.ie/event/techfest-2024/

The line up of expert speakers include global leader in promoting tech for good – Sarah Porter who is the founder and CEO of InspiredMinds, a global community of 220,000 high level experts in AI and emerging technology and an advisor to both the UN and to the EU AI council.  TechFest 2024 will again this year be MC’d by award-winning industry broadcaster Jonathan McCrea and will feature panel discussions on AI, sustainability & diversity as well as having plenty of networking opportunities and an industry expo featuring leading companies from across Ireland.

Gerry Murphy, Tech Industry Alliance Chairperson commented: “We are delighted to be announcing TechFest 2024 which will feature rare content, rich dialogue and facilitate real connections and which would not be possible without the vital support of our sponsors, who all recognise the importance of our sector to the Munster region.  Following on from a really successful TechFest last year, we are excited with this year’s amazing line up of speakers and even greater opportunities to network with colleagues and businesses across the south west region.”

“Our three key themes this year are Disrupt, Evolve and Ignite and we will hear from leaders of Industry and academia on how technology can contribute to sustainability, the threats and opportunities from the latest AI technology, how to ensure a vibrant and diverse talent pipeline as well as how tech can benefit society and the future of business.”

Approx. 450 people are expected to attend the event, network, connect and collaborate. Other expert speakers on the day include Denis Ryan Technology, Media & Telecoms AIB; Joanne Sheahan, Senior Advisor – Sustainability & Climate Action Enterprise Ireland; Robert McArdle, Director in Trend Micro’s Forward Looking Threat Research; Steve Fleming Founder and CEO Voxxify; Andy Bastick, Senior Director, Product & Partner Marketing, Digital Realty; Susie Harding Senior Manager Data, Analytics & AI at EY; Nikki Bradley Motivational Speaker, Amputee and Adventurer and Lynsey Monaghan, Global Diversity & Inclusion Strategist at NetApp.

 TIA Vice Chair Donagh Kiernan added: “TechFest 2024 is a groundbreaking event dedicated to exploring the pivotal role of technology in addressing global challenges and fostering a sustainable future. The event will also showcase young innovative tech companies in the south west and provide attendees with an insight into technology aimed at addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. And we are delighted to acknowledge the invaluable support of our Skillnet again for TechFest 2024. Tech Industry Alliance Skillnet (TIAS) has been a consistent sponsor throughout the last 10 years.

The theme of TechFest this year fits perfectly with our Skillnet services, fostering innovation in talent strategies for tech, through subsidised support with up- and cross- skilling programmes. In today’s fast-paced tech landscape, the significance of talent development and upskilling cannot be overstated. Our TIAS Team will be available at TechFest 24 to chat with attendees on how they can further support their organisation’s growth and development.”

Tickets for the event are now on sale at https://techindustryalliance.ie/event/techfest-2024/ but numbers are limited so attendees are encouraged to book early as the event is expected to be a sell-out.