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.

#IFA2023 -Shure unveils 2nd Gen AONIC 50 wireless noise-cancelling headphones: now featuring spatial audio and advanced hybrid active noise cancellation

Shure introduced its highly anticipated AONIC 50 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones Gen 2. Drawing on decades of stage and studio expertise, the AONIC 50 Gen 2 Headphones break new ground with a revolutionary spatialized audio experience, designed to captivate music enthusiasts and discerning audiophiles alike. Building on the success of the AONIC 50 Headphones, this second generation sets a new standard for premium, high-fidelity audio, enhanced active noise cancellation, and 50 percent more battery life than the first generation, with up to 45 hours of runtime.

Meticulously crafted with premium materials and studio-quality sound through custom-engineered 50mm dynamic drivers, AONIC 50 Gen 2 Headphones are an embodiment of comfort and style that take listening to the next level. They have been designed by leveraging Shure’s experience designing headphones for studio professionals with long hours in mind. With customisable EQ features and new hybrid active noise cancellation technology, users can tailor their unique preferences using the free ShurePlus™ Play App for a personalised audio experience.

At the heart of the AONIC 50 Gen 2 Headphones is Shure’s new spatialized audio technology, powered by a proprietary algorithm, designed using a combination of acoustical modeling and critical listening to delicately enhance the spaciousness without compromising the original audio. This feature provides three distinct modes—Music, Cinema, and Podcast:

  • Music Mode: enables users to experience listening through high-end speakers and is the most subtle, maintaining the original source material.

  • Cinema Mode: emulates the low frequency excitement that users experience in a theatre that employs subwoofers for an immersive, larger-than-life sound through clarity, presence, and natural sounding dialogue.

  • Podcast Mode: brings the voice of a user’s favourite podcast host closer to their ears.

“The AONIC 50 Gen 2 is designed to deliver an exceptional listening experience that is built on the heritage of the previous generation. We incorporated the latest innovations, including spatialized audio options and Qualcomm Snapdragon Sound™ Technology, taking the audio to the next level,” said Sean Sullivan, Associate Director of Global Product Management, at Shure. “For passionate audiophiles and music lovers, the magic lies even in the tiniest details. The AONIC 50 Gen 2 provides a pure, high-resolution listening experience paired with our latest digital signal processing (DSP) options, so listeners can customise to their preferences and immerse themselves in their own private concert.”

This second-generation headphone ushers in new hybrid active noise cancellation technology, improving on the performance of the earlier generation and more effectively eliminating external distractions, enabling a truly immersive and natural listening experience. By using microphones inside and outside the earcup, the AONIC 50 Gen 2 offers users the ability to fine-tune their auditory environment, effortlessly controlling the level of ambient noise. Featuring four selectable modes—Light, Moderate, Max, and MaxAware—the new MaxAware setting strikes the perfect balance between blocking unwanted noise and maintaining awareness of your surroundings, making it ideal for on-the-go conversations.

Additional Features and Benefits:

  • Enhanced Environment Mode: Immerse yourself in the outside world with a simple switch. The adjustable slider on the ShurePlus™ PLAY app lets you refine the ambience settings to your liking.

  • Extended Battery Life: Holds up to 45 hours of battery life with quick charging capabilities, more than doubling runtime from the earlier generation. The quick charge feature provides up to five hours of use with only 15 minutes of charge.

  • Customizable EQ: Choose from a variety of presets or create your own personalized sound profile using the ShurePlus™ PLAY app. Save your settings directly to the headphones for a seamless and personalized audio experience across different apps and devices.

  • Crystal Clear Communication: Experience superior call quality with beamforming microphone technology and proprietary automatic gain control (AGC) settings. Leveraging six microphones, the precision-engineered system adjusts automatically to minimize surrounding noises, providing unmatched clarity for video calls and phone conversations.

  • Cutting-Edge Bluetooth® 5 Wireless Technology: Seamlessly connect to your phone, tablet, or laptop with the class one transmitter, offering enhanced stability and a remarkable range of up to 100 meters.

  • Premium Headphone Amplifier: Enjoy support for Snapdragon Sound™ with Qualcomm® aptX™ Adaptive technology for high-res music streaming, and AAC, SBC, and LDAC codecs.

Snapdragon Sound Technology, incorporated into the second generation of AONIC 50 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, is designed to provide an unparalleled audio experience. By optimizing a suite of technologies by Qualcomm Technologies across connected devices, Snapdragon Sound delivers consistent, crystal clear and captivating audio. Users can enjoy every detail of their music just as the artist intended and feel better connected to colleagues and loved ones through voice and video calls with true-to-life audio.

“Qualcomm Technologies is excited to work with Shure, a premier brand known and loved by audiophiles, on their new AOINIC 50 Gen 2 headphones” said Mike Canevaro, Director, Marketing, Snapdragon Sound, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “By incorporating Snapdragon Sound into these headphones, Shure is ensuring their customers hear every detail of their music exactly as the artist intended, with robust and reliable connectivity.”

The AONIC 50 Gen 2 joins Shure’s famous AONIC product lineup, which is already well known for its acoustic superiority, reliability, innovation, and excellence. Additionally, the modern “all-black” design has up to 45 hours of battery life to provide long-term listening and comfort. The redesigned carrying case, smaller than the previous generation, delivers a portable design that folds flat for easy storage. These headphones are the all-in-one solution for those looking for studio-quality sound, improved hybrid noise cancellation, spatialized audio technology, extended battery life, advanced environment mode, and more.

Pricing and Availability:
The AONIC 50 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones Gen 2, will be available in Black in September 2023 at Shure.com and select retailers starting at RRP £349. Purchase includes a two-year warranty, protective zippered carrying case, 3.5mm audio cable, and a USB-C charging/audio cable.

How to Get Ahead Of Your Competition

Small businesses have it tough enough. Not only do they need to establish a customer base, but they need to be more appealing than the convenience of more established (and often cheaper) corporations. This issue is compounded when there are businesses of a similar size and age in the area. If you aren’t careful, you could risk losing customers to this company, jeopardizing the business’s future. The only way to avoid this is to get ahead of your competition, so how can you do that? 

Make Payment Easy 

Straightforward payments, whether online or in the store have never been easier. Considering the majority of people pay solely through their credit cards, you need a credit card machine that covers all essentials and delivers secure and rapid payments. Businesses that protect their customer’s information and finances will always be more profitable and popular as your dedication improves the resolution and encourages loyal and repeat customers. 

Put The Customer First 

If there’s one thing that is assured to put you ahead of your competitors, it’s your dedication to outstanding customer service every time. Your customers should feel;l that you respect them and want to do as much as possible to solve their problems. Rapid responses benefit the customer as they don’t feel they are waiting around forever. It also means they can overcome their problems faster and continue their day. 

Stay Engaged 

Social media has given all businesses an excellent chance to learn more about their customers. You can encourage better relationships with all customers (and attract new ones) by being more engaged online. Posting videos or blogs, sharing information, and getting involved with trends will help your company stand out and increase your reputation. However, you need to find the perfect balance with your online engagement. Too much, and your presence will annoy people. Too little, and customers will forget about you. 

Reward Long-Term Customers 

Many businesses solely focus on rewarding new customers with promotions and discounts. While this is ideal for attracting customers, these new customer-only deals are detrimental to your brand as existing customers feel ignored. You can reward your long-term customers with loyalty points or programs. If you offer a service, discounts for bulk orders could be a fantastic way to say thanks for their business. The possibilities are endless, and they are more likely to keep your customers from frequenting other companies where the grass seems greener. 

Improve Your Website 

The best websites are those in which customers know where to find everything. However, you may have not updated your website for a long time, so there could be outdated information or everything is in odd places. There are many ways to make your website easy to navigate to improve the customer experience, and you’ll see these improvements result in more sales and longer time spent browsing your site. 

Leading The Pack

Getting ahead of the pack will take time, dedication, and creativity. If you can focus on these tips, you will put your business in the strongest possible position. But once you’re ahead, make sure you do everything you can to stay ahead, because there will always be another company that wants to take you down.

#IFA2023 – Jabra launches world’s toughest and most comfortable Elite earbuds. Elite Active 8 and Elite 10

Jabra, leader in personal sound and hybrid work solutions, today launches two new premium models to expand the top end of their Elite true wireless earbuds range. The Jabra Elite 8 Active, tested to be the world’s toughest earbuds*, and the Elite 10, Jabra’s most advanced earbuds for work and life with clear calls, all-day comfort and optimised to deliver a more immersive Dolby Atmos experience through Dolby Head Tracking.                                                

The world’s toughest earbuds

 Jabra’s new addition to its active range, the Elite 8 Active, will set a new standard for durability and fit. Built for much more than running or sports, they are designed to be durable enough for users regardless of what they choose to do and wherever life takes them. 

Jabra Elite 8 Active

 

The Elite 8 Active buds pass all the required tests for the US Military Standard for Ruggedized Electronics (810H). That is everything from humidity and high temperature to rain and altitude. They are completely watertight when submerged up to 1.5m – they are IP68 rated, meaning they are fully dust and waterproof, whilst the charging case is IP54 rated to be dust and splashproof. In addition, we put the Elite 8 Active through their paces with Highly Accelerated Corrosion Testing (HACT). This requires the earbuds to pass 11 full cycles of testing, including enduring 2 hours in 40°C temperatures with 93% humidity, going through a 15-minute splash test in salt water, and surviving a 15-minute 40°C heat drying test, to successfully prove their anti-corrosion credentials. All of this whilst staying secure in the ear with the improved grip provided by Jabra ShakeGrip™ technology. 

While Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds are proud to be tough, they have not sacrificed their sound, nor aesthetic. They are made to fuel workouts with incredible sound thanks to Dolby Audio, which delivers lifelike, clear sound for a longer and more comfortable listening experience. The Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) automatically optimises the ANC performance to the environment you’re in. Wind Neutralising HearThrough™ technology also muffles any wind interference without blocking out traffic, ensuring safety without compromising on steady sound.  

With 6-mic call technology and wind noise protecting mesh, stable smartwatch connectivity**, Google Assistant, Fast Pair, Swift Pair and Spotify Tap, battery life for up to 8 hours (32 hours with a case), these earbuds are just as good for working as for working out.  

Dialling-up your Dolby Atmos listening experience 

Jabra’s new top-of-the-line Elite 10 earbuds promise the best combination of comfort, sound and calls anywhere, for both work and life. These true wireless earbuds, which are optimised for enjoying content in Dolby Atmos, are truly immersive and Jabra’s first earbuds to support Dolby Head Tracking. Dolby Head Tracking engages listeners in a whole new way by keeping them in the centre of the soundstage as they move their head, enabling a more natural sound experience for all your favourite entertainment, including both Dolby Atmos and stereo content. And when available, the combination of Dolby Head Tracking together with Dolby Atmos content further elevates the sound with incredible detail and clarity for the ultimate Dolby Atmos listening experience.  

 

Jabra Elite 10 – techbuzzireland

 

The Elite 10 also eliminates surrounding noise with Jabra Advanced Active Noise CancellationTM. The ultra-powerful ANC auto-adjusts for what’s around you. This is achieved by infrasonic waves that measure the ear canal and algorithms which detect noise leakage and wind conditions. As a result, the earbuds will automatically switch to the highest ANC gain in noisier environments and reduce the gain in quiet places. 

Designed with learnings from Elite 7 Pro for fit and Elite 85t for all-day wearing comfort, the Elite 10 is the first in Jabra’s true wireless earbuds range to offer Jabra ComfortFit technology for the most natural, airy fit and less occlusion, due to its semi-open design that relieves ear pressure, allowing users to walk and talk in comfort. Every surface the ear touches is made of soft silicon for a snug fit, meaning less wearing fatigue for all-day use. These earbuds are also designed to cater for more ear shapes and sizes than ever before. 

The Elite 10 is complete with 6-mic call technology for crystal-clear calls, 6-hour battery (27 hours with case), including a pocket friendly cradle optimised for wireless charging, Bluetooth Multipoint connection, hands-free voice assistance and easy pairing.    

Calum MacDougall, SVP at Jabra, said, “Jabra has been successful by identifying user needs and then applying our unique audio engineering capabilities to meet those needs. For Elite 10, we focused on comfort and calls and music performance to meet the need for all day use from music to meetings. For Elite 8 Active, we meet the need for users to be confident to use their earbuds, wherever they are, from work to work-out”. 

Javier Foncillas, VP Commercial Partnerships & Global Sales at Dolby Laboratories said, “Dolby innovations have redefined how entertainment is created and experienced for consumers across the world. We share Jabra’s passion and ambition for quality, and the combination of the new hero Elite range together with Dolby’s latest audio innovations like Dolby Head Tracking and Dolby Audio are a perfect match.” 

Elite 8 Active: MRSP £199.99, available in caramel, navy, black and dark grey, August 2023. Find out more at www.jabra.com/elite-8-active 

Elite 10: MRSP £229.99, available in cream, cocoa, titanium black, gloss black, matte black, September 2023. Find out more at www.jabra.com/elite-10 

 

Caramel and cocoa will be available first on Jabra.com in North America for 45 days and across Europe, including UK & Ireland, for 60 days. 

 

Key features of the Elite 8 Active: 

  • IP68 rated dustproof, watertight, sweatproof and 1m drop-resistant earbuds, and an IP54 rated dust and splash proof case 
  • Crystal clear sound and added dimensionality with Dolby Audio 
  • Jabra ShakeGripTM technology for secure fit in a wing-free, sleek design 
  • Adaptive Hybrid ANC auto-filters background noise  
  • Wind Neutralising HearThroughTM for indoor and outdoor activities 
  • 6-mic call technology with wind noise protecting mesh 
  • 6mm speakers 
  • Up to 8-hours battery life and up to 32-hours with case (ANC on) 
  • Stable Smartwatch connectivity** 
  • Google Assistant, Fast Pair, Swift Pair & Spotify Tap playback 
  • Bluetooth Multipoint connection 
  • Ready to support Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) & LC3, LC3plus codec with future firmware update 

 

Key features of the Elite 10: 

  • Optimised for Dolby Atmos with Dolby Head Tracking, which enables a more immersive Dolby Atmos experience 
  • Jabra ComfortFit technology for a natural airy fit and less occlusion with semi-open design to relieve ear pressure 
  • 6-mic call technology with advanced algorithms for better call clarity in any environment 
  • Jabra Advanced ANCTM which blocks out 2x more noise than Jabra’s standard ANC 
  • HearThrough technology with wind noise reduction 
  • 6-hour battery (27 hours with case) with ANC on, including pocket friendly cradle optimised for wireless charging 
  • IP57-rating 
  • Bluetooth Multipoint connection 
  • Hands-free Voice Assistant, Fast Pair, Swift Pair, Spotify Tap playback 
  • Ready to support Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) & LC3, LC3plus codec with future firmware update 

#IFA2023 Sharp presents new air fryers and cordless stick vacuum cleaners

Sharp Consumer Electronics, one of the world’s leading technology companies, is expanding its Small Appliance Systems (SAS) business unit with two new product categories. With new cordless stick vacuum cleaners and high-quality air fryers, Sharp is expanding its comprehensive portfolio of premium household appliances.

Cooking the effortless way – with Sharp Air Fryers

Thanks to efficient technology, Sharp air fryers make it quick and easy to prepare crispy and delicious food with up to 90% less fat compared to conventional fryers – exciting for anyone looking to enjoy their favourite food in a healthier way! They are fast and economical in use, delivering excellent results in the shortest time and with less power consumption than a conventional oven.

What makes Sharp’s air fryers special? The answer lies in their sophisticated hot air circulation. This technology disperses the heat proportionately around the food at high speeds of up to 2,500 rpm, cooking it evenly on all sides – crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether baking, frying, roasting, or dehydrating, Sharp air fryers make cooking a breeze.

The structure of the frying pan enables hot air to reach the food from below, ensuring it is cooked perfectly all around. Both the frying basket and the frying pot have a non-stick coating that is easy to clean and dishwasher safe.

 

In addition, Sharp air fryers are equipped with a user-friendly soft-touch control panel and an easy-to-read digital display for program and temperature control. There are currently eight cooking settings programmed to adapt to different foods, such as beef, chicken, fish, potatoes, vegetables, bacon, chips, and pizza. The powerful heating elements allow for quick preheating and can even cook frozen food. The AF-GS552A model also has “reheat” and “keep warm” functions.

Less cords, more freedom – Introducing the Sharp Stick Vacuum Cleaner

Sharp’s new cordless stick vacuum cleaners are the result of years of research and development to help meet the needs and demands of consumers. The Power Duo Series is designed to optimise the cleaning experience and effectively rid households of dirt without obstruction or tangled cords.

Thanks to the highly developed vacuum motor and integrated H13 HEPA filter, the vacuum reliably eliminates dirt, dust and pet hair from floors, carpets, and furniture. In addition, the devices have up to three cleaning levels with different vacuum strengths, making them the perfect appliances for a deep clean. Thanks to the exchangeable roller head and different attachments, the stick vacuum cleaners reliably clean every surface and every corner of the house. The Ultra Duo Power Model (SV28) has a two-roller system (soft and spiral), marking it as the perfect cleaning companion.

The devices have up to 50 minutes of battery life, depending on the model; however, the battery life can be doubled thanks to the Duo Battery System. Users can effortlessly move through their homes without worrying about sockets or cable entanglements. The clever stand-up mechanism provides versatile freestanding in the room during the cleaning process without having to lean or place the device anywhere.

With their chic design and simple colours, the vacuums blend discreetly into the home interior. Thanks to the wall-mounted charging station, the vacuums are effortlessly and safely stored and can be easily accessed.

Prices and availability 

Sharp Air Fryers will be available in 4 litres (AF-GS404A) at £79.99/€89.99 and 5.5 litres (GS-552A) at £119.99/€139.99 capacities in Q4 2023 on Amazon and Currys.

The Power Duo Series stick vacuum cleaner will be available from 2024:

  • Comfort Power Duo SV12 (White): £249.99/€279.99
  • Max Power Duo SV20 (Silver): £299.99/€349.99
  • Ultra Power Duo SV28 (Silver): £399.99/€459.99

 

For more information, please visit the Sharp Consumer Electronics website www.sharpconsumer.uk

Enhancing Education: The Power of Diagrams Across Various Subjects

Visual aids do a great job of facilitating understanding, engagement, and retention of complex concepts in a classroom. Among these aids, diagrams stand out as versatile tools that have the ability to simplify intricate ideas, making them accessible to learners across various subjects. For example, a blank Venn diagram template — Storyboard That can be used in math, literature, science, and social study classes. This article delves into the diverse types of diagrams and their impactful role in education across different subjects. 

1. Mind Maps in Literature and Language Arts

In the realm of literature and language arts, mind maps offer a dynamic way to explore themes, characters, and narrative structures. Mind maps visually represent the interconnectedness of different elements in a text, helping students grasp the underlying concepts. For instance, when studying a novel, learners can create mind maps that showcase character relationships, plot developments, and symbolic motifs. This approach encourages critical thinking and the synthesis of information.

Other than literature, mind maps can be used in: 

  • Biology: to understand interconnected ecosystems, food webs, and biological processes.
  • History: for mapping out the causes and effects of historical events.
  • Psychology: to visualize the connections between various psychological theories and concepts.
  • Business Studies: for brainstorming ideas, project planning, and visualizing business strategies.

2. Venn Diagrams in Mathematics

Mathematics is a subject that often involves understanding relationships and comparisons. Venn diagrams provide a powerful visual representation for depicting set relationships, overlaps, and differences. 

Whether exploring number theory, probability, or logic, students can use Venn diagrams to solve problems involving intersections and unions of sets. These diagrams encourage students to analyze and organize information systematically, promoting logical reasoning.

Other than math, Venn diagrams can be useful in:

  • Literature: to compare and contrast characters, themes, or ideas in different works.
  • Science: for categorizing organisms or elements based on shared characteristics.
  • Social Sciences: to analyze overlaps in demographic data or cultural phenomena.

3. Flowcharts in Computer Science

In the realm of computer science, where algorithms and processes are pivotal, flowcharts offer an indispensable tool for representing sequences of actions. Students can use flowcharts to illustrate the step-by-step logic of coding algorithms, aiding in program design and debugging. By breaking down complex algorithms into digestible components, flowcharts enhance students’ problem-solving skills and algorithmic thinking.

Other fields where flowcharts fins use are:

  • Engineering: to represent the stages of a design or manufacturing process.
  • Physics: to visualize the sequence of steps in a scientific experiment.
  • Education: to plan out the structure of a curriculum or instructional sequence.

4. Chemical Diagrams in Science Subjects

Science subjects, such as chemistry, often involve understanding molecular structures and reactions. Chemical diagrams, including molecular models and Lewis dot structures, help students visualize complex molecules and their bonding patterns. 

These diagrams are particularly useful in teaching the spatial arrangement of atoms, which can be challenging to comprehend solely through text. Students can better grasp concepts like valence electrons and molecular shapes by interacting with these visual representations.

5. Geographical Maps in Social Studies

Geography is inherently spatial, making maps an essential tool for understanding the world. In social studies, maps aid students in comprehending historical events, cultural patterns, and geopolitical dynamics. From exploring trade routes in history to analyzing population distribution in the present, maps offer a comprehensive visual overview of complex data. 

Other subjects where maps can be used include: 

  • History: to analyze historical migration patterns, trade routes, and territorial changes.
  • Environmental Science: for visualizing ecosystems, biodiversity, and habitat distribution.
  • Sociology: to map out social disparities, urbanization, and cultural diffusion.
  • Economics: for analyzing global trade flows, resource distribution, and economic development.

6. Timeline Diagrams in History

History involves studying the progression of events over time, and timeline diagrams are an effective way to visualize historical narratives. Students can create timelines to showcase the sequence of significant events, historical periods, and their interconnections. 

This visual representation fosters a deeper understanding of cause-and-effect relationships and historical context. Moreover, timelines encourage students to critically assess the impact of individual events on larger historical trends.

7. Graphs and Charts in Economics and Statistics

Economics and statistics often involve analyzing numerical data to identify trends and patterns. Graphs and charts, such as bar graphs, line graphs, and pie charts, are valuable tools for presenting and interpreting data in an accessible manner. 

Students can use these visual representations to analyze economic indicators, market trends, and statistical distributions. Understanding how to interpret graphs equips students with the skills to make informed decisions based on data-driven insights.

Wrapping Up

In the educational landscape, the integration of diagrams transcends disciplinary boundaries, offering students a diverse array of tools to enhance understanding and learning. From mind maps that unravel complex literary narratives to graphs that unveil economic trends, diagrams are essential for making abstract concepts concrete. By embracing diagrams, educators empower students to think critically, solve problems, and appreciate the interconnectedness of various subjects. 

 

#IFA2023 – Sharp Introduces The New SumoBox Pro

Sharp Consumer Electronics, one of the world’s leading technology companies, is presenting the new SumoBox Pro, a high-performance portable speaker, at IFA 2023. The newest model in the line-up, and big brother to the SumoBox, bulldozes past its peers to impress music enthusiasts and performers with its enhanced power and versatility.

A knockout performer: Introducing the new SumoBox Pro

Sharp SumoBox Pro (CP-LS200) delivers up to 108 dB of pure sound pleasure through its powerful 200W RMS stereo speaker system, with the 2x 10-inch woofers and 2x 3-inch tweeters delivering sumo-powerful beats. The SumoBox Pro’s wooden cabinet offers precise acoustics, and the angled design ensures optimal sound dispersion.

The SumoBox series by Sharp utilises technology from Devialet, the high-end French audio brand, on-boarding their SAM® (Speaker Active Matching) technology. SAM® by Devialet enables SumoBox Pro to produce a richer, more detailed and powerful bass with minimal audible distortion. Coupled with the unique closed box (unvented) design, the speakers precisely managed to reproduce audio as it was intended to be heard.

Hero on any stage: Multi-functional sound system for the perfect performance

The SumoBox Pro’s professional panel has three input channels for a variety of connection options, including TRS/XLR combo (2x) with reverb, bass and treble adjustment, AUX and a wireless Bluetooth connection, all with independent level control. Audio lovers can conveniently connect any mixer/keyboard, guitar, or microphone and set the optimum level at the flick of a switch using the instrument selector. The SumoBox Pro can also be wirelessly connected to another SumoBox Pro in Duo Mode for True Wireless Stereo (TWS) Bluetooth playback. Alternatively, the wired connection can be used to link multiple speakers together and share input sources. For gigs or events, the SumoBox Pro can be mounted with a convenient standard 1-3/8″ speaker pole mount on the bottom.

As tough as it looks: Robust design, perfectly adapted to all your needs

The black industrial steel grille gives the SumoBox Pro a robust and chic look, while the removable silicone corner protection balls provide an extra dose of protection during transport or while on the stage floor. The speaker can be placed vertically, horizontally or on a stand. The handles on the top and sides allow for easy transportation and set-up, and thanks to the IPX4 splashproof water protection, the SumoBox Pro is well-prepared for outdoor use.

Ready for the next round: Interchangeable battery pack and smart app control

The removable and rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack provides up to 8 hours of playtime and can be replaced with another battery pack within seconds, preventing interruption of playback. Alternatively, the SumoBox Pro can be plugged into a mains socket to power-on and recharge the battery at the same time. The speaker can also be controlled from anywhere in the room via the SharpLife app, adding to its incredible versatility.

Matt Sienko, European Product Director for Audio at Sharp Consumer Electronics, says: “We are excited to introduce another amazing speaker to the SumoBox range. With SumoBox Pro, we’ve succeeded in creating an affordable, high-performance portable speaker that will delight music lovers and become a trusted companion for performers all over the world. With potential for high quality, crazy-loud sound, tons of connectivity, indoor/outdoor EQ and splashproof housing, there are no limits for SumoBox Pro.”

For further information, please visit the Sharp Consumer Electronics website https://www.sharpconsumer.uk/

#IFA2023 – Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Mini

The German audio brand’s award-winning AMBEO Soundbar experience is now available in a new versatile size: the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Mini. With a sound that punches well above its weight and up to 7.1.4 virtualisation, the latest addition to the spatial audio Soundbar family readies even the smallest of spaces for three-dimensional acoustics.

“The magic of Sennheiser AMBEO technology immerses consumers in stunning 3D sound from a simple, single source in practically any home entertainment space,” says Maximilian Voigt, Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Product Manager. “Our most compact Soundbar yet comes at the perfect time with both features and dimensions that are a joy to live with, in or out of the living room.”

A fun-size bar
​At less than half the cubic volume of its Soundbar Plus sibling, it’s easy to see why the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Mini appeals to audio lovers looking to upgrade a current living room, desktop, bedroom, or even game room setup. At just 70 x 10 x 6.5 cm in size, it blends into nearly any TV or monitor arrangement, yet stands out with its cutting-edge acoustics. There are 250 watts of ultra-clean class D amplification powering four high-end full-range drivers and dual four-inch subwoofers, so consumers can expect the sharp fidelity, impactful bass and crystal-clear presence that make its bigger relatives a hit with audio critics.
​
​Other useful audio modes personalise the listening experience, including content-specific presets, a voice enhancement option and neighbour-friendly night mode. Ease of use is at the heart of the Mini, with a HDMI input that accommodates a wide range of eARC-enabled TVs or monitors. Integration with the Sennheiser Smart Control App makes management of features and updates from your smartphone a breeze.

Those who know, AMBEO
​Like its larger siblings, the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Mini’s 3D sound is the result of a collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS—a world leader in audio research and development. The Mini has four integrated microphones that serve a dual purpose: they function as the central component of the AMBEO room calibration, and facilitate Alexa voice assistant commands as the Soundbar features Alexa Built-In. Consumers also have the option to utilise existing Google Assistant or Siri-enabled devices to cast audio to the Mini through Chromecast Built-In™ and AirPlay®, respectively.
​
​As with all AMBEO Soundbars, the native AMBEO|OS operating system allows for one-touch calibration that scans the room, adjusting the surround virtualisation to account for various room sizes, reflections, and textures. Further, the Mini supports popular Dolby Atmos®, DTS:X™, MPEG-H codecs, and 360 Reality Audio formats and experiences for enjoying native spatial audio content. A wide-ranging support of digital music services also makes the Mini a great streaming companion over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth® with vibrant, room-filling sound and impactful bass—all the way down to 43 Hz—from your favourite streaming services such as a Spotify®, TIDAL, Amazon Music, and Apple Music®. AMBEO|OS seamlessly integrates the Mini into popular content ecosystems as a Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, and AirPlay 2 device. ​ Bass lovers can add even more low-end punch with wireless connection to as many four Sennheiser AMBEO Subs (sold separately).

Pricing and availability
​The Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Mini will be available to order at sennheiser-hearing.com and select retailers on September 1st, with an RRP of £699 / €799. For more information, visit sennheiser-hearing.com.

#IFA2023 – TCL Launches World’s First Smartphones Featuring NXTPAPER Technology

TCL, a pioneer in display across feature-rich smartphones, tablets, and connected devices, today launched the NXTPAPER smartphone series. The TCL 40 NXTPAPER and the TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G become the world’s first and only smartphone devices to offer a revolutionary full color paper-like visual experience.

The launch of NXTPAPER phones is another major step in TCL’s commitment to bring elevated screen experiences with eye comfort, which cater to the diversified needs of consumers. TCL NXTPAPER full color electronic paper-like display technology is developed in-house and has earned accolades from consumers and media alike. Until now, available on selected TCL tablets and laptops, users will soon have the option of slipping a NXTPAPER screen into their pocket as part of a great Android smartphone.

“2023 has seen TCL’s significant milestone in our mission to bring the NXTPAPER display proposition across smart screens at competitive price points globally,” said Aaron Zhang, CEO at TCL Communication. “It reinforces our vision of ‘Display Greatness’ by combining eye comfort and a paper-like feel with the convenience of modern technology in a single, seamless product. At TCL, we continue to listen to our consumers and address their needs with ongoing innovation and an evolving product portfolio.”

Enjoy Easier Viewing with TCL NXTPAPER Phones

The latest NXTPAPER smartphones offer industry leading eye comfort and are hardware certified by TÜV for low harmful blue light.  Users can enjoy daily screen time on the phone with a more comfortable full color paper-like viewing experience. Additionally, an integrated sensor automatically adjusts display brightness and color temperature based on time and environment to provide suitable visual experiences and soft light at night, further elevating overall eye comfort.

The smartphone display with its reflection-free TÜV certification offers anti-glare functionality achieved by producing a paper-like matte effect texture. Paired with a fingerprint smudge-resistant feature, it makes reading whilst simultaneously enjoying a day outdoors more comfortable than ever before. The full color electronic display comes with specially designed NXTPAPER UI, providing users the flexibility to choose between full-color manga or a black-and-white experience to suit their individual preferences.

Immersive Entertainment, Unleashed Creativity – TCL 40 NXTPAPER

Engineered with a focus on entertainment and creativity without compromising eye comfort, the TCL 40 NXTPAPER smartphone comes with a 6.78” FHD+ NXTPAPER display, dual speakers, and 3D boom sound powered by DTS for an immersive audio-visual experience. The smartphone features a 32MP selfie camera, to capture striking detail and unique expressions, with a single click. The versatile 50MP rear triple camera system, complete with a 5MP ultra-wide camera and a 2MP macro sensor, effortlessly allows users to take landscapes, portraits, and intricate details with crystal-clear clarity.

Whether it’s jotting notes, sketching, or checking off that “to-do” list, the amazing paper-like display experience becomes even more authentic and effortless when combined with the TCL 40 NXTPAPER’s compatible T-pen¹. A sleek 7.89mm design plus a stylish 2D back cover make the device comfortable to hold. It boasts 256GB storage and 8GB RAM with an additional 8GB virtual RAM expansion, the largest class in this smartphone price category, enabling the user to swiftly multitask applications improving productivity.

Unmatched Speed, Uncompromised Multitasking – TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G

Made for the quintessential professional looking to stay connected at all times, the TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G delivers exceptional eye comfort and lightning fast 5G connectivity to breeze through tasks with ease whilst on-the-go. The stand-out 6.6″ HD+ NXTPAPER display coupled with the paper-like viewing experience and the NXTPAPER UI make it an ideal choice for extended reading and document handling. The 256GB storage comes with 6GB RAM that can be further augmented with an additional 6GB virtual RAM expansion, for simultaneous task management and efficient performance across productivity apps, multimedia entertainment, and more.

The device is equipped with a versatile rear camera system inclusive of a 50MP primary camera, a 2MP depth sensor, and a 2MP macro sensor. The intuitive AI camera transforms every capture into a professional-looking shot. It further impresses with its AI Color Video mode, a unique feature that renders video backgrounds in black and white while maintaining the subject in vivid color. An 8MP front camera not only meets business needs by guaranteeing high-quality video conferencing but also satisfies personal ones, making this a versatile device suited to work and downtime.

Availability and pricing

· TCL 40 NXTPAPER: €199, going on sale first from Europe in September, coming to more countries globally this year.

· TCL 40 NXTPAPER 5G: €249 going on sale first from Europe in October, coming to more countries globally this year.

Prices may vary by country. 

¹T-pen is an optional accessory

Tech Review – Olixar Leather-Style Brown Case – For Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

Fancy sprucing up your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 well this case might just be it, Olixar have a range of cases now available and we chose the Brown leather styled case this time around and it does give you a more premium look to your shiny new phone.

All ports are accessible as expected and the case does really look well on the phone, the sides however do not add much grip and could have been finished off better but the rear and front of the case look good and has some more grip on the case, you can also still use wireless charging and there is no issue with access to the keys either.

The camera area is also protected well here on this but there is no built in film on the front as mentioned on their site unless they mean it is underneath the leather but the front main screen is still exposed in this instance but there is plenty of room to place your device face down, when the device is open here is a small lip around the phone and gives you some protection if you want to have your phone face down.

Overall it is a nice job here and there is also a Black version.

Key Features

  • High-quality, tactile leather-style material
  • Glass tempered film front cover
  • Raised edges for screen and camera protection
  • Military Grade protection
  • Easily access all ports, controls & connectors

Video Review